The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter (AFL) outlining temporary waivers and program flexibility processes for healthcare facilities in response to a surge in respiratory viruses among pediatric patients. The AFL allows facilities to reconfigure space and adjust bed classifications during the COVID-19 State of Emergency without requesting individual waivers. It also provides guidance for facilities to plan and respond to pediatric surges related to respiratory viruses. Facilities must submit requests for program flexibility through the CDPH Flex Waiver Webpage, providing justification and supporting documentation. The AFL recommends that all healthcare facilities explore short-term measures to expand capacity for evaluating and treating pediatric patients. Facilities should consider strategies such as team nursing models, triage tents, and utilizing other appropriate spaces to accommodate surges. Non-compliance with the AFL may result in regulatory enforcement actions.

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