Skip to content Accessibility tools

Clinical & Quality

Quality Awards Workshop

Assisted Living Communities- THIS IS FOR YOU! You deserve an award for all your hard work! Join us and we’ll guide you through the steps to earn the recognition you’ve earned, while earning CEUs... Read More

Pause in HERDS reporting – July 4th

The Department remains on alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not be requiring HERDS reporting for hospitals, nursing homes or adult care facilities on the following dates ... Read More

Pause in HERDS reporting – July 4th

The Department remains on alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not be requiring HERDS reporting for hospitals, nursing homes or adult care facilities on the following dates ... Read More

CMS Revises PBJ Staff Turnover Definition

Other Updates Coming on July 31 to Nursing Home Data and Care Compare. Today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released QSO-24-14-NH regarding updates coming to Nursing Home Care Compare and Data.CMS.gov on July 31, 2024. The updates reflect ... Read More

DOH Advisory: Legionellosis

New York State (NYS) has a high burden of legionellosis. Clinical suspicion for the possibility of Legionnaires disease, Pontiac fever, or extrapulmonary legionellosis coupled with ... Read More

Heat Advisory

Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather conditions. A combination of high temperatures in the 90s and high humidity will lead to heat index values or “feel-like” temperatures in the upper 90’s to mid-100’s for the next consecutive days in the Capital Region, and Central, Western and Northern New York. This weather event  ... Read More

DOH: Be Aware-Be Prepared for the Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather conditions. A combination of high temperatures in the 90s and high humidity will lead to heat index values or “feel-like” temperatures in the upper 90’s to mid-100’s for the next consecutive days in the Capital Region, and Central, Western and Northern New York. This weather event  ... Read More

DOH: Influenza Surveillance Report for the Week Ending 05/18/2024

This Informational Message is being sent to you by the NYSDOH Bureau of Communicable Disease Control (BCDC), which produces a weekly statewide influenza surveillance report from October through May. Attached is the influenza surveillance report for the week ending May 18, 2024. This is the final influenza report for the 2023-2024 influenza season ... Read More

Pause in HERDS reporting - Memorial Day Weekend

The Department remains on alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not require HERDS reporting for hospitals, nursing homes or adult care facilities on the following dates ... Read More

Grievances

DOH is encouraging providers to review their policy and procedures as it relates to grievances. The facility must establish a grievance policy to ensure the prompt resolution of all grievances regarding the residents’ rights. Upon request ... Read More

DOH Alert: Total Solar Eclipse Affecting New York State

With the upcoming total solar eclipse happening in New York State on April 8, facilities are reminded of the possible significant influx of umbraphiles and eclipse enthusiasts which may disrupt operations. The Department is encouraging facilities to ... Read More

2024 AHCA/NCAL Awards Program Now Open!

Nominations for the 2024 AHCA/NCAL Awards Program are now open! AHCA/NCAL members are strongly encouraged to nominate those inspiring leaders and unsung colleagues who go above and beyond to provide exceptional service in the long term care profession ... Read More

DOH Alert: Total Solar Eclipse Affecting New York State

New York State will experience a total solar eclipse, occurring on April 8th, 2024. Depending upon your location the timing will vary; the path of totality stretches from Western to Northern New York. It is expected that this event will have a significant impact on the State. This document is ... Read More

Nursing Home Benefit Limitation DAL

The purpose of the attached letter is to notify nursing homes of the intention of the Department of Health to conduct another “Batch Process” disenrollment to continue implementation of the change in coverage of the long term nursing home care benefit in the ... Read More

DAL NH 24-07: Warm Weather Advisory

As warmer weather approaches, this is a reminder that you are encouraged to take the necessary precautions to ensure that residents are comfortable and safe in nursing homes throughout the spring and summer months when temperatures can be expected to rise. Both ... Read More

Pre-Webinar Survey for Upcoming LTCF/SNF OASAS Webinar Series

The NYS Department of Health (DOH), Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), Legal Action Center (LAC) and other partners are planning a webinar series for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) and Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) on best practices for caring for persons with substance use and/or ... Read More

February 2024 AR Telemedicine Articles

The NYSDOH Bureau of Healthcare Associated Infections is pleased to highlight several articles on antibiotic stewardship in telemedicine, plus an opportunity for telemedicine providers to enroll in a quality improvement project slated to start early summer, 2024 ... Read More

AHCA-NHSN Tip Sheet

One of the top ten survey tags in CY 2023 was related to F884, NHSN reporting. Nursing Homes are required to report COVID-19 data elements weekly on Sunday at 11:59 pm. AHCA has provided a tip sheet regarding NHSN Reporting ... Read More

HCS Coordinator Training

Wanted to let you know that there is a monthly Health Commerce System training for Health Commerce System Coordinators that may be beneficial. Users must create an account on the Learning Management System (www.NYlearnsph.com) and... Read More

Upcoming OSHA Injury Tracking Application Webinar

Effective January 2, 2024, employers in certain high hazard industries (this includes Assisted Livings) with establishments having more than 100 employees are required to submit additional data on their Injury Tracking Application account ... Read More

NYSDOH Collection and Submission Process

Each month NYSDOH will notify approximately 100 nursing home facilities in writing to complete the infection control inspection annual audit checklist for that month. Those 100 nursing homes receiving the letter will be notified by NYSDOH of the specific date when to return the completed checklist. NYSDOH will ... Read More

DOH: Infection Control Back to Basics Webinar

On 01/17/2024 at 12:00 Noon, the Office of Aging and Long-Term Care will host a webinar provided by the Quality Innovation Network/Quality Improvement Organization on Infection Control for both Nursing Homes and Adult Care Facilities. To register ... Read More

2022 Nursing Home Quality Initiative Results

The results of the 2022 New York State Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI) have been finalized and DOH is pleased to share your facility’s performance. Your facility's report is posted to the Health Commerce System (HCS). See attached DAL for details ... Read More

DOH: Master Plan for Aging Survey – Deadline Extended

Due to the recent surge in enthusiasm and overwhelming response from survey participants, we are extending the survey period through January 31, 2024. Since the launch of New York State’s Master Plan for Aging (MPA) survey, we have received an unprecedented level of engagement from ... Read More

DOH: Multi-Factor Authentication for Coordinator Update Tools

The Health Commerce System is implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) functionality to the HCS Coordinators Account Tools. Multi-Factor Authentication adds an additional layer of security to the application to ensure security and compliance. Effective December 20, 2023, all HCS Coordinators will be required ... Read More

