CMS issues guidance for reopening health care facilities to provide non-emergent health care

CMS has issued guidelines for health care facilities on how to reopen to serve patients in areas that are in Phase II of reopening with no evidence of a rebound of COVID-19. Among the recommendations are the following:

• Continue to minimize in-person services by utilizing telehealth services.
• All individuals at higher risk for severe COVID-19 illness should continue to shelter in place unless their conditions warrant in-person healthcare.
• Providers should reserve enough capacity to provide treatment for a potential surge in COVID-19 patients.
• Continue to screen patients and staff for COVID-19 and ensure proper social distancing in the facility.
• Prioritize treatment for patients that would be harmed by continuing to delay care.
• Ensure spaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
  
  

In addition to the CMS guidance on reopening, please be sure to review your state government requirements, as well as those from your state and local health departments.

The new guidelines can be found on the CMS website. For comprehensive information about reopening offices and other essential COVID related materials, please visit LUGPA’s COVID-19 Information Hub.