IDPH Announces LTC Easing of Restrictions Revisions

Today, IDPH hosted a webinar to provide an overview of updates that the state is making to the LTC Phased Easing of Restrictions Guidance.  The overview of changes focused on 2 areas:  visitation and adequate PPE.  The changes can be found here

Visitation

Under the revised guidance, LTC providers without an outbreak, which is 3 or more residents or staff with a confirmed, positive case, may permit window visits, chat box visits, or outdoor visits for any resident who is asymptomatic and does not have a confirmed case in ANY stage of the phased reopening, including phase 1.  LTC providers should establish visitation appointments, limitations for the number of visitors at one time and per resident visit, screening policies for visitors, and social distance and face covering requirements.  It is also recommended visits are monitored as best possible to ensure visitors are following all guidelines.

Adequate PPE

IDPH clarified that they are revising the adequate PPE standard for moving to phase 2 or phase 3 to only require conventional PPE use for cohorted areas of isolation and quarantine.  The general “healthy” population will continue to require face masks at all times for universal source control and face masks plus eye protection for care within 6 feet with contingency use (limited reuse).  This change should significantly reduce the amount of PPE required but may still be a challenge based upon the number of residents under isolation or quarantine.