DOH: 2024 Critical Asset Survey (CAS) Informational Update

Beginning January 1, 2024, the Critical Asset Survey (CAS) within the Health Electronic Response Data System (HERDS) will be shifting to a Save and Submit only format. Facilities will no longer be able to keep the survey in a draft status. This will ensure that all data is current and ... Read More

2023-2 MDS Collection

The attached letter provides information regarding the Minimum Data Set (MDS) data collection periods for the January 2024 Medicaid reimbursement rates. Certifications are due by 12/21/23 ... Read More

DAL NH 23-16 Infection Inspection Audit and Checklist

Pursuant to 2022 amendments to Public Health Law at 2803-aa, the Department of Health (“Department”) has implemented an infection control inspection annual audit checklist for Nursing Homes to evaluate the Nursing Home’s infection control competencies. Effective January 1, 2024 ... Read More

Nursing Home Benefit Limitation DAL

The purpose of the attached letter is to notify nursing homes of the intention of the Department of Health to conduct another “Batch Process” disenrollment to continue implementation of the change in coverage of the long term nursing home care benefit in the Medicaid Managed Long Term Care Partial Capitation plan (MLTCP plan).  This ... Read More

IPRO Education Summit / Resources

IPRO has provided us with a reminder about their free upcoming New Education Summit on November 30th, as well as some additional resources that your providers may find useful. Please see the ... Read More

Master Plan for Aging Survey

Dear Members of the NYS Master Plan for Aging Community, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you today to emphasize the critical importance of Governor Hochul's NYS Master Plan for Aging survey and to request your active involvement in promoting it within your networks ... Read More

DOH: NYS Master Plan for Aging Survey

Dear Members of the NYS Master Plan for Aging Community, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you today to emphasize the critical importance of the NYS Master Plan for Aging survey and to request your active involvement in promoting it within your networks ... Read More

DOH Weekly Reports - Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Administration Status

The purpose of this letter is to inform providers of new data that will continue to be updated and distributed weekly to all New York State nursing homes as previously referenced in DAL: NH 23-20. As the New York State Department of Health (“Department”) continues to recognize COVID-19 as an ongoing threat to ... Read More

DOH: COVID-19 Test Kits

The US government will continue to make COVID-19 tests available to uninsured and underserved communities through existing outreach programs. Please contact an ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: CMS to Host SNF/LTC Open Door Forum on Thursday

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will host its next Skilled Nursing Facilities/Long Term Care Open Door Forum (ODF) this Thursday, October 12 from 3-4 PM ET. The forum provides an opportunity for live dialogue with CMS and is open to all stakeholders ... Read More

Master Plan for Aging Town Hall - Queens, October 18th

On behalf of Governor Kathy Hochul, the NYS Department of Health and the NYS Office for the Aging would like to invite you to a New York Master Plan for Aging (MPA) Town Hall on October 18, 2023. The Town Hall provides the public a chance to give their input and ... Read More

Staffing Mandate Mitigation Submissions

Several providers have received requests from the DOH regarding their 3.5 staffing mandate mitigation submissions. The Department has set a 3-day deadline to respond. At NYSHFAs request, they are granting extensions for ... Read More

NYS Section S

SECTION S: The New York State-Specific Items of the MDS have been posted to the NYS DOH website, see link below for the copy of the form and instructions. Specific questions can be sent to the email below ... Read More

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when ... Read More

Free Webinar: Introduction to the AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award

Join NYSHFA | NYSCAL on Thursday, July 27, 2023 for our 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award Informational Webinar from 10:00 am -11:30 am. This free, members-only webinar will give attendees basic information on both technical and eligibility requirements for the 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award... Read More

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when ... Read More

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when ... Read More

Free Webinar: Introduction to the AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award

Join NYSHFA | NYSCAL on Thursday, July 27, 2023 for our 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award Informational Webinar from 10:00 am -11:30 am. This free, members-only webinar will give attendees basic information on both technical and eligibility requirements for the 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award... Read More

Free Webinar: Introduction to the AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award

Join NYSHFA | NYSCAL on Thursday, July 27, 2023 for our 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award Informational Webinar from 10:00 am -11:30 am. This free, members-only webinar will give attendees basic information on both technical and eligibility requirements for the 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze Quality Award... Read More

CDC Sepsis

Get Ahead of Sepsis is a national educational effort that emphasizes the importance of early recognition, timely treatment, reassessment of antibiotic needs, and prevention of infections ... Read More

DOH: Pause in HERDS reporting - July 4th Holiday

The Department remains on alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not require HERDS reporting for hospitals, nursing homes, adult care facilities, CHHAs, LHCSAs, and hospices on the following date: Tuesday, July 4. HERDS reporting will resume on Wednesday, 7/5/23. Please note ... Read More

Upcoming Quality Award Webinar - July 13

The Quality Award team has been working diligently over the past year to enhance the Quality Award program. Because of your outstanding commitment to quality, your leadership, and/or your support of the Quality Award program, we have identified you as a Quality Award advocate in your state. Please join us on July 13 at 10:00am EST for a webinar that will cover ... Read More

NYS Commission for the Blind

A presentation was given today by the NYS Commission for the Blind.  Attached is the slide deck with the recording embedded on the title page.  In addition, the presentation and referenced supplemental resources are on the Health Commerce System... Read More

How to Buy Renewable Energy - What You Need to Know

Join Transparent Energy’s webinar on Thursday, June 22nd, at 2:00 p.m. on procuring green energy. Whether you are in the planning or execution phase of your sustainability journey, Transparent Energy can help. We hope you can attend ... Read More

How to Buy Renewable Energy - What You Need to Know

Join Transparent Energy’s webinar on Thursday, June 22nd, at 2:00 p.m. on procuring green energy. Whether you are in the planning or execution phase of your sustainability journey, Transparent Energy can help. We hope you can attend ... Read More

DOH: Legionellosis Advisory

New York State (NYS) has a high burden of Legionellosis. Clinical suspicion for the possibility of Legionnaires' disease coupled with culture of respiratory secretions is critical to the identification of and intervention in community clusters. Legionellosis occurs year-round, with ... Read More

DOH: Presentation by NYS Commission for the Blind

The Office of Aging and Long Term Care, Center for Long Term Care Survey and Operations, invites you to a 1 hour webinar on June 26 at 10:00 by the New York State Commission for the Blind. The mission of the New York State Commission for the Blind is to ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Focus MDS Update of the Week

Since their release on April 3, 2023, the final MDS Item Sets version 1.18.11v2 and the draft MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual version 1.18.11 were updated. For the next few weeks, AHCA will be focusing on ... Read More

Executive Order 4.22

Please see the attached Executive Order 4.22 extending Executive Order 4 due to Healthcare Staffing Shortages in New York State until June 22nd, 2023 ... Read More

