PDPM Coding Question – What procedure should we follow if a staff member refuses to participate in our facility’s mandatory routine COVID-19 testing?

What procedure should we follow if a staff member refuses to participate in our facility’s mandatory routine COVID-19 testing?

A:

It is recommended that your facility policy and procedure regarding COVID-19 testing is consistent with your policies for other mandated tests, such as TB testing. Because the routine testing is mandated by CMS, you can require COVID-19 testing as a condition of employment and include in your policy that failure to comply with mandatory COVID-19 testing per your facility policy and procedure may result in termination. At a minimum, you should ensure that your policy includes safeguards to protect residents who’s COVID-19 status is unknown or negative from direct contact with any staff member who refuses to participate in your mandatory COVID-19 testing program.