The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter temporarily waiving specified regulatory requirements for hospitals due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. This waiver, valid until March 1, 2021, allows hospitals to reconfigure space and modify services to accommodate patient surges and other COVID-19 mitigation strategies. However, hospitals seeking a waiver of minimum nurse-to-patient ratios must submit a CDPH form 5000A and provide supporting documentation. As of February 1, 2021, the department will no longer accept new expedited staffing waivers, and existing approved staffing waivers will expire on February 8, 2021, unless there is an unprecedented circumstance. Hospitals must maintain efforts to meet required staffing levels and comply with adverse event reporting, infection control guidelines, and local public health directives. The department may revoke a staffing waiver if a hospital cannot demonstrate diligent efforts to recruit and retain staff.

Summaries are generataed using AI. Check important information.