AHPA continues to follow new COVID-19 regulations, guidance and other government actions. The updates below are the latest guidance and other developments since August 24th to help mitigate the impacts of COVID-19. For earlier COVID-19 regulations and guidance, visit the last Policy Brief.

PREP Act Amendment Allows Hospital Pharmacists to Administer Pediatric Vaccines

• A third amendment to the public health emergency declaration under the PREP Act will allow state-licensed pharmacists to order and administer vaccines to pediatric patients.
  Amendment Declaration | Press Release

Updated Guidance on HIPAA and Contacting Former Patients

• HHS has issued updated guidance on how to identify and contact individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 while protecting the privacy of patients.

Revised CARES Act COVID-19 Guidance for IPPS Hospitals

• CMS has revised the existing COVID-19 policies for Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) hospitals, Long-Term Care Hospitals and Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities. Eligible claims for admissions occurring on or after September 1^st will be required to document a positive COVID-19 test in the patient’s medical record.

Convalescent Plasma Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)

The FDA has issued an EUA for investigational convalescent plasma for the treatment of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients.
Press Release | Decision Memorandum

Open document to read more; page 6.