LTC coalition ramps up fight against sending COVID-19 patients to nursing homes; coronavirus deals blow to facilities

Providers are again warning against state efforts that would force nursing homes to accept all admissions from hospitals during the coronavirus pandemic, saying the plans are “not sound policy” and could lead to more COVID-19 cases, even deaths.

Skilled nursing providers in California and New York have been given state orders to accept all hospital patients even regardless of if they have COVID-19.

State officials must consider the disease’ estimated 30% mortality rate for nursing homes and assisted living communities before putting similar blanket orders in place for other facilities, long-term care provider groups wrote in a letter. 

The group is composed of the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living, AMDA – The Society of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine, and the American College of Health Care Administrators. 

“We are aware that other states may already be adopting a similar approach in order to free up hospital beds. This is a short-term and short-sighted solution that will only add to the surge in COVID-19 patients that require hospital care,” the groups wrote. 

They added that the decision to transfer patients to nursing homes are joint responsibilities since new admissions can impact the health of all other residents. Other factors like amount of supplies, staffing, infection control capabilities and physical structure must also be taken into account.