What Does the Extension of the Public Health Emergency for 90 Days Mean for You?

The United States government recently decided to extend the Public Health Emergency for another 90 days. This extension allows the government to continue implementing measures to control the spread of COVID-19. The Public Health Emergency was initially declared on January 31, 2020, and has since been extended several times. With the latest extension, what does this mean for you and the community at large?

One of the most significant impacts of the Public Health Emergency is that it gives states the power to adjust their healthcare policies. This means that states can allocate more resources to their healthcare systems to help combat COVID-19. Additionally, it allows states to expand the scope of healthcare services, enabling healthcare providers to provide more remote care options and home health services. This way, patients can receive timely care without putting themselves and others at risk.

Furthermore, the Public Health Emergency declaration makes it easier for healthcare providers to prescribe controlled substances to patients who need them. This is particularly vital since the COVID-19 pandemic has affected those suffering from substance abuse. There has been a significant increase in opioid overdose deaths during the pandemic. As such, the declaration allows providers to prescribe medication without the need for an in-person visit, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to the virus.

Another key benefit of the Public Health Emergency declaration is that it enables the federal government to take measures to increase the supply of crucial medical equipment and supplies to combat COVID-19. This includes personal protective equipment (PPE), testing resources, and ventilators. Additionally, the declaration expands access to testing and enables more widespread COVID-19 testing, contributing to better control of the outbreak.

It’s essential to note that the extension of the Public Health Emergency will continue to impact various aspects of our daily lives. For instance, it will extend the duration of emergency family and medical leave laws, such as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The act required companies with less than 500 employees to offer their employees paid leave if they were unable to work due to COVID-19. The extension will mean that this law will be in effect for an additional 90 days.

In conclusion, the extension of the Public Health Emergency declaration will provide states with the necessary resources to battle COVID-19 and allow healthcare providers to adjust to better serve their patients. It is crucial that individuals continue to follow guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help stop the spread of the virus. We all have a role to play in keeping ourselves and our communities safe.

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