COVID-19 Resources
Click here for the NASP COVID-19 Care Package
DUANE MORRIS COVID-19 RESOURCES
Please join our friends at Duane Morris for the COVID-19: Navigating Forward Webinar Series titled “Consumer Fraud and Consumer Product Safety Commission Issues in the Pandemic“, Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 1 p.m. ET. Login details will be provided upon registration. 1.0 hour of CLE credit has been approved for PA, NJ, NY and CA. CLE credits are pending in all other jurisdictions.
DUANE MORRIS COVID-19 RESOURCES
WASHINGTON, DC (March 23, 2021) — Our friends at The Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team are working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
EVENTS
2021 – Same Pandemic But New COVID-19 Leave Rules – What Employers Need to Know
April 8, 2021 | DMi Webinar | Cost: $85
ALERTS
New COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave Law Retroactively Expands California Employer Obligations
March 23, 2021
Vaccine Guidance Arrives for California Employers
March 23, 2021
DUANE MORRIS COVID-19 RESOURCES
Please join our friends at Duane Morris for their
COVID-19: Navigating Forward Webinar Series. Healthcare & COVID-19: From Mandatory Vaccination Issues to Telehealth Contracting
Tuesday, March 16, 2021 | 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm Eastern
Register here.
Login details will be provided upon registration. 1.0 hour of CLE credit has been approved for PA, NJ, NY and CA. CLE credits are pending in all other jurisdictions.
Medicare is Helping Cover Coronavirus Vaccine
Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is becoming more available, Healthline experts created a guide outlining what is covered under Medicare. They discuss the different parts of Medicare and what services, medications, and treatment are included under each part to help Seniors identify if they are able to receive the vaccine for free.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (March 3, 2021) — Our friends at The Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team are working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
Alerts
Pennsylvania Updates COVID-19 Mitigation, Enforcement and Immunity Standards
March 3, 2021
Latest Insights From the COVID-19 Blog
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (March 2, 2021) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team are working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
Events
OSHA’s Emergency COVID-19 Standard(s)?!
April 1, 2021 | DMi Webinar
Latest Insights from the COVID-19 Blog
Philadelphia Begins Reopening Indoor and Outdoor Sporting Events to Live Fans!
March 2, 2021
Guidance and Considerations for Masks on Campus: Students and Employees
March 2, 2021
Webinar Replay: Mitigating Civil and Criminal Antitrust Risks During a Pandemic and the “New Normal”
March 2, 2021
Telehealth Tips and Information for Residents
With the continuing presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the switch to virtual work is here to stay for the foreseeable future. Services such as telehealth have been challenging to navigate from home for many individuals, but with the right information, the process can be made much simpler—even for the least tech-savvy.
In order to facilitate the intimidation that comes with telehealth, NurseJournal.org created a guide that breaks down the telehealth experience, specifically with seeing a virtual nurse. This open-use guide dives into the benefits of telehealth services, what patients can expect during their appointment, and how to find a provider in their area.
“COVID-19: What’s Next Self Directed” hosted by Society of Critical Care Medicine
Be equipped with the latest information and clinical knowledge as the virus continues to spread. View educational sessions and presentations from the live event in the comfort of your home or office, including plenary lectures by Anthony S. Fauci, MD and ADM. Brett P. Giroir, MD. Earn CE/CME credit while learning from the experts! Learn more and purchase here.
Guiding Principles for Safe and Efficacious COVID-19 Vaccine Development, Distribution, Allocation, and Mass Immunization
NASP along with the Pharmaceutical Supply and Payment Chain Coalition offers the following guiding principles for the safe and efficacious development, distribution, and allocation of a vaccine(s) to achieve coordinated mass vaccination against COVID-19. Please visit here to read more.
Fight Flu this Season
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has published a “Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions 2020-2021 Season” resource page to educate the public about the flu vaccine, navigating flu season amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and ways to protect yours and your community’s health.
