The information below comes from the statement of deficiencies compiled by health inspectors and provided to AHCJ by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. It does not include the steps the hospital plans to take to fix the problem, known as a plan of correction. For that information, you should contact the hospital, your state health department or CMS. Accessing the document may require you to file a Freedom of Information Request. Information on doing so is available here.

COLUMBIA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 71 PROSPECT AVENUE HUDSON, NY 12534 July 22, 2020
VIOLATION: INFECTION CONTROL OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES Tag No: A0749
Based on observation, interview, and record review the facility failed to follow their policies for screening visitors for potential COVID-19 symptoms and exposure.

Findings include:

On 7/9/20 at 9:45 AM Health Department surveillance staff entered the facility through the main lobby to begin a Focused Infection Control Survey and to investigate a complaint. Surveillance staff announced to the front desk Public Relations Liaison our purpose for being there. Administrative staff were called and arrived shortly after. Administrative staff escorted surveillance staff to a conference room to discuss the intent of the survey. Surveillance activities were conducted. Surveillance staff were not screened for COVID-19 symptoms or exposure prior to entering the facility.

The policy titled "Visitation Program for All hospitalized Patients" was reviewed. This policy describes that all visitors will be checked-in, screened, and have a temperature check. The form titled "CMH Corona Virus Screening Questionnaire" was reviewed. This screening form contains screening criteria including common COVID-19 symptoms, a temperature check, and travel history. Interview with the Public Relations Liaison on 7/9/20 at 12:30 PM confirmed this to be the policy in use by the facility for visitors.