The Indiana National Guard will begin pulling out of long-term care facilities this weekend. Family and Social Services Administration Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dan Rusyniak announced a withdrawal strategy during Wednesday’s COVID-19 press conference.
“The end of this support will tie directly to the date that facilities have their second vaccine clinic,” he explained. “Service members will leave the facility approximately seven days after that second clinic date, and that will allow the soldiers to continue in the facility to provide support to the long-term care residents while they get their vaccine dose and their shot to returning to a more normal life.”
He cited a decline in the rate of outbreaks and deaths, thanks to the arrival of vaccines and the combined efforts of multiple state agencies. The pullout will start Sunday, with more Guardsmen leaving facilities each week. All are expected to be out by March 15.
Dr. Rusyniak thanked the members of the National Guard and their families, who supported the mission. “We have received countless notes of appreciation and heard numerous stories of how much this support has meant to those who work and live in nursing homes around the state,” Rusyniak said. “The work of these soldiers has boosted morale, helped free up staff to provide clinical care, and has no doubt, when combined with our other efforts, saved lives. To the general and to all his commanders and to the brave men and women of the National Guard, we owe you a debt of gratitude and our sincere thanks and appreciation.”
Once vaccination is complete, Rusyniak said he hopes facilities will be able to ease visitation restrictions, but he said the state is waiting for updated guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
