Tennessee.pdf

Tennessee COVID-19 Response - Key Provisions

This order by Governor Bill Lee extends and consolidates previous executive orders aimed at combating the COVID-19 pandemic in Tennessee. It remains in effect until June 30, with potential amendments based on future circumstances.

Key Measures:

1. State of Emergency Declaration: The governor declares a state of emergency to facilitate the response to COVID-19.

2. Tennessee Emergency Management Plan Activation: The Commissioner of Health, in conjunction with TEMA, will implement the Tennessee Emergency Management Plan (TEMP) for coordinated pandemic response.

3. Out-of-State Healthcare Providers: Temporary suspension of licensing requirements allows out-of-state healthcare professionals assisting with COVID-19 response to practice in Tennessee.

4. Prescription Refills: Pharmacists can dispense 90-day supplies of maintenance prescriptions without proper authorization for pandemic prevention.

5. Home Health Services: Suspends licensing requirements to allow healthcare professionals to provide localized treatment in temporary residences.

6. License Extensions: Extends expiration dates for health care professional and facility licenses, certificates, and registrations set to expire between March 12, 2020, and May 31, 2020.

Justification:

The order emphasizes the ongoing nature of the pandemic and the need for flexibility in responding to it. It leverages existing authority granted during states of emergency to suspend laws and rules when necessary. The goal is to ensure Tennessee maintains a safe, flexible, robust, and effective response while allowing access to essential services and healthcare.