MLMIC stands with you
We’re here to support the thousands of New York physicians, nurses, dentists, allied professionals, facilities, and dedicated health care teams engaging the coronavirus COVID-19 on the front line.
Direct Support
| MLMIC’s toll free 24/7 Hotline | Call (844) MMS-LAW1 (1-844-667-5291) |
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| Claims, coverage and policies questions? | Call (800) ASK-MLMIC (1-800-275-6564) and every effort will be made to handle inquiries on an immediate basis. Learn more about practice changes and financial hardship. |
| Telehealth Consents | Telehealth and telemedicine consents are available for MLMIC policyholders at no cost. Contact Mercado May-Skinner (MMS) for more information. |
| Physician Support Hotline | MLMIC and MSSNY have partnered to provide a free hotline offering support from peers to help you manage stress, pandemic related or not. Call (844) P2P-PEER, seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 12 a.m., or email p2p@mssny.org. No appointment is necessary. |
| Vaccine Resources | MLMIC policyholders can learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and proactively prepare to implement a vaccine program using the following authoritative resources. |
COVID-19 Resources
FAQ
Latest Developments (Updated 7/23/21)
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Since Executive Orders of Governor Cuomo have expired and were not renewed, are the CDC guidelines governing medical care during the covid pandemic still in effect?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. New York State ended its state of emergency on June 25, 2021. However, the federal guidelines issued by the CDC remain in effect. Therefore, physicians may either adhere only to the CDC guidelines, or they may implement more stringent policies in their office.
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May physicians still require social distancing and mask wearing in their office?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. The CDC has advised that individuals who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear a mask or observe social distancing. However, since not every patient is vaccinated, and some patients are not honest in answering the question about being vaccinated or have conditions that preclude being vaccinated, mask wearing and social distancing may well be indicated in a physician’s office to protect other patients. Thus, a stricter policy may be implemented.
When a patient calls for an appointment, the patient should be informed about the office policy. If the patient refuses at that time to wear a mask to the appointment or discloses his/her vaccine status, a telemedicine appointment should instead be offered to that patient. This is especially true because of the new COVID-19 variant now present in N.Y. If, however, the patient is unable to wear a mask for a true medical condition, the patient does need to be accommodated under the Americans with Disabilities Act. An accommodation may be scheduling the patient’s visit at the latest time of day and immediately placing the patient in a room. Regardless of the situation, it is important to try to de-escalate some of the behavior that patients who refuse to wear masks engage in.
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May a physician limit the number of individuals who accompany a patient to an office visit? May the physician mandate that the patient come to the appointment alone?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. If the patient is both competent and does not require the physical assistance of a third party, the physician may mandate that accompanying individuals wait outside of the office. However, if the patient has dementia or a physical or mental disability that requires the assistance of a third party or companion, the physician must accommodate that patient’s needs.
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Are unvaccinated individuals required to quarantine for 14 days when they come into N.Y.S?
Posted 7/23/21
No. However, New York officials still recommend quarantine for all travelers who are not fully vaccinated or have not recovered from Covid-19 during the previous three months. Recommendations include either: testing three to five days after arriving in New York and self-quarantine for 7 days; or self-quarantine for 10 days if testing is not obtained.
International air travelers to New York from another country may be required to test before returning to the U.S.
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May physicians continue to provide telemedicine visits for patients who are unable or unwilling to come to the office?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. The appropriateness of providing services via telemedicine or telephonically is a clinical decision which should be documented in the patient’s record.
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May I provide telemedicine visits to patients by using only a telephone?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. You may use just a telephone to provide telemedicine visits to most patients, especially those who do not have computers. However, a patient’s medical condition or problem must be such that it can reasonably be treated over the telephone and does not require either a visual confirmation of a problem or an actual physical examination.
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Must I initially see a patient for an in-person evaluation before providing telemedicine services?
Posted 7/23/21
Although it is not necessarily required, it may be in the best interests of providers and patients to do so since there will be a baseline and knowledge of the actual condition of patients.
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Under the DEA regulations, may I continue to provide buprenorphine induction via telemedicine and telephone services to patients?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. Under the current rules, you may continue to provide buprenorphine induction via telemedicine/telephone services to patients, but it may be in the best interests of providers and patients to have a baseline evaluation of patients before doing so.
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Will Medicaid providers be approved to provide telephone-only services to Medicaid recipients?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. Medicaid providers may continue to provide telephone-only services to recipients of Medicaid at this time, since the pandemic is not completely over. That may change at some time in the future but not right now.
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May practitioners continue to utilize verbal informed consent for telemedicine services until a written consent can be obtained?
Posted 7/23/21
Yes. Verbal informed consent may be obtained for telemedicine, but we recommend that a written consent form be sent to the patient to sign and return to you as soon as possible after the first visit. The contents of a telemedicine consent form may be read to the patient during the initial telemedicine service, and the verbal consent of the patient may be obtained. However, it is crucial that the fact that you had a consent discussion with the patient and that the patient did consent be well documented in the patient’s medical record. A copy of the consent form should be added to the patient’s record.
Treatment & Practice Questions
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Can I refuse to treat patients who refuse to be vaccinated against COVID-19? – Updated 8/3
Posted 8/3/21; Updated 8/3/21
The NYS Boards for Medicine and Veterinary Medicine; and State Committees for Athletic Training, Medical Physics, Pathologists’ Assistants and Perfusion recently responded to an inquiry on this topic with the following:
Telemedicine is an option for any patient at any time if the provider deems it appropriate. Providers can refuse care on any basis and vaccination status isn’t a legally protected status like race or religion.
While this statement does suggest a provider may refuse to care for patients who refuse to be vaccinated, we urge caution, as you also need to avoid a claim of abandonment which is considered professional misconduct under Education Law sec. 6530. It can also be grounds for a professional liability claim against you.
When it comes to patients in your practice who have declined to be vaccinated against COVID-19, we recommend the following steps:
- Post signage at your door stating that masks are still required for entrance. You should also include this requirement in your telephone messaging, and on your website.
