CDC says Americans who tested positive no longer must isolate for five days under certain conditions; FDA grants emergency use authorization to the first at-home test detecting both the flu and COVID-19.
view more »COVID-19: Wastewater Surveillance, At-Home Tests Cleared
Dec. 4, 2023 ||The CDC launched the National Wastewater Surveillance Program to detect traces of infectious diseases as COVID-19 hospitalizations increase for the third week in a row.
view more »CDC Releases Respiratory Virus Toolkits
Oct. 27, 2023 ||Health care provider resources include strategies for talking with patients about flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus vaccines.
view more »CDC Notifies Clinicians about RSV Spike
Sept. 6, 2023 ||CDC notifies health care providers about a monoclonal antibody and two vaccines that can prevent respiratory syncytial virus infection.
view more »CDC Issues Health Advisory for Vibrio vulnificus Infections
Sept. 6, 2023 ||Health care providers should send suspected isolates to a public health laboratory and promptly initiate antibiotic therapy or surgical intervention.
view more »COVID-19: EG.5 Variant, Long COVID Response
Aug. 15, 2023 ||HHS announced the formation of the Office of Long COVID Research and Practice to lead the long COVID response as EG.5 subvariant cases increase.
view more »On World Hepatitis Day, Essential Hospitals Encourage Awareness, Screening, and Intervention
July 27, 2023 ||Ensuring access to early diagnosis and intervention is key to combatting hepatitis, one of the nation's deadliest infectious diseases.
view more »CDC Issues Marburg Virus Disease Advisory
April 10, 2023 ||Amid two international outbreaks of the rare but highly fatal viral hemorrhagic fever, CDC provides virus identification and biosafety recommendations.
view more »CDC Warns of Threat from Spread of Emerging Fungus
March 27, 2023 ||The agency calls the rapid rise and geographic spread of Candida auris concerning and emphasizes the need for surveillance, expanded lab capacity, quicker diagnostic testing, and adherence to infection prevention and control.
view more »CDC Observes Patient Safety Awareness Week
March 21, 2023 ||The agency shared resources for protecting patients and providers from infectious disease threats, such as antimicrobial resistance.
view more »CDC Issues Health Advisory for Extensively Drug-Resistant Shigella
Feb. 28, 2023 ||Shigella infections caused by extensively drug-resistant strains comprise about 5 percent of Shigella infections reported to CDC.
view more »COVID-19: XBB.1.5 Cases Evade Therapeutics; Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Pediatric Vaccination Status
Jan. 10, 2023 ||FDA and CDC say Evusheld is unlikely to neutralize the XBB.1.5 subvariant, and a CDC report indicates COVID-19 vaccination in children and adolescents is highest among Asian and Hispanic youth.
view more »FDA approves the use of Actemra, a monoclonal antibody treatment, as COVID-19 cases caused by the XBB.1.5 subvariant of SARS-CoV-2 spike.
view more »Americans again can request four no-cost, at-home COVID-19 tests per address; FDA's vaccine committee will meet in January to develop a long-term strategy.
view more »Oregon, Colorado Respond to Rise in Respiratory Illness
Dec. 15, 2022 ||Flexible policies in Oregon and Colorado support health care providers amid a steady increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and COVID-19.
view more »COVID-19: Bivalent Boosters Protect against New Subvariants, Pediatric Vaccination Rates Remain Low
Nov. 21, 2022 ||Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna data indicate that bivalent vaccines provide greater protection than the original monovalent vaccine against the emerging BQ.1.1 omicron subvariant, while the CDC reports low COVID-19 vaccination numbers among children.
view more »International Infection Prevention Week, Oct. 16–22, highlights infection preventionists' role in protecting public health through education.
view more »CDC Urges Vigilance amid Uganda Ebola Outbreak
Oct. 11, 2022 ||CDC issued a health advisory reminding health care providers to remain aware of a patient’s international travel history.
view more »HHS Declares Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency
Aug. 8, 2022 ||The declaration enables HHS to modify Medicare and Medicaid program requirements and could lead to more emergency funding for virus prevention and vaccines.
view more »As monkeypox continues to spread, New York health leaders declare the virus an imminent threat, while California leaders request additional vaccine supply.
view more »As the World Health Organization declares monkeypox a global health emergency, CDC updates clinical guidance, and HHS plans to allocate additional vaccine doses.
view more »Administration Announces First Phase of Monkeypox Response
July 5, 2022 ||The strategy aims to deploy vaccines rapidly in the most affected communities, facilitate testing, and engage stakeholders to mitigate spread.
view more »CDC Confirms Monkeypox Case in United States
May 24, 2022 ||CDC is tracking monkeypox, a virus endemic to west and central Africa, after confirming a case in a Massachusetts resident who recently traveled to Canada.
view more »COVID-19: Moderna Bivalent Booster, CDC Forecasting Center
April 26, 2022 ||Moderna releases promising preliminary data on its variant-specific COVID-19 booster shot; CDC launches a Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics.
view more »COVID-19: Health Misinformation, Minority Health Index
July 20, 2021 ||The U.S. Surgeon General issues a health misinformation advisory; CDC and the Office of Minority Health develop a Minority Health Social Vulnerability Index.
view more »MedPAC Recommendations on GME, APMs
June 22, 2021 ||In its June report to Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission issues recommendations on issues of importance to essential hospitals, including payment for Part B drugs, alternative payment models, indirect medical education payments, and Medicare coverage of vaccines, among other topics.
