In order to provide the very best care for all of our residents and their families, our team at Sinceri Senior Living continues to monitor the latest COVID-19 updates from the CDC and WHO. This includes staying apprised of the latest developments surrounding preventative measures, recommended symptom management, and the development of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.
We have remained in constant contact with local, state, and federal authorities regarding timelines for public vaccine release dates and their plans for distribution. This is all to continue our mission of caring together as we maintain our highest priority: the health and safety of our residents and team members. As we move into the final weeks of 2020, our team will continue to vigilantly monitor all updates.
As of November 18, 2020, and in anticipation of the upcoming COVID-19 vaccine, JEA has already registered with the appropriate Federal Government authorities to be included in the federal allocation of the vaccine. The federal allocation program will provide the vaccine faster for our residents and team members compared to state allocation programs.
From our conversations with subject matter experts, JEA sources have indicated that the vaccine rollout will be divided into four phases. Most of our residents and our staff would be included in Phase One, which includes frontline doctors, nurses, first responders, nursing home workers, seniors in congregate living, and people of all ages with two or more risk factors. In our communities, vaccine rollout will be to those in the skilled units first, followed by the assisted living residents, and then independent living residents
Sinceri Senior Living already has standing policies and procedures that will be implemented for the delivery of the vaccine and follow the standard process used for the delivery of all other vaccines that we administer (e.g., PCP orders will be required, responsible party permission must be received).
JEA Community care teams will work with our providers, residents, and family members to ensure these procedures and safeguards are followed. Residents and staff will also have the option to opt-out of receiving the vaccine.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced a series of initiatives regarding the vaccine that directly impact our residents and our staff, including that the vaccine will be available at no cost to Medicare beneficiaries. Many other payer sources (Medicaid, private insurances, etc.) are expected to follow suit and waive all costs for the vaccine. Those without insurance will likely receive the vaccine at no cost through the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA) Provider Relief Fund.
As we continue to navigate the COVID landscape with the safety of our residents, families, and team members in mind, please do not hesitate to reach out to your local Sinceri Senior Living community with questions. Your partnership and collaboration in the care of your loved one are how we all achieve the best outcomes. Thank you for partnering with us in caring together and honoring aging.