What are the Joint Commission's expectations for implementing the updated CDC guidance regarding the routine use of masks (also known as source control) to ensure compliance ?

The CDC released updated information related to source control (routine masking) in healthcare settings that requires organization to look at the prevalence of COVID as well as the transmission rate of COVID in their areas. Based on this guidance, organizations are expected to develop a policy and procedure based on those data sets to determine when and if staff are to mask while in healthcare settings and providing direct patient care. In addition, organizations should determine if any state-specific requirements exist. Surveyors will determine compliance based on the organization's policy that is created following the above requirements. Non-compliance will be based on the organization's requirements.