Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan issues order requiring 'universal' COVID-19 testing at nursing homes
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (FOX 5 DC) - Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has issued an executive order requiring "universal testing" at all nursing homes just days after the Department of Health began releasing data related to COVID-19 at longterm care facilities in the state.
RELATED: Maryland Department of Health releases nursing home data related to COVID-19 pandemic
Hogan said in a Wednesday afternoon press conference that nursing homes will be prioritized based on immenient outbreak or
it will be mandatory for all facilities to cooperate with strike teams.
Physicians will also be required to evaluate all residents on a daily basis, according to Hogan.
"We should expect to see the number of cases rise among residents and staff. We are requiring all these facilities to establish emergency surge staffing plans," said Hogan.
Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather
Hogan also announced that the state's strike teams with bridge teams will provide staffing, which will include a registered nurse and five to seven aids who have been contracted with the Department of Health and are ready to be deployed statewide.
The executive order also requires nursing homes to keep families informed.
CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES: Everything You Need to Know
For weeks, FOX 5 has been following a coronavirus outbreak at a senior living facility in Charles County.
Read related stories below:
Possible cluster of COVID-19 cases reported at Charles County nursing home
Nearly 100 coronavirus cases connected to Sagepoint Senior Living, source says
FOX 5 continues to seek answers on Sagepoint Senior Living in Charles County
Maryland Governor’s Office says state 'Strike Team' sent to Sagepoint
Sagepoint Senior Living addresses coronavirus concerns in video posted to YouTube