Health and Human Services

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Numerous resources are available online at www.hhs.gov: guidance for public health, human services and healthcare programs during this climate. Selected individual memorandums are linked below.

• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) extended the special enrollment period for Marketplace Coverage to August 15.
• HHS provided an update on March 25, 2021 regarding the Medical Reserve Corps Volunteers and their efforts to distribute the COVID-19 vaccination in 46 states and territories.
• HHS released a report on March 16,2021 that includes health disparities by race and ethnicity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Administration announced on March 25, 2021 a $10 billion investment to expand access to the COVID vaccine in high-risk and the hardest hit communities.
• The Administration announced that 90% of the adult population will be eligible for the vaccine by April 19.
• The Biden administration announced actions to expand COVID-19 testing, as part of the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness.
• The Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) released updated COVID-19 FAQ’s.
• Due to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a special enrollment period for families and individuals to enroll in healthcare coverage from February 15 to May 15.
• HHS has amended the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act Declaration to allow for an increase in workforce authorized to administer the COVID-19 vaccine.
• President Biden has announced new steps to increase the supply of COVID-19 vaccines, as well as stat, tribal and territorial transparency.
• The Department of Defense (DOD) has awarded $231.8 Million to Ellume USA LLC to increase domestic production and allow for the delivery of in-home COVID-19 tests.
• HHS announced that public health emergencies will likely remain in place for the entirety of 2021.
• HHS funded website streamlines the process for mobilizing healthcare professionals to connect volunteer health care workers with state health agencies to make licensing paperwork easier.
• On January 19, OCR announced notification of enforcement discretion for use of an online scheduling application for COVID-19 vaccination appointments.
• On December 7, HHS updated nursing home quality incentive program methodology.
• HRSA announced a Rural Health Clinic (RHC) COVID-19 Testing program and the updated FAQs are available here. 
• HRSA updated the COVID-19 FAQs regarding economic relief options beyond Health Center Program funding to address health center payroll, revenue, and other financial concerns.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released a second set of provider relief funds of $523 million to more than 9,000 nursing homes.
• HHS has released facility-level data for hospitals regarding COVID-19 that will be updated on a weekly basis.
• HHS has issued a fourth amendment to the Public Readiness and Preparedness (PREP) Act to expand access to telehealth, increase access to PPE and ease the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine.
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has released a calculator that helps organizations calculate the cost of testing and ways to reduce the spread of the virus.
• HHS has updated its Provider Relief Fund FAQ’s with new questions under the topic of funds and miscellaneous.
• HHS has purchased additional doses of Bamlanivimab through Lilly Therapeutics, to better treat patients with mild or moderate COVID-19 symptoms.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has requested information on regulatory relief to support economic recovery.
• HHS releases plans to allocate initial doses of Regeneron’s investigational antibody therapeutic for treatment of non-hospitalized patients with mild confirmed cases of COVID-19. 
• HHS requests information of the impact of changes adopted by health care systems and health care providers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has partnered with pharmacies to increase access to COVID-19 vaccinations.
• The Office of Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) is looking into the disparities regarding COVID-19 rates of infection, hospitalizations and deaths. 
• The Department of Health and Human Services has updated the BinaxNOW state distributions, displaying the pauses on specific states.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing nursing homes with incentive payments to curb COVID-19 related deaths and infections.
• HHS has provided an update on states who have used the BinaxNow COVID tests that were distributed.
• HHS has responded to the National Governors Association (NGA) regarding vaccine planning and distribution.
• HHS is providing supply kits with COVID-19 vaccines to ensure the vaccines are safely administered.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is expanding provider relief fund eligibility under the phase 3 distribution of the fund. Reporting requirements have also been updated to expand the use of the funds.
• The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) has released a report regarding workforce challenges in nursing homes among the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• HHS has released guidance under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act that clarifies coverage for qualified pharmacy technicians for childhood vaccines, as well as COVID-19 vaccines and testing.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has posted an updated version of the state distribution of Binax Rapid Tests for the week of October 19th.
• The Milken Institute has created a COVID-19 and vaccine tracker that has publicly available information from validated sources regarding the virus and vaccine.
