The California Department of Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter temporarily waiving specified hospital licensing requirements and suspending regulatory enforcement due to the COVID-19 outbreak. This waiver is valid until March 1, 2021. The letter clarifies waivers of nurse-to-patient ratios for various units and provides alternative measures for which facilities may request a staffing waiver. Hospitals seeking a waiver must submit a form and provide supporting documentation. The letter also outlines temporary changes to hospital licensing, physical space, services and administration, and staffing. Hospitals must resume mandatory staffing levels as soon as feasible during the waiver period and may reapply for a waiver if necessary. This waiver aims to address the significant challenges faced by California's healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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