Both Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are two viruses that can lead to more serious illnesses, however there are some key differences between the two. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares their resource, “Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19” with the best available information to date to help you identify both viruses’ signs and symptoms, how they spread and the approved treatments and vaccines.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (October 14, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Small Business Administration Released New Interim Final Rule on PPP Loan Forgiveness
- New York Governor Issues One More (and One Final?) COVID-Related Executive Order Tolling Statutes of Limitations
COVID-19 Resource to Understand Telehealth
WASHINGTON, DC (September 23, 2020) – Wegmans School of Pharmacy at St. John Fisher College highlights how pharmacists can maintain a high level of care for their patients during the pandemic, in this free resource. They explain how telepharmacy increases access to health care and how pharmacists can make telepharmacy more accessible
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (August 28, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- U.S. Department of Labor Issues Guidance on Tracking Compensable Remote Work of Nonexempt Employees Under the Fair Labor Standards Act
- New Guidance Reveals FDA’s Thinking on Imposition of Civil Monetary Penalties for Violations of Clinical Trial Reporting Requirements
COVID-19 Resource Center for Non-Profits
Amidst COVID-19, nonprofits – staff, volunteers, board members and donors are actively devising new strategic and operating plans to sustain their work and further their missions. Donorbox’s free resource center for nonprofits shares resources and key information on organizational continuity and fundraising, communications, human resources, and more to help nonprofits as they navigate the implications of the unfolding public health crisis.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (August 10, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Significant Changes to COVID-19 Leave Provisions After Court Vacates Some DOL Regulations Interpreting Paid Leave Under the FFCRA
- Small Business Administration Releases FAQs on Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness
Part 2 Modernization Underway: Revised Rule Released While We Await CARES Act Rulemaking
WASHINGTON, DC (July 28, 2020) – What Part 2 rules are in effect right now? While we await CARES Act rulemaking, a revised Part 2 rule has been finalized. Read our summary of the interplay of the legislation and rulemaking, the various effective dates, new patient rights and breach reporting obligations, and treatment-related disclosures. Part 2 programs, providers, and pharmacies have options to update compliance practices now in preparation for a significant shift in handling substance use disorder records and patients. Please click here to read more.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (July 17, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Added to the Lists of Drugs for Temporary Compounding by Outsourcing Facilities and Pharmacy Compounders
WASHINGTON, DC (July 15, 2020) – Today, the FDA added dexamethasone sodium phosphate to the lists of drugs for temporary compounding by outsourcing facilities and pharmacy compounders during the COVID-19 public health emergency. These updates help address shortages and access concerns affecting some drugs urgently needed for hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The updated lists are referenced in the following guidances:
- Temporary Policy for Compounding of Certain Drugs for Hospitalized Patients by Outsourcing Facilities During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
- Temporary Policy for Compounding of Certain Drugs for Hospitalized Patients by Pharmacy Compounders not Registered as Outsourcing Facilities During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Guidance for Industry
Hospitals that cannot obtain adequate supplies of FDA-approved drugs and are considering the use of compounded drugs for their hospitalized patients should first contact outsourcing facilities, which are subject to more robust quality standards than state-licensed pharmacies or federal facilities that do not register with FDA as outsourcing facilities.
The guidance for temporary compounding of certain drugs by outsourcing facilities during the COVID-19 public health emergency includes timely product reporting by outsourcing facilities compounding drugs covered by the guidance. Hospitals can use this information, which FDA posts on its website, to help determine which outsourcing facilities are compounding drugs used for hospitalized patients with COVID-19.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (July 10, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Travel Restrictions Are Back, but with State-by-State Twists
- IRS Provides Rollover Relief for Required Minimum Distributions
- SEVP Fall 2020 F-1 Modifications Are Bad News for Foreign Students at Schools Resuming with 100 Percent Remote Learning
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (July 2, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Congress Extends Paycheck Protection Program Deadline to August 8
- As COVID-19 Cases Mount, South Florida Counties Reimpose Restrictions Before Holiday Weekend
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 30, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Small Business Administration Releases Revised Eligibility Rules for Paycheck Protection Program
- Texas Imposes New Restrictions Following Rise in COVID-19 Cases
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 29, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
Note: This Alert has been updated to include additional changes to the loan forgiveness process set forth in an interim final rule released on June 23, 2020, which are being implemented in connection with the passage of the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (PPP Flexibility Act).
