Risk at Long-Term Facilities

Among those facing the highest risk for COVID-19 are individuals living in long-term care facilities (LTC). DHSS’ Division of Health Care Quality is working closely with facilities to verify that they have strong screening, infection and isolation measures in place. In addition, the Division of Public Health asks LTCs with questions or concerns to email DPH_PAC@delaware.gov or call 1-866-408-1899, press ext. 2.

Governor’s Order on Long-Term Care Facilities

On April 15, Governor Carney issued an 11th amendment to his State of Emergency requiring stricter guidelines to prevent COVID-19 infections in nursing facilities and other long-term care facilities.

Governor Announces Universal Testing in Long-Term Care Facilities

On May 5, Governor Carney and the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) announced a plan to test all residents and staff of Delaware long-term care facilities for COVID-19. 

DPH will provide facilities with tests, testing supplies, training, and support for the universal testing program to protect the most vulnerable Delawareans. Expanding COVID-19 testing capacity for vulnerable populations is a requirement of federal guidance for economic reopening.

Public health experts at the Division of Public Health (DPH) will support clinicians at long-term care facilities with the new testing program. DPH will provide guidance on testing of symptomatic and asymptomatic persons and the interpretation of results.  DPH will also provide recommendations to protect residents and staff based on results, including transmission-based precautions, isolation, and patient and staff management strategies.

• Implementation Plan for Universal Testing of Long-Term Care Facilities 5.07.20
• COVID-19 Testing at Facilities Infographic
  • Universal Testing Practical Instructions
  • Universal Testing Tracking Sheet
• DPH Covid Training 4.22.20
• SHOC Daily Status Form 5.8.20 (Fillable)
• Testing Procedure of Symptomatic Individuals for PAC Facilities
• DPH Lab Requisition Form
• Suggested Guidelines for Determining Presumed Positive COVID-19 Resident Status
• Cloth Mask Guidance
• Health Care Waivers
• Public Health Orders for Regulatory Requirements
• PAC Medical Director Training
• Staffing Assistance Request Procedure
• Staffing Assistance Request Form
• Training Signature Attestation

More Provider and Long-Term Care Facility Resources

• Discontinuation of Transmission-Based Precautions and Disposition of Patients with COVID-19 to Long-Term Care or Assisted Living Facilities (Updated 5/7/20)
• CDC Information on Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in Retirement Communities and Independent Living Facilities
• DPH Guidance for Management of Persons with Suspected COVID-19 Exposure, Discontinuation of Home Isolation and Return to Work (updated May 7, 2020)
• CDC Information on Donning and Doffing PPE
• CDC Guidance on Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility
• CDC Guidance on Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities
• Poster for Restricting Visitors in LTC Facilities
• Alzheimer Foundation of America