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Additional Details Regarding ACF Visitation Guidance and Q&A Document

On March 11th, the Department of Health (DOH) issued Questions and Answers to many of the questions posed regarding the updated adult care facility (ACF) visitation guidance that was issued on March 2nd. It should be noted that LeadingAge NY is awaiting answers on several questions and will continue to keep members apprised. Members are encouraged to review both documents carefully. Here are a few notable clarifications and updates:

  • Small group activities will be permissible when the ACF is not experiencing an outbreak and when space allows for appropriate social distancing. The guidance clarifies that no more than 10 residents and staff will be permitted to engage in such activities at any one time. Despite confusing and conflicting language in guidance issued over the past year, DOH has clarified that communal dining and activities should cease if there is a staff or resident positive. We continue to advise that you inform the Department – both the regional office and the State at covidadultcareinfo@health.ny.gov – when you cease or resume such activities.
  • Compassionate care visitation is allowed when visitation may not otherwise be permitted, and the expansive definition allows for more opportunities for a resident to have visits beyond end-of-life circumstances. These visitors should be counted when facilities are determining the number of visitors, so they do not exceed the number they are safely able to accommodate.
  • It is stressed that all staff continue to be screened for each shift. If an individual is working a double shift, they should be screened again at the start of the new shift.
  • ACFs may resume interior and exterior construction projects that were previously approved by DOH based on approval of a Resident Safety Plan by the Department. It is recommended that you review your plans to determine what might need to be changed or updated at this juncture.
  • DOH confirmed that in stating that the Holiday Health Advisory issued Nov. 20, 2020 is no longer in effect, they were indeed referencing the advisory issued on Nov. 24th. We continue to await clarification on the implications for nursing homes. Many members are left wondering how best to manage a resident’s return after a social visit now that the holiday guidance is no longer in effect. The Department has not offered any further guidance on this issue. We advise that you continue to follow all infection control best practices and educate your residents and their loved ones on the need to follow precautions even if both parties are fully vaccinated at this time.
  • When asked about the ability for residents to go outdoors, the Department stated that there are no guidelines that indicate an ACF resident cannot go outside unless they or the facility are under a quarantine order (typically issued by the Local Health Department).
  • We are seeking clarification on the definition of substantial compliance standards and the confirmation process outlined in the guidance.

We will continue to keep members apprised of developments regarding these issues.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828