The California Department of Public Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter (AFL) temporarily waiving specified space conversion requirements for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) due to the ongoing COVID-19 state of emergency. The waiver allows SNFs to have more patients or beds set up for use than the number for which they are licensed, and to house patients in areas not previously approved for patient housing. SNFs must ensure patient privacy and place beds six feet apart in accordance with CDC guidance. The facilities must continue to provide necessary care, follow infection control guidelines, and comply with directives from local public health departments. The waiver also prohibits discrimination in admitting, readmitting, transferring, or discharging residents based on their COVID-19 status. This temporary waiver is valid until December 31, 2021, and SNFs do not need to submit individual program flexibility requests for the specified requirements.

Summaries are generataed using AI. Check important information.