Pa. abandoned early plan to protect nursing homes

A new Spotlight PA investigation reveals the state had a robust, aggressive plan to protect nursing homes from COVID-19. But it was never fully implemented, and a similar — though far more limited — effort wasn’t activated until mid-April, long after major outbreaks had already taken hold. 

Three days after the story was published, Pennsylvania Health Secretary Rachel Levine said the state would institute universal testing at long-term care facilities — a major reversal. As recently as last week, Levine told lawmakers it was unclear if widespread testing was the solution to the growing crisis.

Still, the latest plan raises more questions than it answers. Why isn't testing mandatory? How much will it cost and who's footing the bill? Our reporters are digging into these questions and more, and will have an update next week.

Also this week, Spotlight PA learned that the state revoked business waivers late last Thursday without explanation, shortly before officials for the first time revealed which companies received the coveted exemptions.

— Sarah Anne Hughes, Spotlight PA