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced $20 billion for Phase 3 of provider relief funding. Under this new phase, providers that already received funds, were previously ineligible and additional groups of behavioral health providers can now apply for funding. The deadline to apply for funding is November 6, 2020. The Department has also released an updated FAQ document for the Provider Relief Fund.
• HHS has awarded CARES Act funding to health information exchanges in order to aid public health agencies in their response to events such as disasters and pandemics. 
• HHS has posted COVID-19 test distribution according to state.
• The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) has examined and broken down the impact of COVID-19 on medical health services and payments. 
• The president has signed an executive order to establish a Coronavirus Mental Health Working Group to help states enhance mental and suicide prevention services.
• The National Institutes of Health has awarded upwards of $234 million to underserved communities and vulnerable populations for COVID-19 testing.
• The COVID-19 healthcare resilience working group has published considerations, strategies and resources for standards of care in long-term care facilities during a crisis.
• HHS has partnered with the Rockefeller Foundation to share best practices regarding the increase of COVID-19 testing.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released the plan for the national distribution of rapid tests.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released the COVID-19 vaccine distribution strategy, providing states and local governments with a plan of action regarding the vaccination response.
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has provided an additional $12 million to fund community research in areas hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Department of Health and Human Services has taken action to expand access to COVID-19 vaccines by providing guidance for state-licensed pharmacists to order and administer the vaccines.
• On September 3, HHS posted guidance on Provider Relief Fund Nursing Home Incentive Payment Plans.
• On September 3, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) updated FAQs of OIG’s administrative enforcement authorities to arrangements directly connected to COVID-19.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has expanded the access to childhood vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has begun distributing $1.4 billion of provider relief funds to specific children’s hospitals. Breakdown by state is provided here.
• HHS has announced investment plans to increase ability to support state and local public health agencies.
• HHS announced July - December COVID-19 state testing plans on August 10. 
• On August 10, HHS announced Provider Relief Fund Phase 2 is accepting additional applicants until August 28, 2020. See details about guidelines here.  
• On August 7, HHS released allocations of CARES Act Provider Relief Fund for Nursing Homes.
• President Trump is further expanding access to telehealth services and healthcare, especially to those in rural communities.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has extended the deadline for Medicaid providers and is planning to reopen the portal for certain Medicare providers. The new deadline is Friday, August 28th.2
• HHS has released an updated Provider Relief Funds FAQ document.
• The Office of Inspector General (OIG) has released updated FAQ’s regarding the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• OIG has released toolkits emphasizing state and local action amidst the public health emergencies and natural disasters, as well as the preparedness of health care facilities during these emergencies.
• HHS has released a toolkit regarding the mitigation of COVID-19 in nursing homes.
• Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) provide additional resources for Medicaid Legal Authorities to better respond to COVID-19.
• The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) has issued a brief regarding Medicare beneficiary use of telehealth services.
• HHS issued a report regarding “surprise billing” within the insurance market., emphasizing federal efforts to encourage price transparency in medical billing.
• The National Institute of Health (NIH) has invested $248.7 million to address the challenges associated with COVID-19 testing.
• HHS has extended the determination of a public health emergency for an additional 90 days, or until it is determined that a public health issue is no longer present.
• HHS new resources to aid in the protection of nursing home residents against COVID-19, including $5 billion in Provider Relief Funds, via the CARES Act, to Medicare-certified long-term care facilities and nursing homes.
• The Office of Civil Rights (OCR) has issued guidance regarding the recipients of federal funding, prohibiting race, color and national origin discrimination amidst COVID-19.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will begin distributing the second round of the $10 billion of additional funding to hospitals that have been highly impacted by COVID-19. The second round of funding distribution is based on a formula for hospitals that have admitted a total of more than 161 COVID-19 patients between the dates of January 1-June 10, or have admitted at least one COVID-19 patient a day between those dates. A breakdown of the amount of funds and providers per state, including Arizona can be found here.
• HHS has extended the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund deadline for Medicaid, CHIP providers and dentists to August 3. Information on past webinars and reporting requirements can be found here.
• National COVID-19 data can be found through the new HHS data hub website. The site augments HHS open data on COVID-19 from all 50 states.
• HHS has released a chart providing clear in network and out of network coverage requirements for COVID-19 testing.
• HHS provides updated guidance regarding COVID-19 hospital, hospital lab and acute care facility reporting, as well as FAQ’s for this topic.
