COVID 19: New and Updated Information and Resources
NJAASC has curated authoritative information and a list of resources for our Membership’s reference. We will continue to update this as more information becomes available.
 
PAST COVID E-BLAST HAVE BEEN ARCHIVED DUE TO SPACE RESTRAINTS AND TO KEEP THINGS CURRENT.
 
TO VIEW PREVIOUS E-BLASTS, CLICK HERE

 
RWJBH’S OSTROWSKY SAYS HE WOULD NOT DO IT AGAIN
As everyone knows, COVID is spiking. There is fear that the Governor will pull back on things, or even shut down-again.
Below read an op-ed from RWJH Barry Ostrowsky where he opines that while he called for a state wide shutdown in March, he now has a different view.
 
NJAASC is preparing a plan for the worst case scenario, that of again taking away elective surgery. While I do not personally think it will happen considering all of the things in place and our excellent track record of compliance, you still have to be prepared.
 
NJAASC in the future may be asking centers for information critical to formulating a response.


ALLOWABLE AND UNACCEPTABLE TESTS FOR ASCS
Q: Are both of these OK to use for ASC testing
 
Jeff 
 
Can you ask about both of these tests?
 
Access Bio Carestart PCR Test
 
 
Healgen COVID 19- IGG/IGM
 

A: The access bio PCR test is acceptable. The Healgen test is NOT.
Best
Tom Kirn, NJDOH

COLLECTING SPECIMENS AND CLIA
Q: We need further clarification on collecting COVID test. If we at the Surg Center just collect specimens and then send them out to an independent lab, do we still need to amend our CLIA Cert?

A: No - they may continue to collect specimens at their clinic and send them out for COVId testing as they have routinely done in the past.
Dr. Thomas Kirn, NJ Department of Health
 
QUARANTINE QUESTION
Q: Pt having surgery
Son coming from Maryland to be her driver (79-cataract).
If he agrees to get a covid test and is negative- could he act as her driver without quarantining for 14 days?

A: Quarantine is voluntary, but the facility should have its own policy and procedure for this eventuality.
Stefanie Mozgai
NJDOH

MORE ON ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL IN A CENTER
Some of the IP people sent a letter to the Department concerning essential personnel. Stefanie had addressed this on our virtual quarterly meeting the other week.
Here is her response to the letter:
 
Thanks for your email. As EO 20-016 reads, Ambulatory Surgical Centers must continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of patients, patient support persons, and staff. It is imperative that only essential staff are permitted in the ASC and social distancing is maintained. If a facility is having an issue, an IP visit would be warranted. In addition, some of the reasons for visit included in your letter can be conducted virtually.
 
Hope that helps.
 
Thanks
Stefanie Mozgai, BA, RN, CPM
Assistant Commissioner
Department of Health
Health Facility Survey & Field Operations
Questions? Contact Jeff Shanton at jshanton@jssurgctr.com