- Continue to follow all CDC and NYS DOH guidelines regarding infection control in your practice setting;
- Encourage all patients who qualify to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Here is a good CDC resource that can assist in this endeavor: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/forum/resources.html;
- For patients who still refuse to be vaccinated, determine whether a telehealth encounter is appropriate for their condition;
- Should it become necessary to see an unvaccinated patient in your practice setting, there are a few steps you can take:
- Inform the patient upon scheduling the appointment and upon confirmation, that wearing a mask or other appropriate face covering is required while at the practice.
- Insist the patient wear their mask. Depending upon the patient’s needs, a face shield may be an appropriate alternative.
- Dependent upon the practice’s specialty, you and the staff may also want to consider face shields for close contact.
- Upon arrival, have the patient check-in via telephone, rather than in-person at the registration desk.
- Where feasible, have the patient wait in the car until you are ready for their appointment.
- Have the patient go directly to the exam room to wait for their appointment.
- If available, have the patient use a side entrance, or some other entrance that has less traffic.
- Wear a mask yourself, and follow all appropriate protocols when providing care to the patient.
Ultimately, if you wish to discharge patients who refuse to be vaccinated, you may due so, subject to the following:
- Advise patients that it is practice policy for all qualified patients to be vaccinated against COVID-19;
- If this is your practice policy, consider signage to that effect;
- Verify that the patient does not have any immediate medical needs, where dismissal would impact their ongoing care;
- Determine whether the patient’s refusal is based upon a medical condition or genuinely-held religious belief. If either is the case, we would not recommend dismissing a patient upon these grounds;
- Follow standard advice regarding the dismissal of a patient. This includes dismissal in writing, and at least 30 days notice (offering to treat in an emergency only), so the patient has an opportunity to obtain appropriate care elsewhere.
- The law firm of Fager Amsler Keller & Schoppmann, Esq. has resources on the appropriate dismissal of patients from care. Their attorneys are also available for consultation on these issues.
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Is telemedicine exempt from privacy laws such as HIPAA and the NYS Public Health Law?
Posted 3/19/20
No. Federal and State privacy law still apply to medical services delivered by telemedicine. The Coronavirus Appropriations Act does not contain any exemptions for HIPAA or its implementing regulations. Providers should continue to provide telemedicine services using HIPAA-compliant telecommunications methods, enter into business associate agreements with technology vendors, when applicable, and comply with the minimum necessary standard for disclosures of protected health information.
Similarly, none of the recent NYS legislation enacted relative to the COVID-19 crisis exempts the State privacy laws. Accordingly, you must ensure that medical services delivered by telemedicine are in compliance with HIPAA and the stricter New York privacy laws.
Some recommendations related to privacy:
- Use HIPAA compliant technology,
- Use a secure connection;
- Use encrypted data;
- Ensure that virtual visits are not audible to outside parties.
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In emergency situations like COVID-19, are there exceptions to the HIPAA privacy laws?
Posted 3/19/20
Yes. the HIPAA Privacy Rule always allows patient information to be shared for the following purposes and under the following conditions in emergency situations:
- Treatment: Under the Privacy Rule, covered entities may disclose, without a patient’s authorization, protected health information about the patient as necessary to treat the patient or to treat a different patient.
- Public Health Activities: The HIPAA Privacy Rule recognizes the legitimate need for public health authorities and others responsible for ensuring public health and safety to have access to protected health information that is necessary to carry out their public health mission. Therefore, the Privacy Rule permits covered entities to disclose needed protected health information without individual authorization:
- To a public health authority, such as the CDC or a state or local health department, that is authorized by law to collect or receive such information for the purpose of preventing or controlling disease, injury or disability.
- At the direction of a public health authority, to a foreign government agency that is acting in collaboration with the public health authority.
- To persons at risk of contracting or spreading a disease or condition if other law, such as state law, authorizes the covered entity to notify such persons as necessary to prevent or control the spread of the disease or otherwise to carry out public health interventions or investigations.
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Are there changes regarding billing/reimbursement/coding relative to telemedicine used in treating COVID-19? – Updated 2/1
Posted 3/19/20; Updated 2/1/22
Yes! The New York State Department of Financial Services will require insurance companies to waive co-pays for telehealth visits. This action will encourage New Yorkers to seek medical attention from their homes rather than visit a hospital or doctor’s office – https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/during-coronavirus-briefing-governor-cuomo-announces- department-financial-services-will-require
In addition, NYS Medicaid expanded coverage of telehealth services in 2019. Per the Insurance Law and Public Health Law, services that are covered under a comprehensive health insurance policy or contract cannot be excluded when the service is delivered via telehealth. To the extent it is practical, the Department is encouraging the use of telehealth to provide COVID-19 related services to Medicaid members. More information on the current telehealth policy can be found: https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/billing-and-reimbursement/
Medicare reimbursement for telemedicine has recently been changed by HR.6074 – Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020. In Division B of that Act it basically provides for a temporary waiver based upon the originating site and geographic requirements for telehealth services provided to Medicare beneficiaries located in an identified “emergency area” during an “emergency period” when provided by a qualified provider.
To qualify for the waiver, the provider must have treated the patient within the previous three years or be in the same practice (i.e., as determined by tax identification number) of a practitioner who has treated the patient in the past three years.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/6074/textPrivate insurers are also adapting their reimbursement policies and CPT codes for COVID-19:
https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/new-cpt-code-announced-report-novel-coronavirus-testMoreover, here are some ways health insurance providers are taking action:
https://www.ahip.org/health-insurance-providers-respond-to-coronavirus-covid-19/ -
Will my hospital and other certificate holders be notified if my coverage is suspended?
Posted 3/24/20
Yes, all hospitals and other certificate holders will be notified if your coverage is suspended.
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As a result of the COVID-19 healthcare response, will the New York State Executive Order provide immunity to a licensed physician who is asked to provide medical care or perform medical procedures outside of their normal scope of practice or experience?
Posted 3/27/20
In short, yes. Our best interpretation is that there will be immunity provided under the temporary order. The Governor wants to ensure that there are enough physicians to treat both, patients with COVID-19 and other ill patients within the State of New York. To that end, his words are to grant immunity from harm or death caused by an act or omission by a physician “in the course of providing medical services in support of the State’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.”
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In New York State’s Executive Order granting immunity, there is an exception for gross negligence. Is it gross negligence for a physician to practice outside of their normal scope of practice or experience in response to the State’s efforts to respond to COVID-19?