Focus MDS Update of the Week

On April 3, 2023, the final MDS Item Sets version 1.18.11 and the draft MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual version 1.18.11 were released. For the next nine weeks, AHCA will be focusing on a different section to highlight changes and what members need to know. Changes to Section A ... Read More

DOH Advisory: Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious paralytic condition characterized by the rapid onset of flaccid weakness in one or more limbs. The condition affects the nervous system, specifically ... Read More

DOH: Influenza Surveillance Report for the Week Ending 05/20/2023

This Informational Message is being sent to you by the NYSDOH Bureau of Communicable Disease Control (BCDC), which produces a weekly statewide influenza surveillance report from October through May. Attached is the influenza surveillance report for the week ending May 20, 2023. This is the last influenza report for the 2022-2023 influenza season ... Read More

Pause in HERDS reporting - Memorial Day Weekend

The Department remains on alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not be requiring HERDS reporting for hospitals, nursing homes or adult care facilities on the following dates ... Read More

DOH: Waiver and Equivalency Process Webinar

On 05/11/2023, the Department of Health released DAL NH-23-04, outlining the waiver and equivalency request process. On 05/31/2023, the Department will host a 60-minute webinar wherein we will provide a comprehensive procedural overview ... Read More

DOH: Notification After the Public Health Emergency Expires

On 05/01/2023, the Department released DAL #23-03 which expressed that a pandemic plan is only required to be deployed during a pandemic, which is declared by the State and/or federal government. The required elements from DAL #20-09 do not go away on 05/11/2023, which is the date we expect the public health emergency related to COVID-19 to expire. Instead ... Read More

NAB- Health Services Executive (HSE™) Qualification

The Health Services Executive (HSE™) qualification is a broad-based credential that allows our most talented administrators to practice along the senior living and health services continuum while enjoying portability of their license(s). State boards from across the United State still ... Read More

DAL NH 23-03: Update to Emergency Preparedness Plans

Recently enacted amendments to Public Health Law Section 2803(12) require that residential health care facilities include as part of their mandated pandemic emergency plans measures to update residents, authorized family members, and resident representatives of the presence of an infection and to have in their pandemic emergency plan a plan or procedure for placement or grouping of residents within a facility to reduce transmission of the pandemic disease, consistent with guidance issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). See full DAL attached ... Read More

Recent Swat/Ghost Calls in Nursing Homes

NYSHFA recently was made aware that a facility received several calls threatening to burn down their Nursing Home. The calls were received from out of the area. The police were called and traced the number to out of the state. They believe it was ... Read More

What to Expect with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Transition to iQIES on April 17, 2023 | QIES Technical Support Office

On April 17, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will transition to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) for Minimum Data Set (MDS) record submissions and reports.  As part of this transition, the QIES Assessment Submission And Processing (ASAP) system for MDS submissions will be turned off on April 13 at 8:00 p.m. ET.  See link for details! Read More

AHCA/NCAL: HHS Announces Expiration of COVID-19 PHE HIPAA Notifications of Enforcement Discretion

This week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) announced that the Notifications of Enforcement Discretion issued under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act during the COVID-19 public health emergency will expire at 11:59 pm on May 11, 2023, due to the expiration of the COVID-19 public health emergency ... Read More

2023 AHCA/NCAL Awards Program Now Open!

Nominations for the 2023 ACHA/NCAL Awards Program are now open! AHCA/NCAL members are strongly encouraged to nominate those in their community who go above and beyond to provide exceptional service in the long term care profession. All nominations are available via ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Focus F-Tag of the Week

In fall of 2022, CMS issued Admin Info: 22-09-ALL, which outlined several regulatory focus areas for Federal Monitoring Surveys related to specific F-tags for FY2022 and FY2023. One regulatory area of focus is §483.40 Behavioral health services, specifically at F740, F741, and F742 ... Read More

MDS Transition on April 17

CMS is preparing to move to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) for Minimum Data Set (MDS) submissions. In order to ensure access to the new system, please follow these instructions to create a new account and establish credentials by April 13, 2023 ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL Member Resources on Medicaid Unwinding Now Available

Return to Regular Medicaid Redetermination: Ensuring Resident Medicaid Coverage ... Since March 2020, states ceased Medicaid eligibility determinations and have been unable to disenroll any Medicaid beneficiaries from the Medicaid program. The freeze on redeterminations and prohibition on disenrollment were based upon ... Read More

Webinar-Understanding Nursing Home Staffing in the Context of Recent Nursing Staff Recommendations, John Bowblis, PhD, March 8, 2023

On Wednesday, March 8th, John Bowblis, PhD, Miami University (Ohio) Professor of Economics, Scripps Gerontology Research Fellow, and Co-Author of the recent report issued by the Scripps Gerontology Center “Current Workforce and Quality Challenges in New York State Nursing Homes,” will be having a webinar on Wednesday, March 8th at 12 noon EST with Sam Brooks ... Read More

Build Your Facility’s Cyber Security Awareness

On Wednesday, March 1st, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am, Michael J. Hastings, CISSP, Cyber Security Advisor for the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) will present a FREE webinar specifically for all New York State Long Term Healthcare providers ... Read More

Customer-Focused Research Group (CFRG) Survey

The Customer-Focused Research Group (CFRG) within the newly formed Office of Burden Reduction and Health Informatics (OBRHI) at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is currently conducting a Nursing Home qualitative research engagement focused on ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Public Health Emergency Ending May 11

The Biden Administration announced its plans to end the Public Health Emergency (PHE). This administration guidance meets the Administration’s promise of 60 days’ notice of the end of the PHE. Based on the guidance, the PHE will end on May 11, 2023 ... Read More

Cybersecurity Situational Awareness Update

The Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has alerted NYSHFA-NYSCAL of the potential risks for worldwide cyber-attacks on healthcare facilities. ***At this time there are no known New York victims listed in any forums.***. The ... Read More

DOH: Executive Order 4 Extended

For your awareness, Executive Order 4 was extended. Now version 4.17, “continuing the Declaration of a Statewide Disaster Emergency Due to Healthcare Staffing Shortages in the State of New York” is in effect until February 21, 2023 ... Read More

NYSDOH Releases 2021 NHQI Results

The 2021 Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI) results which are based on the 2020 MDS data have been posted to the New York State’s Health Data NY website. Please find the attached document for detailed instructions to access the ... Read More

Statewide Peer Assistance for Nurses (SPAN) Program

Throughout 2023, NYSHFA-NYSCAL-FQC will be sharing valuable information on accessing available peer assistance as part of addressing the additional stresses staff have endured over the last three years. We would like to introduce Statewide Peer Assistance for Nurses (SPAN) ... Read More

