In light of the recent COVID-19 crisis, California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CANHR) is demanding new directives to keep residents safe.

The CDC has issued updated guidance to all nursing homes in an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes. These measures include:  restricting all visitation except compassionate care situations; restricting all volunteers and non-essential healthcare personnel; canceling all group activities and communal dining; and active screening of residents and healthcare providers.    https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/healthcare-facilities/prevent-spread-in-long-term-care-facilities.html

Here in California, the restrictions are being extended to state nursing home surveyors who normally provide oversight to detect “life-threatening infection control problems” and understaffing.  CANHR is calling for the California Department of Public Health take action to protect nursing home residents when they need it the most.

• Reassigning nurse evaluators to monitor nursing homes onsite throughout the state until the crisis passes;
• Closely monitoring nursing home staffing levels on a daily basis;
• Issuing a moratorium on involuntary transfers and discharges of residents;
• Ensuring nursing homes provide meaningful, frequent, and safe opportunities for residents to maintain contact with loved ones remotely until visitation is restored.

CANHR has a website specifically dedicated to provider alerts, news and resources regarding the COVID-19 Crisis as it relates to nursing homes. http://canhrcovidnews.com/ If you believe a loved one has been injured through neglect or abuse at a nursing home or residential care facility for the elderly, contact our offices at (619)238-8700.