On May 8, 2023, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released two revised memos QSO-20-38-NH and QSO-20-39-NH for nursing homes updating guidance on COVID testing and visitation.
Nursing home providers should follow CDC recommendations and guidance set forth in Appendix PP regarding F-tag 880 on infection control and always adhere to the core principles of COVID-19 infection prevention and control. Routine testing of asymptomatic staff is no longer recommended but may be performed at the discretion of the facility. CMS strongly encourages all visitors to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations and facilities should educate and also encourage visitors to become vaccinated. Nursing homes must post visual alerts (e.g., signs, posters) at the entrance and in strategic places (e.g., waiting areas, elevators, cafeterias) regarding infection control guidelines. These alerts should include instructions about current Infection Prevention and Control recommendations, such as when to use source control. Nursing home providers should read each memo and adjust policies and procedures accordingly.
