A Health System Response to COVID-19 in Long-Term Care and Post-Acute Care: A Three-Phase Approach

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Management
• Geriatric Care

Background:

• Seattle, WA, was an early epicenter for COVID-19, revealing vulnerabilities in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).
• The pandemic underscored the need for enhanced collaboration between healthcare systems and public health agencies.
• Limited clinical support in SNFs during the initial COVID-19 outbreak gained national attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a structured, three-phase response plan for SNFs to mitigate COVID-19.
• To support SNFs facing overwhelming COVID-19 cases or persons under investigation.
• To reduce the strain on hospitals, clinics, and emergency medical services.

Main Methods:

• The University of Washington Medicine's Post-Acute Care Network implemented a phased approach within its SNF network.
• Phases included optimizing communication, reviewing infection control, and centralizing testing (Initial Phase).
• Subsequent phases focused on education, reinforcing practices (Delayed Phase), and rapid deployment teams for testing and care coordination during outbreaks (Surge Phase).

Main Results:

• The phased approach allowed for tailored interventions based on the timing of COVID-19 impact at each facility.
• The plan facilitated optimized communication, infection control, and testing processes.
• The Surge Phase enabled rapid response to outbreaks through dedicated teams and coordinated care.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 Three-Phase Response Plan offers a standardized model for SNFs and health systems.
• This model can aid in preparing for and responding to infectious disease outbreaks.
• The plan demonstrated effectiveness in managing the COVID-19 pandemic within SNFs.