SB 690: $2/Hour Wage Increase and PPE/Testing Grant The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued further documentation pertaining to the $2/hour wage increase to skilled nursing facility direct care workers as required in Senate Bill 690. Attached is an updated FAQ document, as well as the wage pass through form to be submitted by providers to access reimbursement.
MDHHS indicated they will be issuing an L-letter to further clarify the wage pass through requirements and reimbursement process.
Also included in SB 690 is a $25 million PPE/Testing grant program available to numerous healthcare providers, including nursing facilities and residential congregate facilities. MDHHS is still in the process of developing criteria for the grant applications.
CDC Updates PPE Guidance This week, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) issued updated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidance regarding the use of eye protection. This guidance indicates that eye protection that leaves a gap between the eye and the protection may not provide an effective barrier. The use of a face shield or other full face protection is recommended to protect and provide an effective barrier.
In discussions with staff at the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS), given increased COVID-19 risk status across the state, the department is working to update the MDHHS PPE guidance to include recommendations for the use of eye protection, particularly face shields, during direct care. This guidance is specific for staff members involved in direct hands on care, but does not impact staff members in other roles. Additionally, in instances when a provider has difficulty sourcing adequate supply of PPE, optimization strategies should be implemented. CDC has established guidance on optimizing PPE supplies as well as specific guidance on optimizing eye protection. HCAM will share the MDHHS PPE updated guidance when available.
AHCA/NCAL Webinar on Communicating During COVID-19 Join AHCA/NCAL and PLUS Communications for a live, ahcancalED webinar on July 23, 2020 at 2:00 PM (EDT) on how to effectively communicate with the media and stakeholders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Click HERE to register.
For questions or concerns please contact Cathy Sunlin at CathySunlin@HCAM.org. |