Emergency Management Resources
FALA/Hilton Displacement ListFALA and the Hilton are working together to ensure that in the event of an emergency and the need to evacuate is required, you have options. Use the button below to see a list Hilton properties that have agreed to open their doors to communities that are evacuating or have been displaced.
Note: sorted by county and continually being updated |
Important Websites & Links |
"Thank you FALA for doing great job supporting members during this COVID-19 Pandemic . You have been providing good/important information in a simple way."
~ Katja Pukkila, Finnish American Village ~
~ Katja Pukkila, Finnish American Village ~
Coronavirus Updates & Resources
State Limitations on Long-Term Care Facility Visitations Lifted:
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Important WebsitesFor questions related to COVID-19 in Florida, please contact the Department's dedicated COVID-19 Call Center by calling 1-866-779-6121 or emailing COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
CDC WEBSITE DOH WEBSITE AHCA WEBSITE (COVID19 updates) ALL EXECUTIVE ORDERS County Emergency Management InformationUse the button below for a complete list of County Contact Information per the Emergency Management website. Emergency Requisition Form is below if needed. Fill out and send to your Emergency Management contact.
Emergency Requisition Request FormDirections: Download form. Fill it out and submit to your County Emergency Management contact (Local EOC - see above link).
COVID19 Emergency Requisition Request Form COVID19 Emergency Requisition Request Form (Word) Supplier Resource ListWe have put together a list of suppliers of various PPE items, food, and test kits. FALA does not endorse or guarantee any provider or product - this is for informational purposes only. If you would like to be added to the list, please fill out the information here.
Download Suppliers Resource List. Important COVID19 Forms & Info
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PAST COVID19 NEWS Highlights
Latest FAQ from AHCA Concerning Vaccinations in ALFs
In order to provide additional guidance to Assisted Living Facilities regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, the Agency has developed a series of frequently asked questions. The FAQs can be accessed through the following link: FAQs
Residential Plaza of Blue Lagoon in Miami Gets Vaccinated!
January 11, 2021
Staff and residents of Residential Plaza of Blue Lagoon received their vaccination shots as of the January 11th by CDR Maguire. Read the attached AHCA letter and details of using CDR Health per Gov. DeSantis' efforts to expedite vaccinations in ALFs. Have a question? Contact Ltcvaccines@cdrmaguire.com
Staff and residents of Residential Plaza of Blue Lagoon received their vaccination shots as of the January 11th by CDR Maguire. Read the attached AHCA letter and details of using CDR Health per Gov. DeSantis' efforts to expedite vaccinations in ALFs. Have a question? Contact Ltcvaccines@cdrmaguire.com
APPROVED! ALF Vaccination Program Activated!
December 29, 2020
FALA has heard from news outlets that the Governor’s office has stated that the ALF program has been activated and federal partners (CVS and Walgreens) may begin scheduling ALFs this week.
Email FALA and let us know how the process is going with your community so we can track the overall progress.
FALA has also heard from leadership in the Legislature that there have been some distribution issues, including Florida not receiving the state's full allocation of vaccines. More information to come as soon as we receive it.
FALA has heard from news outlets that the Governor’s office has stated that the ALF program has been activated and federal partners (CVS and Walgreens) may begin scheduling ALFs this week.
Email FALA and let us know how the process is going with your community so we can track the overall progress.
FALA has also heard from leadership in the Legislature that there have been some distribution issues, including Florida not receiving the state's full allocation of vaccines. More information to come as soon as we receive it.
Vaccination Rollout Webinar
December 18, 2020
Listen to State Surgeon General Dr. Rivkees, Kim Smoak from AHCA, Brooke F. Tiner from CVS, and Sally West from Walgreens answer questions and share insight to the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination. Read the Q&A sheet here.
See more COVID-19 Resources from Omnicare
Read FACT Sheet
Download Informed Consent Form
Listen to State Surgeon General Dr. Rivkees, Kim Smoak from AHCA, Brooke F. Tiner from CVS, and Sally West from Walgreens answer questions and share insight to the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination. Read the Q&A sheet here.
