The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a revised Quality & Safety Memo outlining new COVID-19 vaccination requirements for healthcare staff in Medicare and Medicaid-certified facilities. The memo provides guidance and survey procedures for assessing compliance with these regulations. Facilities are expected to ensure that 100% of their staff are vaccinated, have a pending request for exemption, or have a temporary delay as recommended by the CDC. Non-compliance may result in enforcement actions, such as civil monetary penalties or termination of participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Surveyors will begin assessing compliance 30 days after the memo's issuance, and facilities will generally be given opportunities to return to compliance before facing termination. The memo includes provider-specific guidance for various healthcare settings, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and home health agencies.

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