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 23, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 16, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Small Business Administration Releases Rules Following Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act
- Paternalistic Employers, Beware: EEOC Addresses Employer Concerns for Workplace Safety via Mandated Accommodations
Ensure You Are COVID Care Certified by ASHP
ASHP’s new COVID Care Certified course prepares pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for managing clinical and operational challenges during the pandemic. The online course includes a variety of relevant, evidence-based resources and tools to care for patients in all stages of COVID-19, including those critically ill. After completion, participants will receive documentation that they are COVID Care Certified by ASHP. For more information on this course, please click here.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 6, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Force Majeure and COVID-19: Illinois Bankruptcy Court Rules That Force Majeure Provision Partially Excuses Rent Payments
- Maryland Enters Stage Two of Reopening Plan, Lifting Restrictions for Nonessential Businesses, Subject to Local Orders
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 5, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Congress Passes Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act to Revise Key Components of Paycheck Protection Program
- New Jersey Announces Required Safety Protocols for Reopening Businesses
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 2, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- New York City Enacts Commercial Tenant Protections for Those Impacted by COVID-19
- FDA Provides Two New Guidances for Investigational New Drug Applications and Clinical Trial Expectations for Drugs and Biological Products Proposed for Use Against COVID-19
- USCIS Premium Processing Returns for Nonimmigrant and Worker Visa Petitions
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (June 1, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- CDC provides guidance on antibody testing
- New PPP Flexibility Act passed in the House of Representatives which focuses on Small Businesses, Hospitality, and Restaurants
- The U.S. Immigration Agency (USCIS) Resumes In-Person Operations in Early June
Duane Morris COVID-19 Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (May 20, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- SBA Releases Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application
- CDC Issues ‘Decision Tree’ to Assist Employers with Reopening Decisions
- SBA Releases Interim Final Rule on Counting Foreign Affiliate Employees under the Paycheck Protection Program
Duane Morris COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (May 18, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- New York’s Construction Guidance Requires COVID-19 Precautions for all jobs
- Many Maryland Counties and Cities to Retain Current Restrictions Despite Governor Lifting the Stay-at-Home Order
- Employment Law and COVID-19: Things to Watch
- American Association of Railroads Responds to COVID-19 Crisis
Structuring COVID-19 Protocols for Pharmacies
WASHINGTON, DC (May 15, 2020) – This white paper has been provided by our friends at Brown & Fortunato, P.C. to provide guidance to pharmacies on structuring an appropriate written protocol that implements necessary controls for COVID-19 guidance, pharmacy employees, and pharmacy patients.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON, DC (May 12, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
60 Digital Resources for Mental Health
WASHINGTON, DC (May 1, 2020) – Mental health is an undeniably important matter, yet most people don’t have access to the resources they need when they need help. Please visit this link for a comprehensive list of resources for anyone seeking information about and/or help for a range of mental health issues provided by Social Work License Map.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON, DC (April 29, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- San Francisco’s COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave Ordinance Takes Effect
- Ohio Governor Unveils Industry-Specific Protocols for “Responsible Restart Ohio” Amid the COVID-19 Crisis
- Illinois Withdraws Emergency COVID-19 Workers’ Compensation Rule
- Georgia Allows Most Businesses to Reopen to the Public: What Employers Need to Know
- Illinois Governor Extends COVID-19 Stay-at-Home Order with Some Modifications
CDC Update on Coronavirus, Travel in the US, Travel Health Notices, and more…
WASHINGTON, DC (April 27, 2020) – The CDC is getting many questions about COVID-19. A lot are related to domestic travel. To help travelers make informed decisions, CDC has created a COVID-19 travel homepage and a COVID-19 Travel in the US page.
Duane Morris COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON, DC (April 27, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- CARES Act 2.0 Shores Up COVID-19 Economic Relief Programs
- Department of Health & Human Services Clarifies Broad Scope of Immunity Protection Under the PREP Act
- New York Enacts Permanent Paid Sick Leave Legislation
- President Signs Proclamation to Temporarily Suspend Entry of Certain Immigrants in Reaction to the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Economic Programs Available to Illinois Workers and Businesses in the COVID-19 Crisis
- Small Business Administration Updates Interim Regulatory Guidelines to Greatly Expand Accessibility of Paycheck Protection Program Loans to Gaming Businesses
Duane Morris COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON, DC (April 22, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Update
- Federal Response to COVID-19 Relaxes Telehealth Restrictions
- Economic Programs Available to Texas Workers and Businesses in the COVID-19 Crisis
- Maryland Temporarily Prohibits Commercial and Industrial Evictions
- How Companies Should Prepare for an Increase in Law Enforcement Activity After COVID-19
Duane Morris COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON, DC (April 21, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- Pennsylvania Extends Stay-at-Home Order Until May 8, But Eases Some Restrictions
- Overview of Federal and State COVID-19 Relief Programs for New York
- Economic Assistance for California Residents and Businesses During COVID-19
- California Order Provides COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave for Essential Food Workers and Tightens Sanitation Standards
- FAA Gives Details on $10 Billion in CARES Act Funds for Airports
- COVID-19 Pandemic Causes Compliance Delays for Mexico’s Anti-Money Laundering Law
Duane Morris COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON, DC (April 20, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris COVID-19 Strategy Team is working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts about how emergency measures are likely to affect our clients. Please click the links below for access to today’s alerts:
- White House Issues Guidelines on Relaxing COVID-19 Precautions
- SBA’s Interim Final Rule Clarifies Paycheck Protection Program Loan Eligibility Requirements
COVID CE Now Available!