See more COVID-19 Resources from Omnicare
Read FACT Sheet
Download Informed Consent Form
Emergency Rule for Voluntary COVID-19 Vaccinations
of Assisted Living Facility Staff and Residents
December 1, 2020
On December 1, 2020, the Agency for Health Care Administration issued Emergency Rule 59AER20-014, requiring mandatory entry for Authorized Representatives into the facility for the purpose of conducting voluntary COVID-19 staff and resident vaccinations. This rule also states in section (4) "REVOCATION OF LICENSE, FINES OR SANCTIONS. For a violation of any part of this rule, the Agency may seek any remedy authorized by Chapter 429, Part I, or Chapter 408, Part II, F.S., including but not limited to, license revocation, license suspension, and the imposition of administrative fines."
CDC Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Programs Assisted living facilities that have not already enrolled in the CDC Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program must enroll online by December 3, 2020, 11:59 pm. Enroll here.
See 59AER20-14
Read the email
On December 1, 2020, the Agency for Health Care Administration issued Emergency Rule 59AER20-014, requiring mandatory entry for Authorized Representatives into the facility for the purpose of conducting voluntary COVID-19 staff and resident vaccinations. This rule also states in section (4) "REVOCATION OF LICENSE, FINES OR SANCTIONS. For a violation of any part of this rule, the Agency may seek any remedy authorized by Chapter 429, Part I, or Chapter 408, Part II, F.S., including but not limited to, license revocation, license suspension, and the imposition of administrative fines."
CDC Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Programs Assisted living facilities that have not already enrolled in the CDC Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program must enroll online by December 3, 2020, 11:59 pm. Enroll here.
See 59AER20-14
Read the email
CDC, DVS, & Walgreens Partner to offer COVID-19 Vaccinations... FREE!
October 16, 2020
CDC is partnering with CVS and Walgreens to offer on-site COVID-19 vaccination services for residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and Adult Family Care Homes once vaccination is recommended for them.
The Pharmacy Partnership for Long-term Care (LTC) Program provides end-to-end management of the COVID-19 vaccination process, including cold chain management, on-site vaccinations, and fulfillment of reporting requirements, to facilitate safe vaccination of this patient population, while reducing burden on LTC facilities and jurisdictional health departments. The services will be available in rural areas that may not have easily accessible pharmacies. LTCF staff who have not received COVID-19 vaccine can also be vaccinated as part of the program.
Sign up between October 19th and October 30th if interested.
Read the Press Release
Click here to see the COVID-19 Vaccination program overview.
Click here to see the FAQs of this program.
CDC is partnering with CVS and Walgreens to offer on-site COVID-19 vaccination services for residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and Adult Family Care Homes once vaccination is recommended for them.
The Pharmacy Partnership for Long-term Care (LTC) Program provides end-to-end management of the COVID-19 vaccination process, including cold chain management, on-site vaccinations, and fulfillment of reporting requirements, to facilitate safe vaccination of this patient population, while reducing burden on LTC facilities and jurisdictional health departments. The services will be available in rural areas that may not have easily accessible pharmacies. LTCF staff who have not received COVID-19 vaccine can also be vaccinated as part of the program.
Sign up between October 19th and October 30th if interested.
Read the Press Release
Click here to see the COVID-19 Vaccination program overview.
Click here to see the FAQs of this program.
New ESS Questions - Updated
December 1, 2020
Pursuant to Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-51 and at the direction of State Surgeon General Rivkees regarding COVID-19, the Agency for Health Care Administration opened the event “COVID-19 Monitoring” in the Emergency Status System (ESS) to monitor health care facility census, inventory, needs, and other related information statewide. Under the "additional info" tab are PPE supply level questions.
See questions and explanations.
