LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — On Tuesday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced that it will be expanding its Rapid Response Staffing Resources program to help long-term care facilities that are facing staffing shortages during the pandemic.
“Since this program launched in July, surge staffing has been in high demand due to staff testing positive during regular COVID-19 testing in long-term care facilities,” said Robert Gordon, MDHHS director. “To meet this need and ensure the safety of long-term care residents in Michigan, MDHHS is expanding the program statewide, adding additional staffing options and increasing the amount of time facilities can request emergency staffing.”
Previously, the program offered up to 72 hours of consecutive staffing assistance through 22nd Century Technologies, Inc. in 11 counties. Now, with the newly expanded program, it will offer up to 120 hours of staffing coverage for facilities in any part of the state, according to a release.
The staffing options have also expanded to include licensed practical nurses, social workers, direct care workers, dietary aides, dietary cooks and environmental services staff.
Officials say this program is open to nursing homes, assisted living centers, and homes for the aged and adult foster care.
For more information on the program, click here.
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