Statewide Peer Assistance for Nurses (SPAN) Program

Throughout 2023, NYSHFA-NYSCAL-FQC will be sharing valuable information on accessing available peer assistance as part of addressing the additional stresses staff have endured over the last three years. We would like to introduce Statewide Peer Assistance for Nurses (SPAN) ... Read More

Statewide Peer Assistance for Nurses (SPAN) Program

Throughout 2023, NYSHFA-NYSCAL-FQC will be sharing valuable information on accessing available peer assistance as part of addressing the additional stresses staff have endured over the last three years. We would like to introduce Statewide Peer Assistance for Nurses (SPAN) ... Read More

NYSDOH COVID 19 Screening Tools

See Information for Health Care Professionals about the Screening Checklist for the COVID-19 Vaccine for Moderately to Severely Immunocompromised People below ... Read More

HERDS Critical Asset Survey - shutdown coming on 12/23/22

This message is to inform all Health Care Facilities (HCFs) - hospitals, nursing homes (NHs) and adult care facilities (ACFs) - that the Critical Asset Survey HERDS will be temporarily shut down - starting at 5:00pm Friday December 23, 2022, and continuing through January 1, 2023 ... Read More

NYSDOH - HERDS Reporting for the Holidays

The Department will not require a daily COVID-19 HERDS report on the observed Christmas and New Year's holidays. (12/26/22 and 1/02/23). Daily COVID-19 HERDS reporting will resume on the Tuesday following the observed holiday, 12/27/2022 and 1/03/2023 ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL Survey of Providers

If you haven’t had a chance to complete our online survey, you’re in luck! The deadline has been extended to Friday, December 16. Please take 10 minutes to ... Read More

AHCA - LTC Data Cooperative

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for an electronic medical records (EMR) system to quantify infection rates and outcomes rapidly and to enable studies of vaccines and treatments among residents in long term care. The mission of the LTC Data Cooperative is to ... Read More

AHCA Update on Public Health Emergency

The Biden Administration has indicated it will renew the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency in January. The Administration had committed to provide 60 days’ advance notice to the public prior to allowing the Public Health Emergency to expire, and the 60-day mark passed last week with no public announcement ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Reminder - SNF QRP Submission Deadline is November 15

The submission deadline for the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Quality Reporting Programs is Tuesday, November 15. This applies to Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment data and data submitted to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) via the CDC NHSN for April 1 – June 30 (Q2) of calendar year 2022. All data must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. on November 15, 2022 ... Read More

DOH: Pause in HERDS reporting - Veterans Day

The Department remains alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not be requiring HERDS reporting for Hospitals, Nursing Homes, or Adult care Facilities on Veteran's Day, Friday, November 11, 2022 ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Reducing Respiratory Viral Infections this Winter

Respiratory viruses are more common during the winter months. Our elderly residents, particularly those with multiple medical conditions, are at risk for developing serious illnesses or exacerbations of their other illnesses, being hospitalized, or even dying. Increases in Influenza ... Read More

DOH: Person-Centered Training Sessions Available for Registration

The New York State Department of Health and its partners are excited to continue offering trainings to Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) stakeholders as part of the Person-Centered Planning Statewide Training Initiative! Training sessions for the Person-Centered Planning Virtual Training series continue through Fall 2022 ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL Fall Education Product Sales

AHCA/NCAL is holding sales this fall on several educational products. Sale flyers for each product are available in the ASHCAE Clearinghouse. Please contact AHCA/NCAL if you would like any of the sale flyers sent to you. The product sales include ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Focus F-Tag of the Week

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) made changes to the guidance of §483.12 Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation and updated the Psychosocial Outcome Severity Guide. Changes include the following ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL Launch New Leadership Program

The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has launched today a new leadership education program to further improve quality care and outcomes in long term care ... Read More

Monkeypox Health Care Provider Webinar

The New York State Department of Health and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will host a Monkeypox Health Care Provider Webinar Thursday, August 25, 2022, from 12:00-12:30pm to discuss current epidemiology, diagnosis, prevention, vaccination, and useful resources... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Focus F-Tag of the Week

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) made changes to §483.30-Physician Services and §483.35 Nursing Services. Changes include the following citations ... Read More

OSHA - Safe and Sound Program

Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America's workers safe ... Read More

OSHA - Safe and Sound Program

Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America's workers safe ... Read More

NYSDOH Announces Office of Aging and Long-Term Care

Dr. Bassett, NYS Commissioner of Health, established the Office of Aging and Long-Term Care (OALTC) as a strategic priority to ensure New Yorkers can age in place as long as possible with dignity and independence and have access to quality care if they need it ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Focus F-Tag of the Week

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) made changes to the §483.15-Admission, Transfer, and Discharge guidance. Changes include the following citations ... Read More

CMS- iQIES Implementation

Beginning in May 2021, State Survey Agencies and CMS locations began a phased transition to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), which is an internet-based system that includes ... Read More

Monkeypox Information from the CDC

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes ... Read More

OSHA’s Message: Working in Hot Weather

As temperatures rise in New Jersey and New York over the next few days, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration reminds employers and workers not to ignore the dangers of working in hot weather ... Read More

AHCA/NCAL: Focus F-Tag of the Week

Each week through October, AHCA will be focusing on a particular F-tag(s) to help providers break down the Phase 2 updates and Phase 3 new guidance. This week - §483.90-Physical Environment – F919-Resident Call System ... Read More

RN Nurse Educator Program

Please join our expert instructors for this convenient, virtual Nurse Educator Program that satisfies the NYSDOH requirements for skilled nursing facility Nurse Educators! This five-session program conducted in half-day sessions ... Read More

RN Nurse Educator Program

Please join our expert instructors for this convenient, virtual Nurse Educator Program that satisfies the NYSDOH requirements for skilled nursing facility Nurse Educators! This five-session program conducted in half-day sessions ... Read More

RN Nurse Educator Program

Please join our expert instructors for this convenient, virtual Nurse Educator Program that satisfies the NYSDOH requirements for skilled nursing facility Nurse Educators! This five-session program conducted in half-day sessions ... Read More

Important Prometric Updates

As a follow up to the Provider Association call held with the NYSDOH Thursday, June 16, 2022, NYSHFA|NYSCAL requested further information on Prometric, the NYS contractor responsible for testing nurse aides. Please see important updates noted below ... Read More

DOH: DAL NH 22-14 IDR/IIDR Submission Requirements

The New York State Department of Health is issuing this letter and attachment to clarify the Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) and Independent Informal Dispute Resolution (IIDR) submission requirements for nursing home facilities ... Read More

