COVID-19 Top Five Things to Know for May 13, 2020

1. COVID Mitigation Plan Required from all SNFs
   CDPH released an AFL notifying all SNFs that each facility has 21 calendar days to send CDPH a COVID mitigation plan that addresses: testing and cohorting, infection prevention and control, personal protective equipment, staffing shortages, designation of space, and communication. Failure to comply could result in an immediate jeopardy penalty.
2. House Releases $3 Trillion Relief Bill
   The 1,815 page bill earmarks $100 billion in emergency rental assistance and $800 million for HUD Multifamily senior housing (including $300 million for service coordinators). It also allocates additional healthcare funding including a 14% increase for FMAP, the HEROES Fund for premium pay for frontline workers, $150 million for nursing home strike teams, $100 billion for healthcare provider relief fund and $75 billion for vaccine development. It also includes authority to contract with QIOs to assist with infection control as well as a SNF payment incentive to create COVID-19 treatment centers. Watch for a more detailed analysis today on the LeadingAge COVID-19 page.
3. Governor Proclaims Older Californians Month
   In a proclamation signed yesterday, Governor Newsom proclaimed May as Older Californian’s Month and said, “There is no moment more significant than now to honor older Californians for their sacrifices and their service. We deeply appreciate that older Californians were the first to stay home during the COVID-19 pandemic and as a result are saving lives every day through their commitment and resolve. We remember those older Californians who have lost their lives to this terrible pandemic, and we offer our comfort and support to their loved ones.”
4. Free Webinar from Coalition for Compassionate Care
   “CCCC Decision Aids, Ventilators, CPR, Transfers, and Comfort Care” to be held on 5/14/2020 from 12 noon to 1:00 PM. Speakers include Jessica Nutik Zitter, MD, MPH, Author & Practicing Physician, Alameda Health System; and Karl Steinberg, MD, CMD, HMDC, Medical Director, Hospice by the Sea. Register here.
5. Meeting the Moment
   Please help share positive stories of LeadingAgeCA members rising to the challenge of COVID-19!