Industry Group Requests OSHA Standard Remains Consistent with Updated COVID Standards

The American Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living argues that original COVID-19 protocols are no longer prudent due to new variants.

By HFT Staff


The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) recently sent a letter to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding its forthcoming final healthcare standard on COVID-19. The association requested that workplace safety standards remain consistent with updated COVID-19 standards established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for nursing homes.  

AHCA/NCAL argues that protocols established at the beginning of the pandemic are no longer prudent due to new, less severe COVID-19 variants and vaccines and treatments are widely available to combat the virus. Previous stringent protocols also had a separate, detrimental impact on the health and wellbeing of residents and contributed to the burnout of staff, according to the group.  

“The federal government cannot responsibly implement any new standards that would have a monetary impact without providing additional Medicare and Medicaid funding for implementation,” according to the letter. “The long-term care profession continues to face historic workforce challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Labor shortages and financial strain have forced many nursing homes nationwide to limit the number of residents they can accept or permanently close their doors. This is exacerbating access issues for those seeking care, causing backlogs in hospitals and further straining the nation’s healthcare system.” 

OSHA is anticipated to release the final healthcare standard on COVID-19 in the coming weeks. 



January 11, 2023


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

On the Lookout: The Software Supply Chain as a Healthcare Cyberattack Vector

Staying watchful of third-party software vendors and their activities is critical for healthcare cybersecurity.


Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center at Clifton Opens

The Clifton center expands health care access in Passaic County by reducing barriers such as travel and wait times.


Suffolk Breaks Ground on Expansion of White Plains Hospital

The 10-story, approximately 500,000-square-foot expansion is slated to open in 2028.


EVS Leadership Culture Critical in Preventing Hospital-Acquired Sepsis

Cleaning is an essential yet complex component for the prevention of HAI-induced sepsis.


Man Dies by Suicide in Emergency Department Waiting Room at Kansas Hospital

No staff or patients were harmed, and the man was alone in the waiting area when he shot himself.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.