WASHINGTON, DC (April 20, 2020) – SIDP has partnered with ProCE and www.IDStewardship.com to develop a free COVID-19 learning activity for pharmacists. This activity is focused on COVID-19 and understanding the pharmacokinetics, proposed dosing, potential risks, adverse events, drug-drug interactions, and presumed benefits of off-label or investigational therapies. Please click here for activity details.
There is no fee to participate in this activity. Access online 24/7.
CMS Issues Recommendations to Re-Open Health Care Systems in Areas with Low Incidence of COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (April 20, 2020) – Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issues new recommendations specifically targeted to communities that are in Phase 1 of the Guidelines for President Trump’s Opening Up America Again with low incidence or relatively low and stable incidence of COVID-19 cases. The recommendations update earlier guidance provided by CMS on limiting non-essential surgeries and medical procedures. The new CMS guidelines recommend a gradual transition and encourage health care providers to coordinate with local and state public health officials, and to review the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other supplies, workforce availability, facility readiness, and testing capacity when making the decision to re-start or increase in-person care.
The new recommendations can be found here: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/covid-flexibility-reopen-essential-non-covid-services.pdf
The Guidelines for Opening Up America Again can be found here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/#criteria
DEA Temporarily Removes the “Five Percent Rule”
WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2020) – The DEA has announced that, effective January 1, 2020, and until the end of the HHS public health emergency declaration, DEA-registered practitioners are exempt from limitations imposed by the “five percent rule.” Read more about the “five percent rule” exemption and what DEA-registered practitioners should know before utilizing this exemption. Please click here to read more from our friends at Quarles and Brady.
Temporary Policy for Compounding of Certain Drugs for Hospitalized Patients by Outsourcing Facilities During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2020) – Today, the FDA issued a guidance for immediate implementation setting forth a temporary policy for outsourcing facilities to compound certain human drugs for hospitalized patients during the COVID 19 public health emergency. This guidance is being issued to help ensure treatment options are available for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 when hospitals experience difficulties accessing certain FDA-approved drugs. For certain drugs, FDA does not intend to take action, against outsourcing facilities for compounding a drug that is essentially a copy of an approved drug, using a bulk drug substance that is not on FDA’s 503B bulks list, or not meeting current good manufacturing practice requirements with regard to product stability testing and the establishment of an expiration date when certain circumstances are present.
COVID-19 Alerts
WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2020) – Please follow the links below to alerts provided by our friends at Duane Morris.
- New Jersey and New York Governors Mandate Masks and Other Measures to Protect Workers and Citizens
- Small Business Administration Updates Interim Regulatory Guidelines to Help Certain Gaming Companies
Agilum Releases Nationwide COVID-19 Real-World Data (RWD) Survival Rate Analytics
WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2020) – Through its Comparative Rapid Cycle Analytics™ (CRCA™) solution, Agilum Healthcare Intelligence seeks to leverage its comprehensive, longitudinal patient database to deliver updates on current and new treatment regimens – providing greater transparency into the resulting outcomes for various cohorts of COVID-19 patients. This data has been updated to support more detailed observations into the survival rate and average length of stay (ALOS) by drug treatment regimens for COVID-19 patients with and without comorbid conditions (determined by a pulmonary and/or cardiac diagnosis within the past 12 calendar months). Please click here to read more.
CMS COVID-19 News Alert
WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2020) – Here is a summary of recent Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) actions taken in response to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), as part of the ongoing White House Task Force efforts. To keep up with the important work the Task Force is doing in response to COVID-19, click here www.coronavirus.gov. For information specific to CMS, please visit the CMS News Room and Current Emergencies Website. CMS updates these resources on an ongoing basis throughout the day; the information below is current as of April 16, 2020 at 10:15 a.m. ET.
CMS Increases Medicare Payment for High-Production Coronavirus Lab Tests
CMS announced that Medicare will nearly double payment for certain lab tests that use high-throughput technologies to rapidly diagnose large numbers of COVID-19 cases. This is another action the Trump Administration is taking to rapidly expand COVID-19 testing. Along with the March 30 announcement that Medicare will pay new specimen collection fees for COVID-19 testing, CMS’s actions will expand capability to test more vulnerable populations, like nursing home patients, quickly and provide results faster. Medicare will pay laboratories for the tests at $100 effective April 14, 2020, through the duration of the COVID-19 national emergency.
