A new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Survey and Certification Letter: Information on the Implementation Plans for the Emergency Preparedness Regulation is available for view.
- This Letter provides general information regarding implementation plans for the final Emergency Preparedness Rule, published 9/16/16 and effective 11/15/16. Providers and suppliers affected by this rule [including nursing homes, home health, inpatient hospice, PACE] have until 11/15/17 to be in full compliance. Surveyors will begin surveying against the new requirements after 11/15/17. Interpretive guidelines and survey procedures will be developed with publication anticipated in spring, 2017.
- CMS is developing web-based surveyor training, anticipated to be available in spring, 2017.
Resources
- The Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response’s (ASPR’s) Technical Resources, Assistance Center, and Information Exchange (TRACIE) team is another resource where providers/suppliers can look to when developing emergency plans. TRACIE can be accessed via https://www.asprtracie.hhs.gov/. CMS recommends that facilities use this resource.
- CMS has developed a website that contains various resources such as checklists, links to emergency preparedness agencies, planning templates and other resources. The website also provides a State-by-State listing of Health Care Coalitions available to States to connect with health care emergency preparedness officials.
- The audio recording and written transcript of the 10/5/16 Medicare Learning Network (MLN) Emergency Preparedness Rule call are available through this link.
- CMS has developed a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to assist State Agencies Regional Offices, Accreditation Organizations and providers and suppliers. The FAQs will be updated as new questions are received.
