The updated guidance provides a more practical and streamlined approach to work restrictions and return-to-work criteria for health care workers recovering from COVID-19 and other viral respiratory infections. DOH will review the guidance – along with updates on influenza, COVID-19, and RSV activity, and practical considerations for managing staff exposures, work restrictions, and return-to-work decisions – during a webinar on Oct. 29^th from 1-2 p.m.

For long-term care providers and other health care organizations, the current increase in measles activity serves as a reminder to verify staff immunity status, reinforce isolation protocols, educate personnel on recognizing measles symptoms, and maintain close communication with local health departments.

Reminders of regulatory requirements for certain DOH-regulated providers that come with declaration, as well as other vaccination requirements and reporting due Oct. 30^th.

This year's Medicare Annual Open Enrollment presents many beneficiaries with important Medicare Advantage plan changes for 2027. LeadingAge National has developed resources for members and reminds them of responsibilities in supporting enrollment decisions, while ensuring that beneficiary choice is protected.

Because the COVID vaccination coverage measures were removed from the SNF QRP, reporting of personnel COVID vaccination data is no longer required by NHSN, and collection of resident COVID vaccine data through the MDS became voluntary as of Oct. 1^st. Other NHSN reporting requirements remain in effect.