Discusses information on HHS update on Provider Relief Fund for $2 billion VBP program, updates to CMS county data for COVID-19 weekly testing and updated methodology and provides a reminder about the DPH weekly call.

Ensuring that long term care residents can exercise their constitutional right to vote is of utmost importance. Long term care providers should do everything possible to ensure residents can get the information and materials they need to participate in the election, while also staying safe from COVID-19.

A notice on MassHealth COVID-19 filing reminder, DPH guidance for anterior nares (nasal swab) specimen collection by unlicensed healthcare personnel, CMS rescinding proposed MFAR Rule, and the final chance to register for this week’s webinars.

This memo discusses CMS visitation guidance for nursing homes, CMS clarification on data release schedule for county positivity rates, the Dementia Care Call and the HHS announcement regarding the method for distribution of $2 billion Provider Relief Fund.

On September 16, 2020, CMS received the final report and recommendations from the Coronavirus Commission on Safety and Quality in Nursing Homes (the Commission).

Healthcentric Advisors QIO collaborative and NHSN group is available to help nursing homes ensure their NHSN data is entered accurately to avoid CMPs. In conferring rights to your NHSN data to the QIO, the QIO will generate a “preview” report on Thursday after 12pm for all homes that join.

Last Thursday, the Baker Administration and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) released the Nursing Facility Accountability and Supports Package 2.0 which includes up to $142 million for quality nursing home care, covering (1) a new integrated rate structure for the Rate Year 2021 rate and beyond, and (2) targeted COVID-19 Supplemental Funding. The EOHHS proposal builds upon prior Accountability and Supports programs designed to promote and ensure high quality nursing home care.

Mass Senior Care is pleased to welcome new members to our Association. Our Associate Members have demonstrated their commitment to the senior care provider community by joining Mass Senior Care and participating as exhibitors and sponsors for events and educational conferences. Mass Senior Care members are encouraged to contact Associate Members when they are in need of long term care products and services.

The Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) wants to make sure you are aware of two important PFML changes: 1. The website has been updated mass.gov/pfml with new information, please visit it frequently. 2. The PFML contact center opened. Whether you have questions about timelines, general eligibility, or where to find resources on mass.gov – call 833-344-7365, assistance is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.