KPMA COVID-19 Resource Hub

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus a pandemic. Many podiatrists are searching for answers about how to address COVID-19 in their practices and personal lives. KPMA is here to help by directing you to the most authoritative and timely news and tools. 

For more information and guidance on the rapidly evolving COVID-19 outbreak, KPMA and APMA recommend you visit the frequently updated CDC website. You will find information on how COVID-19 spreads, how to prevent spread in your community, guidance for businesses and employers, and information for health-care professionals. 

 

Kentucky Updates

 

Reopening of Podiatric Medical Offices Authorized Effective April 27, 2020


Guidance for Health Care Practitioners and Facilities

On April 27, health care practitioners can resume non-urgent/emergent health care services, diagnostic radiology and lab services in:

  • Hospital outpatient setting
  • Health care clinics and medical offices
  • This guidance does not apply to long-term care settings, prisons, other industries, or other settings for which separate guidance has already or will be provided in the future. This guidance does not apply to elective surgeries or procedures which will be addressed in a subsequent phase.
     

“This is intended to be a phased, gradual reopening so that we can do this thoughtfully, safely, and see the consequences of our actions to make the necessary adjustments,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner for the Department for Public Health.  Dr. Stack emphasized that this is a phased, gradual reopening of services and that a COVID-19 surge may require adjustment.

Telehealth - In all phases, health care practitioners should still maximize telehealth rather than in-person services. For Medicare coding purposes, the location should show as your office rather telehealth.

Waiting Rooms - Health care facilities and offices should also eliminate traditional waiting room or common seating areas and use non-traditional alternatives, for example, a parking lot “lobby.”

Social Distancing - Health care facilities should maintain social distancing, keeping people at least six feet apart in all possible settings, and employ other steps to minimize direct contact between individuals within the health care setting.

Screening and Sanitization - Health care facilities should screen all health care workers, patients and others for temperature and COVID-19 symptoms upon arrival for shift or visit. Staff should be required to stay home if sick. Staff should plan for and ensure enhanced workplace sanitizing, enhanced hand hygiene compliance, and easily accessible hand sanitizer throughout the facility.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

  • Each health care setting must be able to procure necessary PPE via normal supply chains.
  • All health care providers and staff must wear surgical/procedural masks and gloves while in health care office/facility.
  • All patients and other persons in health care office/facility must:
    • Wear a surgical/procedural mask while in health care facility
    • Wear either a surgical/procedural mask or cloth mask/face covering in all other health care settings

Special Considerations

  • In high-touch clinical settings (e.g., physical therapy, chiropractic, etc.), health care workers should wear non-latex gloves in addition to enhanced hand hygiene practices described above.
  • Any objects and contact surfaces used for clinical services should be sanitized between patients.
  • Please ensure that your staff is completely clear on the requirements of this guidance and needs for patient compliance.

 

APMA Recommendations

 

Additional Resources

SBA Disaster Loan Information and Application

CMS Current Emergencies Page

White House COVID-19 Taskforce Updates

Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Businesses, Workplaces, Schools, and Public Spaces This pdf resource provides a general framework for cleaning and disinfection practices with links to industry-specific guidelines.

 

CDC/WHO Guidance for Healthcare Professionals

Telehealth Resources

Recommendations for Clinical Practice 

Practice, Legal, and Financial Resources