This is an annual reminder about the opening of the PNW and WSW application period to comply with existing submission requirements and is not related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The application filing period for PNW and WSW is open from January 1, 2022 through April 1, 2022. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) will not accept applications submitted outside of this timeframe.

The Adobe Exchange Manager (AEM) is no longer the platform used to submit PNW and WSW applications. The new online application portal can be found at Risk & Safety Solutions (riskandsafety.com) (RSS) and will open on January 1, 2022. All SNFs anticipating submitting a PNW or WSW application should register using the new platform, if they have not already done so. All applications must be submitted no later than April 1, 2022. For guidelines on the workforce shortage waiver, refer to AFL 18-16.

 After submitting an online waiver application, a confirmation email containing an identification number (tracking ID) will be sent to the provider's designated point of contact. Refer to the tracking ID in any communication regarding the application. For guidelines on registering and using RSS, refer to AFL 22-01.

The list of approved facilities will be posted on the Centralized Program Flex Unit's website no later than July 30, 2022.

If there are any questions regarding a submitted application, contact CDPH at centralizedprogramflex@cdph.ca.gov and include the tracking ID in the email.

Sincerely,

Original signed by Cassie Dunham

Cassie Dunham

Acting Deputy Director