We are finally in the stage of the pandemic where policies are being loosened, and normalcy is returning to public and medical spaces. The official Public Health Emergency has come to an end and, as a result, there is a new update to California Covid Policies. These simple changes affect nursing home residents, caregivers, staff, and visitors. As always, stay up to date with specific nursing home policies and take proper cautions if you are feeling unwell.
Updated Covid Policies
These changes were reported by The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care which is always advocating for nursing home residents. It’s important to remember that visitation in nursing homes is a right of all residents. These changes will open up visitation which will hopefully help ensure quality care and allow you to continue advocating on behalf of your loved ones.
- Nursing homes will continue to educate residents and staff on the COVID-19 vaccine and offer to help them get vaccinated.
- Staff vaccination requirements have ended – although all residents, staff, and visitors are encouraged to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Routine testing of staff and residents without symptoms is no longer recommended; however, nursing homes must comply with accepted standards, such as CDC recommendations for testing. Residents and staff with signs or symptoms of COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status, must be tested as soon as possible.
- Requirements for masking in nursing homes vary by community. Talk to your nursing home’s administration about requirements in your facility. Remember – you have the right to wear a mask if you choose
Residents’ Rights
Additionally, rights that were waived during the pandemic such as roommate choice, relocation refusal, and the right to be notified before transfer have been reinstated. Residents moved as a result of these waivers should be given the choice to return to their original place of residence or facility if they wish. Though this is something you can now advocate for, transfers will depend on room availability.
Additional Changes
Along with the specific Covid policies, facilities are expected to post alerts informing the public about infection control procedures and practices. Visitation is also expected to continue with a Covid outbreak. However, it should be contained to the residents’ room. But most importantly, “the guidance continues to state there are no current COVID-19 scenarios that would permit a facility to prohibit a resident to have visitors at anytime.”
If you or a loved one has been the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse, call Gharibian Law (877-460-1187) today for a FREE consultation and the best legal representation.