Important Prometric Updates

As a follow up to the Provider Association call held with the NYSDOH Thursday, June 16, 2022, NYSHFA|NYSCAL requested further information on Prometric, the NYS contractor responsible for testing nurse aides. Please see important updates noted below ... Read More

Free Sepsis Summit - June 15, 2022

The Home Care Association and the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation are sponsoring a Sepsis Summit on June 15, 2022 to be held at the Hilton in Albany, NY.  The purpose of the Sepsis Summit is to improve sepsis Prevention, Screening, and Intervention in the community and across the healthcare continuum ... Read More

FREE WEBINAR: IHA-AHP Recruitment & Retention Strategies for Healthcare Leadership Webinar Series - Presents first webinar June 14

The Iroquois Healthcare Association (IHA) and Advocates for Human Potential (AHP) have joined forces to develop the IHA-AHP Recruitment and Retention Strategies for Healthcare Leadership Series, a series of webinars for healthcare leadership focusing on innovative thinking around recruitment and retention. Please join us for Webinar 1, Putting People First: An Approach to Mapping the Workforce and Developing a Plan, on June 14 from 12:00 - 1:00pm ... Read More

DOH: HERDS Survey Pause

The purpose of this correspondence is two-fold. First, effective Saturday, June 11, 2022, the Department will suspend daily COVID HERDS reporting for Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Adult Care Facilities on Saturdays, Sundays, and State and/or federal holidays. Monday through ... Read More

FREE WEBINAR: IHA-AHP Recruitment & Retention Strategies for Healthcare Leadership Webinar Series - Presents first webinar June 14

The Iroquois Healthcare Association (IHA) and Advocates for Human Potential (AHP) have joined forces to develop the IHA-AHP Recruitment and Retention Strategies for Healthcare Leadership Series, a series of webinars for healthcare leadership focusing on innovative thinking around recruitment and retention. Please join us for Webinar 1, Putting People First: An Approach to Mapping the Workforce and Developing a Plan, on June 14 from 12:00 - 1:00pm ... Read More

Free Sepsis Summit - June 15, 2022

The Home Care Association and the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation are sponsoring a Sepsis Summit on June 15, 2022 to be held at the Hilton in Albany, NY.  The purpose of the Sepsis Summit is to improve sepsis Prevention, Screening, and Intervention in the community and across the healthcare continuum ... Read More

Resources for Potential Active Shooter Event

Emergencies involving an active shooter in your building are fluid, unpredictable, and quickly evolving situations that can lead to loss of life and injury.  Long-Term Care facilities face a unique set of challenges... Read More

eFINDS Training for 2022

Below are the remaining eFINDs training dates for June-December 2022 on LMS. Participants should be able to click on the specific Date/Time noted in Blue and be directed to LMS for registration ... Read More

AHCA -Revenue Cycle Management Academy

The American Health Care Association’s Revenue Cycle Management (RCM ) Academy is an educational training which provides the information and tools necessary for skilled nursing providers to understand and implement systems that lead to high-functioning RCM teams. See the ... Read More

DOH Advisory: Extended Influenza Surveillance Season Due to Elevated Influenza Activity

In view of persisting elevated influenza activity throughout New York State (NYS), this advisory serves to (1) notify healthcare facilities and providers that the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) will be extending the influenza surveillance season, and (2) provide updated influenza surveillance information along with links and references to influenza prevention and control resources ... Read More

A Message from Mark Parkinson: Submit Comments on the SNF Payment Rule to CMS

As you know, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued the FY 2023 SNF Proposed Payment Rule last month. The proposed rule provides for a net market basket increase for SNFs of 3.9 percent beginning October 1, 2022. It also includes a proposed parity adjustment of 4.6 percent. (This parity adjustment is a 4.6 percent cut.) We need your help submitting comments to CMS on the proposed payment rule ... Read More

CDC NHSN Updates

The NHSN Vaccination Team hosted two office hours webinars for the Event-Level COVID-19 Vaccination Forms on Tuesday, April 12th and Tuesday, April 19th. During these webinars, CDC provided long-term care facilities with an overview of ... Read More

NYSDOH Approves New Hybrid Online TNA to CNA Training Program through Academic Platform

NYSHFA is pleased to announce the NYSDOH approval of the Hybrid On-line Temporary Nurse Aide (TNA) to CNA Training Program through Academic Platform offered through the American Health Care Association. This program is ONLY for the transition of the TNA to CNA which will “expire” on June 7th with an additional 4 months to complete the required training, ending on Oct 7th, 2022. This program meets the requirement for the NYSDOH approved 75-hour TNA to CNA: 24 hours didactic and 16 hours lab/clinical if the TNA has met the requirements: 30 days working or 150 hours as a TNA. Per NYSDOH DAL NH-21-18, (35) additional hours will be credited for each TNA in recognition of their “on the job training” and employment providing resident care between March 1, 2020, through the end of the federal PHE. (Waiver ending 6/7/22). Any nursing facility that wants to participate in this on-line program must submit the attached letter of intent to DOH to receive a distinct on-line TNA to CNA training program number. This number will allow the facility to submit applications for their on-line students to take the New York State certified nurse aide exams and receive outcome data from Prometric. Should a facility already have a TNA to CNA training program number and wants to add this on-line training option, it must submit the letter for an on-line program number via the email NATP.DOH@health.ny.gov as well any questions the facility may have. Once the facility receives their online number approved by the DOH, facilities must complete the form found on the following link below to get started https://cnaonline.com/facilities/#facilities-form. Additionally, documents regarding how the training works, and the pricing policy are attached below. NYSHFA/NYSCAL CONTACTS: Lisa Volk, RN, B.P.S., LNHA Director, Clinical & Quality Services 518-462-4800 x15 Jackie Pappalardi, RN, BSN Executive Director 518-462-4800 x16 Read More

DOH: Communications Directory 2nd DAL

Based on the very helpful feedback the New York State Department of Health (Department) received from providers and their associations regarding recent required changes to facility leadership roles in the Health Commerce System (HCS) Communication Directory (Directory), we are taking steps to address your concerns, specifically ... Read More

NYSDOH - Pause in HERDS reporting

The Department remains on alert regarding COVID-19 and appreciates the information provided through the various COVID-19 surveys. The Department will not be requiring HERDS reporting for hospitals, nursing homes or adult care facilities on the following dates ... Read More

NYSDOH - Informational Message: CDC Project Firstline Training Available

The NYSDOH Bureau of Healthcare Associated Infections (BHAI) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is implementing Project Firstline: CDC’s National Healthcare Workforce Infection Prevention and Control Training Collaborative. Project Firstline is training material developed by CDC to provide ... Read More