view more »COVID-19: New Variant Names; Vaccinating Pregnant People
June 1, 2021 ||WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern; two NIH studies show that mRNA vaccines are safe for pregnant people.
view more »CMS Issues Interpretive Guidance for Emergency Preparedness
March 30, 2021 ||In light of the COVID-19 public health emergency, CMS updated its guidance document to expand on best practices, lessons, and planning considerations for emerging infectious diseases.
view more »CDC Warns Health Care Providers of Ebola Outbreaks
March 8, 2021 ||CDC warns health care providers to stay vigilant amid Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guinea.
view more »International Infection Prevention Week Highlights COVID-19
Oct. 20, 2020 ||International Infection Prevention Week, Oct. 18–24, highlights the role of infection preventionists in protecting health care workers and patients from COVID-19.
view more »COVID-19: Equitable Vaccine Allocation, FDA Gown Warning
Sept. 8, 2020 ||The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine released a preliminary framework for equitable allocations of a COVID-19 vaccine that rests on foundational principles, including maximizing benefits, fairness, mitigating health inequities, equal regard, evidence-based work, and transparency.
view more »On the Hill: Negotiations Crumble on COVID-19 Relief
Aug. 11, 2020 ||Democratic and Republican negotiators failed to reach a deal on the next COVID-19 supplemental package. After negotiations faltered, President Trump issued four executive orders and memoranda related to pandemic relief, but the legality of the executive actions could be challenged.
view more »Extension of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
July 27, 2020 ||Effective July 25, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar issued a renewal of determination that a public health emergency exists due to COVID-19.
view more »HHS Allocates Additional $10B to Hospitals in COVID-19 Hotspots
July 20, 2020 ||HHS will pay $50,000 per eligible admission to hospitals with more than 161 COVID-19 admissions from Jan. 1 to June 10. The agency will account for funding received by hospitals in a May disbursement of high-impact funds in determining the amount facilities receive in this round.
view more »COVID-19: Quality Reporting Flexibility, Remdesivir Fact Sheet
July 7, 2020 ||CMS announces the end of the blanket Extraordinary Circumstances Exception for quality reporting and value-based purchasing programs. HHS issues a remdesivir allocation fact sheet, and FDA approves a third influenza and COVID-19 combination diagnostic test.
view more »COVID-19: Hospitalization Risk Factors, Medicare Data
June 23, 2020 ||A report highlights hospitalization risk factors for COVID-19, and GAO evaluates the National Disaster Medical System. FDA revokes emergency use authorizations for chloroquine phosphate and hydroxychloroquine sulfate.
view more »States Respond to COVID-19: Wis. Delegates $40M to Hospitals
June 23, 2020 ||Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced the state will distribute $40 million to hospitals to address lost revenue and expenses as a result of COVID-19. The money comes from the tranche the state received under the the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
view more »The Department of Health and Human Services June 9 announced additional, targeted allocations from the Provider Relief Fund for hospitals filling a safety-net role and sole Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program providers.
view more »Statement on Additional COVID-19 Aid for the Safety Net
June 9, 2020 ||Today’s announcement of $10 billion in additional funding for hospitals that provide safety-net care, as well as a future allocation of $10 billion for providers in COVID-19 hot spots, will help ease the financial pain this public health emergency has inflicted on these caregivers.
view more »COVID-19: Surveys Resume, Remdesivir Donation, Antibody Testing
June 2, 2020 ||The Joint Commission will resume regular surveys of health care facilities; Gilead Sciences Inc. donates a second round of remdesivir to treat severe COVID-19 cases; CDC issues antibody testing guidelines.
view more »The Seattle Experience: Insights for New COVID-19 Challenges
May 28, 2020 ||Examine early approaches and lessons learned from COVID-19 treatment efforts at UW Harborview Medical Center, in Seattle.
view more »HHS Distributes Provider Relief Fund Payments to SNFs, IHS
May 26, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services announced two distributions from the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund, known as the Provider Relief Fund: $4.9 billion for skilled nursing facilities and $500 million for Indian Health Service providers.
view more »More COVID-19 Funding Must Come Quickly for Essential Hospitals
May 22, 2020 ||We are pleased to see new support for nursing homes, and we urge the administration to move rapidly toward more funding — especially for essential hospitals, which have seen less relief due to methods used to target previous allocations.
view more »Essential Hospitals Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic
May 21, 2020 ||A new report details how essential hospitals activated emergency plans and expanded capacity to perform COVID-19 testing, care for sick patients, and meet community needs.
view more »COVID-19: Inflammatory Syndrome, Serology Surveillance
May 19, 2020 ||CDC warns of an inflammatory syndrome in children with COVID-19. The agency also shares its serology surveillance strategy and guidance for resuming care unrelated to COVID-19.
view more »HEROES Act Offers Welcome Support for Essential Hospitals
May 15, 2020 ||The HEROES Act would take important steps to support the safety-net mission of essential hospitals, which care for the disadvantaged people and underserved communities disproportionately harmed by COVID-19.
view more »HHS Announces Allocation Plan for Drug Remdesivir
May 11, 2020 ||Hospitals interested in administering the donated experimental drug should contact their state health department.
