On April 17, CMS announced a plan to begin allowing the elective procedures resume. Below is a brief summary of the requirements.
- States or Regions must meet “Gating Criteria”
- A lowering trend in flu-like illnesses, COVID – 19 Cases/or positive test numbers percentages during a 14 day period.
- An effective COVID – 19 testing program for potentially exposed healthcare workers.
- Reopening Facilities will require.
- Testing equipment.
- Appropriate numbers of workforce for the care of patients.
- Sufficient PPE.
- Being prepared for a potential surge in COVID – 19 Cases.
- Optimal strategy is to have hospitals establish COVID Free Units (“non-COVID Care (NCC) zones”)
- Staff only work in these areas (No cross rounding between COVID – 19 Patients or units and NCC area.
- Such units will require strict screening for patients before entry and for staff.
- Screening emphasizes clinical assessment for recent symptoms and fever.