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Established Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes when implemented in multiple real-life settings, as indicated by previous studies that are consistent with the objectives of the activities.
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Summary Report/Recommendations
Researchers conducted a series of interviews with administrators from 40 different nursing homes across the US between July 2020 and December 2021 to better understand their experiences amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviewees described the adverse effects of the pandemic on the physical and mental health of the residents in their facilities as restrictions around visitation, socializing, and communal dining created isolating, inactive conditions. Administrators also expressed concerns for the longevity of the nursing home industry in the wake of the pandemic and resulting reductions in revenue and pervasive negative perceptions of nursing homes in the media.
Established Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes when implemented in multiple real-life settings, as indicated by previous studies that are consistent with the objectives of the activities.
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Peer Review Study
This study assessed differences in COVID-19 cases and mortality rates in traditional nursing homes and Green Houses. Green Houses are smaller, more intimate residential living environments that promote personalized care and more tight-knit communities of residents and care givers. Using CMS data, researchers found that, adjusting for age, gender, and disability status, small and large nursing homes had higher COVID-19 cases and mortality rates compared to Green Houses.
Emerging Practices that show potential to achieve desirable public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting and produce early results that are consistent with the objectives of the activities and thus indicate effectiveness.
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Summary Report/Recommendations
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has taken significant steps to address the long-term effects of COVID-19, known as “Long COVID.” These actions include establishing advisory committees, forming offices dedicated to Long COVID research and practice, and providing technical guidance for evaluating disabilities related to Long COVID. HHS has also delivered comprehensive reports to the President outlining support services and research strategies. These efforts, in collaboration with various federal agencies, aim to assist individuals in living independently and participating in their communities while dealing with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. Numerous resources, such as guides, civil rights protections, and workplace accommodations, have been made available to support those affected by Long COVID.
Promising Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities, and are suitable for adaptation by other communities.
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Peer Review Study
Developing strategic plans for population health and public health practice is particularly important in situations of scarce resources. This article notes that current planning efforts often rely on single metrics like cost-effectiveness and lack transparency and stakeholder input. It highlights the usefulness of multi-criteria decision-making tools that incorporate multiple stakeholder views and criteria. The authors suggest that institutions of higher education can help improve population and public health practice by teaching students about modern strategic planning tools that incorporate multiple factors and promote transparency and clarity in decision-making.
Promising Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities, and are suitable for adaptation by other communities.
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Summary Report/Recommendations
“In Aotearoa New Zealand, the Indigenous population, known as Māori, carries a disproportionate burden of disease compared to the settler population. The Treaty of Waitangi, a national treaty negotiated between Māori and the British Crown, guarantees Māori sovereignty, protects their interests, and promotes their well-being. It is considered central to ethical public health and health promotion practices in the country but its application is variable. The article underscores the significance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge and leadership into public health curricula to address health inequities and decolonize the field. It calls for a shift towards prioritizing Indigenous perspectives, values, and frameworks, and fostering meaningful relationships between communities, educators, and Indigenous peoples.
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Best Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes when implemented in multiple real-life settings, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities.
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White Paper/Brief
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is encouraging higher vaccination rates at nursing homes. Vaccinations are required to be offered at nursing homes, yet the overall vaccination rate is below 50%. The article provides recommendations for ways nursing homes can increase vaccinations by education, communication with residents and their families, and creating action plans for individual residents. It stresses the importance of keeping treatment medications at nursing facilities.
Best Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes when implemented in multiple real-life settings, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities.
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Summary Report/Recommendations, White Paper/Brief
Document presents practical strategies for caring for persons living with dementia during emergencies such as the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes (but is not limited to) giving reminders around habits to prevent illness, ensuring person-centered care, and continuing connections with family and friends.
Promising Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities, and are suitable for adaptation by other communities.
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Evaluation Report, Peer Review Study
The article evaluates the connection between health care workers’ unions and Covid-19 mortality rates in nursing homes. Using regression analysis, the presence of a union were associated with lower Covid-19 mortality rates (30% lower) and infection rates (42% lower) among nursing home residents. Nursing homes with unions saw increased access to N95 respirators and eye shields as well. These results ultimately show that health care worker unionization may better ensure access to appropriate PPE and infection control policies that will protect nursing home residents.
Emerging Practices that show potential to achieve desirable public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting and produce early results that are consistent with the objectives of the activities and thus indicate effectiveness.
RELEASE DATE:
Peer Review Study
This study looks at a COVID-19 outbreak among a multi-residential home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Arizona to determine how COVID-19 was spread. Epidemiologic and genomic evidence show that spread likely occurred from asymptomatically infected staff. This study demonstrates the need for public health measures and rapid genomic analysis to shape policies that protect these vulnerable populations.
Emerging Practices that show potential to achieve desirable public health outcomes in a specific real-life setting and produce early results that are consistent with the objectives of the activities and thus indicate effectiveness.
RELEASE DATE:
Systematic Review/Meta-Analysis
A review of best practices for COVID-19 infection prevention and control in long-term care facilities. These included establishing surveillance measures, revising staffing and visitor policies, and clearly communicating health measures and case numbers. The authors highlight the need for additional support and resources for long-term care facilities to address the pandemic over time. The article also provides updated guidelines for rapid situation analyses.