ASHE’s COVID-19 page is regularly being updated with new resources at ASHE COVID- 19 Resources. Please check out the site for additional resources to share with your members. If you have a resource that you find useful or questions that you have or a resource that you could use please let Jonathan Flannery or myself know. The ASHE Advocacy Team is always looking for volunteers for task forces, especially now, please let us know if you would like to hear about volunteer opportunities with task forces around the COVID-19 pandemic.

Templates for submitting inspection, testing and maintenance waivers to CMS

We have attached the template letter and table for requesting waivers under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act. ASHE recommends that health care facilities submit waiver requests by region or individually to their CMS regional office, even those that are a part of a national organization. An individual or regional request will allow health care organizations to better detail specific criteria, such as current surge issues within the area. This information will help to inform CMS’s waiver granting process. Also, it is important that health care organizations clarify to their regional CMS office that the waiver request is only to defer these certain requirements until the state of emergency is lifted.

ASHE needs your help! Each approved waiver will allow facilities to delay inspection, testing, maintenance and certain drills required by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. ASHE requests that you work with your chapter members to help them submit and submit on your members behalf if at all possible. The more facilities submit, the more likely our efforts will be acknowledged. Encourage your members to appeal denials. One and done submissions will not work this time. Proactive advocacy is the only way that we can make a difference. If you or a member of your chapter have questions regarding the waiver please contact Jonathan Flannery at jflannery@aha.org.

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

If you are getting questions associated with disinfection, please visit the ASHE COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions page that address this topic. ASHE also has FAQ sections about Negative Pressure, Construction, Life Safety, Personal Protective Equipment, Filtration, and Alternate Care Sites.

Are you having concerns with your local AHJ during the COVID-19 Pandemic?

ASHE’s Advocacy Team has been working with the National Fire Protection Association and the International Code Council on guidance to AHJ’s on how to address concerns around surge space and alternate care sites. See the attached documents from both NFPA and ICC to allow you and your local chapter to advocate for your area’s efforts in fighting the global pandemic.

Additional Resources:
Structures Used for Temporary Healthcare Use
Temporary Compliance Options for Code Modifications, Alternate Care Sites, and Facilities Related to Health Care

ASHE: Dedicated to optimizing the health care physical environment