The California Department of Public Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter (AFL) temporarily waiving specified licensing requirements and suspending regulatory enforcement for home health agencies due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. The waiver allows agencies that have submitted applications for additional locations or change of service to begin providing care prior to approval. It also permits licensees applying for renewal or reinstatement to continue providing care before obtaining approval. Home health agencies now have flexibility in providing therapeutic services, which can be delivered via telehealth or other remote methods. Patients may be under the care of nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, or physician's assistants during the emergency. Supervision of licensed and unlicensed personnel can be conducted virtually. This waiver is valid until the end of the declared emergency.

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