As of May 11, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency. Following this announcement, the CDC provided updated “Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel.” In accordance with these new guidelines, Pyramid Healthcare has adjusted its COVID-19 protocols and mitigation efforts. These changes are effective immediately.

What Changes Have Been Made with the End of the Public Health Emergency?

Withdrawal Management and Residential Programs

  • Masks: Masks are now optional for patients, visitors and employees, except in the event of an outbreak (as defined by the Department of Health). Masks will continue to be available for those who prefer to wear one.

  • COVID-19 Testing: COVID-19 testing will no longer be conducted upon admission unless the patient presents with symptoms, at which point a test may be ordered by the provider.

  • Discharge/Transfer Testing: Testing will not be required upon discharge or transfer to another level of care, unless ordered by a provider for an external referral.

  • Pre-Admission Screening: A shortened pre-admission screening will replace the previous, more detailed full COVID-19 screening to identify active cases of COVID-19.

  • Screenings at the Door: Client and staff screenings at the door have been eliminated.

  • Transportation: Masking is not required for transportation drivers unless they are transporting a client who has been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19.

  • Symptom Monitoring: The twice-daily symptom checks for residential programs have been removed.

Outpatient Programs

  • Masks and Social Distancing: In outpatient settings, unless the program is in outbreak status, masks and social distancing are no longer required.

What Will Remain the Same?

Residential Programs

  • Testing Symptomatic Clients: We will continue to test any symptomatic clients, as ordered by a provider.

  • Isolation for Positive Clients: Clients who test positive for COVID-19 will still be isolated for five days, with an additional five days of mask-wearing following isolation.

  • Exposure Protocols for Clients: Clients who have been exposed to COVID-19 will continue to mask and be monitored for symptoms. Testing will occur on days zero, three and five following exposure.

  • Exposure Protocols for Staff: Staff members who have been exposed to COVID-19 will continue to wear masks and undergo symptom monitoring, with testing on day five after exposure.

Outpatient Programs

  • Exposure Protocols for Clients and Staff: Clients and staff in outpatient programs who have been exposed to COVID-19 will continue to wear masks and be monitored for symptoms. Testing will take place on day five after the exposure.

These updated protocols reflect our ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our clients and staff, while ensuring we can continue to provide the highest level of care. We will continue to monitor guidance from the CDC and the Department of Health, and further updates will be communicated as necessary.