§19–411.    IN EFFECT

    // EFFECTIVE UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2022 PER CHAPTERS 29 AND 31 OF THE 2021 SPECIAL SESSION //

    (a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

        (2)    “COVID–19” means, interchangeably and collectively, the coronavirus known as COVID–19 or 2019–nCoV and the SARS–CoV–2 virus.

        (3)    “COVID–19 test” means an in vitro diagnostic test for the detection of SARS–CoV–2 or the diagnosis of the virus that causes COVID–19, as described in § 3201 of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

    (b)    For calendar years 2021 and 2022, a home health agency shall adopt and implement a COVID–19 infection control and prevention plan for patients and staff who provide home health care services to patients of the home health agency.

    (c)    (1)    The plan required under subsection (b) of this section shall:

            (i)    Be adopted and implemented in accordance with any applicable federal orders and guidance; and

            (ii)    Ensure that patients and staff who provide home health care services to patients of the home health agency are screened for COVID–19 on a regular basis and tested or referred for testing for COVID–19, if required or recommended under applicable federal orders or guidance, to control and prevent the spread of COVID–19 among staff and patients of the home health agency.

        (2)    The screening required under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include reporting to the home health agency of any:

            (i)    Symptoms related to COVID–19 experienced by patients and staff; and

            (ii)    Known exposures of patients and staff to individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID–19.

    (d)    A home health agency shall provide the plan required under subsection (b) of this section to:

        (1)    Patients and staff; and

        (2)    Members of the public on request.