Budget Amendment ID: FY2021-S4-228

EHS 228

Preventing Future Nursing Home COVID-19 Outbreaks

Ms. Jehlen, Ms. Rausch, Ms. DiZoglio, Messrs. Timilty, O'Connor, Eldridge and Montigny and Ms. Gobi moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting the following new section:-

SECTION XX. The Department of Public Health shall issue guidance for the purpose of preventing hospital patients from becoming infected with COVID-19 and, upon discharge from the hospital, subsequently infecting patients, residents, or staff of a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, rehabilitation center, or other congregate care facility. Said guidance shall include, at a minimum, the following requirements:

(1) all hospital employees who provide direct patient care shall receive frequent testing;

(2) all patients who are not in the hospital because of COVID-19 infection shall be tested at least 48 hours prior to discharge to a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, rehabilitation center, or other congregate care facility; and

(3) PPE use shall be increased for all hospital employees providing direct care to patients over the age of 70 or who are likely to require rehabilitation post hospital, and among first responders and home care providers.