• HHS HHS and FEMA have released a Fact Sheet regarding best practices for personal protective equipment preservation.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing additional relief funds of $4 billion to healthcare providers who have been heavily impacted by COVID-19, $3 billion will go to safety net hospitals, and an additional $1 billion to specialty rural hospitals (July 10, 2020).
• HHS has posted COVID-19 testing plans and details according to state and jurisdiction. These plans outline the number of individuals to be tested each month, as well as the strategy for testing these individuals.
• HHS Updated FAQs on CARES Act Provider Relief Fund on June 30.
• HHS Updated New Provider Relief Fund Dataset on July 10. The dataset represents the list of providers that received payment, have attested to receiving payment, and have agreed to the terms and conditions.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides $21 million to support COVID-19 response, with $17 million supporting testing for the virus (July 9, 2020).
• HHS Updated New Provider Relief Fund Dataset on July 8. The dataset represents the list of providers that received payment, have attested to receiving payment, and have agreed to the terms and conditions.
• HHS amends the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) to extend liability immunity for activities related to medical countermeasures against COVID-19.

Administration for Children and Families (ACF)

• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) provided an in-depth look at the new low-income household water assistance program and introduced the program’s new webpage. 
• The ACF posted the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) State Reports, where states, territories and tribes are required to submit a report of the use of funds.
• On March 4, 2021 ACF released additional CARES Act funds to 12 states through the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG).
• On March 10, 2021 ACF provided guidance on CSBG monitoring amidst the COVID-19 public health emergency, allowing grantees to conduct remote monitoring.
• The ACF posted an updated fact sheet regarding the Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund, stating the timeline of expending funds, the use of funds and additional eligible entities.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) updated the summary of Childcare and Development Fund (CCDF) waiver approvals. 
• ACF released guidance on the CCDF report in regards to requirements and directions for submitting reports on planned use of funds.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has posted the state allocations for Supplemental Child Care Funds, following the release of $10 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG).
• The ACF has updated its Childcare and Development Fund waiver approvals.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has provided guidance to child welfare leaders regarding virtual adaptations for the Title IV-E Prevention Program.
• ACF announces a report on promoting sustainability of child care programs during COVID-19 considering states in allocating financial resources.
• On December 4, ACF posted a letter encouraging agencies and courts to continue working to ensure judicial hearings and reviews proceed during COVID-19.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) provides updated guidance on Title IV-E flexibilities, allowing the prevention programs to be included in virtual environments. 
• The ACF has provided more details regarding the Community Services Block Grant reporting system.
• ACF updates Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) COVID-19 FAQs.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has provided additional flexibilities for the Community Services Block Grant amidst the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has released updated information regarding the approval of Childcare and Development Fund (CCDF) waivers.
• ACF announced the summary of 66 waiver approvals by state and territory and by provision approved as of September 28.
• On October 5, ACF updated frequently asked questions in response to COVID-19.
• ACF published the Q&As on Head Start wages and benefits.
• On September 20, ACF provided an extension of the assistance for the Office of Refugee Resettlement  populations affected by COVID-19.
• ACF posts FY2021 Monitoring Process for Head Start and Early Head Start Grantees.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has released the most updated version of the COVID-19 Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) FAQ’s.
• ACF issues guidance regarding waivers request and renewals for Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act requirements not met due to COVID-19.
• ACF updates Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Grant flexibility.
• On August 24, ACF announced Family Violence Prevention and Services 2020 Cares Act supplemental funding application upload instructions.
• ACF announces Head Start On-Demand webinar which will provide clear guidance to grantees’ questions and help programs continue to operate successfully. Session 4 is for Family and Community Engagement and Session 5 is for Health Program Services. The recording will be available on-demand until August 30, 2020.
• On July 28, ACF released a webinar on Child Welfare Worker Safety in the time of COVID-19.
• July 24, ACF posted important updates to Administrative Flexibilities identified in IM-ACF-OA-2020-01.
• On July 27, ACF Updated Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) FAQs in response to COVID-19.
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) highlights states’ responsibilities in the planning and implementing of the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) within the CARES Act Grants (July 10,2020).
• ACF provides clarification regarding Childcare and Development Fund (CCDF) direct services reporting in the midst of COVID-19. The Office of Child Care will collect data to estimate the number of families and children served, as well as essential workers (July 6, 2020).
