• Yesterday, we shared a special alert on Governor Hogan's announcement that non-emergent care can resume. We want to make sure you are aware of these key provisions in the Secretary of Health's new order:

• Healthcare facilities are required to self-certify that all criteria for safe reopening have been met by emailing a statement of attestation to secretary.health@maryland.gov and posting the self-certification prominently in the facility. We created a model self-certification document that you might find helpful.

• A portal has been created by the state for patients and other to submit complaints if healthcare facilities are not taking appropriate measures.

• The liability immunity that was extended to COVID-related care in Pub. Safety Art. § 14- 3A-06 or Health Gen. Art. § 18-907 will not apply to nonCOVID-related procedures or appointments. MedChi will seek more clarification on this and share any information we receive.

• The new directive requires that facilities have adequate supplies of PPE, continued social distancing and enhanced sanitation measures, and routine COVID-19 symptom screening. While these measures are critical, we want to share two great resources to help you implement an even more comprehensive array of safety measures. I would urge you to consider implementing these measures to help protect you from complaints or liability risk.
• Re-opening Checklist
• Roadmap for Resuming Elective Care

• Even with the resumption of non-emergent care, telehealth should continue to be utilized to every extent possible. We have a wealth of telehealth resources, including newly-updated guidelines on telehealth billing and coding.