WLJ Resources
CARES Act – Supporting the Healthcare System
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020. It provides more than $2 trillion dollars to assist individuals, private businesses, non-profits and state and local governments in dealing with the impact of COVID-19.
Title III of the CARES Act, entitled Supporting America’s Health Care System in the Fight Against the Coronavirus, is specifically geared toward assisting the healthcare industry. This section of the Act contains multiple provisions for supporting health care providers and patients, addressing supply shortages, and improving access to care through telehealth services and reducing regulatory burdens. A summary of some of the key provisions follows.
Liability Protections for Healthcare Providers Related to Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19
On March 10, 2020, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary) issued a Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (Prep Act) that provides immunity from civil liability to individuals and entities that manufacture, distribute, administer, or use qualified drugs and medical devices to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure COVID-19. Immunity also extends to treatment of serious or life-threatening complications of these drugs and devices and to products or technologies that enhance their effectiveness.
Government Resources
CDC Resources for Healthcare Facilities
CMS Telemedicine Health Care Provider Fact Sheet
Arkansas Resources
Arkansas Medicaid Physician Telemedicine Requirements during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Arkansas Medicaid – Lab Testing for COVID-19
Arkansas Medicaid Temporary Procedure Code Changes in Response to COVID-19
Arkansas State Medical Board Emergency Temporary License
Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Arkansas Health Care Association
Telemedicine
Telehealth, Telemedicine and Telecare: What’s What?
ARcare has implemented an organization-wide Telemedicine program, under the guidelines from the government and the CDC. Patients are urged to call (870) 347-3461 or utilize their website to request a virtual appointment with an ARcare provider. During these appointments, patients can request medication refills, lab results, and receive acute care. ARcare also encourages patients who think they may have been exposed to or have COVID-19 to utilize self-screening via their website. Patients will answer a set of questions to determine if they are at risk for Covid-19.
Informational Links
General Resources
ALFA International Quick Reference Guide by State
Council of State Governments COVID-19 Resources for State Leaders