Posted 3/27/20
No, the law in New York defines gross negligence to be conduct that evinces a reckless disregard for the rights of others or that smacks of intentional wrongdoing. Medical actions taken in good faith to treat patients in a state of emergency and disaster will not be gross negligence.
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Who can I contact with questions about COVID-19?
Posted 5/1/20
Call the New York State Coronavirus Hotline: 1-888-364-3065. Or, contact the New York State Department of Health: Covidproviderinfo@health.ny.gov
Coverage & Liability Questions
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Is Telemedicine covered under my MLMIC Professional Liability Policy? – Updated 3/20
Posted 3/19/20; Updated 3/20/20
Yes, MLMIC will cover you for potential claims arising from medical services delivered using telemedicine subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of your policy if:
- You are licensed in the state where the patient is being treated.
- This includes states with licensure reciprocity with New York;
- The temporary waiver of requirements that out-of-state providers be licensed in the state where they are providing services when they are licensed in another state (this applies to both Medicare and Medicaid); and
- Any future Federal regulation that will allow doctors and other medical professionals to practice across state lines, even if they are not licensed to practice in a particular state;
- You are practicing within the scope and specialty listed on your declaration page.
If you have additional questions regarding coverage, please contact MLMIC Underwriting at (800) ASK-MLMIC (1-800-275-6564).
- You are licensed in the state where the patient is being treated.
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Does telemedicine expose me to additional medical liability risk and how do I mitigate those risks?
Posted 3/19/20
Maybe. The same standard of care applies, but you will be providing that care in new situations and in new ways. Telemedicine potentially exposes a physician to increased risk simply because the patient is not physically present for testing and examination. In addition, physicians will need to address the privacy concerns mentioned above. Some ways to mitigate these risks include, but are not limited to:
- Create, maintain and update medical records for all telehealth provided similarly to an in-office visit;
- Adhere to the same follow-up care requirements as in-office visits; and
- Remember that any issuance of professional advice or treatment, even if gratuitous, is considered part of a physician-patient relationship
- Keep updated on the literature regarding the use of telemedicine in the COVID-19 environment;
- Keep updated on the use of telemedicine provided by State and Federal agencies;
- Keep updated with risk management and legal updates by MLMIC;
In the age of COVID-19 telemedicine represents a key component in the diagnosis and treatment of the virus. It is vitally important that physicians practicing telemedicine keep apprised of changes that will play a role in their delivery of essential medical services during this time of crisis. Additional information may be obtained through MLMIC at tgray@mlmic.com and Fager Amsler Keller & Schoppmann, LLP at amercado@fakslaw.com and nmayskinner@fakslaw.com
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Am I immune from liability for treating COVID-19 patients? – Updated 5/1
Posted 3/17/20; Updated 5/1/20
New York State and the federal governments have passed or declared immunities with limited protections from liability for healthcare professionals and entities. Each act and declaration varies, and each provides an exception for gross negligence or willful misconduct. For specific questions, please email mvanauken@fakslaw.com or call 518-786-2880.
New York passed legislation, the Emergency Disaster Treatment Protection Act, that provides immunity to healthcare professionals and health care facilities from any civil or criminal liability, meaning that they are not liable for any harm or damages, alleged to have been sustained as a result of an act or omission in the course of arranging for or providing the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of COVID-19; or the assessment or care of an individual with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19; or the care of any other individual who presents at a health care facility or to a health care professional during the period of the COVID-19 emergency declaration.
The federal government has enacted the CARES Act Legislation, which provides that a volunteer healthcare professional will not be liable under federal or state law for any harm caused by (1) an act or omission of the professional in their services related to the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of COVID-19 or (2) the assessment or care of the health of a human being related to an actual or suspected case of COVID-19.
The federal government issued a declaration pursuant to the federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act), which provides certain liability protections for licensed health professionals and entities related to prescribing, administering, or dispensing “Covered Countermeasures” – defined as “any antiviral, any other drug, any biologic, any diagnostic, any other device, or any vaccine, used to treat, diagnose, cure, prevent, or mitigate COVID-19, or the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 or a virus mutating therefrom, or any device used in the administration of any such product, and all components and constituent materials of any such product.”
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How is MLMIC supporting volunteering physicians returning to practice to battle COVID-19?
Posted 5/1/20
MLMIC is pleased to extend medical professional liability coverage to retired physicians who were last insured with MLMIC and are coming back to volunteer to provide care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more.
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If I come out of retirement to assist during the COVID-19 pandemic, will it terminate my free tail coverage with MLMIC? Will I be covered for the work I am returning to do under my free tail coverage?
Posted 3/23/20
If you come out of retirement to assist during the COVID-19 pandemic, it will not terminate your free tail coverage from MLMIC, nor will it alter your ability to report claims from your expired policy. But, you will need new coverage for the work you are returning to do. You can check to see if you have this coverage from your employer or hospital, or if you would like to speak with us about providing this coverage, please call or email us.
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What is ‘suspension of practice’?
Posted 3/24/20
When we underwrite you and your practice, ‘suspension of practice’ means that you are no longer providing any professional services for a period up to one year. Under these circumstances, you may request MLMIC to suspend your policy. If approved, an endorsement will be issued to remove coverage from your policy while it is suspended. You should notify MLMIC in advance of the date you wish to return to practice so that your coverage may be reinstated on a timely basis.
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If I suspend my policy will it reduce my premium?
Posted 3/24/20
Yes, claims made policyholders can receive a discount during the suspension period and can still report claims which relate to professional services provided prior to the suspension period. Occurrence policyholders do not pay premium during the suspension period. For more specifics, and/or any questions, please contact the MLMIC Underwriting Department.
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What happens if I provide professional services while the policy is suspended?
Posted 3/24/20
There would be no coverage for a claim resulting from professional services provided (or that should have been provided) during the period of suspension.
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What if I still need to provide professional services while my policy is suspended?
Posted 3/24/20
If you believe you still need to provide professional services while your policy is suspended (e.g., provide medical advice, fill prescriptions, respond to an emergency, etc.), then your policy should not be suspended. You may wish to consider part-time coverage instead.