view more »States Respond to COVID-19: Budget Outlooks Amid the Pandemic
May 11, 2020 ||As the public health emergency continues, states make unexpected budgetary decisions that could significantly affect health care. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo released an executive order stating hospitals are not allowed to discharge patients to nursing homes unless they test negative for COVID-19.
view more »COVID-19: HIPAA Compliance; Testing Regulations; Equity Study
May 11, 2020 ||HHS clarifies HIPAA rules for media; FDA tightens antibody testing rules and approves a home saliva test; the Missouri Hospital Association studies COVID-19 and race in St. Louis.
view more »CMS Updates Medicaid COVID-19 FAQs
May 11, 2020 ||CMS has updated its Medicaid and CHIP COVID-19 frequently asked questions (FAQ) document, which has been reorganized for greater usability. The new FAQs offer guidance on adjusting upper payment limit demonstrations, supplemental payments, and more to reflect pandemic response.
view more »COVID-19: Food Insecurity
May 7, 2020 ||Explore how essential hospitals are leveraging community-integrated strategies to meet amplified food insecurity needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »Association Requests Additional $20B for Essential Hospitals
May 7, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals in a May 5 letter urged the Department of Health and Human Services to allocate $20 billion specifically to essential hospitals that serve large Medicaid and low-income patient populations, to ensure the stability of the nation’s health care safety net.
view more »COVID-19: Effective Leadership
May 7, 2020 ||Transform your leadership tools and approach to respond effectively to the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »The trial will test whether plasma from previously infected COVID-19 patients can help patients currently battling the virus recover more rapidly.
view more »COVID-19: Racial Inequity; Testing and Isolation Guidance
May 5, 2020 ||A new study highlights racial disparities among COVID-19 patients; CDC updates testing and isolation guidelines and releases National Healthcare Safety Network data.
view more »Many states are beginning to lift restrictions put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including resuming elective surgeries in hospitals. Meanwhile, the National Association of Medicaid Directors urges the administration work with Medicaid directors to distribute needed funds to providers.
view more »The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on April 30 issued a second round of waivers and rule changes to provide flexibility to hospitals and improve access to testing for beneficiaries. These changes update waivers issued March 30 to address patient surge.
view more »Cambridge Health Alliance Develops COVID-19 Community Management Model
April 29, 2020 ||Recognizing the rapid spread of COVID-19, Cambridge Health Alliance leaders developed a community management framework to reduce strain on the health system.
view more »Virginia and Washington have paused proposals to extend Medicaid postpartum coverage for low-income women, due to budget constraints resulting from the pandemic. States are engaged in contact tracing to curb the spread of COVID-19, and 24 states enacted budgetary measures related to the emergency.
view more »States Begin to Announce COVID-19 Recovery Plans
April 28, 2020 ||States are exploring a variety of COVID-19 recovery plans to meet their local economic and health care needs. While some states opt to follow guidance from the Trump administration and national groups, others are taking individualized approaches focused on testing and social distancing.
view more »Essential Hospitals Welcome Targeting of CARES Act Funding
April 22, 2020 ||We thank the administration for hearing our concerns about how it targets Public Health and Social Services Fund funding and for directing additional dollars to hospitals bearing the heaviest burden of COVID-19 care and costs.
view more »COVID-19: Guidance on Resuming Hospital Procedures
April 22, 2020 ||Explore guidance and tools for resuming hospital procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on elective surgeries.
view more »CMS Guidance on Non-emergent Care Unrelated to COVID-19
April 21, 2020 ||The agency provides recommendations for resuming non-essential care for services that cannot be virtually delivered and for health care systems and facilities in regions with low incidence of COVID-19.
view more »Mass., Penn. Take Initiative to Support Hospitals During Pandemic
April 21, 2020 ||Some states are using their own means to assist hospitals on the front lines of this public health emergency. Massachusetts' state Medicaid agency will infuse $800 million in stabilization funding, while Pennsylvania launched a loan program to help hospitals adversely affected by the pandemic.
view more »States Respond to COVID-19: Seeking to Freeze Public Charge Rule
April 21, 2020 ||Attorneys general from three states ask the U.S. Supreme Court to pause the administration's public charge rule as the nation grapples with COVID-19. A study identifies which states are tracking race and ethnicity data amid the pandemic. CMS approves new time-limited disaster state plan amendments.
view more »Letter to Congress Urges Resources, Relief for Essential Hospitals
April 17, 2020 ||Congress should increase emergency funding for hospitals on the front lines of the COVID-19 epidemic, target hospitals in greatest need, adjust Medicaid to help essential hospitals, and provide other financial and regulatory relief.
view more »COVID-19: Telehealth Flexibilities for Essential Hospitals
April 16, 2020 ||Learn how to leverage new federal telehealth flexibilities to improve patient access to safe, timely care and ensure provider reimbursement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »CMS Approves State Plans to Mitigate COVID-19
April 10, 2020 ||Newly approved state plan amendments in Alabama, Arizona, Minnesota, Washington, and Wyoming aim to increase flexibility to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »CMS Updates Guidance for Medicaid, CHIP Response to COVID-19
April 7, 2020 ||The frequently asked questions document provides guidance on how states can leverage Medicaid flexibilities in response to the novel coronavirus. Key issues for essential hospitals are detailed in our latest Action Update.