CMS Implements CARES Act Hospital Payment and Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Waivers
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act increases payment for Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) and long-term care hospital (LTCH) inpatient hospital care attributable to COVID-19. CMS provided guidance for IPPS hospitals and LTCHs on how to code claims to receive the higher payment.
The CARES Act also waives the requirement that Medicare Part A fee-for-service patients treated in inpatient rehabilitation facilities receive at least 15 hours of therapy per week.
Emergency Declaration Waivers Summary
CMS Approves Additional State Medicaid Waivers and Amendments to Give States Flexibility to Address Coronavirus Pandemic
CMS has approved 52 COVID- related emergency waivers, 31 state amendments, 11 COVID-related Medicaid Disaster Amendments and one CHIP COVID-related Disaster Amendment in record time. States are using a toolkit CMS developed to expedite the application and approval of Medicaid state waivers and State Plan Amendments.
CMS recently approved two additional COVID-related emergency Medicaid waivers, delivering urgent regulatory relief to ensure the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands can quickly and effectively care for their most vulnerable citizens. CMS also approved COVID-related Medicaid Disaster Amendments that bring relief to Arkansas and Rhode Island. These approvals help to ensure that states have the tools they need to combat COVID-19 through a wide variety of state plan flexibilities. CMS continues to authorize amendments to ensure emergency flexibilities in programs that care for the elderly and people with disabilities, including most recently for Colorado, Louisiana and Nevada. These approved flexibilities support President Trump’s commitment to a COVID-19 response that is locally executed, state managed, and federally supported.
1915(c) Waiver Appendix K Amendments
Medicaid State Plan Amendments
COVID-19 Alerts
WASHINGTON, DC (April 14, 2020) – Please follow the links below to updated COVID-19 alerts provided by our friends at Duane Morris.
- HHS Announces Initial $30 Billion Distribution from CARES Act Provider Relief Fund
- CARES Act Expands Immunity Protections for Covered Countermeasures and Healthcare Volunteers
- CARES Act Package Ushers in Changes to OTC Drug Review Process
FDA COVID-19 Resources & Contact Information
WASHINGTON, DC (April 14, 2020) – Please click here for a list of FDA provided COVID-19 Resources & Contact information.
Stress & Anxiety Resources
- FACE COVID e-Book by Dr. Russ Harris, author of The Happiness Trap
- Headspace is offering their mindfulness app free for healthcare providers for the remainder of 2020 (requires NPI for registration)
- Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Resources During the COVID-19 Outbreak provided by Harvard Global Health Institute
- APA COVID-19 Information and Resources
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- If you feel overwhelmed by sadness, depression, anxiety, or hopelessness, call 911 or 1-800-985-5990 (SAMHSA Disaster Distress Line), or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
COVID-19 Exploitations: Malicious Cyber Actors Strike with Pandemic-Related Scams
WASHINGTON, DC (April 13, 2020) – The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office for Civil Rights shared an alert addressing exploitations by cybercriminals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read our takeaways from the alert and practical steps that organizations and individuals can take to best protect themselves. Please click here to read this update from our friends at Quarles & Brady.
HIPAA Flexibility for COVID-19 Testing Sites
WASHINGTON, DC (April 10, 2020) – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights has issued guidance announcing its enforcement discretion in dealing with COVID-19 Community-Based Testing Sites during the nationwide public health emergency. Learn more about the guidance, including who it applies to and recommended steps to safeguard individuals’ protected health information for testing sites. Please click here to read this update from our friends at Quarles & Brady.
COVID-19 Interim Final Rule FAQs
WASHINGTON, DC (April 10, 2020) – CMS has provided a FAQ on the COVID-19 Interim Final Rule. Please click here to read the FAQ.
COVID-19 Alerts
WASHINGTON, DC (April 10, 2020) – Please follow the links below to updated COVID-19 alerts provided by our friends at Duane Morris.
