The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has issued a new Provider Information Notice (PIN) updating COVID-19 testing and masking guidance for Adult and Senior Care (ASC) residential facilities. Effective August 9, 2021, facilities must test all unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated staff at least once weekly and have a plan in place for tracking staff vaccination status. Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated staff are required to wear FDA-cleared surgical masks in indoor settings. Facilities must be in full compliance with the PIN by August 23, 2021. The PIN also provides guidance on the use of N95 respirators for staff caring for COVID-19 positive residents or residents under quarantine. Health insurance plans are required to cover the cost of COVID-19 tests without imposing out-of-pocket costs or screening criteria for diagnosis or treatment purposes.

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