view more »States Respond to COVID-19: Ventilator Requests, Housing Policies
April 7, 2020 ||Federal guidance details how states can request ventilators; states regulate distribution of chloroquine and hydoxychloroquine and take steps to ensure housing stability.
view more »On the Hill: House Democrats Eye Fourth COVID-19 Bill
April 7, 2020 ||House Democratic leaders seek to bolster economic aid and unemployment benefits, extend community health center funding, and increase workplace protections for health care workers and first responders.
view more »New Rule, Waivers to Manage COVID-19 Patient Surge
April 6, 2020 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued various waivers to increase hospital capacity, expand the health care workforce, eliminate certain paperwork requirements, and further promote telehealth.
view more »COVID-19: Homelessness and Housing Resources
April 3, 2020 ||Explore federal guidance and discover the practical work of essential hospitals to meet the needs of homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »On the Hill: House Explores Fourth COVID-19 Funding Bill
March 31, 2020 ||House Democratic leaders are developing a fourth COVID-19 supplemental funding bill on the heels of a $2 trillion aid package the president signed last week. This fourth legislative package could include measures to enhance protections for health care workers.
view more »CMS Issues Waivers, New Rules Amid COVID-19 Patient Surge
March 31, 2020 ||The new waivers and flexible options are designed to increase hospital capacity, rapidly expand the health care workforce, temporarily eliminate certain paperwork requirements, and promote telehealth in Medicare.
view more »Association Urges HHS to Target COVID-19 Funds to Essential Hospitals
March 31, 2020 ||The association calls on HHS to design a mechanism to distribute funds made available by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act to hospitals serving vulnerable communities and complex patients and facing other challenges during this public health emergency.
view more »COVID-19 Accelerated Payment, Paid Leave, and Hospital Reporting Updates
March 30, 2020 ||The administration has issued guidance making policy changes related to Medicare payment, mandated paid leave, and hospital reporting requirements related to COVID-19.
view more »Trump Signs $2 Trillion COVID-19 Relief Package
March 27, 2020 ||President Trump has signed a $2 trillion package of COVID-19 aid that provides $100 billion to hospitals and other providers, averts cuts to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments, suspends Medicare sequester cuts, and includes numerous other relief measures.
view more »Senate Advances CARES Act, Phase Three of COVID-19 Response
March 26, 2020 ||The $2 trillion bill includes $100 billion for a Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund to reimburse eligible health care providers for health care–related expenses or lost revenue attributable to COVID-19.
view more »Statement on Third COVID-19 Stimulus Package Passage
March 26, 2020 ||With COVID-19 poised to overwhelm the nation’s health care infrastructure, the Senate vote on funding support is welcome and appreciated as hospital resources are stretched thin. We thank congressional leaders for recognizing the support our member hospitals need during this unprecedented crisis.
view more »CMS Guidance on COVID-19 FMAP Increase
March 25, 2020 ||CMS issued a frequently asked questions document on how the agency will implement enhanced Medicaid funding to states to support COVID-19 response. The 6.2 percent increase in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage was included in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, made law on March 19.
view more »Summary of Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act
March 24, 2020 ||As the Senate continues work on a third legislative package to address public health and economic needs during the COVID-19 crisis, House Democrats introduced an alternative that includes provisions important to essential hospitals and key changes absent in the Senate bill.
view more »The March 20 letter details additional action needed to support essential hospitals as they respond to the pandemic. The letter also explains how essential hospitals face significant financial challenges as they work on the front lines of public health threats.
view more »COVID-19 Guidance for Homeless Service Providers
March 24, 2020 ||CDC recommends shelters plan for higher usage during the outbreak and consult with community leaders, local public health departments, and faith-based organizations about places to refer clients if a shelter space is full.
view more »HHS Expands Telehealth Flexibility During COVID-19 Crisis
March 24, 2020 ||HHS announced new flexibility to increase coverage of Medicare telehealth services during the COVID-19 crisis. In separate guidance, HHS’ Office of Inspector General will allow providers to use a variety of audio and video communication platforms without incurring penalties under HIPAA.
view more »COVID-19: Elective Surgeries, Quality Programs, Targeted Inspections
March 24, 2020 ||CMS issues elective surgery guidance, telehealth toolkits, and information on quality reporting flexibility amid the COVID-19 pandemic; The Joint Commission suspends regular surveys.
view more »On the Hill: Negotiations Continue on Third COVID-19 Bill
March 24, 2020 ||After two failed votes, senators continue negotiations on a $1.6 trillion funding package to boost the economy and improve access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, House Democratic leadership unveiled competing legislation to provide relief.
view more »Medicaid, CHIP Resources for COVID-19 Response
March 23, 2020 ||CMS issued several checklists and templates for state Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program agencies to request regulatory relief and flexibility to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak.
view more »State Responses to COVID-19: Special Enrollment, Mobile Testing Guidance
March 23, 2020 ||States open insurance marketplace special enrollment periods; the Association of State and Territorial Health Organizations issues considerations for mobile testing.
view more »Third COVID-19 Bill Includes DSH Delay, Hospital Funding
March 23, 2020 ||A third major legislative response to COVID-19 would provide $75 billion in emergency funding for hospitals and health care providers, delay until fiscal year 2022 a planned $4 billion cut to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital payments, and authorize other support.
