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Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

COVID Adaptive Guidance

Effective: April 4, 2023
As we transition from pandemic to endemic phase, our new normal will demand a more measured response to changes that recognizes fluctuations in COVID prevalence yet also provides a more predictable and consistent approach to guidelines.
The following predictive thresholds outline TCMC’s organizational approach to anticipating future COVID and respiratory illness surges throughout San Diego. The framework highlights key procedural guidelines and protocols for how TCMC will move from a perpetual state of emergency to recognizing COVID as one of many endemic respiratory diseases.*
TIER ONE – MINIMAL TRANSMISSION

MASKING – OPTIONAL

Hospital Healthcare Settings
  • Hospital Non-Healthcare Settings
  • Outpatient

Masking is optional except under the following conditions:

A) Transmission based precautions
B) High-risk patient as determined by ordering clinician
C) Patient requests masking on admission screening
In these circumstances, masking by staff is required when in patient room or within 6 feet of patient

TESTING – NOT REQUIRED

  • On Admission
  • Pre-Procedure

VACCINES FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

  • Fully Vaccinated or Exemption on File

Fully vaccinated means completion of a primary vaccination series for COVID-19. Requirement per CMS only applies to individuals who have direct contact with patients in the hospital setting. CMS COP A-0792 §482.42 supersedes CDPH guidance.

COMMON AREAS – OPEN

Common areas include meeting rooms, waiting areas, cafeteria, gift shop, coffee cart and hallways. Specific restrictions posted at entrances.

VISITATION GUIDELINES – TCMC STANDARD

TIER TWO – MODERATE TRANSMISSION

MASKING – RECOMMENDED

  • Hospital Healthcare Settings
  • Hospital Non-Healthcare Settings
  • Outpatient

TESTING – NOT REQUIRED

  • On Admission
  • Pre-Procedure

VACCINES FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

  • Fully Vaccinated or Exemption on File

Fully vaccinated means completion of a primary vaccination series for COVID-19. The requirement per CMS only applies to individuals who have direct contact with patients in the hospital setting. CMS COP A-0792 §482.42 supersedes CDPH guidance.

COMMON AREAS – OPEN

Common areas include meeting rooms, waiting areas, cafeteria, gift shop, coffee cart and hallways. Specific restrictions posted at entrances.

VISITATION GUIDELINES – TCMC STANDARD

TIER THREE – HIGH TRANSMISSION

MASKING – REQUIRED

  • Hospital Healthcare Settings

MASKING STRONGLY RECOMMENDED

  • Hospital Non-Healthcare Settings
  • Outpatient

TESTING – REQUIRED

  • On Admission
  • Pre-Procedure

VACCINES FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

  • Fully Vaccinated or Exemption on File

Fully vaccinated means completion of a primary vaccination series for COVID-19. Requirement per CMS only applies to individuals who have direct contact with patients in the hospital setting. CMS COP A-0792 §482.42 supersedes CDPH guidance.

COMMON AREAS – RESTRICTED

Common areas include meeting rooms, waiting areas, cafeteria, gift shop, coffee cart and hallways. Specific restrictions posted at entrances.

VISITATION GUIDELINES – RESTRICTED

The proposed COVID Adaptive Guidance was initially published in its draft form for open comment and review in April 2022. Final approval was received on March 27, 2023 by the Infection Control Committee. This guidance becomes effective April 3, 2023.

*Transmission Tier level determined by reported R0 and wastewater viral loads as assessed by Infection Control committee.