DOH Updates ACF Visitation Guidance
Last week, the Department of Health (DOH) issued updated visitation guidance for adult care facilities (ACFs). While the guidance does not change the standard of having to go 14 days without a new COVID-positive resident or staff to open visitation, there are some notable changes.
The definition of compassionate care visitation has been expanded significantly, and such visits are permitted even if the facility does not meet the standards for visitation.
The guidance clarifies that small group activities will be permissible when the ACF is not experiencing an outbreak and when space allows for appropriate social distancing. However, no more than 10 residents and staff will be permitted to engage in such activities at any one time.
Additionally, the guidance allows for the resumption of previously approved interior and exterior construction projects, based on approval of a Resident Safety Plan by the Department.
The guidance does recommend that facilities accommodate and support indoor visitation, including visits for reasons beyond compassionate care situations, when the COVID-19 countywide positivity rate is less than 10 percent, based on the guidelines above. The link provided in the guidance is difficult to use, so LeadingAge NY reviews the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) data and updates it weekly here for member convenience. It is critical to note that the CMS data differs from the data published by New York State regarding county positivity rates, so be sure that you are looking at the CMS data for this purpose.
We recommend that members review the guidance carefully and ensure compliance with all aspects. We also recommend that you review your plan and ensure that you are continuing to comply with its components and have it available should the Department want to review.
We have submitted several questions to DOH regarding the guidance and hope to have answers for members soon.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828