- FINRA Makes Changes to Its Rules and Guidance Due to COVID-19
- SEC Regulation Best Interest and Form CRS Compliance Deadline Unchanged Despite COVID-19 Pandemic
- San Francisco Enacts Emergency Ordinance: Public Health Emergency Leave
- Pennsylvania Governor Authorizes Emergency Management Officials to Seize Medical Supplies for COVID-19 Fight
- New Guidelines for New Jersey Construction, Retail, Warehouse and Manufacturing Sectors
Trump Administration Acts to Ensure U.S. Healthcare Facilities Can Maximize Frontline Workforces to Confront COVID-19 Crisis
WASHINGTON, DC (April 10, 2020) – At President Trump’s direction, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today temporarily suspended a number of rules so that hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities can boost their frontline medical staffs as they fight to save lives during the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
These changes affect doctors, nurses, and other clinicians nationwide, and focus on reducing supervision and certification requirements so that practitioners can be hired quickly and perform work to the fullest extent of their licenses. The new waivers sharply expand the workforce flexibilities CMS announced on March 30.
For a fact sheet detailing additional information on the waivers announced today and previously, go to: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/summary-covid-19-emergency-declaration-waivers.pdf
These CMS actions in response to COVID-19, are part of the ongoing White House Task Force efforts. To keep up with the important work the Task Force is doing in response to COVID-19, visit www.coronavirus.gov. For a complete and updated list of CMS actions, and other information specific to CMS, please visit the Current Emergencies Website.
DEA Issues Final Order Increasing APQs for Certain Controlled Substances
WASHINGTON, DC (April 9, 2020) – Due to supply shortages and increased demand for opioids in the COVID-19 environment, the DEA has issued a Final Order that increased aggregate production quotas for certain controlled substances and List I chemicals. Read more about the Final Order and why these recent changes are especially noteworthy. Please click here to read more from our friends at Quarles & Brady.
COVID-19 Alerts
WASHINGTON, DC (April 9, 2020) – Please follow the links below to updated COVID-19 alerts provided by our friends at Duane Morris.
- CMS Announces New Rules and Waivers of Federal Requirements for Hospitals and Clinicians Responding to COVID-19
- Crisis Standards of Care Guidelines to Address the COVID-19 Pandemic
- SBA and Treasury Release FAQs on Paycheck Protection Program Loans
- Personal Data Protection During the COVID-19 Health Emergency in Mexico
COVID-19 CE Course
WASHINGTON, DC (April 8, 2020) – Power-Pak C.E. has just released a continuing education course on the Coronavirus – COVID-19: An Update for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians on the Frontlines. This course is free to all pharmacy professionals and provides important information on COVID-19. Please click here to visit the Power-Pak C.E. Coronavirus Resources page.
Summary of Small Business Loan Provisions in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
WASHINGTON, DC (April 6, 2020) – Please click here to read a summary on the Small Business Loan Provisions in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided by our friends at Powers, Pyles, Sutter, & Verville PC.
CMS COVID-19 News Alert: Nursing Home Guidance, Medicaid Waivers, Telehealth, and Medicaid FAQs
WASHINGTON, DC (April 3, 2020) – Here is a summary of recent Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) actions taken in response to the COVID-19 virus, as part of the ongoing White House Task Force efforts. To keep up with the important work the Task Force is doing in response to COVID-19, click herewww.coronavirus.gov. For information specific to CMS, please visit the CMS News Room and Current Emergencies Website. CMS updates these resources on an ongoing basis throughout the day; the information in this document is current as of April 3, 2020 at 10:00 AM.
Changes to Pharmacy Rules Governing Automated Storage and Delivery Systems Due to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (April 2, 2020) – In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, some state boards of pharmacy are suspending or modifying certain pharmacy rules to allow for the expanded use of patient-accessible remote automated pharmacy systems, including the dispensing and delivery of prescription drugs. Please click here to read an update from our friends at Quarles & Brady.
SBA Releases Loan Application for Paycheck Protection Program
WASHINGTON, DC (April 1, 2020) – On the evening of March 31, 2020, the Small Business Administration released the loan application for the Paycheck Protection Program and an information sheet containing loan guidelines. Please click here to read additional information provided by our friends at Duane Morris.
Privacy and Security Considerations for Telehealth Use
WASHINGTON, DC (April 1, 2020) – The expanded use of telehealth and other virtual care services during the COVID-19 pandemic offers opportunities to protect patients and providers. However, the increased reliance on telehealth is not without data privacy and security considerations. Our friends at Quarles & Brady discuss these data privacy and security considerations here.
COVID-19 Personnel and Safety Issues
WASHINGTON, DC (March 31, 2020) – It is an understatement to see that what the country is experiencing is unprecedented – there is no playbook on how to respond. The law is frantically trying to catch up with events unfolding on the ground. Our friends at Brown & Fortunato, P.C. has provided this white paper to NASP that presents information and ideas designed to help pharmacies navigate the COVID-19 crisis.
