Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Updated Guidance as of April 27, 2021
The latest guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) related to COVID-19 includes recommendations of particular importance for health care providers. The guidance includes two updates. The first allows fully vaccinated people to congregate without masks or physical distancing in non health care settings. Psychologists, however should consult the second update, which applies to individuals and providers who work in health care settings, when deciding how and when to see patients in their practice.
The April 27, 2021 update for health care settings includes guidance directed toward acute and postacute facilities, including when masks and physical distancing are not required during visitation, and added guidance for communal activities.
More importantly, the guidance reiterates the need for health care providers to continue using personal protective equipment (PPE) in health care settings. Continuing to use telehealth strategies while maintaining high-quality patient care remains the prudent option in many circumstances.
When deciding whether to provide in-person sessions, take these steps before opening your office to patient care.