The Alliance for Aging Research commented on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rule changes regarding Infection Prevention and Control Programs (IPCP) in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). The Alliance recommended:

• A full implementation within two years of the final rule
• CMS mandate the use of the CDC’s National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) be implemented for surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infections in LTCFs
• CMS work directly with the CDC to outline specific programs that LTCFs should follow to fulfill mandates
• CMS mandate the CDC’s CORE Elements for Antibiotic Stewardship in LTCFs
• Contact information for an Infection Prevention and Control Officer (IPCO) be made publicly available for family members of LTCF patients
• CMS should mandate the use of influenza vaccinations among direct-contact health care workers in LTCFs and set targets for vaccination rates