Urge Texans to Get Flu Vaccine Early, Officials say
On August 6, Governor Greg Abbott and other state health leaders emphasized the need for Texans to continue to be vigilant against COVID-19 and is urgining everyone to understand the importance of getting ahead of the curve by making sure you get a flu vaccine. Read full article.
University Health System message to Schools: Stop Using Nebulizers
University Hospital stopped using nebulizer treatments on COVID-positive patients early in the pandemic, after evidence emerged that those treatments increased the risk of exposure to health care providers. Dr. Mandie Svatek spoke to a group of 476 nurses and health assistance this week that they need to switch to delivering inhaled medicines through metered dose inhalers, or MDIs, with spacers and specialized face masks. Read University Health System Letter.
Read CDC guidance
Tips and Strategies for Managing Remote Staff
If your practice is considering letting staff work remotely or if it already has employees who do, there are multiple resources to provide tips and strategies to successfully manage those employees. View resources
Texas Medicaid, CHIP Changes Extended Into October
The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has extended some Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) flexibilities through Oct. 23. Many of the extensions “will minimize face-to-face interactions and ensure continuity of care for clients during the COVID-19 response,” Gov. Greg Abbott’s office said in a press release. Read full article.
What Antibody Tests Shouls No Longer Be Used and/or Distributed for
COVID-19?
Many physician practices in the community are using antibody tests. It is advised that before you purchase any antibody test that you ensure you are purchasing a test that the FDA has not removed from the Emergency Use Authorization list. Click here for the full list. Revocation letter of the Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA. See which tests have Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)
FDA's lists of updated dangerous hand sanitizers
The US Food and Drug Administration has expanded its warning about hand sanitizers to avoid, with the list now topping 100. View updated list
Deadline Extension for Medicaid, CHIP Providers to Apply for Federal COVID-19 Relief Funds
On August 5, Governor Abbott and Texas HHSC announced the federal government has further extended the deadline to apply for the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund. The new deadline is now August 28, 2020 for Medicaid and CHIP providers. For more information click here
Free PPE Supplies
Need PPE for your practice? BCMS can help! Physician practices in need of PPE, please click here to indicate your PPE needs. Requests are filled as donated supplies are available.
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