view more »Wash. Receives 1135 Waiver Approval
March 23, 2020 ||Washington state received approval for a Section 1135 waiver, targeted at removing additional Medicare and Medicaid regulatory barriers for providers to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak.
view more »COVID-19: Essential Hospital Advocacy & Resources
March 21, 2020 ||Join association staff for a timely update on COVID-19 advocacy and resources.
view more »President Trump Signs Second Emergency COVID-19 Package
March 19, 2020 ||The law increases the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage to states, allows states to extend Medicaid eligibility, and requires diagnostic test coverage.
view more »COVID-19 Services Will Not Affect Public Charge Determination
March 18, 2020 ||An alert from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services clarifies testing, treatment, and preventive care — including a vaccine, if one becomes available — related to COVID-19 will not be considered as part of a public charge inadmissibility determination.
view more »COVID-19 Update: National Emergency, Community Guidance, Coverage
March 17, 2020 ||President Trump declared a national emergency as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. nears 3,500. CMS responds to concerns about complying with Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act requirements and CDC released updated infection control guidance for health care providers.
view more »On the Hill: House Passes Second COVID-19 Funding Bill
March 17, 2020 ||This second supplemental legislative package to address the new coronavirus would increase the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) to states, require insurance coverage of COVID-19 diagnostic tests and visits, extend paid leave, and more.
view more »COVID-19 Update: Guidance for Health Care Personnel, Testing
March 10, 2020 ||As U.S. cases of the new coronavirus rise to more than 400, the agency updates guidelines for testing patients and for health care workers exposed to COVID-19.
view more »On the Hill: COVID-19 Response, Star Ratings Letter
March 10, 2020 ||Both chambers passed a bill providing more than $8 billion to combat the new coronavirus; House leaders now are discussing legislation to mitigate economic impacts associated with the virus. A Senate letter calling to incorporate social determinants into hospital star ratings closes tomorrow.
view more »CMS Releases New COVID-19 Lab Test Code, Coverage Guidance
March 9, 2020 ||The new code applies to tests conducted outside CDC laboratories; CMS also issued frequently asked questions and fact sheets about COVID-19–related billing.
view more »President Signs $8.3B Coronavirus Funding Bill
March 9, 2020 ||President Trump has signed the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, which provides $8.3 billion in funding to several federal agencies for COVID-19 response.
view more »CMS to Focus Inspections on Infection Control Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
March 9, 2020 ||In a memo to state survey agencies and accrediting organizations, CMS announced it will focus survey activities solely on infection control until further notice and provided guidance for patient triage and nursing homes.
view more »On the Hill: Responding to Coronavirus Outbreak
March 3, 2020 ||Congressional leaders are holding several hearings to inform their COVID-19 response and negotiating legislation that could provide up to $8 billion in emergency supplemental funding to respond to the outbreak.
view more »CDC Prepares for Coronavirus Spread After Six U.S. Deaths
March 3, 2020 ||These cases bring the total number of COVID-19 cases detected and confirmed in the United States to 16. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration have issued new guidance and resources to prevent the spread of the virus and improve testing.
view more »CDC Updates Coronavirus Reporting, Coding Systems
Feb. 25, 2020 ||The agency announced it will count patients repatriated by the Department of State separately from other cases. Additionally, the World Health Organization developed an emergency ICD-10 code for COVID-19.
view more »On the Hill: Budget Hearings, Star Ratings Letter
Feb. 25, 2020 ||HHS Secretary Alex Azar will discuss the president's proposed fiscal year 2021 budget at several congressional hearings. A bipartisan Senate letter calls for incorporating social determinants into star ratings. A new association work group focuses on the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation.
view more »New Name, Guidance for Coronavirus Outbreak
Feb. 18, 2020 ||The new coronavirus — now officially called COVID-19 — has infected 15 people in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new guidance for health care providers to help with risk assessment, monitoring, and work restriction decisions.
view more »FDA Enables Emergency Use of Coronavirus Test
Feb. 11, 2020 ||The new authorization allows any CDC-qualified laboratory to use the 2019-nCoV diagnostic test. Each test kit can evaluate up to 800 patient samples.
view more »Coronavirus Spurs CDC Foreign Quarantine Regulation Change
Feb. 11, 2020 ||A new rule allows CDC to require that airlines collect and provide data on passengers and crew arriving from foreign countries for health education, treatment, prophylaxis, or other public health interventions.
view more »HHS Warns of Cyberattacks Exploiting Coronavirus Outbreak
Feb. 6, 2020 ||The agency reports that cybercriminals could send "phishing" emails purporting to include infection prevention information related to the new coronavirus (2019-nCOV) outbreak.
view more »CDC Reports U.S. Coronavirus Cases, Announces Provider Call
Jan. 28, 2020 ||Five cases of the coronavirus have been reported in the United States; CDC will host a Jan. 31 call for clinicians to share updated guidance about the virus.
view more »CDC Advises Providers of Pneumonia Outbreak in China
Jan. 13, 2020 ||Health care providers should notify state and local health departments if patients have severe respiratory symptoms after traveling to Wuhan City, China.
view more »CDC: Vaccinate At-Risk Groups for Hepatitis A
April 1, 2019 ||In response to reported hepatitis A virus outbreaks in multiple states, the agency urges health care providers to vaccinate at-risk groups, including people who use drugs and people experiencing homelessness.
