Important CDC and CMS Updates for Senior Living Facilities

Angie Szumlinski
|
October 11, 2024
Medical background with the word Updateda

Have you caught wind of the latest CDC and CMS updates for senior living? There’s a lot of new information out there, but I’m here to break it down for you. These resources will help streamline your infection control efforts and ensure you’re keeping up with the latest best practices.

First up, the CDC’s COVID-19 Vaccination Protocol for Healthcare Personnel and Influenza Vaccination Protocol are tools that every senior living facility should be using. These protocols provide a clear, easy-to-follow system for tracking vaccinations among staff on a weekly basis. By staying on top of who’s vaccinated—whether it’s for COVID-19 or the flu—you can prevent potential outbreaks and keep your residents healthy. Want to learn more? You can review the full COVID-19 protocol [here] Combined Protocol for HCP January 2024 (cdc.gov) and the flu vaccination protocol [here] HPS Flu Vaccine Protocol 2024_508 (cdc.gov).

On top of that, the NHSN Long-Term Care Facility Component Manual is an absolute must for tracking healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This document gives you the tools to monitor infections, follow hand hygiene practices, and stay ahead of potential outbreaks in your facility. It’s all about catching infections early and taking action before they spread. The full manual is available on the CDC’s site [here] Combined Protocol for HCP January 2024 (cdc.gov).

And let’s not forget about the CMS QIO program under its 13th Scope of Work. This initiative isn’t just about pushing information—it’s about real, hands-on quality improvement. The QIO program is designed to help facilities improve care outcomes and drive lasting changes from the inside out. If you’re curious to learn more, you can explore the details of the QIO program [here] QIO 13th Scope of Work (2024-2029) CMS Quality Improvement Program (qioprogram.org).

These CDC and CMS updates for senior living are all about giving you the tools you need to improve quality of care in your community. Stay well and stay informed!


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