• Resource for Head Start Grantees on supporting families struggling with food securities provided by ACF.
• ACF released the following resources on the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act funding:
  • CARES Act Allocation
  • Funding Summary and Application Process 
  • State Domestic Violence Coalitions Guidance
  • State Administrators Guidance 
• ACF’s Runaway and Homeless Youth Program released information on allowable uses and reporting requirements. 
• ACF releases allocations for Child Care Development Block Grants (CCDBG)
• Child Welfare guidance for caseworker visits via videoconferences, program improvements, Title IV-E eligibility reviews, child abuse and neglect investigations, and other flexibilities. More details here. 
• ACF releases and/or updates the following COVID-19 FAQs:
  • Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Program
  • Child Support (June 17, 2020)
  • Child Care and Development Fund (July 20, 2020)
  • Runaway and Homeless Youth Program
  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Administration for Community Living (ACL)

• The Administration for Community LivinG (ACL) has posted COVID-19 vaccine FAQ’s for the aging network.
• The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has posted a state allocation breakdown of the $168 million for home-delivered meals.
• The ACL has announced allocations for Adult Protective Services and the Long-Term Ombudsman Program and application instructions for first-time funding under the Elder Justice Act. 
• The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has posted the slides and recording from the most recent COVID-19 webinar, including slides from a webinar about transportation services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as slides and a recording of Connecticut's Stay Connected program.
• On August 20, ACL updated guidance, technical assistance, and program implementation tips for administering Title IIIC programs.
• On July 28, ACL updated survival guidance for administering Title IIC during COVID-19.
• The Administration for Community Living (ACL) summarizes the results from a survey regarding how policy actions in response to COVID19 have impacted persons with disabilities. The survey revealed that those with disabilities were suffering financially and from isolation prior to the pandemic.
• ACL's Older Americans Act Programs releases guidance on reporting requirements for the following programs: Title III, Title VI, and Long-term Care Ombudsman programs.
• ACL is publishing guidance on the ACL COVID-19 resources webpage. 

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) updated their Medicare COVID-19 data snapshot to reflect services provided from January 1, 2020-December 26, 2020.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) posted an updated toolkit regarding state actions to mitigate COVID-19 in nursing homes. This updated toolkit includes information on vaccines.
• The CDC has updated their webpage on COVID-19 data, cases and surveillance.
• The CDC has released a report on early COVID-19 first-dose vaccination in pharmacy partnership for long-term care program.   
• The CDC has issued a federal mask mandate for public transportation and transportation hubs.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has distributed a letter to governors regarding hospital capacity strategies, encouraging them to examine state-based licensure, the payment and coverage policies of medicaid and the community surge plans.
• CMS has updated its FAQ’s for COVID-19 testing in nursing homes.
• CMS and ACL have announced a webinar that will be focused on food insecurity and nutrition based chronic disease during COVID-19. THe webinar will take place on January 14, 2021 at 3pm ET.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced a strategy to increase hospital capacity by providing simple hospital care at home, making room for the more emergent cases in the hospital facilities.
• On November 23, 2020, CMS released Coverage and reimbursement of COVID-19 vaccines, vaccines administration, and cost sharing under Medicaid, the Children’s Health insurance Program, and basic health program.
• CMS updates the toolkit on state actions to mitigate COVID-19 prevalence in nursing homes for November. 
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released guidance regarding coverage for COVID-19 antibody treatment, stating that those under Medicare can receive treatment at no cost during the public health emergency.
• CMS has released an updated Medicare Telehealth FAQ document and COVID-19 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment FAQ’s.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has updated the toolkit to help mitigate COVID-19 in nursing homes to include guidance on vaccinations.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced flexibility regarding the meeting of requirements for the temporary increase Federal Medical Assistance Program (FMAP).
• CMS has released interim rule regarding COVID-19 vaccine coverage, concluding that vaccines approved by the FDA will be covered by Medicare.
• CMS updated the Nursing Home Resource Center with COVID-19 public health emergency response information on October 28.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has updated the Telehealth section of the Medicare Fee-for-Service billing FAQ’s.
• On October 15, CMS announced new actions to expedite COVID-19 Diagnostic testing. 
