The COVID-19 Exemption refers to temporary waivers established during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, to provide care in circumstances that would typically require specific credentials or licenses.This exemption emerged as a response to the overwhelming demand for healthcare services during the pandemic and allowed facilities to maintain staffing levels when licensed professionals were in short supply.
Why is it important?
The COVID-19 Exemption directly impacts patient care healthcare staffing during emergencies. It provides the necessary flexibility for healthcare facilities, allowing them to quickly respond to the healthcare crisis while ensuring that patients continue to receive care despite a shortage of licensed professionals.
It also aids in the professional requirement adjustments for nurses and practitioners who can step into roles that require certain state permissions or regulatory compliance.
What entity issues COVID-19 Exemptions?
The administration of COVID-19 Exemptions varies by state, allowing for swift responses based on local healthcare needs and legislative actions. The exempt regulations have primarily been enacted through state governors or public health agencies, with support from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other health-related federal bodies.
In which states is a COVID-19 Exemption relevant?
The COVID-19 Exemption has widespread relevance across the United States, as local governments have tailored exemptions based on their specific healthcare crisis conditions.
For example, states with significant outbreaks (like California, Texas, and New York) have enacted these exemptions more dynamically and may have different requirements based on their proclaimed states of emergency.
How to obtain a COVID-19 Exemption
Obtaining the COVID-19 Exemption varies by state and facility. Here’s a general step-by-step guide on how to navigate this process:
- Check State Regulations: Start by consulting your state's nursing board or public health department website. They provide up-to-date information on the specific requirements for COVID-19 exemptions.
- Eligibility Determination: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by your state, which may include having an active or inactive nursing license, fulfilling continuing education requirements, or providing proof of prior experience.
- Complete Application Process: Most states have simplified the application process for COVID-19 exemptions. This often includes online applications and may not require lengthy documentation compared to standard licensing procedures. It is critical to submit all necessary documents accurately.
- Temporary License or Certification: Upon approval, applicants usually receive a temporary license or acknowledgment that they can work under the COVID-19 exemption conditions. Ensure that you understand the scope of this certification, as practice limitations may apply.
- Practice Requirements: Once granted a COVID-19 exemption, nurses and practitioners must ensure compliance with any additional requirements laid out by the healthcare facility where they are employed.
Upload your COVID-19 Exemption to your Nursa profile
You’ll need to submit this exemption to Nursa to be considered for shifts in facilities that require it. Add it to your Nursa profile by following these steps:
- In the Nursa mobile app, tap the “Menu” in the top left corner
- Select “Profile”
- Scroll down to the “Credentials” section
- Tap “Add your Credential”
- Upload your nursing credential document (accepted file types include PDF, WORD, JPG, and PNG)
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