From: mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org <mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org> on behalf of Troumbly, Katie J <Katie.Troumbly@fairview.org>
Sent: Thursday, September 2, 2021 11:12 AM
To: mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org <mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org>
Subject: EXTERNAL: RE: Update and Response Requested

CAUTION:This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi all,

I like Andrea’s statement.

I agree with Toni – vaccinations work (I am also vaccinated and remained COVID-free despite having two positive family members). I do not think that it’s MHCA’s place to mandate the vaccine though; promote and support - definitely.

I do hate masking though especially during a several day conference. It seems pointless to require it when we are eating/drinking at the sessions without masks and during meals.

Can we require proof of the vaccine card or a negative test within three days of the event? Is seems like this will become the new norm for many events. As a health care worker advocate, this would show that we are putting forth effort to keep our attendees safe. It would also help people feel more comfortable if we made masking optional.

Just my two cents…

Katie

Katie Troumbly, BSN, RN, PHN, CNML | Home Care Manager

Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital part of Fairview Health Services

Grand Itasca Professional Building | 111 SE 3rd Street | Grand Rapids, MN 55744

katie.troumbly@fairview.org | www.granditasca.org

Office: 218-999-1047 | Cell: 218-259-1383

Please note that I have a new email address: katie.troumbly@fairview.org

From: mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org <mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org> On Behalf Of Toni Diede
Sent: Thursday, September 2, 2021 10:13 AM
To: mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org
Subject: Re: Update and Response Requested

I like Andrea's rephasing with the infection control. My biggest thing is since we will be indoors, I truly feel masking should be a requirement. I know not everyone will agree with me, but a great way to reduce the spread. I don't want to scare people away from registering, but I think all being in the medical world understand the purpose.

My family been struck by COVID from a daycare exposure due to a mother being positive and still sending her kids to daycare. I will tell you it truly sucks to quarantine with 3 children. Having people staying home if sick or if they have had exposure is going to be huge. I know we can't prevent all spread, but anything we can do to reduce the spread is the best plan.

Regarding mandating the vaccine, I personally do not feel the association should mandate home care staff to be vaccinated. This should be left to the individual companies to decide on the mandates. I know many nurses have strong feelings about being vaccinated and I respect that. I personally have been vaccinated and having 2 positive children have remained negative. The vaccination does work, but don't feel the association should mandate the vaccination.

Toni Diede, RN, BSN

Director of Homecare

NextStep Homecare, Inc.

507 North Nokomis Street Suite F

Alexandria, MN 56308

Phone: (320) 219-6425

Fax: (320) 219-6428

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From: mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org <mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org> on behalf of Kathy Messerli <kmesserli@mnhomecare.org>
Sent: Thursday, September 2, 2021 8:32 AM
To: BOD listserve <mhcabod@list.mnhomecare.org>
Subject: Update and Response Requested

I am sharing one update and looking for input on two Covid-related items. Thanks everyone!!

CMS Proposed Rule

The MHCA Medicare Workgroup responded to NAHC’s inquiry for comments on the CMS Proposed Rules. The points raised are incorporated in NAHC’s attached letter to CMS, which MHCA co-signed. The second document is a study by the consultant group, Dobson DaVanzo, commissioned by the Medicare Partnership. The study is a significant part of the advocacy efforts to push back on the behavior adjustment in the payment rates.

COVID-19 Policies

I am looking for input on the following two Covid-related items.

1. While we can make our final decision regarding protocols for the Annual Meeting at the October board meeting, we believe it’s only fair to indicate that there will be protocols and give members an idea of what that may look like when they register. Registration will be opening in about a week so this is your opportunity to weigh in on the statement that will be included in the registration. Please let me know ASAP if you have concerns with the following message:

Personal Accountability Commitment (Waiver)

I commit to following MHCA's COVID protocol, including but not limited to, being responsible, hygienically, to the group and keeping the Annual Meeting a safe experience for all. This may include masking, testing or other COVID protocol which will be finalized by the Board in advance of the conference. A detailed protocol will be sent to those that registered prior to the cancellation deadline.

By registering I acknowledge that I am freely choosing to attend this event during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. I understand that I assume risk and release MHCA from any liability as it relates to contracting COVID-19. I agree to not attend any MHCA event if I feel ill or had recent exposure to COVID-19.

2. Some state home care associations are taking a position on vaccines and/or mandatory vaccines for home care workers. This is evolving now that nursing home staff are facing a mandate (those details are expected in late September; they are currently in the rulemaking process). Do you believe MHCA should have a position on vaccines? If yes, what would you recommend?

I enjoyed kayaking yesterday – it was a beautiful day – I hope you are enjoying the last days of summer!

Be Well,

Kathy Messerli

Executive Director

Minnesota Home Care Association

1265 Grey Fox Road, Suite 2 | Arden Hills, MN 55112-6929

Direct: 651.635.0038 | Main: 651.635.0607