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During the state of emergency and disaster in New York, will medical care and treatment that is outside of a physician’s normal practice be covered under their MLMIC Insurance Company policy?
Posted 3/27/20
Yes, a physician’s policy with MLMIC Insurance Company will cover their medical care and treatment that is outside of their normal practice so long as it is taken in support of New York State’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Executive Orders issued by the Governor of New York State
| 4.21 May 22, 2023 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.21, will be in effect through June 8, 2023. This executive order is a straight extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after June 8 for a period of time up to 30 days or the Governor can choose not to act and let the entire Executive Order 4 expire. Read the full executive order |
| 4.20 April 22, 2023 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.20, will be in effect through May 22, 2023. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.19 March 23, 2023 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.19, will be in effect through April 22, 2023. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.18 February 21, 2023 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.18, will be in effect through March 23, 2023. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 with four modifications of the original Executive Order 4, which means these suspensions/modifications of certain New York State laws or regulations will no longer be in effect:
This executive order can be extended after March 23 for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.17 January 22, 2023 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.17, will be in effect through February 21, 2023. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.16 December 23, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.16, will be in effect through January 23, 2023. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.15 November 23, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.15, will be in effect through December 23, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.14 October 27, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.14, will be in effect through November 26, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.13 September 27, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.13, will be in effect through October 27, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.12 August 28, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.12, will be in effect through September 27, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 with two modifications of the original Executive Order 4. Executive Order 4 required all health insurers and health plans to suspend their preauthorization, concurrent review and, for in-network hospitals, retrospective review for inpatient and outpatient hospital services, upon receipt of a hospital’s signed certification that such suspension was needed to increase the availability of the hospital’s health care staff. Additionally, the timeframes for a hospital to submit an internal or external appeal from a utilization review determination were tolled in accordance with EO 4. EO 4.12 now terminates the suspension of these reviews by health insurers and health plans and begins the application of the timeframes for hospitals to submit an appeal. This executive order can be extended after September 27 for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.11 July 29, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.11, will be in effect through August 28, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.10 June 29, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.10, will be in effect through July 29, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.9 May 30, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.9, will be in effect through June 29, 2022. This executive order is a straight 30 day extension of Executive Order 4 and does not contain any additional modifications of either the original Executive Order 4 or subsequent extensions of the original order. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.8 April 30, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.8, will be in effect through May 30, 2022. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. In addition, Executive Order 4.8 eliminates the suspension of the Education Law and implementing regulations governing the practice of nurse practitioners. The law and regulations now apply, which as you may recall reestablishes all of the provisions of the Nurse Practitioner (“NP”) Modernization Act. This Act was made permanent in this year’s state budget and has since 2014 allowed NPs with over 3600 hours of clinical practice to practice without a Written Practice Agreement with a physician and exempted them from the requirement of practice protocols or chart reviews. What the prior Executive Order 4 and its extension orders through 4.7 had done was also allow any NP, regardless of their hours of clinical practice, to practice without a Written Practice Agreement or comply with practice protocols or chart reviews. Read the full executive order |
| 4.7 April 1, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.7, will be in effect through April 30, 2022. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. In addition, Executive Order 4.7 stopped the suspension of laws NY Public Health Law (“PHL”) section 2828 (1) and PHL section 2895-b (3). These provisions, which are now in effect as of April 1, contained the “safe staffing” direct care spending and daily average staffing hours rules for nursing homes. Read the full executive order |
| March 18, 2022 | The HERO Act, which requires all NYS workplaces to establish and maintain a safety plan to protect employees from exposure to COVID, expired on March 17. Read more |
| February 27, 2022 | Governor Hochul removed the state mask requirement in NYS schools, effective March 2, 2022. Read more |
| February 23, 2022 | Governor Hochul announced establishment of 39 new pop-up vaccination sites as part of #VaxForKids campaign to increase Covid vaccination rates among children and adolescents. Read more |
| February 9, 2022 | All health care settings regulated by the NYS Department of Health and other related stage agencies will continue to require masks. Read more |
| 4.6 March 1, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.6, will be in effect through March 31, 2022. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.5 January 30, 2022 |
Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.5, will be in effect until March 1, 2022. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Read the full executive order |
| 4.3 December 28, 2021 |
1) Original Executive Order 4, issued September 27, 2021 and in effect through October 27th. This Executive Order was issued by Governor Hochul to deal with the NY health care workforce staffing issues in light of the implementation of mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY Health care workers and resulting staffing shortages. In addition, below is a summary of a portion of the pertinent provisions: Workforce Flexibilities:
Administrative Flexibilities:
For more details, see attached Executive Order 4. 2) Please find attached Governor Hochul’s 30 day extension, EO 4.1, of the previously issued Executive Order No 4, to deal with the NY health care workforce staffing issues in light of the implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all health care workers in NYS. This Executive Order was issued on October 27 and is in full force and effect until November 26, after which it could be continued for another 30 days. In addition to continuing the prior Exec Order 4’s terms and conditions, it adds a few new ones. Among the new provisions are those to authorize certain medical personnel to administer COVID and flu vaccines and COVID tests. For further details, see attached Exec Order 4.1. 3) Please find attached Governor Hochul’s 30 day extension of Executive Order 4.1, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues in light of the implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all health care workers in NY. This Executive Order is now in effect until December 26, 2021, after which time it could be extended for an additional 30 days. For further details, see attached Exec Order 4.2. 4) Please find attached Governor Hochul’s latest extension of her Executive Order 4, which contains measures to address the NY health care workforce staffing issues resulting from implementation of the mandatory vaccine requirement for all NY healthcare providers and staff. This newest Executive Order, EO 4.3, will be in effect until January 25, 2022. It can be extended after that date for another 30 days. Also note it added a new provision regarding Surgical Technologists (“STs”). The EO permits healthcare facilities to continue to employ, or contract for ST services, those STs who failed to meet minimum standards for STs within 2 years from start of employment or the contracting of ST services. For further details, see attached Exec Order 4.3. |
| 202.90 January 12, 2021 |
MLMIC policyholders are advised to review Governor Andrew Cuomo’s latest Executive Order, which expands the list of persons authorized to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to include pharmacy technicians certified by a nationally accredited pharmacy technician certification program acceptable to the New York State Department of Health. The rules governing COVID-19 vaccinations are evolving and changing rapidly, for that reason policyholders are encouraged to remain up-to-date with new executive orders. Read the full executive order |
| 202.72 November 3, 2020 |
MLMIC policyholders are advised to review Governor Andrew Cuomo’s latest Executive Order, which directs physicians and healthcare personnel to report COVID-19 and influenza test results to the New York State Department of Health within 24 hours of receipt rather than 3 hours, as was previously outlined in a September 21 notice issued by the NYS Commissioner of Health. Policyholders are encouraged to remain vigilant with staying up-to-date with new executive orders given the ever shifting landscape. Read the full executive order |
| 202.44 June 24, 2020 |
The Governor recently issued Executive Order 202.44, which contains numerous modifications of law impacting health care. These modifications are effective until July 21, unless extended further by a subsequent executive order. Among those modifications are the following:
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| S08416 June 19, 2020 |
During the COVID-19 pandemic, certain Executive Orders have relaxed some of the regulations and laws for providing telehealth. On June 17, 2020, the Governor signed into legislation Chapter 124 of the Laws of 2020, which is the first permanent change with respect to telehealth. This legislation allows for the use of audio-only communication when providing telehealth, which was previously not permissible under Public Health Law §2999-cc(4). This allows for reimbursement to healthcare providers of audio-only in addition to video communications related to telehealth. We will keep you advised of further changes as telehealth continues to evolve. Read the bill summary |
| 202.40 June 12, 2020 |
The Governor recently issued Executive Order 202.40, which contained one modification of law impacting the health care industry. This modification of law is effective until July 9, unless extended further by a subsequent executive order.
