HHSC Update: QIPP NSGO Active Partnership COVID-19 Response

Texas HHSC encourages coordination between nursing facilities and their non-state governmental ownership entities that take part in the Quality Incentive Payment Program. Active partnerships between these groups improve quality and innovation when providing services to Medicaid recipients.

For example, the Parkland Health and Hospital System has developed a COVID-19 Action Plan. It communicates expectations and responsibilities for coordination with its NFs.

The hospital system has also committed to providing the following support to its NFs:

• Seek and receive federal authorization to use excess COVID-19 tests to test NF residents and select numbers of NF staff each day.

• Conduct weekly WebEx meetings with all NFs to provide updates on policies, infection prevention practices, and federal, state and local guidelines.

• Parkland infection prevention and facilities teams providing guidance and site visits.

• Sharing personal protective equipment and other resources that have been distributed to the hospital or hospital district.

Additionally, HHSC Regulatory has published the COVID-19 Response Plan for Nursing Facilities (PDF). Best practices discussed in the Plan include:

• Appropriate hand hygiene and effective PPE use for staff and residents

• Source control

• Cleaning and disinfection procedures

• Employee and essential visitor screening

• Isolation and quarantine measures

• Testing for all staff and residents when there is a confirmed case in the facility

Non-state governmental ownership entities must maintain active partnerships. They must provide meaningful support to their NFs throughout these critical months.