New Ohio Law: Mandatory Legionella Plans for Assisted Living
Key Changes and Compliance Requirements for Assisted Living Facilities
Introduction
On July 12, 2024, new regulations for Residential Care Facilities (RCFs), also known as Assisted Living Facilities, will take effect in Ohio. These rules, outlined in the Ohio Administrative Code (3701-16-01 to 3701-16-18), introduce significant changes aimed at improving the safety and quality of care for residents. With these updates, providers must adapt quickly to ensure compliance and maintain high standards of care. This article provides an overview of the critical changes, the benefits of partnering with IWM, and what they mean for the healthcare and hospitality industries.
Key Changes and Requirements
Legionella Risk Assessment & Water Management Plan: Ohio law now mandates all RCFs to conduct a Legionella risk assessment and establish a comprehensive water management plan. This requirement aims to prevent the growth and transmission of Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. The CDC provides an online toolkit and free training through the Western Region Public Health Training Center at the University of Arizona to assist facilities in developing these plans.
Infection Control Requirements: The updated regulations require facilities to implement a written surveillance plan for monitoring infections. This includes using nationally recognized surveillance criteria such as the McGreer Criteria. Additionally, an infection control designee must be appointed with specific qualifications, such as a background in nursing or a related healthcare field. The designee will be responsible for implementing and managing infection control measures within the facility.
Changes in Licensing and Operations: Rule 3701-16-03, which governs the licensure application and renewal procedures, has been entirely rewritten. The rule now includes clearer guidelines on the requirements for a Change of Operator application, financial solvency statements, and the notification process for facility closures.
Additional Revisions: Other notable changes include updates to personnel qualifications, dietary standards, disaster preparedness, and safety protocols. Facilities must now have a designated infection prevention and control coordinator, adhere to specific standards for handling incidents, and maintain robust records and reporting procedures.
Impact on Healthcare and Hospitality Industries
The new regulations significantly impact the healthcare and hospitality industries, particularly for those managing or operating RCFs. These changes underscore the importance of infection control and water safety, especially in the wake of increasing concerns about Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. Compliance with the new rules will be crucial for ensuring the safety of residents and staff and avoiding legal and regulatory consequences.
Healthcare facilities will need to invest in staff training, update their infection control policies, and possibly outsource water management to meet the new standards. For the hospitality industry, particularly in environments offering long-term stays or care, these regulations emphasize the importance of proactive risk management and compliance with state laws.
Conclusion
The new Ohio RCF regulations mark a pivotal shift in how residential care facilities manage infection control and water safety. These changes aim to enhance the overall quality of care and ensure a safer environment for residents. As these rules come into effect, it is imperative for facilities to take immediate action to comply with the new requirements. By partnering with experts like IWM, RCFs can navigate these changes efficiently, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety and care. IWM’s experienced team offers invaluable support, helping facilities save time, reduce stress, and optimize financial resources. Contact us today to learn how we can assist your facility in achieving full compliance with the new regulations and protecting the health and well-being of your residents and staff.