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| 202.36 June 3, 2020 |
The Governor recently issued Executive Order 202.36, which contained one modification of law impacting physicians. This modification of law is effective until July 2, unless extended further by a subsequent executive order.
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| No. 202.28 May 8, 2020 |
The Governor recently issued Executive Order 202.28, which extended most provisions of previous Executive Orders, to June 6. Among those provisions extended were the following of note:
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| No. 202.25 April 30, 2020 |
This Executive Order permits certain hospitals in certain New York State counties to begin performing non-essential, i.e., elective, surgeries. Hospitals and other facilities, including office-based surgery locations, authorized to perform surgeries may begin to perform non-essential surgeries provided they meet certain criteria. The criteria consists of the following:
Here is a list of eligible counties: Allegany, Broome, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chenango, Delaware, Dutchess, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, Putnam, Saratoga, Schoharie, Schuyler, St. Lawrence, Steuben, Sullivan, Tompkins, Ulster, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.24 April 29, 2020 |
This Executive Order authorizes, through May 25, licensed pharmacies to administer the tests to detect COVID-19 or its antibodies in patients suspected of having COVID-19 or of having recovered from COVID-19. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.18 April 21, 2020 |
This executive order suspends and modifies various public health law and education law provisions and regulations, until May 16, to maximize the pool of health care professionals available to assist the State in the response to COVID-19. Among those of particular note are the following:
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| No. 202.16 April 14, 2020 |
This executive order suspends or modifies certain laws through May 12, 2020. Among this order’s provisions are the following with an impact on health care:
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| No. 202.14 April 7, 2020 |
This executive order broadly continues the directives in previous executive orders issued since March 7 regarding the COVID-19 outbreak to May 7. Among the provisions that regard health care and malpractice liability are the following:
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| No. 202.12 March 28, 2020 |
This Executive Order contains one health care matter directing hospitals and health care facilities to permit one person to be present who is a support person for a patient giving birth. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.11 March 27, 2020 |
Continuing the State’s efforts to ensure sufficient numbers of healthcare professionals, nursing graduates (RN and LPN programs) may be employed for 180 days with supervision of a registered professional nurse and endorsement from the employing hospital or nursing home, and midwives licensed and in good standing from any state or Canada may practice in New York State without penalty. Also, physicians assisting the State’s response in a SUNY facility are provided with the defense and indemnification, as if a state employee. This Order also declares a modification of EO 202.10 on the dispensing of hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine by pharmacist and declares that COVID-19 guidance issued by DOH are immediately effective and supersede any prior conflicting guidance issued, including local health departments. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.10 - Summary of Immunity Provisions March 25, 2020 |
This Executive Order ensures that New York State has adequate hospital bed capacity, supplies, and providers to treat patients affected with COVID-19, as well as patients afflicted with other maladies. To assist in this goal, the Governor has provided immunities to licensed healthcare individuals through April 22, 2020. Read the summary by Mia D. VanAuken, Esq., Fager Amsler Keller & Schoppmann, LLP |
| No. 202.10 - Executive Summary March 25, 2020 |
New York’s Governor declared a state of disaster emergency for the entire State of New York on March 7, 2020, which authorizes him to temporarily suspend or modify, to the extent necessary, any statute, local law, ordinance, order, rule, or regulation of any agency and authorizes him to issue directives to cope with the disaster. Read the full article by Mia D. VanAuken, Esq., Fager Amsler Keller & Schoppmann, LLP |
| No. 202.6 March 18, 2020 |
This executive order primarily mandates that most New York businesses reduce their in-office workforce by 50 percent. The order makes an exception for essential businesses providing essential services. The following is a list of essential health care operations:
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| No. 202.5 March 18, 2020 |
This executive order contains numerous suspensions and modifications of New York laws and regulations. Among those of particular note are the following:
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| No. 202.4 March 16, 2020 |
This Executive Order directed local and state employees whose position is non-essential to either work from home or take leave. In addition, the Order mandated closure of all New York State schools until April 1. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.3 March 16, 2020 |
This Executive Order limited gatherings in any one location to no more than 50 persons. The Order also required food service establishments to no longer serve food on premises but only via delivery or pick up and it closed all gyms, fitness centers and movie theaters in the state. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.2 March 14, 2020 |
This Executive Order concerned suspension and modification of law governing elections in New York State. It also imposed certain requirements on school districts closing due to a local state of emergency. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202.1 March 12, 2020 |
This Executive Order suspends various laws and regulations in order to permit expansion of services and temporary facilities for health and human service providers. Also, the order suspended laws and regulations relating to child care to allow flexibility for providers while continuing to protect children’s health and safety. Read the full executive order |
| No. 202 March 7, 2020 |
This Executive Order suspended or modified a variety of New York Education Law and Public Health Law provisions in order to accomplish the following:
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MLMIC Blog Posts
| July 29, 2021 | Q&A: Can Providers Refuse to Treat Patients Who Are Unvaccinated Against COVID-19? What are providers’ options when patients refuse to get the COVID-19 vaccine? The law firm of Fager Amsler Keller & Schoppmann, LLC, informs providers about what they can, should and should not do in the face of such a situation. Read More |
| July 21, 2021 | Q&A: Expired Pandemic-Related Executive Orders This Q&A shares legal perspective on expired pandemic-related executive orders pertaining to healthcare delivery in New York State. Read More |
