November 11, 2021
Featured News
MDH, DHS, CMS Clarify, Add Detail to Vaccination Rules
On November 11, 2021 by Jonathan Lips
State and federal regulators have added clarifying information to the conversation about how vaccine rules will be implemented and enforced in long-term care settings.
At the Capitol: Senate Holds Hearing on Vaccine Mandate and Long-Term Care Workforce Crisis
On November 11, 2021 by Matt Steele
The Senate Human Services Reform Finance and Policy Committee met on Wednesday, Nov. 10 to discuss the recently-released rules surrounding the federal vaccine mandate for long-term care workers and the broader workforce emergency occurring in the long-term care sector.
Connect with Students and Interns at the University of Minnesota
On November 11, 2021 by Jenna Kellerman
Looking to recruit staff, build the pipeline, or increase engagement with students? The most effective way to reach University of Minnesota (U of M) students and alumni is through a no-charge job, internship, and volunteer database called Handshake.
COVID-19
CMS Vaccination Rule Challenged by 10-State Coalition
On November 11, 2021 by Jonathan Lips
The Associated Press has reported that a coalition of 10 states sued the federal government on Nov. 10 to block the CMS COVID-19 vaccine requirement for health care workers. The CMS rule remains in full effect, and the filing of this suit has no impact unless and until the court issues a ruling. We will follow this breaking story closely, but long-term care providers should continue working to implement the CMS vaccine rules.
What is the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard for Healthcare?
On November 11, 2021 by Jonathan Lips
When OSHA’s Nov. 5 COVID-19 Vaccine and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard (the “Vaccine ETS”) indicates that it does not apply to workplaces that are subject to the requirements of a broader COVID-19 Healthcare Emergency Temporary Standard (the “Healthcare ETS”) that OHSA released in June 2021.
Vaccine FAQs Revisited: Which Vaccine Rules Applies to Your Setting?
On November 11, 2021 by Kari Everson
Alongside our members, LeadingAge Minnesota is working to answer questions regarding both the OSHA and CMS Vaccine and Testing Emergency Temporary Standards. We have shared answers each day as quickly as possible, but we would like to summarize some of the frequently asked questions we are getting from members across the state.
Resilience Tip: Avoid Filling the Space
On November 11, 2021 by LeadingAge
Featuring Dr. Alyson VanAhn from Associated Clinic of Psychology
These days, we have better knowledge and skills about managing big problems that seemed unimaginable before COVID. However, many of us are at the point now when even hearing the word "resilience" has become tiresome.
State News
DHS Delays Transition to Fingerprint-Based Background Studies for MDH-Licensed Providers
On November 11, 2021 by Jonathan Lips
This week, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that MDH-licensed providers, including home care, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes, will not transition back to fingerprint-based background studies until Jan. 5, 2022. Until the transition occurs, these providers will continue to submit emergency studies, as we have been doing throughout the pandemic.
Bed Rail Safety and Assisted Living Surveys
On November 11, 2021 by Bobbie Guidry
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) frequently cites the following in assisted living surveys: “The licensee failed to ensure a side rail was assessed for appropriateness and safety.”
Ending Soon: Nov. 23 Deadline for CMP Grant Application to Retain Staff
On November 11, 2021 by Jenna Kellerman
Care centers have access to an engagement, retention, and leadership building platform for free through a grant for Align’s Employee Engagement Solution. The current grant window closes on Nov. 23. Previous messages indicated that subsequent grant cycles would open over the next two years; however, applications cycles will be limited and will likely end in early 2022. If you plan to apply in future application cycles, please plan accordingly.
Nurse Loan Forgiveness Program Informational Application Webinar
On November 11, 2021 by Jenna Kellerman
The Minnesota Health Care Loan Forgiveness program cycle is accepting applications through Jan. 17, 2022. The Loan Forgiveness program is available for various health care professionals serving in high-need areas, including nurses in nursing homes, assisted living, and home care settings. Please join the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) team for a webinar to learn more about this program on Wednesday, Dec. 8 from 9-10 a.m. Register here.
Federal News
Critical LTC Investment in Moving in Congress
On November 11, 2021 by Jeff Bostic
Congress is currently working on the Build Back Better Act, the second part of President Biden's infrastructure improvement effort. The BBB is a $1.75 trillion proposal to enhance and improve "social" infrastructure, including services to older adults. It is currently being finalized in the House. Then it will head to the Senate and, once both houses agree, to the President. The current version of the bill includes the following investments in programs for older adults-
Notable News
Build Three Good Things into Your Workplace
On November 11, 2021 by Julie Apold
Last week we talked about bringing more joy to your workplace by starting your meetings by sharing one good thing. Another simple way to share good things and boost positive emotions in the workplace is to hang posters on the walls around the campus or in the breakroom to record and share good things visually. Get the list started and encourage others to add their own good things.
New Manual Available on Serving Older Adults with Serious Mental Illness
On November 11, 2021 by Bobbie Guidry
The US Department of Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released a free downloadable manual, Psychosocial Interventions for Older Adults with Serious Mental Illness.
Member News
Share Your Voice! Join a LeadingAge Minnesota Committee
On November 11, 2021 by Lori Meyer
As we approach the new year, we invite all members to get involved in LeadingAge Minnesota committees in 2022. We are tackling the challenges you face on numerous fronts, and we need you to help shape the critical work ahead.
For Veterans and their Caregivers, We Are Thankful
On November 11, 2021 by LeadingAge
On this Veteran’s Day, LeadingAge Minnesota and our members join those throughout our country honoring veterans who have served and sacrificed.