Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in Outpatient Settings: FAQs and Considerations

CMS is committed to taking critical steps to ensure America’s healthcare facilities can respond to the threat of COVID-19. • Coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local public health departments - We encourage all healthcare facilities to monitor the CDC website for information and resources and contact their local health department when needed (CDC Resources for Health Care Facilities). • Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention of COVID-19 and Actions - CMS regulations and guidance support Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs), Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs), Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (CORFs), Outpatient Physical Therapy or Speech Pathology Services (OPTs), Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) taking appropriate action to address potential and confirmed COVID-19 cases. This guidance discusses recommendations to mitigate transmission including screening, restricting visitors, cleaning and disinfection, and possible closures. Supply scarcity guidance and FDA recommendations are also included within this memo.