The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recently announced the step-down of the COVID-19 Testing Support for LTC facilities.

Here is an overview of what this means for facilities, provided by DHS:

• The final date for ordering PCR and antigen test supplies, including self-tests and point-of-care tests, is June 15, 2023.
• The final date for PCR lab diagnostics services will be June 15, 2023.
• The final date for courier services to transport specimens to the lab will be June 15, 2023.

DHS encourages testing through the deadlines listed above. If ordering antigen tests, plan ahead to ensure that you have enough supplies to conduct repeat testing as recommended by the Food and Drug Administration.

WHCA/WiCAL has already begun to engage DHS on challenges this step-down could create for facilities, especially with uncertainties such as when/if CDC will alter its current standards and practices related to COVID testing in facilities.

If your facility experiences a COVID-19 outbreak, please contact your Local Public Health Department.

If you have questions on the DHS testing step-down, please contact: wicovidtest@wisconsin.gov