Mary Madison, RN, RAC-CT, CDP
Clinical Consultant – Briggs Healthcare
On March 10, 2020, CMS issued QSO-20-18-HHA…Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention Concerning COVID-19 in Home Health Agencies
This 7-page memorandum addresses (and contains links to additional information):
- Which patients are at risk for severe disease for COVID-19?
- How should HHAs screen patients for COVID-19?
- How should HHAs monitor or restrict home visits for health care staff?
- Do all patients with known or suspected COVID-19 infection require hospitalization?
- What are the considerations for determining when patients confirmed with COVID-19 are safe to be treated at home?
- When should patients confirmed with COVID-19 who are receiving HHA services be considered for transfer to a hospital?
- What are the implications of the Medicare HHA Discharge Planning Regulations for Patients with COVID-19?
- What are recommended infection prevention and control practices, including considerations for family member exposure, when evaluating and caring for patients with known or suspected COVID-19?
- Are there specific considerations for patients requiring therapeutic interventions?
- What Personal Protective Equipment should home care staff routinely use when visiting the home of a patient suspected of COVID-19 exposure or confirmed exposure?
- When is it safe to discontinue Transmission-based Precautions for home care patients with COVID-19?
- Protocols for Coordination and Investigation of Home Health Agencies with Actual or Suspected COVID-19 Cases
This memorandum is a must-read for all Home Health Agencies!