NYSDOH Issues Heat Advisory

With the arrival of extended periods of high temperatures and humidity, you are encouraged to take the necessary precautions to prevent heat related illnesses... Read More

CMS Requirements for Staff COVID-19 Testing

On March 10, 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released a revised QSO-20-38-NH memo regarding long-term care facility testing requirements. NYSHFA|NYSCAL had a call with the NYS Department of Health, and while a DAL is forthcoming, want to advise all providers they should be following this updated testing guidance immediately ... Read More

NYSDOH DAL NHQI-2021

The NYSDOH releases the methodology for the upcoming 2021 Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI). The 2021 NHQI is based on the 2020 Minimum Data Set. The Dear Administrator letter and the methodology for ... Read More

Assign Roles in the Health Commerce System (HCS)

On January 31, 2022 the NYSDOH released DAL NH 22-03, which reminds facility Administrators of their regulatory obligation to maintain up to date business and after hours contact information for facility leadership roles in ... Read More

DAL #22-18: Health Commerce System Role Assignments

The New York State Department of Health will be issuing the attached Dear Administrator Letter today which reminds Administrators that contact information and after hours contact information for facility leadership roles in the Health Commerce System (HCS) Communications Directory. They are also ... Read More

DOH: FDA Limits Use of Certain Monoclonal Antibodies

Lilly's bamlanivimab plus etesevimab (BAM/ETE) and Regeneron's casirivimab plus imdevimab (REGEN-COV) are no longer authorized for use anywhere in the U.S., due to the prevalence of Omicron. Providers that have BAM/ETE and REGEN-COV on-hand should cease their use but ... Read More

New Items DOH and Governor’s Website

Below are links to the new items on the DOH website, as well as the Governor’s website. There are three new emergency regulations regarding the Surge and Flex System, Nursing Home PPE and vaccinations for Nursing Home and Adult Care Facilities ... Read More

FY 2022-23 Executive Budget Overview

1.5% Medicaid Cut Restoration Restores the prior administration’s 1.5% reduction to FFS Medicaid revenue in order to provide additional funding and recognize growth in provider service costs. 1% ATB Medicaid Rate Increase Provides for a payment increase of 1% across all DOH Medicaid fee-for-service rates. Healthcare Workforce Bonuses Amends the Social Services Law to make statutory changes necessary to implement healthcare workforce bonuses. Specifically, the law will be amended to provide health and mental hygiene workers earning up to $100,000 annually with a one-time bonus up to $3,000. The bill requires Medicaid providers to identify, claim, and pass through healthcare worker bonuses, and establishes monetary penalties for such providers for failure to properly do so. The bill further establishes that the maximum bonus per employee will be $3,000 and shall not be subject to state and local income tax. Statewide Facility Transformation Program IV Allocates $1.6B for the purpose of transforming, redesigning and strengthening health care needs. Supports capital projects that facilitates advancing these transformational goals.
  • Authorizes use of $450M to finance existing Program III eligible capital projects. This includes funds for residential health care facilities.
  • Invests an additional $50M to support implementation of a Green House Nursing Home Initiative.
  • Invests an additional $150M for IT infrastructure and telehealth capabilities for providers.
  • Allocates $61M additional funding for minimum staffing requirements.
70/40 Law Amendments Amends the definition of “revenue” in the 70/40 law to exclude the cash receipts assessment for all providers. Also amends the definition of “revenue” to exclude the capital per diem portion of the Medicaid rate for nursing homes that have a 4-Star or 5-Star CMS rating. Also allows for the Commissioner of Health, on a case by case basis, to exclude from the definition of “revenue” the capital per diem portion of the Medicaid rate for nursing homes that have a 3-Star CMS rating. Scope Of Practice: CertifiedMedication Aides Amends the Education Law and the Public Health Law to expand the Nurse Aide’s scope of practice to include the administration of medication in a skilled nursing facility. Specifically, the Education and Public Health Laws will be amended to allow Certified Nurse Aides to administer routine and prefilled medications (insulin, low weight molecular heparin, naloxone, and epinephrine) once trained and able to demonstrate competency. The Certified Medication Aide will be supervised by a Registered Professional Nurse employed by the skilled nursing facility. Facilities must have a systemic approach to address drug diversion. Financially Distressed Facilities Amends the Public Health Law to include residential healthcare facilities and adult care facilities among the providers that are eligible for Vital Access Provider Assurance Program (“VAPAP”) funds. Medicaid Global Cap Extends the Medicaid Global Cap for two years (through FY 2024). Modifies the metric for year-to-year growth allowed for Medicaid spending by adopting the five-year rolling average of Medicaid spending projections, based on the CMS Office of Actuarial Services (replaces the 10-year rolling average of the Medical component of the CPI index). The Executive Budget calls for a 4.7% increase in the Global Cap for FY 2022-23. Nurses Across New York Amends the Public Health Law to implement workforce initiatives to rebuild and grow the healthcare workforce, including establishing the Nurses Across New York (“NANY”) loan repayment program.  Specifically, Public Health Law will be amended to establish the NANY program which would reimburse nurses working in underserved communities for loan repayment over three years. A work group would be appointed from associations representing nurses, hospitals, and other healthcare providers to streamline the application process. Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Authorizes New York to join the Interstate Medical and Nurse Licensure Compact to allow doctors and nurses to easily relocate and practice in their profession using their existing license to practice in New York. Joining the Compact recognizes the expanded mobility of nurses and the need for coordination and cooperation among states to ensure the health and safety of residents and the benefits to public health through the effective use of advanced communication technologies. Also authorizes the issuance of a temporary permit for up to six months to practice while a licensing application in a qualified high need healthcare profession is pending for individuals licensed in another state who seeks licensure in New York while under the supervision of a New York licensee. Assisted Living Needs Methodology Extends the deadline that determines the need methodology for the Assisted Living Program through April 1, 2025. ACF regional and ALP occupancy rates will factor into the need methodology. Existing ALP Providers in good standing with the Department of Health will be afforded an expedited review when applying for an additional nine beds not requiring renovation or construction. Based on a complete and satisfactory application, a determination of the application will be made within 90 days of submission. Transfer of Oversight for Licensed Healthcare Professions Amends the Education Law and the Public Health Law in relation to the transfer of oversight of certain licensed professions from the State Education Department to the Department of Health. Provides that all functions, powers, duties and obligations of the Education Department concerning the healthcare professions listed in the bill which includes medicine, physicians, pharmacy, nursing, OT, PT, speech, social work, dietary and mental health among other healthcare professions will be transferred to NYS DOH. NYSHFA/NYSCAL CONTACTS: Stephen B. Hanse, Esq. President & CEO 518-462-4800 x11 Read More