CARES Act Updates
WASHINGTON, DC (March 31, 2020) – The “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act” was signed into law by President Trump this past weekend. It is the largest stimulus bill in the history of the United States and will have a profound effect on all of us. While some of the details are not yet clear, we do know that the CARES Act provides tangible relief to a variety of groups. Please read our special summary that focuses on the issues important to NASP members provided by our friends at Brown & Fortunato, P.C.
In addition, Powers has released two memorandums on the CARES Act. The first memorandum focuses on the impact on the health care sector. The second memorandum summarizes the key provisions pertaining to the nation’s economic sector.
Marriott Offering Discounted Rates for Medical Professionals
WASHINGTON, DC (March 30, 2020) – Marriott International invites first responders and support staff providing medical, relief, and support services to book designated hotels nationwide as a part of a community caregivers program. This will provide health care and relief professionals, and those supporting them, a place to say in close proximity to hospitals and government buildings as they aid in COVID-19 response efforts. This rate will help expedite the booking process and will be available from March 26, 2020 through June 30, 2020, at participating hotels. For stays that are longer than 30 days (or to book a block of rooms) you can email CVHelp@Marriott.com or call the Marriott National Group Sales, Coronavirus Helpline at 888-206-9600. To book individual rooms (for up to 30 days) go to Marriott.com and use the code QWO under special rates. You will need to show proper ID (company/medical, government, military, or relief organization) upon check-in.
Resources & Alerts from Duane Morris
WASHINGTON, DC (March 26, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris are working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts on emergency measures via their COVID-19 Strategy Team. Please follow the links below to view their latest alerts:
- Expect Delays in Merger Reviews by FTC and DOJ During COVID-19 Restrictions
- Virginia Governor Orders Closures and Occupancy Restrictions on All Nonessential Retail Businesses
- D.C. Mayor Closes All Nonessential Businesses and Prohibits Large Gatherings
- U.S. Antitrust Agencies Announce Expedited Procedures and Guidance for COVID-19 Public Health Efforts
How to Remain Connected with Your Loved Ones When You Cannot See Them in Person
WASHINGTON, DC (March 25, 2020) – To read tips on how to stay connected to family and friends during this time, please click here for an article from Northwestern Mutual.
Some Inspiration in a Time of Isolation
WASHINGTON, DC (March 25, 2020) – Our friends at United Talent Agency have shared a selection of podcasts from their speakers to motivate and inspire you during this time of uncertainty. We hope that these bring a small bright spot to your day:
- Marcus Luttrell – Team Never Quit
- Sahara Rose – The Highest Self Podcast
- Sadie Robertson – WHOA That’s Good Podcast
- Esther Perel – Where Should We Begin?
- Dan Harris – Ten Percent Happier
- Dr. Phil McGraw – Phil in the (blanks)
Resources & Alerts from Duane Morris
WASHINGTON, DC (March 25, 2020) – Our friends at Duane Morris are working around the clock to monitor COVID-19 related developments and issuing alerts on emergency measures via their COVID-19 Strategy Team. Please follow the links below to view their latest alerts:
- Mix of Statewide Emergency Rules and Local Advisories Dominate Florida’s Reaction to COVID-19
- Nonessential New York State Court Litigation Put on Hold in Response to COVID-19
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to Award Contracts to Convert Existing Buildings into ICU-like COVID-19 Treatment Facilities, Starting in New York
- New Jersey Orders Citizens to Stay Home Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Sign-Up for a Special NORD Webinar
WASHINGTON, DC (March 25, 2020) – Please join our friends at NORD for a special webinar for a guide on living with a rare disease and maintaining your physical and mental health during COVID-19. The webinar will be held on Tuesday, March 31st from 2:00 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST and you can register for the webinar here.
Privacy and Cybersecurity Considerations and Opportunities Related to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (March 24, 2020) – Increased precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19 have forced unprecedented reliance on technology and remote connectivity. This rapid and significant shift raises enhanced privacy and cybersecurity concerns, especially in the highly regulated health care industry. Read more as we discuss key takeaways and considerations for planning and responding to privacy and cybersecurity issues as the COVID-19 situation continues to unfold. Please click here to read the Health & Life Sciences Alert from Quarles & Brady.