• On October 14, CMS expanded telehealth services in Medicaid and Medicare. CMS also provided the State Medicaid & CHIP telehealth toolkit and preliminary data snapshot of telehealth services delivered during COVID-19.
• CMS notifies the Medicare Part D claw-back adjusted per-capita drug payment expenditure rate for the following year to each State.
• On October 8, CMS announced new repayment terms for Medicare loans made to providers during COVID-19.
• CMS updates toolkit on state actions to mitigate COVID-19 prevalence in nursing homes in October.
• On October 6, CMS released requirements and enforcement processes for reporting of COVID-19 data elements for hospitals and critical access hospitals.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the Medicaid and Children’s Healthcare Insurance Program (CHIP) trends, which emphasize the impact of COVID-19 on program enrollment. 
• CMS has updated the COVID-19 testing methodology in nursing homes to address concerns regarding guidelines in rural areas. The FAQ’s on nursing home visits have also been updated.
• CMS sent letters to residents and survey agency directors regarding the voting rights of nursing home residents. 
• CMS has released guidance regarding COVID-19 Emergency Preparedness testing requirements and exemptions during or after and emergency.
• The Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) has posted information from the September public meeting.
• CMS has updated the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration of Blanket Waivers document.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a call to action following the decline in childrens’ care and health insurance program (CHIP) in Medicaid as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• CMS has released Medicare rates for the months of October-December. The rates show the increase in the Federal Medical Assistance Program (FMAP).
• CMS has released new resources to aid in the streamlining of the necessary certification labs are required to obtain to test for COVID-19.
• CMS has updated the toolkit provided to aid states in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes.
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service (CMS) has released a flowchart that displays, and further explains, the sources and coverage of Medicare and Medicaid coverage for COVID-19 in nursing facilities.
• CMS has issued revised guidance on the safe visitation of patients within nursing homes.
• The Coronavirus Commission has issued a final report regarding best practices when visiting nursing homes to ensure safety and quality within the homes.
• CMS postes a slide deck regarding the requirements of New COVID-19 testing and reporting.
• CMS updates the toolkit on state actions to mitigate COVID-19 prevalence in nursing homes in September.
• On September 2, CMS announced interim final rule revising testing and new reporting requirements in nursing homes and labs. See the summary of changes here.
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has provided guidance on reimbursement for the implementation of infection control in nursing homes.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has resumed routine inspections of Medicare and Medicaid providers. 
• CMS has requested emergency clearance in regards to information collection associated with the Temporary Policy on 2020 Premium Credits in relation to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released information to providers regarding reimbursement for patient counseling during COVID-19.
• CMS released updated FAQ’s for Medicare Fee-For-Service Billing (FFS).
• CMS provided updated data on the impacts of COVID-19 on Medicare beneficiaries, including data for American Indian/Alaskan Native beneficiaries.
• Visit www.CMS.gov for more information, or view updates on current and ongoing public health emergencies. 
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released an updated toolkit for states regarding the mitigation of COVID-19 in nursing homes.
• CMS has announced the agency’s strategic plan to assist nursing homes in Coronavirus hotspot areas with additional resources. Their plan includes the deployment of Quality Improvement Organizations (QIO) to provide immediate assistance to homes across the country (July 10, 2020).
• On June 30, CMS Updated COVID-19 FAQs on Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in a previous document, please see the new questions here.
• CMS Posts toolkit on state actions to mitigate COVID-19 Prevalence in nursing homes.
• CMS Releases revised CY2020 Phased-Down State Contribution Final Per-Capita Rates. Please see more information on the FFIS Issue Brief 20-15.
• CMS Posts Guidance of Visitation for Patients Who are COVID-19 Negative.
• CMS published guidance on New Section 1115 Medicaid Demonstration. The new demonstrations provide states flexibility when enrolling and serving beneficiaries, as well as ensuring the elderly or those with disabilities can be served in their homes.
• CMS provides checklists and tools for Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) The information is considered making it easier for states to receive federal waivers and implement flexibilities.
• CMS published the recording from March 17 Medicaid & CHIP All-State Call
• CMS Memorandum update from March 23, 2020 for Nursing Home guidance. CMS provided details to State Survey Agency Directors on a new inspection process that focuses only on complaint inspections, targeted control inspections, and self-assessments.