Pursuant to Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-51 and at the direction of State Surgeon General Rivkees regarding COVID-19, the Agency for Health Care Administration opened the event “COVID-19 Monitoring” in the Emergency Status System (ESS) to monitor health care facility census, inventory, needs, and other related information statewide. Under the "additional info" tab are PPE supply level questions.
See questions and explanations.
Governor DeSantis Moves Florida into Phase 3
September 25, 2020 - WFTV.com
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Friday that Florida is moving into phase 3 of its reopening plan effective immediately.
At-risk individuals: People older than 65 or with serious underlying medical conditions can resume public interactions, but should practice social distancing. State guidelines say these people should minimize exposure to social settings where distancing may not be practical, unless precautionary measures are observed.
Non-vulnerable populations: State guidelines say these people should consider minimizing time spent in crowded environments.
Watch the announcement on Facebook
See the Executive Order.
See the Safe. Smart. Step by Step plan (Phase 3 on page 27)
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Friday that Florida is moving into phase 3 of its reopening plan effective immediately.
At-risk individuals: People older than 65 or with serious underlying medical conditions can resume public interactions, but should practice social distancing. State guidelines say these people should minimize exposure to social settings where distancing may not be practical, unless precautionary measures are observed.
Non-vulnerable populations: State guidelines say these people should consider minimizing time spent in crowded environments.
Watch the announcement on Facebook
See the Executive Order.
See the Safe. Smart. Step by Step plan (Phase 3 on page 27)
AHCA to Phase Out COVID Isolation Facilities
Sept 15, 2020
In an email blast to providers, AHCA indicates that they will be phasing out COVID Isolation Facilities throughout the state beginning as early as September 18th.
"Based on the dramatic decrease in positivity among residents and staff in long-term care facilities, the significant reduction in the number of individuals hospitalized for COVID-19, and increased hospital capacity, the Agency has initiated a process to phase out the role of and to end the agreements with the State-supported COVID-19 isolation facilities."
"Please note: With the exception of the Miami Care Center, these facilities may choose to continue to accept COVID positive patients as long as they follow appropriate isolation and infection control protocols adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. Please work directly with the facilities to determine if they will continue to accept COVID positive patients once the contract with the Agency ends."
Click here for more information.
In an email blast to providers, AHCA indicates that they will be phasing out COVID Isolation Facilities throughout the state beginning as early as September 18th.
"Based on the dramatic decrease in positivity among residents and staff in long-term care facilities, the significant reduction in the number of individuals hospitalized for COVID-19, and increased hospital capacity, the Agency has initiated a process to phase out the role of and to end the agreements with the State-supported COVID-19 isolation facilities."
"Please note: With the exception of the Miami Care Center, these facilities may choose to continue to accept COVID positive patients as long as they follow appropriate isolation and infection control protocols adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. Please work directly with the facilities to determine if they will continue to accept COVID positive patients once the contract with the Agency ends."
Click here for more information.
Visitation Restrictions Lifted on Long-Term Care Facilities
Sept 1, 2020
The Division of Emergency Management Issued Order 20-009 that formally lifts the restrictions for compassionate care visitors, essential caregivers and general visitors. The emergency order allows for each resident to have five general visitors designated for visitation, with a maximum of two general visitors allowed to visit at one time. There are several other aspects to this order related to minors and PPE requirements that can be read by using the link below.
Click here to read DEM Order NO. 20-009.
The Division of Emergency Management Issued Order 20-009 that formally lifts the restrictions for compassionate care visitors, essential caregivers and general visitors. The emergency order allows for each resident to have five general visitors designated for visitation, with a maximum of two general visitors allowed to visit at one time. There are several other aspects to this order related to minors and PPE requirements that can be read by using the link below.
Click here to read DEM Order NO. 20-009.
Palm Beach County moves into Phase 2
SEPT 4, 2020
Ron DeSantis signed into order EO 20-214 approving Palm Beach County to move forward into Phase 2 in accordance of his "Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step" Plan for Florida's recovery.