Mental Health Resources Available During COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (March 24, 2020) – Access to mental health services continues to be a challenge for many and during this time of great uncertainty, anxiety is rising along with feelings of loneliness and coronavirus induced trauma. NASP thanks The Midwest Business Group on Health for providing the information on the following resources that are available during this time:
- CDC Coronavirus Disease Managing Anxiety and Stress
- SAMHSA Tips for Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation
- AFSP Taking Care of Your Mental Health in the Face of Uncertainty
- Mental Health America and COVID-19 Information and Resources
- A daily live stream hosted at 11am daily by the Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner, Allison Arwandy M.D. is available on Facebook and Twitter.
- MBGH member Faegre Drinker has created an extensive action guide for employers and additional information is available on their website.
- Strategies to encourage social connectiveness from WELCOA can be found on their blog and on their COVID-19 webinar series.
Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, DC (March 24, 2020) – The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) goes into effect April 2, 2020 and remains in effect until December 31, 2020. For employers, the two significant provisions of FFCRA are the introduction of a new federal Paid Sick Leave Law and the expansion of FMLA. Please click here to read an update of FFCRA provided by Frier Levitt, LLC.
HRSA Unveils New 340B Flexibilities During COVID-10 Crisis
WASHINGTON, DC (March 23, 2020) – As the COVID-19 crisis continues, the Health Resources & Services Administration Office of Pharmacy Affairs has taken unprecedented steps to provide 340B Program participants with additional flexibility to help meet surging patient demand. Please click here to read more.
The Department of the Treasury and the IRS Extend April 15 Tax Deadline
WASHINGTON, DC (March 23, 2020) – In response to President Trump’s Emergency Declaration, the Department of the Treasury and the IRS have granted a 91-day extension to certain taxpayers to file their 2019 Federal income tax returns and to make their 2019 Federal income tax payments and 2020 first quarter estimated income tax payments. Read more about the extension and what taxpayers should be aware of.
CVS Caremark Operational Updates
WASHINGTON, DC (March 23, 2020) – As we continue to monitor PBMs and how they are partnering with specialty pharmacies and continuing to work with specialty pharmacies to ensure patients receive their much needed and life-saving medications, we have received some additional information specific to CVS Caremark concerning policies put into place during the Covid-19 national emergency. Please click here to read the updates.
ASHP Resources
WASHINGTON, DC (March 23, 2020) – ASHP is dedicating its resources to support members and healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please click here to view the ASHP COVID-19 Resource Center. They have also created an online Connect Community discussion board to provide a peer-to-peer resource. In addition, ASHP has provided this document on the Assessment of Evidence for COVID-19 Related Treatments.
CMS Releases FAQs on Medicare Provider Enrollment Relief Related to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (March 22, 2020) – CMS has released FAQs on Medicare Provider Enrollment Relief related to COVID-19 including toll-free hotlines that are able to provide expedited enrollment and answer questions related to COVID-19 enrollment requirements. To keep up with the ongoing Coronavirus Task Force efforts please visit www.coronavirus.gov. For a complete and updated list of CMS actions, guidance, and other information in response to COVID-19, visit CMS’ Current Emergencies Website.
CMS Guidance on Minimizing Face-to-Face Contact for Medication Delivery/Dispensing and Patient Signature Requirements
WASHINGTON, DC (March 20, 2020) – Please click here to read the CMS memo on minimizing face-to-face contact for medication delivery and patient signature requirements.
Board of Pharmacy Responses to COVID-19 Outbreak
WASHINGTON, DC (March 20, 2020) – Quarles & Brady’s Health & Life Sciences practice group is monitoring actions by Boards of Pharmacy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please click here for an overview of Board of Pharmacy responses by each state.
Telehealth Prescribing & COVID-19: DEA Eases Requirements for Prescribing Controlled Substances
WASHINGTON, DC (March 20, 2020) – The DEA has announced that the public emergency exception to its telehealth prescribing requirements for controlled substances is activated. During the COVID-19 public health emergency, the DEA is allowing prescriptions for controlled substances to be written based on a telemedicine visit. Please click here to read this update by Quarles & Brady.
Critical Infrastructure Guidance
WASHINGTON, DC (March 19, 2020) – The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released a memorandum on the Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response. Please click here to read the memorandum.
HHS HIPAA Waivers in Response to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC (March 18, 2020) – The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has waived certain requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) in response to the COVID-19 national public health emergency. These waivers promote greater flexibility with respect to HIPAA privacy and security rules. Thank you to our friends at Bass Berry & Sims for making this information available. To read the entire message, please visit this link.
