COVID-19 Cases Rise – Guidance for LTC Providers

COVID-19 cases are increasing across Texas. HHSC reminds providers to follow the guidelines listed below and ensure their emergency plan is up-to-date. Staff must be aware of what to do in the event of any sort of emergency, including an outbreak of flu or COVID-19.

Please review the following guidelines and rules:

• COVID-19 mitigation and visitation rules
• Any applicable COVID-19 response plans for your provider type
• Your provider’s own infection prevention and control policies

Find COVID-19 resources on:

• Your provider portal under the COVID-19 Resources section
• The HHSC COVID-19 Provider Information page

Your vigilance following infection control requirements can make a difference in protecting vulnerable Texans.

LTC providers are always required to provide services to residents or clients before, during and after an emergency. The emergency plan or policy must include:

• Planning for staff shortages.
• A back-up plan to ensure operations and care of resident or clients continue.

Read program specific rules related to staffing, emergency preparedness and infection control.

• Assisted Living Facilities
• Day Activity and Health Services Facilities
• Intermediate Care Facilities
• Home and Community-based Services
• Home and Community Support Services Agencies
• Nursing Facilities
• Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers
• Texas Home Living

A checklist (PDF)is available to assist you with creating a plan for dealing with an outbreak of flu or COVID-19.