Reminders for Nursing Home Visitor Testing

All visitors are required to follow the core principles of infection control. Facilities must review and/or revise their current policies, procedures and record-keeping practices on visitation and testing to follow NYSDOH updated guidance on SARS-CoV-2 and visitation ... Read More

Important Vaccine Booster Message

NYSHFA | NYSCAL is reaching out to encourage you to conduct COVID-19 vaccine booster clinics in your center. Booster shots increase the protection that an individual has against COVID-19 infection and severe outcomes resulting from infection... Read More

UPDATED: NYS Medicaid Reimbursement Policy for Administration of COVID-19 Testing and Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) Therapeutic Dispensing or Administration

The New York State Department of Health has updated the following policy and billing guidance documents regarding Medicaid’s reimbursement policy for the administration of COVID-19 Testing and Specimen Collection at Pharmacies, At Home COVID-19 Testing, and COVID-19 Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) Therapeutic Dispensing or Administration at Pharmacies. Read More

DOH Issues 2% QP Penalty

DOH has released a DAL regarding implementation of the 2% Quality Pool (QP) Penalty, which was processed in Medicaid cycle #2310 (check release date 12/15/21). The penalty is retroactive to ... Read More

Mask Requirement

Governor Hochul Announces Major Action to Address Winter Surge and Prevent Business Disruption as COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Rise Statewide. See link for details ... Read More

eFINDS Training Announcement

The eFINDS application is the Health Commerce System (HCS) https://commerce.health.state.ny.us platform for sharing of evacuee location information when facilities need to relocate their people ... Read More

NYSDOH - Updated COVID Information

The following are the updated links from the NYSDOH web site, included in the links are the COVID screening and immunization consent form, ordering guide for the COVID vaccine in NYSIIS, as well as an updated checklist for additional dosing for the immunocompromised... Read More

Confirmatory Testing

The attached Emergency Regulation (ER) was posted to the Department of Health this morning with an effective date of 11/11/21. This ER was issued previously and states that ... Read More

Tomorrow’s NYSDOH Nursing Home Survey

NYSDOH is reminding facilities that tomorrow’s Nursing Home survey will include monthly PPE measurements. Providers can still access that information on the Health Commerce Data Management System (HCDMS). In addition ... Read More

Skilled Nursing Facility Guidance Document - Disclosures

The Department of Health has not promulgated any regulations or guidance to date concerning the disclosure requirements required by skilled nursing facilities that became effective 10/21/21. As such, NYSHFA is providing the attached in the absence of any formal regulation or guidance by the DOH for your consideration. It is advised that you consult with your counsel on this matter prior to implementation. NYSHFA/NYSCAL CONTACTS: Stephen B. Hanse, Esq. President & CEO 518-462-4800 x11 Lisa Volk, RN, B.P.S., LNHA Director, Clinical & Quality Services 518-462-4800 x15 Read More

Staffing Vendor List Provided by Governor’s Office

To assist health care facilities and providers in maintaining critical care for all New Yorkers, New York State has received confirmed pricing from four vendors who committed to providing healthcare staff at a reasonable rate within 72 hours of the request for assistance ... Read More

Update on Project Firstline NY

The Foundation for Quality Care (FQC) was awarded a grant funded by the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) called Project Firstline NY.   FQC, along with our other partners, will be providing infection control training to ... Read More

Effective Today 10/21/2021 – SNF Disclosures Take Effect

The Department of Health has not promulgated any regulations or guidance to date concerning the following disclosure requirements. As such, NYSHFA will be preparing a uniform format in the near future for providers to consider. In the meantime, the following is a summary of the required disclosures.
  • October 21, 2021: Include on any public website for the facility the following information (see attached page 5 of Chapter 141 of the Laws of 2021):
    • The rates charged by the facility for residency and services, detailed for each nongovernmental payer source (update this information annually by April 1 of each year);
    • All individuals with an ownership interest in the operator of the facility (update this information within 30 days of any change or transaction affecting ownership);
    • The name and business address of any landlord of the facility; and
    • A summary of all contracts for goods and services for which the facility pays with any portion of Medicaid or Medicare funds, or any other agreement entered into by the facility, within 30 days of execution of the agreement or contract.
  • October 21, 2021: Operators are required to notify DOH at least 90 days prior to entering into any new common or familial ownership of any entity providing services to the operator or the facility, and are required to provide at least 90 days' notice to DOH prior to executing a contractual agreement with an entity to provide consulting services, operational services or staffing agency services at the facility. Operators are also required to update their residency agreement to include any existing common or familial arrangements, and notify residents and the LTC Ombudsman of any new arrangements (see attached Chapter 102 of the Laws of 2021).
NYSHFA/NYSCAL CONTACTS: Stephen B. Hanse, Esq. President & CEO 518-462-4800 x11 Lisa Volk, RN, B.P.S., LNHA Director, Clinical & Quality Services 518-462-4800 x15 Read More

Staffing Solutions

Have you taken advantage of the free courses designed by the American Health Care Association to assist with critical staffing shortages? The 8-hour Temporary Nurse Aide and 1-hour Temporary Feeding Assistant Programs may assist with ... Read More

Religious Exemption Preliminary Injunction

U.S District Judge David Hurd of the Northern District of New York issued an Order today, October 12, 2021 granting a preliminary injunction in the lawsuit Dr. A, et al., v. Kathy Hochul, et al., 21-CV-1009 (DNH)(ML). Specifically ... Read More

HERDS Survey Webinar and Changes

As of October 7th, the HERDS survey will be revised to eliminate the PPE section questions. Questions related to the PPE will be added once a month starting in November. Other changes will be announced on tomorrow’s webinar ... Read More

OSC HERDS Survey Audits

As previously reported by NYSHFA, the Office of the State Comptroller (“OSC”) is randomly selecting skilled nursing providers throughout the State for a review of information and figures reported in HERDS for the daily Covid-19 surveys ... Read More

Draft 70/40/5 and Minimum Staffing Regulations

On Thursday, October 7, 2021, the Codes Committee of the Public Health and Health Planning Council ("PHHPC") will be discussing, among other things, the recently released draft regulations for the 70/40/5 legislation and the 3.5 minimum staffing legislation. As draft regulations ... Read More

NH/ACF Weekly Staff Testing Survey (Week 72)

DOH has finalized the Week 72 Staff Testing Survey. There are substantive changes to this week’s survey for skilled nursing facilities only. As always, the survey will close promptly Thursday, 9/30 at 5pm... Read More

Promote Staff Vaccination Rates!

A COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the Delta variant and other forms of the virus. The vaccines are safe and effective, and it is imperative that ... Read More

Promote Staff Vaccination Rates!

A COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the Delta variant and other forms of the virus. The vaccines are safe and effective, and it is imperative that ... Read More

Update on COVID-19 Vaccination Program -- Booster Doses

Following Friday's meeting of the FDA's Vaccine and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC), Governor Kathy Hochul posted the following message to New Yorkers:  "While we still await a final federal decision and guidance on COVID-19 vaccine boosters ... Read More

Support to Improve Staff Vaccination

Promote Staff Vaccination Rates! According to AHCA: Providers with high uptake are more likely to employ multiple strategies to promote vaccine uptake. Vaccine hesitancy is complicated, and concerns can range from the speed at which the vaccine was developed, concerns over safety or side effects and distrust in government, public health or other institutions. Employ multiple approaches and be persistent in your efforts to address vaccine hesitancy. Remember that no one size fits all. Please refer to the AHCA Get Vaccinated page for helpful strategies: https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Documents/GetVaccinated/GetVaccinated-Strategies-Improve-Vacc-Rates.pdf NYSHFA|NYSCAL has prepared some key contingency staffing strategies in preparation of the upcoming September 27th vaccine staff mandate.  With appropriate planning and preparation, you will be able to continue essential functions to protect your vulnerable residents during this time and speed resumption of normal operations when appropriate. We encourage facility Administrators to review these approaches with your team and implement as needed to assist your facility in developing effective plans for coping with Planning-Preparation
  • Identify vaccination status of all facility employees
  • Develop a Contingency Staff Plan for each shift.
  • Review your facility’s Contingency Staffing Plans (CSP) with your team
  • Consider utilizing the Incident Command System.
  • Review the Emergency Preparedness Plan
  • Update the Employee Call Down list to ensure accuracy of contact information
  • Notify your NYSDOH Regional Office of your facility’s Contingency Staffing Plan
  • Evaluate union considerations surrounding overtime issues and sharing of responsibilities among workers.
  • Meet with staff and provide an updated situation report with the staff.
  • Request additional overtime shifts from your full-time and part-time team members
  • Evaluate using shift changes such as implementing 12-hour shifts
  • Address any transportation needs/barriers for staff
Actions-Response
  • Reach out to the NYSDOH Nursing Home Assistance and Coordination Center (NHACC), to alert them of your facility staffing needs. DAL attached for NHACC – AL: this will not apply to AL.
  • Postpone or stop all nonessential functions and reassign those staff to critical functions, look at the impact of new admissions.
  • Minimize unnecessary meetings to relieve staff of administrative responsibilities for more time on the units.
  • Determine what units, if any, can be consolidated, if needed.
  • Identify any ancillary staffing interested in expanding their scope of work by taking available online courses to help support the resident’s care needs:
    • Utilize the Temporary Nurse Aide (TNA) program waiver available under Federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) for nursing assistant tasks. Facilities will need to get their TNA’s into the TNA Bridge program within 4 months after the PHE ends. You can bring in new TNAs up to 30 days before the end of the PHE - DAL attached for TNA program – AL: this will not apply to AL.
    • Utilize lay volunteers or staff in other roles (PT, OT, RT, SLP, administrative support staff) to provide basic resident hygiene and feeding – AL: feeding will not be allowed in AL, this must be done by a nurse in AL.
    • Use the one hour Paid Feeding Assistants Program to assist with feeding the residents for both shifts – AL: feeding must be done by nurse in AL.
  • Set plan for providing overnight accommodations at the facility to minimize staff travel time. AL: this would require a waiver submitted to DOH and approval from DOH in AL.
  • Contact families that have agreed to care for residents/patients at home during crisis times or who will care for them in the facility.
  • Contact sister facilities to determine sharing available staff.
  • Set up access to vaccination clinics with Pharmacy Partners for staff to obtain their first dose. 
For More Information Contact will be: SNF: Jackie Pappalardi, RN, BSN Executive Director 518-462-4800 x16 Tarrah Quinlan, RN, BSN Director of Education Program Development and Member Operations 518-462-4800 x20 AL: Kim Laviolette Executive Director, NYSCAL 518-462-4800 x17 Linda O’Connell Coordinator of Member Support 518.462.4800, ext. 13 Read More

Face Coverings for COVID-19 Prevention

Pursuant to the authority vested in the Public Health and Health Planning Council and the Commissioner of Health by Sections 201, 206, and 225 of the Public Health Law, Title 10 (Health) of the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York is amended... Read More

Face Coverings for COVID-19 Prevention

Pursuant to the authority vested in the Public Health and Health Planning Council and the Commissioner of Health by Sections 201, 206, and 225 of the Public Health Law, Title 10 (Health) of the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York is amended... Read More

NYS Residential Health Care Facilities Disclosure Requirement

Effective October 1, 2021, residential health care facilities in New York will be required to provide potential residents and their families with a separate document, in no less than twelve-point font, as part of their admission packet that includes the following information ... Read More

NYS DOH Call with Commissioner Howard Zucker

NYSHFA | NYSCAL participated in a conference call this morning with Dr. Howard Zucker NYSDOH Commissioner of Health regarding the New York State and Federal COVID – 19 vaccine mandate for healthcare workers. Dr Zucker discussed that a more robust effort is needed... Read More

NYS COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate for Healthcare Workers by September 27, 2021

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced today that all healthcare workers in New York State, including staff at hospitals and long-term care facilities (LTCF), including nursing homes, adult care, and other congregate care settings, will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Monday, September 27. The State Department of Health will ... Read More

DOH: COVID-19 Vaccination Program--Additional Dose Update

STATEMENT FROM THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH - “As with every emergency use authorization (EUA) of COVID-19 vaccines and subsequent EUA modifications to date, following the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) deliberations and the CDC’s official recommendation yesterday to ... Read More

NYS DOH - MDS Certification Reminder

Reminder if you have not yet completed your facility MDS certification – certifications for the July 2021 MDS collection are due NO LATER than COB this Friday, July 30th. Please remember to send your certifications electronically to MDSBRHCR@health.ny.gov. If you have already completed ... Read More

A Long Term Care Update from AHCA/NCAL

Please see the attached publication, Capitol Connection, from AHCA/NCAL. NYSHFA/NYSCAL CONTACTS: Lisa Volk, RN, B.P.S., LNHA Director, Clinical & Quality Services 518-462-4800 x15 Jackie Pappalardi,... Read More