view more »States Seek to Expand, Relax Vaccine Requirements
March 14, 2019 ||Despite a recent measles outbreak across the U.S., legislators in New York, Texas, and other states are considering bills to relax vaccine requirements. Meanwhile, Washington state is working to remove its "personal belief" exemption for the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
view more »On the Hill: Medicare-for-All Bill Lands in House
March 5, 2019 ||Long-expected "Medicare-for-all" bill formally introduced; Congressional hearings continue to focus on rising health care costs and prescription drug prices.
view more »On the Hill: Rx Drug Prices Remain in Spotlight
Feb. 26, 2019 ||Seven pharmaceutical company executives will testify in a Senate Committee on Finance hearing about prescription drug pricing practices.
view more »States Prepare for Public Health Emergencies
Feb. 22, 2019 ||A new report finds that nearly 90 percent of hospitals, on average, within each state are part of a coalition to work with emergency management and public health officials to ensure emergency preparedness in their communities.
view more »On the Hill: Shutdown Averted, Medicare-for-All Bill Expected
Feb. 19, 2019 ||The president signs a multibillion-dollar funding package and declares a national emergency, which now faces multiple court challenges. Two House Democrats announce plans to introduce Medicare-for-all legislation.
view more »CDC Encourages Providers to Fight Antibiotic Resistance
Nov. 13, 2018 ||A Centers for Disease Control & Prevention toolkit provides educational resources and social media messaging for Antibiotics Awareness Week 2018.
view more »Essential Hospital Researcher Develops Ebola Vaccine
July 30, 2018 ||A vaccine developed in part by UTMB professor Thomas Geisbert, PhD, helped contain a recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
view more »On the Hill: House Opioid Votes Begin this Week
June 12, 2018 ||The House aims to complete voting by the July Fourth recess, but Senate work on opioid legislation likely will continue into August amid a shortened recess.
view more »CDC Unveils Containment Strategy for Antibiotic-Resistant Germs
April 5, 2018 ||The agency outlines a five-step containment process and provides resources for health departments, labs, and health care providers.
view more »Essential Hospital Launches Mobile ED
Jan. 31, 2018 ||Grady Memorial Hospital, in Atlanta, deployed the state-of-the-art mobile medical unit in an effort to free up hospital emergency department space for acute-care patients as flu season heats up.
view more »Be Antibiotics Aware This Week
Nov. 13, 2017 ||The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will observe Antibiotics Awareness Week with a Twitter chat and webinar on Nov. 16.
view more »Association Members Get CDC Funding to Fight Antibiotic Resistance
Oct. 25, 2017 ||These awards will support antibiotic resistance research with a focus on the human microbiome, environmental settings, and health care settings.
view more »From Oct. 15 to Oct. 21, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology will raise awareness about antibiotic resistance through a Twitter chat and new infographic.
view more »CDC Deactivates Emergency Operations Center for Zika
Oct. 6, 2017 ||The emergency operations center was activated in January 2016 to respond to the harmful effects of the virus when contracted during pregnancy.
view more »CDC Updates C. Auris Clinical Alert
Oct. 2, 2017 ||With 153 clinical C. auris cases reported in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued updated infection control guidelines.
view more »New Online CDC Module Simulates Outbreaks
Sept. 18, 2017 ||Two free online simulations help health care providers improve decision-making skills during infectious disease outbreaks and public health emergencies.
view more »CDC Dedicates $77M to Antibiotic Resistance Efforts
Aug. 10, 2017 ||The funding will support state and local health departments in testing for drug-resistant fungi and promote the use of whole genome sequencing in testing.
view more »Zika Virus Resources for Essential Hospitals
July 15, 2017 ||Essential hospitals, key providers of public health and emergency preparedness services, stand ready to support the nation's response to the spreading Zika virus. Find resources from the CDC and other experts here.
view more »CDC Data Suggest Drop in Health Care–Associated C. diff
July 3, 2017 ||Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data show incidence of Clostridium difficile in hospitals and nursing homes fell for the first time in decades.
view more »CDC Reports Increase in Mosquitoes That Carry Zika
June 21, 2017 ||The findings highlight the need for continued mosquito surveillance and can help health departments and mosquito control districts plan for outbreaks.
view more »WHO Updates Guidelines on Antibiotic Use
June 8, 2017 ||The World Health Organization now groups antibiotics into three categories: Access, Watch, and Reserve, for drugs that should be used as a "last resort."
view more »RWJF, University of Kentucky Launch Preparedness Challenge
June 5, 2017 ||The challenge asks organizations to share how they use the National Health Security Preparedness Index to advance health security and disaster preparedness.
view more »CDC Releases Update on C. Auris Cases
May 23, 2017 ||This year, 77 U.S. cases of Candida auris have been reported; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is assisting health agencies in affected areas.
view more »CDC, SHEA Host Webinar on Conflict Management in Crises
May 12, 2017 ||The webinar will focus on managing resources, setting priorities, engaging stakeholders, and anticipating needs during crises, such as disease outbreaks.
view more »CDC has found an increase in Shigella bacteria resistant to flouroquinone antibiotics, which could indicate resistance to other drugs.
view more »CDC: C. Auris Fungus a ‘Catastrophic Threat’
May 2, 2017 ||A lethal, drug-resistant fungus called Candida auris could pose the country's leading health risk.
