CHA News

CDPH Requires SNFs to Verify Visitor Vaccination

For skilled-nursing facility leaders, infection control officers, compliance officers

The California Department of Public Health has issued updated guidance that requires skilled-nursing facilities (SNFs) to develop and implement a process for verifying the vaccination status of all visitors.  

For unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated visitors, the SNF must have a process for obtaining and tracking documentation of a COVID-19 diagnostic test. All Facilities Letter 20-22.9, which provides guidance for limiting the transmission of COVID-19 in SNFs, has been revised to update general visitation guidance and includes options for providing proof of vaccination; requirements for indoor, in-room, and large communal space visitation; and more.