| May 21, 2021 | Experts Caution Against Opioid Issuance for Long-COVID A troubling percentage of long-COVID patients are using opioids to address the scope of symptoms that can cripple one’s health for months after a diagnosis. Read More |
| April 14, 2021 | How to Address Pandemic-Related Patient Safety Threats The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Patient Safety Network’s annual perspective summarizes COVID-19’s impact on patient safety and strategies for addressing these evolving challenges. Read More |
| March 17, 2021 | Tips to Strengthen IoMT Security at Hospitals and Health Networks Vulnerabilities related to the pandemic are amplifying the threat of cyberattacks on health networks. Understanding key IoMT-associated risks can help mitigate risk and minimize the potential scope of damage. Read More |
| March 17, 2021 | ECRI Publishes Top Patient Safety Issues for 2021 ECRI’s 2021 list of patient safety concerns can help health systems effectively identify, prioritize and respond to patient safety threats. Read More |
| March 3, 2021 | FDA Issues EUA for Monoclonal Antibody Treatment of COVID-19 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for simultaneous administration of monoclonal antibodies bamlanivimab and etesevimab to treat COVID-19 patients who meet specific criteria. Read More |
| March 2, 2021 | ISMP Publishes Top Medication Errors and Hazards for 2021 ISMP says common medication mishaps can be prevented with proper attention and prioritization that results in system and practice changes. Read More |
| February 22, 2021 | Assessing Patient Readiness for Elective Surgery Following COVID-19 Guidance published by Oregon Health & Science University scientists outlines a preoperative protocol for surgical care teams to evaluate the readiness of previously COVID-positive patients for elective procedures. Read More |
| February 18, 2021 | FDA Issues Alert on SARS-CoV-2 Viral Mutations and the Associated Impact on Testing The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is evaluating the potential impact of SARS-CoV-2 viral mutations on authorized molecular tests. Read More |
| February 17, 2021 | Beyond the Behavioral Health Unit: Managing Mental Health, a Webinar by MLMIC and HANYS On March 24, MLMIC and HANYS will host “Beyond the Behavioral Health Unit: Managing Mental Health.” This webinar will outline strategies for meeting the mental health needs of patients in the emergency department, the general inpatient unit and the ambulatory care setting Read More |
| February 16, 2021 | Risk Management Tip: Effective Telehealth Patient Engagement There are key factors to consider when determining whether a telehealth encounter is the right choice for an individual patient. Read More |
| February 9, 2021 | ECRI Releases Top Health Technology Hazards for 2021 The Emergency Care Research Institute’s 2021 list of technology hazards can help healthcare facilities effectively manage risks involving the use of medical devices and systems. Read More |
| February 8, 2021 | Five Strategies for Supporting Healthcare Professionals During the Pandemic An alert issued by The Joint Commission highlights the critical importance of supporting clinicians bearing the weight of the COVID-19 crisis. Read More |
| February 5, 2021 | Becker’s Releases Key Patient Safety Challenges for 2021 To improve patient safety, Becker’s says healthcare leaders should prioritize 10 challenges currently at the forefront of care. Read More |
| January 20, 2021 | ISMP’s Safe Practices for Preventing COVID-19 Vaccine Error ISMP advises healthcare providers to adopt safe practices to help prevent adverse events associated with distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine. Read More |
| December 30, 2020 | Experts say NCITs May Not Adequately Screen for COVID-19 Experts say temperature screenings taken with non-contact infrared thermometers may be largely ineffective for curbing the spread of COVID-19 because the instrument is influenced by numerous variables. Read More |
| December 15, 2020 | FDA Cautions Use of Face Masks with Metal During MRIs Poses Patient Safety Risk The U.S. Food and Drug Administration cautions that patients can be injured if wearing face masks with metal features or coating during an MRI exam. Read More |
| December 11, 2020 | HHS Expands Telehealth Coverage of COVID-19 Countermeasures HHS confirms physicians can deliver telehealth services across state lines for covered services to fight the spread of COVID-19. Read More |
| December 9, 2020 | NYSDOH Guidance to Enroll as a COVID-19 Vaccine Administrator Physicians interested in offering the COVID-19 vaccine should follow the NYS Department of Health’s instructions for enrollment. Read More |
| November 24, 2020 | MLMIC Insight: Delays in Breast Cancer Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic Although the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of patient care, timely follow-up for patients with potential diagnoses of breast cancer is essential for preventing delayed treatment and care. Read More |
| November 16, 2020 | NYSDOH Guidance for Physicians Interested in Administering the COVID-19 Vaccine The NYS Department of Health directs physicians interested in administering the COVID-19 vaccine in their practice or clinic to enroll in the New York State Immunization Information System. Read More |
| November 11, 2020 | FDA Grants an EUA for Bamlanivimab to Treat COVID-19 Patients Who Meet Certain Criteria The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted Eli Lilly and Company an emergency use authorization for bamlanivimab to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adult and pediatric patients. Read More |
| November 6, 2020 | Prediction Tools to Manage and Treat COVID-19 To support policyholders as they navigate the pandemic, MLMIC has assembled a summary of predictive tools and technology to guide management and treatment of COVID-19. Read More |
| November 4, 2020 | Study Says Improved Treatment for COVID-19 is Reducing Mortality Rates Improved treatment of COVID-19 is reducing mortality rates among those hospitalized for the infection, but experts caution the virus remains dangerous. Read More |
| October 28, 2020 | FDA Approves Veklury for Treatment of COVID-19 Patients Who Meet Certain Criteria The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the antiviral drug remdesivir, sold as Veklury, to treat COVID-19 patients who meet specific criteria. Read More |
| October 23, 2020 | NIHR Identifies Four Syndromes Commonly Experienced by Patients With “Long COVID” Based on a series of patient testimonials, the National Institute for Health Research says that ‘long COVID’ could actually be up to four different syndromes. Read More |
| October 7, 2020 | Updated COVID-19 Reporting Requirements for New York State Healthcare Professionals An update to New York State Executive Order 202.61 says healthcare personnel who order and administer COVID-19 tests must now document and report if the patient attends, works or volunteers in a school. Read More |