• CMS announced flexibility for the clinicians, providers, and facilities participating in Medicare quality reporting programs. By providing accommodations for deadlines and exceptions for Medicare Quality Reporting Programs

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

• The CDC places a temporary halt through June 30,2021 on residential evictions in order to further prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• On March 29,2021 the CDC released an updated funding document, as well as guidance regarding the recently awarded $10 billion to aid in the safe reopening of schools.
• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidance regarding the isolation of persons with COVID-19.
• The CDC introduced the Electronic Case Reporting (eCR) Initiative, which will aid in the transmission of case reports from the electronic health record to public health agencies to be reviewed.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released additional guidance regarding new testing and vaccination funds. 
• The CDC has updated the COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Recommendations.
• The CDC has posted information regarding the Federal Retail Pharmacy COVID-19 Vaccination Program, a program between the federal government, states and pharmacy partners.
• The CDC has updated their webpage on COVID-19 data, cases and surveillance.
• The CDC has released a report on early COVID-19 first-dose vaccination in pharmacy partnership for long-term care program.   
• The CDC has issued a federal mask mandate for public transportation and transportation hubs.
• On January 21, CDC updated recommendations on intervals between first and second COVID-19 vaccines. 
• On January 20, CDC extended the current order temporarily halting resident evictions until at least March 31, 2021.
• CDC updated guidance to expand screening testing to reduce silent spread of SARS-CoV-2.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have released options for shorter quarantine for those who have come in contact with someone infected with COVID-19 through the use of symptom monitoring and diagnostic testing.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have updated the guidance regarding the prioritization of contract tracing in high burden jurisdictions.
• The CDC advisory committee held an emergency meeting on December 1 to further discuss recommendations on prioritizing how the public will receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
• The CDC advisory committee held an emergency meeting on December 1 to further discuss recommendations on prioritizing how the public will receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
• CDC published ethical principles for allocating initial supplies of COVID-19 Vaccine on November 27.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released executive summaries regarding state vaccination plans.
• CDC updated COVID-19 Vaccination Program Interim Playbook for Jurisdiction Operations on October 29.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updated guidance regarding the definition of “close contact” and exposure to COVID-19.
• The CDC has released a report regarding COVID-19 hospitalizations among healthcare staff and personnel.
• The CDC has updated guidance on how to report COVID-19 lab data, including who must report, how to report and what to report.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated a few guidance documents, including the determination of interim considerations for Testing K-12 school administrators and public health officials, guidance for COVID-19 point-of-care testing and guidance on increasing public health capacity.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their website regarding how the COVID-19 virus spreads. The organization has also updated a considerations page for Institutions of Higher Education.
• The CDC has released the most recent data regarding COVID-19 cases and deaths on a state and county basis.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has awarded $200 million in CARES Act funding to go towards COVID-19 vaccine preparedness, to help jurisdictions develop plans for vaccine distribution.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released additional guidance for schools regarding decision-making about in-person learning.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released guidance disaster shelters during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has put a halt on residential evictions to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19.
• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released an updated toolkit for K-12 schools and the reopening of schools during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new science-based resources and tools to aid in the reopening of schools in the fall.
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates guidance on July 21, 2020, on How Rural Communities Can Respond During COVID-19
• CDC released guidance on Creating a Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Community Intervention Implementation Plan and Summary. This guidance will assist grant recipients in fulfilling requirements outlined in supplemental funding.
• CDC announced interim guidance for responding to COVID-19 among people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
• CDC, also published guidance on supplemental funding. The guidance provides details on the $570 million awarded under the COVID-19 Crisis Response Cooperative Agreement. CDC additionally issued PHEP FAQs. 

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

• The Food and Drug Administration has scheduled a meeting to discuss the request for emergency use authorization for a COVID-19 vaccines from Janssen Biotech, Inc.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the first sample test that is collected at home, that tests for both the flu and COVID-19.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has scheduled an advisory committee meeting to discuss the emergency use of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued emergency authorization for the research and investigation of the antibody treatment Bamlanivimab for mild COVID-19 cases.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issues Policy for COVID-19 Tests (May 15, 2020) during the public health emergency.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has created a public page for latest COVID-19 resources and information; please visit the FDA webpage. 