Click here to read EO 20-214
Ron DeSantis signed into order EO 20-214 approving Palm Beach County to move forward into Phase 2 in accordance of his "Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step" Plan for Florida's recovery.
Click here to read EO 20-214
Governor Ron DeSantis Issues EO20-166 Extending Visitation Prohibition for Additional 60 Days
July 7, 2020
On July 7, 2020, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-166 extending the effect of Executive Order 20-52 statewide (and, by extension, the visitation prohibition of DEM Order No. 20-006) for another 60 days (until September 5)
Accordingly, entry to Assisted Living Facilities and Adult Family Care Homes remains restricted.
Read EO20-166
Accordingly, entry to Assisted Living Facilities and Adult Family Care Homes remains restricted.
Read EO20-166
AHCA Releases 59AER20-4 Mandating ALF Staff to be Tested Every 2 Weeks
June 16, 2020
AHCA released 59AER20-4 as a new mandate for Assisted Living Facilities. All staff must be tested for COVID19 every two (2) weeks per the new emergency rule under 429 F.S. beginning July 7th.
There are several things to note with this new Emergency Rule including who is exempt and how each facility must keep documentation of employee tests. State-Supported Testing Sites can be found here.
Click here to see the full Emergency Rule.
There are several things to note with this new Emergency Rule including who is exempt and how each facility must keep documentation of employee tests. State-Supported Testing Sites can be found here.
Click here to see the full Emergency Rule.
AHCA Clarifies 59AER20-4 with Q&A Document
Beginning July 7, 2020, Assisted Living Facilities must not admit any staff* who have not been tested in accordance with the emergency rule. Assisted Living Facilities must maintain all testing documentation on site. AHCA has posted Q&As and has clarified that a test conducted on or after June 15, 2020 will suffice initially, with testing every two weeks required after July 7.
*Please note the emergency rule’s definition of staff is extraordinarily broad and includes third party providers contracted by residents.
Read the Q&A.
*Please note the emergency rule’s definition of staff is extraordinarily broad and includes third party providers contracted by residents.
Read the Q&A.
Governor Ron DeSantis Extends EO20-94 Again
June 2,2020
Governor Ron DeSantis extends original Emergency Order 20-94 related to foreclosure and eviction cause of action under Florida law solely as it relates to non-payment of rent by residential tenants due to the COVID-19.
Section 1. I hereby suspend and toll any statute providing for a mortgage foreclosure cause of action under Florida law for 45 days from the date of this Executive Order, including any extensions.
Section 2. I hereby suspend and toll any statute providing for an eviction cause of action under Florida law solely as it relates to non-payment of rent by residential tenants due to the COVID-19 emergency for 45 days from the date of this Executive Order, including any extensions.
See EO 20-137
See EO 20-94
Section 1. I hereby suspend and toll any statute providing for a mortgage foreclosure cause of action under Florida law for 45 days from the date of this Executive Order, including any extensions.
Section 2. I hereby suspend and toll any statute providing for an eviction cause of action under Florida law solely as it relates to non-payment of rent by residential tenants due to the COVID-19 emergency for 45 days from the date of this Executive Order, including any extensions.
See EO 20-137
See EO 20-94
AHCA Updates Question & Answer Related to 59AER20-1
This rule requires COVID-19 testing by hospitals of all patients, regardless of symptoms, prior to discharge to long-term care facilities.
Q 3.d. (New 6/1/20) If the hospital is unable to obtain a test result within a 48-hour period, can a patient who has never tested positive and is not a PUI be discharged to a long-term care facility from the hospital if the hospital has initiated the COVID-19 test but is still awaiting the final result?
Answer: As long as there are no symptoms or reason to suspect the patient may be positive, they may be admitted to the long-term care facility into a single-person room or in a separate observation area so the resident can be monitored for evidence of COVID-19. Consistent with CDC guidance to nursing homes for admission of a resident with an unknown COVID-19 status, facility staff should wear an N95 or higher-level respirator (or facemask if a respirator is not available), eye protection (i.e., goggles or a disposable face shield that covers the front and sides of the face), gloves, and gown when caring for the resident while awaiting test results. The resident may be transferred out of the observation area to the main facility upon receipt of a negative test result if they remain afebrile and without symptoms.
