The CMS finalized a rule to establish consistent emergency preparedness requirements for health care providers participating in Medicare and Medicaid, increase patient safety during emergencies and establish a more coordinated response to natural and man-made disasters. This final rule establishes national emergency preparedness requirements for Medicare- and Medicaid-participating providers and suppliers, including nursing homes, hospice, home health agencies, and PACE. These regulations are effective 11/15/2016, with implementation required by 11/15/2017.
The final rule requires Medicare- and Medicaid-participating providers and suppliers to meet the following four common and well-known industry best practice standards:
- Emergency plan: Based on a risk assessment, develop an emergency plan using an all-hazards approach focusing on capacities and capabilities that are critical to preparedness for a full spectrum of emergencies or disasters specific to the location of a provider or supplier.
- Policies and procedures: Develop and implement policies and procedures based on the plan and risk assessment.
- Communication plan: Develop and maintain a communication plan that complies with both Federal and State law. Patient care must be well coordinated within the facility, across health care providers, and with State and local public health departments and emergency systems.
- Training and testing program: Develop and maintain training and testing programs, including initial and annual trainings, and conduct drills and exercises or participate in an actual incident that tests the plan.
The rule also requires hospitals, critical access hospitals, and long-term care facilities to install and maintain emergency and standby power systems based on their emergency plan. For more information, click here.
(LeadingAge Indiana, September 28, 2016)