This week, CMS updated the Infection Control Critical Element (CE) pathway related to the end of the Healthcare Provider COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate announced May 31, 2023. The pathway was updated to remove all surveyor guidance related to F888 (Staff COVID-19 Vaccine). Surveyors are advised to verify compliance with requirements for educating and offering COVID-19 immunization only. All other areas regarding staff COVID vaccines were removed from the pathway. The Entrance Conference form was also updated to remove all staff COVID-19 vaccine requirements. The Entrance Conference form removed the need for facilities to maintain a COVID-19 vaccine matrix. Facilities are reminded to continue to document COVID-19 vaccine education to both residents and staff. As a reminder, Massachusetts regulations, under 105 CMR 150.002 D. (11) Requirement for Personnel to Be Vaccinated against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Caused by the Virus SARS-CoV-2, requires each facility to ensure all personnel have received COVID-19 vaccination, unless an individual is subject to an exemption. Nursing facilities that are not in compliance with the vaccination requirement can still be cited under both state and federal regulations.