| October 7, 2020 | New Prediction Model Can Help Forecast Severity of COVID-19 A new prediction model, called the COVID Inpatient Risk Calculator, can help forecast if a patient is at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 or dying from the virus. Read More |
| September 23, 2020 | Experts say Online Searchers for Certain GI Symptoms May be Linked to Rates of COVID-19 A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology indicates that Google searches for a number of common gastrointestinal symptoms may predict future COVID-19 infection rates in a region. Read More |
| September 21, 2020 | Experts Say a COVID-19 Infection May Result in Lasting Health Consequences A growing number of patients infected with COVID-19 are experiencing lasting and serious health conditions caused by the virus. Read More |
| September 11, 2020 | CDC Says Frontline Healthcare Providers with Undetected COVID-19 Infections Could be Spreading the Virus CDC says understanding the prevalence of and factors associated with COVID-19 infection among frontline providers is essential for developing effective strategies that minimize the spread of the virus in healthcare settings. Read More |
| September 8, 2020 | How to Prevent Medication Errors When Faced With the Pressures of Pandemic Care The hectic pace of pandemic care may contribute to medication errors. It’s critical to recognize this risk by putting into place safeguards that support identifying and preventing these errors. Read More |
| September 2, 2020 | Emergency Regulation from NYSDOH Increases Testing for COVID-19 and Influenza To ensure integrity statewide in data reporting related to COVID-19 and influenza, NYSDOH has announced an emergency regulation to increase testing in all patients with known exposure or symptoms. The mandate includes postmortem testing in specific scenarios within 48 hours of death. Read More |
| August 28, 2020 | Amid the Pandemic, Seeking Emergency Medical Care for Heart Attack Symptoms Remains Critical Mayo Clinic researchers say the correlation between the decline in online searches for heart attack symptoms and fewer emergency department visits for acute heart problems raises concern that some patients may be avoiding care due to COVID-19. Read More |
| August 11, 2020 | Strategies for Reducing Diagnostic Errors Related to COVID-19 To prevent COVID-19-related diagnostic errors, physicians and healthcare organizations must address cognitive biases that are often present during clinical decision-making. Read More |
| August 11, 2020 | CDC Says COVID-19 Can Result in Prolonged Recovery, Even Among Young Adults Research conducted by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests COVID-19 can result in prolonged illness, even among young adults with no underlying chronic medical conditions and those who experience mild symptoms. Read More |
| August 7, 2020 | MSSNY and MLMIC Partner to Provide Physician Wellness Support MLMIC has partnered with The Medical Society of the State of New York in its effort to provide New York State physicians with resources to address mental health challenges resulting from today’s medical environment. Read More |
| August 4, 2020 | Key Considerations to Help Healthcare Organizations Optimize Telehealth Use Experts have identified key themes related to telehealth they say have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and can help physicians optimize its use. Read More |
| July 29, 2020 | CDC Updates Guidance on Isolation for COVID-19 Patients Revised recommendations issued by The Centers for Disease Control say those who test positive for SARS-CoV-2 should isolate for at least 10 days after symptoms first appear. Read More |
| July 20, 2020 | FDA Issues Warning About Hand Sanitizer Products Contaminated with Methanol FDA is cautioning healthcare providers about an increase in hand sanitizer products contaminated with methanol, a substance that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin or life-threatening when ingested. Read More |
| July 14, 2020 | NYSDOH Requirements for Healthcare Personnel Returning to Work After COVID-19 Exposure or Infection A NYSDOH advisory outlines updated requirements for healthcare personnel returning to work after COVID-19 exposure and/or infection. Read More |
| July 2, 2020 | CDC Expands Criteria of Those at Higher Risk for COVID-19 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says additional age-related factors and underlying medical conditions increase an individual’s risk of severe COVID-19. Read More |
| July 1, 2020 | July 10 Webinar on Emerging from the COVID-19 Pandemic On July 10, MLMIC and MedPro Group will present a one-hour webinar with guidance and strategies for protecting medical practices while emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| June 23, 2020 | New Risk Prediction Model Can Help Inform Clinical Care Decisions Related to COVID-19 A new risk prediction calculator, called the nomogram, can help physicians forecast a patient’s risk of testing positive for COVID-19, as well as the severity of the disease. Read More |
| June 17, 2020 | NYSDOH Updates Requirement for COVID-19 Testing Prior to an Elective Surgery Amended guidance issued by the New York State Department of Health directs hospitals and healthcare facilities to test patients for COVID-19 five days prior to an elective surgery. Read More |
| June 17, 2020 | In Response to the Pandemic, Healthcare Organizations Should Consider Four Key Changes Based on the widespread impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, experts say healthcare organizations should consider four key changes to mitigate the effects of any future large-scale disruptions. Read More |
| June 16, 2020 | Strategies for Managing Physician Mental Health Problems Caused by the Pandemic The Joint Commission shares important considerations and guidance related to mental health problems among healthcare professionals caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| June 10, 2020 | New CMS Regulations Address High Rates of COVID-19 in Nursing Homes Due to high COVID-19 rates in nursing homes, CMS says it will increase enforcement for facilities with persistent infection control violations and impose enforcement actions for lower level infection control deficiencies. Read More |
| June 8, 2020 | “Expression of Concern” Issued About Data Cited in Two Major COVID-19 Studies Recent statements issued by the New England Journal of Medicine and the Lancet share significant concern related to the credibility of two major studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of hydroxychloroquine to prevent and treat COVID-19. Read More |
| June 8, 2020 | MLMIC Launches Podcast with Guidance for Reopening Medical Practices To support policyholders as they resume operations, MLMIC has recorded a podcast with recommendations and key considerations for safely and effectively reopening. Read More |
| May 28, 2020 | Healthcare Providers Are Reminded to Use Caution When Prescribing Antibiotics During the Pandemic A news report issued by the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy shares concern related to extensive use of antibiotics to treat COVID-19, a practice that may be accelerating antibiotic resistance. Read More |