view more »WHO Releases First List of ‘Superbugs’ Posing Most Risk to Humans
Feb. 28, 2017 ||The list of 12 antibiotic-resistant "priority pathogens" is aimed at guiding and promoting the research and development of new antibiotics.
view more »NIH Tests Vaccine To Protect Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Feb. 27, 2017 ||The vaccine triggers an immune response to mosquito saliva; the study is expected to enroll up to 60 healthy adults and finish by summer 2018.
view more »CDC Workshops: Preparing for Infectious Disease Epidemics
Feb. 7, 2017 ||CDC will host two free workshops with the National Ebola Training & Education Center to train health care workers on delivering patient care during an infectious disease epidemic.
view more »CDC Webinar: Communicating During Disease Outbreaks
Jan. 27, 2017 ||The 90-minute webinar will focus on training hospital epidemiologists in the interpersonal skills necessary to handle an infectious disease outbreak.
view more »The Importance of Antibiotic Stewardship at Essential Hospitals
Nov. 30, 2016 ||Jennifer Pisano, associate medical director of The University of Chicago Medicine's Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, discusses proper use of antibiotics.
view more »CDC Research Finds Antibiotic Treatment Increases Sepsis Risk
Nov. 1, 2016 ||The study found that treatment with high-risk antibiotics made sepsis 80 percent more likely compared with patients who were not treated with antibiotics.
view more »CDC Call Will Educate Emergency Care Providers on Zika
Nov. 1, 2016 ||The Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity aims to educate providers on Zika screening protocols, clinical interventions, reporting processes and more.
view more »Pledge to ‘Break the Chain’ of Infectious Diseases
Oct. 17, 2016 ||Each year, APIC sponsors International Infection Prevention Week to highlight the importance of infection prevention in improving patient safety.
view more »Antibiotic Resistance: The Biggest Health Threat of Our Time
Oct. 11, 2016 ||If left unchecked, antibiotic-resistant infections will kill 10 million people a year and cost the worldwide economy $100 trillion by 2050.
view more »CDC: Include Antibiotic Stewardship in Infectious Disease Guidelines
Sept. 27, 2016 ||The recommendations, developed by the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee, aim to optimize treatment and minimize adverse consequences.
view more »CDC Expands States’ Ability To Detect Zika
Sept. 21, 2016 ||In August, CDC sent states about $2.5 million in laboratory supplies and equipment — including two diagnostic tests — to combat the Zika virus.
view more »Recall of Products Linked to B. cepacia Expanded
Aug. 11, 2016 ||The voluntary recall now applies to all of PharmaTech’s liquid products, including those labeled by Bayshore, Centurion, Major, Metron, Rugby, and Virtus.
view more »CDC Announces $60M in Funding To Fight Zika
July 22, 2016 ||The funds are intended for epidemiological surveillance and investigation, mosquito control and monitoring, and strengthening of laboratory capacity.
view more »FDA Announces Recall of Product Linked to B. cepacia
July 19, 2016 ||Florida-based PharmaTech issued the voluntary recall of liquid docusate sodium that could be contaminated with B. cepacia, an antibiotic-resistant bacteria linked to an outbreak in five states.
view more »CDC, FDA Investigate Multistate B. cepacia Outbreak
June 27, 2016 ||CDC has received multiple reports of Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia) infection clusters in pediatric intensive care units.
view more »NQF Playbook Aims To Improve Antibiotic Stewardship
June 1, 2016 ||New hospital resource offers examples of ways to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria and outlines CDC's core elements of stewardship programs.
view more »CDC, OSHA Release Guidance To Protect Workers from Zika
April 27, 2016 ||To prevent transmission of the virus, workers should use proper infection control and biosafety practices to avoid direct contact with blood-borne pathogens.
view more »Ebola Resources: Hospital Checklist, PPE Guidance, More
March 22, 2016 ||Just added: CDC interim guidance for management of survivors of Ebola Virus disease in U.S. health care settings
view more »House Committee Examines Public Health Response to Zika
March 5, 2016 ||FDA official notes "urgent need” to accelerate development of medical products to combat the virus and says the agency will “leverage its authorities" to aid that process.
view more »PENTAX Issues New Duodenoscope Reprocessing Instructions
Feb. 25, 2016 ||New instructions are validated by the FDA to ensure they meet proper guidelines to avoid transmission of antibiotic resistant bacteria.
view more »CDC Expands Zika Screening Guidelines for Children
Feb. 24, 2016 ||Children who have been to infected areas within past two weeks or show two or more symptoms of Zika virus should be screened for the virus.
view more »FDA Recommends Zika Screening for Blood Donors
Feb. 22, 2016 ||Agency says blood donors should self-defer if they show symptoms, have traveled to Zika-infected regions, or have had sexual contact with someone from an infected region.
view more »WHO: Ebola Epidemic Over, but Continued Preparedness Vital
Jan. 27, 2016 ||World Health Organization declares end of epidemic in West Africa, but says to expect small flare-ups due to persistence of virus after patient recovery.
view more »CDC: Monitoring Vital to Limiting Spread of CRE
Dec. 9, 2015 ||CDC report outlines the need for monitoring of CRE and related antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
view more »CDC: Get Smart About Antibiotic Resistance
Nov. 17, 2015 ||Week-long annual event will engage stakeholders in discussion and education about antibiotic stewardship in inpatient, outpatient, and animal health settings.
