Long-Term Care Facilities: Safe Start Plan
The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department issued a notice on December 9, 2020, recommending that all facilities under the Long-Term Care Facility Safe Start Plan, follow Phase 1 guidance by December 14, 2020.
This guidance includes:
- Skilled Nursing Facilities
- Assisted Living Facilities
- Adult Family Homes
- Enhanced Service Facilities
- Intermediate Care Facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities
- Certified community residential services and supports
Pierce County continues to have increased COVID-19 outbreaks and cases per outbreak in this sector. Currently, there are 11 active outbreaks in LTCFs with more than 10 cases each. This count is likely an underestimate as data for this week is not complete.
The rising cases in LTCFs are tied to the increasing incidence in the community. Unfortunately, we do not believe this trend will slow in the immediate future. The Phase 1 Safe Start Plan guidance can:
- Help protect residents and staff providing essential care and support.
- Limit transmission within LTCFs and our healthcare system.
The Tacoma-Pierce County Department of Health letter is attached here.
You can find the LTC Safe Start plans here: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/residential-care-services/safe-start-long-term-care-plan
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