Lyngblomsten publishes final COVID-19 update as Public Health Emergency expires

June 27, 2023

Early in 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services indicated that the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) would expire on May 11, 2023.  In light of this change, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released updated COVID-19 guidance for long-term care facilities last month.  After reviewing this guidance, Lyngblomsten made changes to its policies and procedures—ending some and adapting others.

Some things that have changed include:

• Communication:  Lyngblomsten is no longer communicating regularly via letters/emails with residents and tenants, their families, and staff about new COVID-19 cases or other updates.  Instead, staff continue to reach out individually to residents and tenants, their families, and employees about whether they were exposed to the virus and/or tested positive.  Also related to communications, we will no longer be publishing periodic COVID-19 updates on our website—meaning this update is our final one.
• Masking:  Widespread masking is not required for residents, tenants, or visitors throughout our buildings. However, there continue to be circumstances when wearing a facemask is required, including if one was recently exposed to the virus or if one is interacting with a COVID-positive resident or tenant.  Notices with the most up-to-date masking guidance are posted around the care center and in our housing buildings.

Lyngblomsten continues to follow all federal, state, and local guidelines for senior care organizations related to testing, assessing risk, contact tracing, and infection prevention protocols.  As conditions change and new guidance is released, we will adapt our policies and procedures.  We also continue to report COVID-19 statistics to the appropriate reporting organizations.

As we enter into this new stage of our COVID-19 journey, we acknowledge that the virus—similar to other diseases, such as influenza—is not going away and will likely be a part of our reality for some time to come.  Our top priority remains the health and safety of all residents and tenants, staff, volunteers, and visitors.  We’re confident that no matter what may transpire, our dedicated and compassionate staff will continue to provide excellent care and services to older adults.

Thank you for walking alongside us the past three years on this COVID-19 journey.  We appreciate your support, encouragement, and prayers.