view more »U.S. Relaxes Ebola Screening for Travelers from Sierra Leone
Nov. 17, 2015 ||Change follows Nov. 7 declaration by World Health Organization that Sierra Leone is free of Ebola. Some checks remain, including for temperature and possible exposure.
view more »Endoscope Reprocessors Recalled by Custom Ultrasonics
Nov. 17, 2015 ||FDA cites violations of federal law that could result in an increased risk of infection transmission by company's equipment.
view more »Dirty Endoscopes Ranks First on 2016 Health Hazards List
Nov. 13, 2015 ||New report from ECRI Institute also lists failure to respond to clinical alarms, unsafe injection practices, and insufficient training among top hazards.
view more »CDC: Hospitals Should Assess Heater-Cooler Units
Oct. 26, 2015 ||Hospitals should assess units to ensure they are safe and properly maintained and not contaminated with non-tuberculosis mycobacterium. Patients who may have been exposed to NTM should monitor signs of potential infection for several years.
view more »Essential Hospitals Named New CDC Prevention Epicenters
Oct. 7, 2015 ||The prevention epicenters will identify innovative ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in health care facilities. University of Utah and the University of Illinois - Chicago join Cook County Health & Hospital System as essential hospital participants.
view more »U.S. Relaxes Ebola Screenings for Travelers from Liberia
Sept. 22, 2015 ||Travelers from Liberia will no longer be screened upon entry. CDC recommends providers continue screening patients who have traveled from Liberia for symptoms of Ebola and other infectious diseases.
view more »CDC to Host Provider Call on Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
Aug. 18, 2015 ||Event, open to all providers, will focus on coordinating efforts in the fight against the increasing number of potentially life-threatening germs that resist drugs created to treat them.
view more »Vital Signs report recommends collaboration between public health departments and health care facilities to stop antibiotic resistance, promote infection control.
view more »Association Member Part of New Ebola Training, Education Center
July 6, 2015 ||New York's Bellevue Hospital Center to join Emory University and University of Nebraska Medical Center in collaboration with federal agencies.
view more »CDC to Hold Ebola Preparedness Courses
June 15, 2015 ||Staff from Ebola assessment hospitals will learn how to prepare facilities and staff to receive, isolate, and care for patients being evaluated for Ebola.
view more »Essential Hospitals Named Ebola Regional Treatment Centers
June 15, 2015 ||Three association members were among nine groups of grantees that will receive funding to sustain preparedness for treating patients with Ebola and other highly infectious diseases.
view more »CDC to Providers: Be Aware of MERS-CoV
June 13, 2015 ||CDC guidance covers evaluation criteria, infection control information for MERS-CoV. Criteria include fever, pneumonia, recent travel to the Arabian Peninsula or South Korea.
view more »Administration Releases Plan to Combat Antibiotic Resistance
March 31, 2015 ||The plan serves as a guide for federal departments and agencies to combat the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Funding is included in the president's proposed FY 2016 budget.
view more »CDC Issues Protocol for Testing Duodenoscopes for Bacteria
March 12, 2015 ||Announcement follows recent "superbug" outbreaks at two Los Angeles hospitals that occurred without identified lapses of infection control
view more »HHS Announces $194.5 Million in Ebola Funding
Feb. 24, 2015 ||Grants will support Ebola preparedness activities at hospitals, fund regional networks for Ebola patient care, and create pathogen treatment centers nationally
view more »CDC Adds Measles Outbreak Resources to Website
Feb. 20, 2015 ||New online tools include maps of cases nationally and specific to outbreak linked to Disneyland resort
view more »CDC Posts Ebola Training for ED Personnel
Feb. 18, 2015 ||Training videos help ED personnel identify, triage, and briefly manage the care of patients who may have Ebola or any highly infectious disease.
view more »On the Hill: Public Health Markup, Mental Health, ICD-10, Vaccines
Feb. 10, 2015 ||Plus, senators are concerned with the CMS rating system for Medicare Advantage plans.
view more »Essential Hospitals Prepare Doctors to Diagnose, Treat Measles
Feb. 10, 2015 ||At Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, older staff are teaching younger docs with no measles experience how to recognize symptoms.
view more »CDC Releases Updated Ebola Laboratory Guidance
Feb. 9, 2015 ||Guidance covers the management and testing of routine clinical specimens for Ebola, while minimizing risk to laboratory personnel.
view more »CDC Announces 35 Designated Ebola Treatment Centers
Dec. 2, 2014 ||Treatment centers together have 53 beds suitable for Ebola care, and more than 80 percent of travelers from Ebola-affected countries live within 200 miles of a center.
view more »On the Hill: Ebola, U.S. Public Health Response
Oct. 14, 2014 ||While Congress is in recess, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations will hold a hearing addressing the U.S. public health response to Ebola. CDC Director Tom Frieden, MD, and other U.S. public health officials will testify.
view more »OSHA to Convene Panel on Infection Exposure in Health Care Settings
Sept. 23, 2014 ||The panel will assess the impact of potential regulations on this exposure. The SBA seeks small business entity representatives to inform the panel.
view more »On the Hill: CR, Medical Device Tax, Veteran and Children’s Health
Sept. 16, 2014 ||Congress meets this week to extend federal funding through Dec. 11. Other legislative considerations include medical device tax, VA authorities, and the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program. Committees will address CHIP, Ebola, and the ACA.
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