Q 3.d. (New 6/1/20) If the hospital is unable to obtain a test result within a 48-hour period, can a patient who has never tested positive and is not a PUI be discharged to a long-term care facility from the hospital if the hospital has initiated the COVID-19 test but is still awaiting the final result?
Answer: As long as there are no symptoms or reason to suspect the patient may be positive, they may be admitted to the long-term care facility into a single-person room or in a separate observation area so the resident can be monitored for evidence of COVID-19. Consistent with CDC guidance to nursing homes for admission of a resident with an unknown COVID-19 status, facility staff should wear an N95 or higher-level respirator (or facemask if a respirator is not available), eye protection (i.e., goggles or a disposable face shield that covers the front and sides of the face), gloves, and gown when caring for the resident while awaiting test results. The resident may be transferred out of the observation area to the main facility upon receipt of a negative test result if they remain afebrile and without symptoms.
Governor Ron DeSantis Shares Phase 1 of Reopening Florida
April 29, 2020
Safe. Smart. Step-by-step. Gov. Ron DeSantis shared the plan for Florida’s economic recovery amid the COVID-19 pandemic, outlining Wednesday the first phase of his plan to reopen the state beginning Monday. Phase 1 includes:
- Schools remain distance learning.
- Visits to senior living facilities are prohibited.
- Elective surgeries can resume.
- Restaurants may offer outdoor seating with six foot space between tables and indoor
seating at 25% capacity. - Retail can operate at 25% of indoor capacity.
- No change for bars, gyms, and personal services such as hair dressers.
- Vulnerable individuals should avoid close contact with people outside the home.
- All individuals, when in public, should maximize physical distance from others.
- Avoid socializing in groups of more than 10 people in circumstances that do not readily
allow for physical distancing. - Face masks are recommended for all those in face-to-face interactions and where you can’t
social distance.
Department of Health Responds to FALA Member Questions Related to the Execution of Emergency Order 59AER20-2
Our members have had some great questions and valid concerns related to this order related to Mandatory Testing of ALF staff and residents. They asked, so we approached the Department of Health for answers. Here are a couple of the answers provided:
See the rest of the questions here.
- Will the testing be scheduled in advance? ANSWER: Yes
- What type of test is being used? (Nasal, throat, anti-body or rapid test?) ANSWER: At present, the LTC testing teams are using nasopharyngeal swabs. There have been some locations that specifically requested their residents be tested with oralpharanygeal swabs and those specific requests are accommodated whenever possible. (Reasoning behind why the nasopharyngeal test are being used is because that test is considered the “Gold Standard” and proved the best opportunity to capture the viral cells.)
- What are the qualifications of the staff conducting the test? ANSWER: The test will be conducted by licensed nurses and paramedics.
- Is there a consent form that needs to be signed by residents, their POA, and staff? ANSWER: No written consent is required, however, if it your company policy/practice to obtain for staff or residents, you may do so.
- What happens with employees with history of nose surgeries and related issues? ANSWER: The type of swab being used now are ultra-thin and not causing some of the discomfort reported earlier. Unless the employee has a doctor’s order to not enter the nasal cavity or proof of recent nasal surgery they will be expected to participate. These cases will be reviewed at time of scheduling if noted or when team arrives on site.
See the rest of the questions here.
Division of Emergency Management Extends Visitor Restrictions Through May 8, 2020
04/15/2020
On March 15, 2020, the Division of Emergency Management issued Emergency Order No. 20-006, prohibiting all visitation at facilities in Florida, except in very specific circumstances. This Emergency Order does not expire until May 8, 2020, as its effective date corresponds with the effective dates of Executive Order 20-52. Restrictions listed in the Emergency Order continue to remain in place, and the Agency requests that family, friends and representatives of residents are advised accordingly.
Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Order NO 20-91
Safer at Home
04/01/2020
Effective 04/03/2020 at midnight,
Section I. Safer At Home
A. Senior citizens and individuals with a significant underlying medical condition (such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions, immunocompromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure and liver disease) shall stay at home and take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
B. In concert with the efforts of President Trump and the White House Corona virus Task Force to fight COVID-19, and based on guidance provided by Florida Surgeon General and State Health Officer, Dr. Scott Rivkees, all persons in Florida shall limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.
Section I. Safer At Home
A. Senior citizens and individuals with a significant underlying medical condition (such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions, immunocompromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure and liver disease) shall stay at home and take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
B. In concert with the efforts of President Trump and the White House Corona virus Task Force to fight COVID-19, and based on guidance provided by Florida Surgeon General and State Health Officer, Dr. Scott Rivkees, all persons in Florida shall limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.
AHCA Emergency Order NO 20-001 Suspension of Statutes and Rules Pertaining to Level 2 Background Screening
03/28/2020
Over the weekend, AHCA released Emergency Order AHCA NO 20-001 which reads in part, "Due to COVID-19, the state is experiencing a shortage of health care workers at the facility level. These workers are essential to staff long-term care facilities and elder care facilities in order to attend to the health and welfare of the residents. Further, due to the outbreak of COVID-19, Livescan fingerprinting locations are closing and health care workers are unable to obtain the necessary Level 2 Background Screenings."
Later AHCA sent out an email clarifying the Emergency Order to assist providers in hiring, "To address the ability of facilities to hire staff at this critical time and recognizing the inability to obtain timely fingerprints for background screening, the Agency has issued Emergency Order AHCA No. 20-001, which expires 30 days from the date of the order. This order establishes the following guidelines for health care providers, Medicaid providers, and health care contractors all hereby referred to as “provider.” When a criminal background check is required, a provider must first review the Clearinghouse Results Website to verify if the candidate has a current Level 2 screening. If the candidate does not have a current Level 2 screening or the provider is not able to initiate an Agency Review or Resubmission on the candidate in the Clearinghouse Results Website, then the provider must make every effort to find a Livescan Service Provider that will process fingerprints for a Level 2 screening."
Questions may be submitted to BGScreen@ahca.myflorida.com.
Later AHCA sent out an email clarifying the Emergency Order to assist providers in hiring, "To address the ability of facilities to hire staff at this critical time and recognizing the inability to obtain timely fingerprints for background screening, the Agency has issued Emergency Order AHCA No. 20-001, which expires 30 days from the date of the order. This order establishes the following guidelines for health care providers, Medicaid providers, and health care contractors all hereby referred to as “provider.” When a criminal background check is required, a provider must first review the Clearinghouse Results Website to verify if the candidate has a current Level 2 screening. If the candidate does not have a current Level 2 screening or the provider is not able to initiate an Agency Review or Resubmission on the candidate in the Clearinghouse Results Website, then the provider must make every effort to find a Livescan Service Provider that will process fingerprints for a Level 2 screening."
Questions may be submitted to BGScreen@ahca.myflorida.com.
Level 2 Background Screening Company List: Mobile Services and Physical Locations
FALA has compiled a list of providers throughout the state that are open and processing Level 2 Backgrounds. Please note that this is not a complete list, but a number of companies that we have personally been in contact with that are still open for business. They will either come to you, or you can go to them. We will continue to update the list as we locate more companies that are able to process Level 2 Backgrounds.
