Abstract

Historically, viruses have had major impact on society. Some viruses are relatively harmless, while other are a death sentence. We are currently facing a highly communicable virus that is vigorously making its way around the globe, having a devastating impact on the management and delivery of everyday care in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF’s). In December 2019, a new coronavirus was discovered in Wuhan China. While rapidly spreading in China, it only took a month to make its way to the United States, resulting in the Trump Administration declaring a national emergency, only two months later, on March 13, 2020. Shortly after, other governing agencies followed suit enacting their own policies and regulations to slow the transmission of COVID-19. The administrator of CMS enacted regulations restricting visits to SNF’s to those only deemed medically essential. Residents residing in SNF’s are at a increased risk of contracting and transmitting COVID-19 due to having comorbidities. Residents are also at an increased risk for developing social anxiety and mental health issues. The policies and procedures that have been implemented have changed the way SNF’s, medical professionals, and vendors provide services to nursing home residents. Regardless if these procedures are effective or not, they are having a devastating impact on SNF’s revenue. There are many influences that come into play that are affecting SNF’s bottom line, such as facilities not being able to take in as many admissions, low census, staffing issues and patients passing away due to COVID-19. Currently, emphasis is being placed on hand hygiene, social distancing, and proper use of PPE. Recently, the FDA granted emergency use of newly developed vaccines made by Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson, that is shown to effectively prevent at least 66 percent of laboratory confirmed infection of COVID-19. It is unknown at this time if recipients will have a lasting immunity or if an annual vaccine will be required.

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2021

Senior Project Advisor

Mr. Barton

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Health Care Administration

Document Type

Thesis

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