CMS confirmed yesterday that they are accepting CDC’s updated recommendations for screening individuals prior to entering a healthcare facility (read CDC guidance here). “Active screening” requiring the presence of a live person is no longer required for entry into nursing homes or other healthcare settings. These settings now have the option to implement screening through electronic monitoring or other systems in which individuals self-report before entering the setting. Screening may be completed on-site or prior to arrival. The nursing home or healthcare setting must have a process in place to identify and properly manage any staff or visitors who meet any of the following criteria:

• A positive viral test for SARS-CoV-2
• Symptoms of COVID-19
• Meeting CDC criteria for quarantine or exclusion from work

Questions?

Contact:

Laura Hofmann, MSN, RN – Director of Clinical and Nursing Facility Regulatory Services
c: 425-231-4804