AHCA COVID-19 Site Visits
Release 03/30/2020
AHCA sent out this email on Saturday: The Agency for Health Care Administration and Department of Health are working diligently with health care providers to prevent the introduction and spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in long-term care facilities. To this end, facilities will be visited within the next week by emergency medical service (EMS) personnel to assist long-term care facilities with assessing and improving their preparedness for responding to COVID-19. EMS personnel will complete an assessment and provide general information on proper infection control practices. EMS crews will coordinate with county health departments to visit each facility. Your cooperation and assistance is needed.
https://www.cdc.gov/longtermcare/prevention/index.html continues to be the best source of information on how to maximize your infection control efforts. Please note that staff should have their temperatures taken at each shift. If a staff member presents any symptoms of illness, they should be sent home immediately. Additionally, your facility should already be isolating all symptomatic residents. For guidance on appropriate testing and outbreak control, immediately contact your local county health department.
Your facility should restrict all visitors and cancel any community outings. If a resident interacts with community members, they will be putting themselves as well as fellow residents and staff at risk.
Find more information on COVID-19: https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/
See the email.
https://www.cdc.gov/longtermcare/prevention/index.html continues to be the best source of information on how to maximize your infection control efforts. Please note that staff should have their temperatures taken at each shift. If a staff member presents any symptoms of illness, they should be sent home immediately. Additionally, your facility should already be isolating all symptomatic residents. For guidance on appropriate testing and outbreak control, immediately contact your local county health department.
Your facility should restrict all visitors and cancel any community outings. If a resident interacts with community members, they will be putting themselves as well as fellow residents and staff at risk.
Find more information on COVID-19: https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/
See the email.
Department of Business and Professional Regulation Issues Emergency Order 2020-02: Expired PPEs Can be Used
03/23/2020
The United States Food and Drug Administration thereafter issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for emergency use of certain disposable filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) that have passed the manufacturers' recommended shelf-life, for use in healthcare settings by healthcare personnel to prevent wearer exposure to pathogenic biological airborne particulates during FFR shortages resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak;
WHEREAS, Personal protective equipment (or "PPE") is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries or illnesses. Such equipment includes FFRs such as N95 respirators and surgical masks.
WHEREAS, Personal protective equipment (or "PPE") is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries or illnesses. Such equipment includes FFRs such as N95 respirators and surgical masks.
Residential and Long Term Care Facilities to Implement Universal Use of Facial Masks
03/18/2020 | 5:29 pm
Follow-up to Agency’s Guidance to Implement Universal Use of Face Masks in Residential / Long Term Care Facilities
3/19/2020
We understand the concern about our Agency’s recent directive (Wednesday, March 18th) for staff in long term care settings to wear masks. The use of these masks is intended to prevent the spread of infection from staff to residents. Understanding that there is an extreme shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, the Agency will NOT penalize facilities that are unable to follow this directive due to supply shortages. Limited supplies should be prioritized for staff with direct resident contact and utilized per CDC guidelines.
The entire country is struggling with an extreme shortage of PPE, including masks. Please use your existing supply chain to order any needed masks and other PPE. The County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is a resource to obtain necessary supplies in an emergency. Although counties do not have excess at this time, if you have not submitted a request already, you can submit a request to the County EOC which will help to inform statewide prioritization of supplies as they arrive in Florida.
3/19/2020
We understand the concern about our Agency’s recent directive (Wednesday, March 18th) for staff in long term care settings to wear masks. The use of these masks is intended to prevent the spread of infection from staff to residents. Understanding that there is an extreme shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, the Agency will NOT penalize facilities that are unable to follow this directive due to supply shortages. Limited supplies should be prioritized for staff with direct resident contact and utilized per CDC guidelines.
The entire country is struggling with an extreme shortage of PPE, including masks. Please use your existing supply chain to order any needed masks and other PPE. The County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is a resource to obtain necessary supplies in an emergency. Although counties do not have excess at this time, if you have not submitted a request already, you can submit a request to the County EOC which will help to inform statewide prioritization of supplies as they arrive in Florida.
SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Florida Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Florida small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza announced today. SBA acted under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Ron DeSantis on March 17, 2020.
