STRATEGIES FOR SUPPORTING NURSING HOMES IN THE PANDEMIC RECOVERY AND BEYOND

Abstract

Abstract Best practice strategies are needed to address current and ongoing COVID-19 challenges for nursing home (NH) staff, residents, and families, including vaccine-related issues and staff, resident, and family mental health. Saint Louis University and University of Iowa Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Programs along with Show-Me ECHO have engaged NH, community, and clinician stakeholders to identify and prioritize gaps in education/support needs, target audiences, and delivery methods. We conducted interviews with stakeholders at all levels of NH staff, community professionals, family members, and professional organizations to identify and prioritize needs. Guided by these findings and advisory groups at partner organizations, the collaborative developed outreach and curriculum strategies targeted to prioritized needs. This presentation emphasizes strategies for stakeholder engagement, identifying education/support needs, and outreach to NH workforce and care partners, and experiences and lessons learned in increasing staff vaccination rates will be shared. Implications for future policy and advocacy are highlighted.