State health surveyors inspect and fine facilities who do not meet COVID-19 regulations, including testing. But in Maryland, the surveyors themselves are not required to be tested.
Dr. Joseph DeMattos Jr, president of the Health Facilities Association of Maryland, said state surveyors visit multiple nursing homes without getting tested. DeMattos said this increases the risk of spreading COVID-19.
“We have a responsibility as leaders in health care to test our state health inspectors for coronavirus regularly,” DeMattos said.
The federal government does not require states to test surveyors.
“We've long advocated for Maryland State surveyors to be tested regularly for the COVID-19 virus,” he said.
More than half of those who have died from COVID-19 in Maryland are nursing home and assisted living residents.