“Small businesses, private non-profit organizations of any size, small agricultural cooperatives and small aquaculture enterprises that have been financially impacted as a direct result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) since Jan. 31, 2020, may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred,” said Carranza.
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
Read the full article.
Read the full article (Spanish).
“Small businesses, private non-profit organizations of any size, small agricultural cooperatives and small aquaculture enterprises that have been financially impacted as a direct result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) since Jan. 31, 2020, may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred,” said Carranza.
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
Read the full article.
Read the full article (Spanish).
Guidance and Clarification on Division of Emergency Management (DEM) Emergency Order No. 20-006
03/17/2020
An Emergency Order was recently issued to create broad limitations on visitation at long-term care and residential facilities to protect residents from COVID-19. To assist with clarifying this directive, the Agency for Health Care Administration has started a list of the most commonly asked questions.
What are necessary health care services as allowed by the Emergency Order?
Medically necessary health care includes health services as well as support services such as activities of daily living and assistance with resident self-administration of medication. This exception applies to individuals who previously performed them on a regular basis.
For example, any family member or sitter who provided assistance with activities of daily living, such as feeding a resident or assisting with bathing, prior to the Emergency Order issued on March 15, 2020, may continue to provide these services.
Can staff who have been on a flight within the last 14 days enter a facility?
Yes. Facility staff are exempt from the 14-day air travel prohibition if the individual does not meet any of the other screening criteria. The facility must still follow the required documentation criteria.
Can hospice workers enter the facility?
Yes. Hospice workers are allowed to see a resident with hospice orders so long as the hospice workers meet the other screening criteria in the Emergency Order.
What are necessary health care services as allowed by the Emergency Order?
Medically necessary health care includes health services as well as support services such as activities of daily living and assistance with resident self-administration of medication. This exception applies to individuals who previously performed them on a regular basis.
For example, any family member or sitter who provided assistance with activities of daily living, such as feeding a resident or assisting with bathing, prior to the Emergency Order issued on March 15, 2020, may continue to provide these services.
Can staff who have been on a flight within the last 14 days enter a facility?
Yes. Facility staff are exempt from the 14-day air travel prohibition if the individual does not meet any of the other screening criteria. The facility must still follow the required documentation criteria.
Can hospice workers enter the facility?
Yes. Hospice workers are allowed to see a resident with hospice orders so long as the hospice workers meet the other screening criteria in the Emergency Order.
PREVIOUS ORDERS
See All Executive Orders by Governor Ron DeSantis
Emergency Order Visitation Limits at Residential, Skilled Nursing and Long-term Care Facilities
Division of Emergency Management Order No. 20-0002
COVID-19 MONITORING
03/15/2020
Pursuant to Governor Ron Desantis’ Executive Order 20-51 and at the direction of State Surgeon General Rivkees, the Agency for Health Care Administration has opened the event “COVID-19 Monitoring” in the Emergency Status System to monitor nursing home and assisted living facility census, available beds, and related information statewide.
All nursing homes and assisted living facilities
If needed, click the following link to access instructions for entering facility data for events (see pages 1-4 of the document “How to Locate and Enter Event Information” under the Details column) http://ahca.myflorida.com/MCHQ/Emergency_Activities/index.shtml.
If you require additional assistance with ESS, please contact your AHCA licensing unit during normal business hours:
Long Term Care Services Unit, at 850-412-4303
Assisted Living Unit, at 850-412-4304
All nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Ensure the “Facility Contacts” section is up-to-date.
- Please report Current Resident Census and available beds in your facility daily by 10 a.m. ET starting Sunday, March 15, 2020, until further notice.
If needed, click the following link to access instructions for entering facility data for events (see pages 1-4 of the document “How to Locate and Enter Event Information” under the Details column) http://ahca.myflorida.com/MCHQ/Emergency_Activities/index.shtml.
If you require additional assistance with ESS, please contact your AHCA licensing unit during normal business hours:
Long Term Care Services Unit, at 850-412-4303
Assisted Living Unit, at 850-412-4304