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) allocated some COVID-19 vaccines directly to some health centers through the HRSA Health Center COVID-19 Vaccine Program.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has updated the vaccine section of their health center COVID-19 FAQ’s.
• HRSA has updated the Ryan White HIV/AIDS FAQ’s to reflect Q&A’s regarding vaccines, no-cost extensions and carryover for CARES Act funding.
• On January 15, HRSA released a letter asking Ryan White HIV/AIDs program recipients and subrecipients to develop plans for addressing client needs related to health education about and access to COVID-19 vaccines.The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provides updated COVID-19 health center FAQ’s, including a question regarding health centers that provide antibody treatment.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has updated the the COVID-19 rural health FAQ’s to reflect the difference between the Rural Health Testing Program and the Provider Relief Fund.
• HRSA has updated the COVID-19 health center FAQ’s to address new uniform data system reporting.
• HRSA has updated National Health Service Corps and Nurse Corps COVID-19 FAQ’s to address telework and minimum work requirements.
   
• The Health Resources and Services Administration has released updated COVID-19 health center FAQ’s with questions regarding clinical research trials and site visits.
• HHS announces new resources for Phase 3 Provider Relief Funds, include a fact sheet, application guide, and toolkit.
• HRSA updated Health Center COVID-19 FAQs.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released updated guidance that answers questions and concerns regarding the impact of COVID-19 on Ryan White HIV/AIDS recipients.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released updated COVID-19 health center FAQ’s, including questions regarding an adjustment to operational site visit procedures.
• HRSA released updated FAQ’s regarding COVID-19 Ryan White HIV/AIDS, including a new question on site visits.
• August 17, HRSA highlighted changes from Ryan White HIV/AIDS program services report. The changes are regarding two additional client report questions and clarifications on CARES Act and Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative funding.
• The Human Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released updated COVID-19 FAQ’s, addressing testing, immunizations and temporary sites.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released updated COVID-19 FAQ’s regarding rural health.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released an updated FAQ document regarding COVID-19 and rural health.
• HRSA has released updated guidance and FAQ’s for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program recipients amidst COVID-19.
• HRSA releases updated FAQ’s regarding carryover of unobligated balances for the Health Care Center Program.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released an updated FAQ document with a focus on rural health policy.
• HRSA posts the Health Center Tool which enables users to search for telehealth services and COVID-19 testing sites. 
• HRSA releases recording of Health Center Webinar regarding COVID-19 fiscal and grant reminders. 
• HRSA has updated the COVID-19 FAQ page for the Maternal and Child Health Bureau ( July 13, 2020).
• A recording of the COVID-19 Fiscal and Grant Reminders Webinar has been posted on the HRSA website.
• HRSA issues a fact sheet on Provider Relief Fund for Medicaid and CHIP providers. Applications for this funding are due July 20, 2020. 
• HRSA updates Health Center Program COVID-19 FAQs regarding the public health emergency and testing.
• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Release New COVID-19 Ryan White HIV/AIDS Webpage with updated resources and FAQs.
• HRSA offers a “Healthy Grant Web Series” beginning June 3rd.
• Continuous updates from HRSA regarding COVID-19  for Health Centers can be found here. 
• HRSA releases and/or updates the following COVID-19 FAQs:
  • Health and Human  Services, Office of Inspector General Updates 
  • Health Centers  Program (May 19, 2020)
  • Maternal Child Health Bureau (July 27, 2020)
  • National Health Service Corps (June 5, 2020)
  • Families First Coronavirus Response Act (June 23, 2020)
  • Federal Office of Federal Health (May 20,2020)
  • Ryan White HIV/AIDS (June 1, 2020)
• Continuous updates from HRSA regarding COVID-19  for Health Centers can be found here. 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has posted the grant awards for COVID-19 supplemental funds.
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) has updated the COVID-19 training and technical assistance document.
• On August 28, SAMHSA provided states with the COVID-19 guidance on completing Synar program submission for CY2020.
• SAMHSA released a list of award recipients for the COVID-19 funded grants.
• SAMHSA has published a SAMHSA COVID-19 resources page. Additional considerations during COVID-19 epidemic for the following:
  • Mental and Substance Use Disorders
  • Crisis Centers and Clinicians
  • Outpatient Treatment Centers
  • State Psychiatric Hospitals
• HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) published a COVID-19 resources and fraud alert webpage.