CMS released memo QSO-23-13-ALL on May 1st providing guidance for the end of the PHE. Notably, CMS announced that the current staff vaccination mandate that requires staff in most CMS-certified settings to be “fully vaccinated” (complete a primary series) against COVID-19 will end. Note that nursing homes’ requirement to educate staff/residents on COVID-19 vaccination and offer or assist with accessing vaccination will not end. CMS also announced that while nursing homes must continue requirements to report COVID data to NHSN through December 31, 2024, they will exercise enforcement discretion of requirements (i.e., not expect providers to meet requirements) at Section 483.80(g)(3) for nursing homes to notify residents/families of new COVID cases or symptom clusters by 5:00 PM the next calendar day and provide weekly cumulative updates. Read more updates, including requirements for Emergency Preparedness and other provider types HERE. Read HERE for a further breakdown of these changes and what nursing homes need to remember related to these changes.