| May 28, 2020 | Updated CDC Guidance on Delivering Dental Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic The CDC has updated its guidance on infection protection and control for dental practices delivering care during the pandemic. Read More |
| May 26, 2020 | NYSDOH Directive for Delivering Preventive and Follow-up Care During the Pandemic A New York State Department of Health advisory says it is critical for medical providers to continue delivering services, specifically routine preventive and follow-up care, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| May 22, 2020 | NYSDOH Rules for Resuming Elective Outpatient Surgeries When resuming elective outpatient surgeries and non-urgent procedures, ambulatory surgery centers, office-based surgery practices and diagnostic and treatment centers must follow guidance issued by NYSDOH. Read More |
| May 12, 2020 | COVID-19 Mental Health Hotline Now Available to Physicians A new physician support hotline can help physicians navigate and address mental health challenges resulting from the pandemic. Read More |
| May 12, 2020 | Immunity Protection in Executive Order 202.10 is No Longer Needed, Enacted Public Health Law Provides Broader Immunity Under the newly enacted Article 30-D of New York Public Health Law, physicians are granted broader immunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| May 7, 2020 | Strategies for Reopening Medical and Dental Practices Post Pandemic MLMIC and MedPro Group have partnered to develop a series of checklists that can help hospitals, medical offices, surgical facilities and dental providers prepare for post-COVID-19 operations. Read More |
| April 28, 2020 | PPE Guidance for Dental Practices as Conditions Change During Pandemic When dental practices return to more standard care, they’ll have to do so while mitigating the spread of the virus. The ADA’s Interim Mask and Face Shield Guidelines are available to help them prioritize the safety of patients, dentists and staff as long as COVID-19 infection remains a risk. Read More |
| April 27, 2020 | NIH Guidance for Treating Patients with COVID-19 National Institutes of Health says management and treatment of patients with COVID-19 should correlate with the severity of the illness, ranging from asymptotic to critical. Read More |
| April 23, 2020 | Cuomo Permits Some New York State Healthcare Facilities to Resume Elective Surgeries Healthcare facilities and hospitals permitted to resume elective procedures are advised to take steps that ensure patient safety and mitigate risks related to COVID-19. Read More |
| April 22, 2020 | Recommendations to Help Physicians Boost Cybersecurity While Working Remotely The American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association warn there is an increased risk of cyber threats to medical data due to the remote work force and the surge in telemedicine resulting from the pandemic. Read More |
| April 17, 2020 | Updated CDC Guidance for COVID-19 Infection Control Updated COVID-19 infection control recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can help reduce risk to medical facilities and its healthcare personnel. Read More |
| April 13, 2020 | New Research Highlights Concerns Related to Use of Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine and Azithromycin for Treating COVID-19 Patients New research indicates there is weak evidence that chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin can effectively treat and prevent COVID-19 and the drugs carry potentially serious risks. Read More |
| April 10, 2020 | New York Public Health Law Provides Immunity for Facilities and Professionals Responding to COVID-19 New York has enacted the Emergency Disaster Treatment Protection Act, a new statute in the Public Health Law that provides healthcare facilities and professionals immunity from civil or criminal liability when delivering care related to COVID-19. Read More |
| April 10, 2020 | Cuomo Executive Order Extends the Suspension and Modifications of Healthcare Regulations during COVID-19 Pandemic A new Executive Order issued by New York Governor Cuomo continues certain healthcare and malpractice liability directives outlined in previous Executive Orders that address the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| April 6, 2020 | Mitigating Cybersecurity Threats During the COVID-19 Pandemic Experts caution hospitals and healthcare organizations about an increased risk of cyberattacks during the COVID-19 emergency. Read More |
| April 3, 2020 | Legal Risks and Tips for Volunteer Physicians During the COVID-19 Pandemic MLMIC’s tips and legal risks for policyholders to consider when volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| April 3, 2020 | Experts Say There is No Evidence NSAIDs are Unsafe for COVID-19 Patients New research refutes speculation that NSAIDs can negatively impact patients with COVID-19. Read More |
| April 3, 2020 | Facing COVID-19 in New York: A Letter From MLMIC CMO Dr. John Lombardo MLMIC CMO describes the heroics of his physician colleagues during the COVID-19 pandemic and expresses his pride in and gratitude for the medical profession. Read More |
| April 2, 2020 | CMS Rules for Ambulatory Surgery Centers Used to Expand Hospital Capacity During the COVID-19 Pandemic CMS has issued new guidance for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) used to increase hospital capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| April 2, 2020 | New Flexibility from CMS Will Help Hospitals Manage the COVID-19 Pandemic New CMS waivers grant hospitals and healthcare systems a number of temporary flexibilities designed to help manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
| April 1, 2020 | When Appropriate, FDA Permits Use of Hydroxychloroquine and Chloroquine to Treat COVID-19 The FDA issued emergency use authorization for anti-malarial drugs hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients when deemed appropriate by a healthcare provider. Read More |
| March 26, 2020 | Cuomo Executive Order Grants Immunity to Healthcare Providers During COVID-19 Emergency New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has issued an Executive Order granting immunity to healthcare providers responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s MLMIC’s statement on its meaning and significance. Read More |
| March 26, 2020 | MSSNY Offers COVID-19 Pandemic Resources for New York Physicians The Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY) has assembled a number of critical resources for New York physicians as they care for patients during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Read More |
| March 18, 2020 | Guidance on Using Telemedicine for Coronavirus Physicians are reminded to adhere to New York State policy when delivering telehealth services for coronavirus. Read More |
| March 17, 2020 | Due to COVID-19, ADA Recommends Dentists Postpone Elective Procedures Out of concern for the health of patients and staff, the American Dental Association (ADA) is recommending that dentists postpone elective procedures for the next three weeks. Read More |
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