CMS Proposes Changes to Emergency Preparedness for Medicare and Medicaid Providers
You may click on the title link to read the original document from the Federal Register:
Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Emergency Preparedness Requirements for Medicare and Medicaid Participating Providers and Suppliers
This proposed rule would establish national emergency preparedness requirements for all participating providers as existing emergency preparedness requirements have not been deemed inadequate to address the complex and actual emergencies as we have learned from past events and disasters.
The four elements of the emergency preparedness program are summarized as:
- Risk assessment and planning: This proposed rule would propose that prior to establishing an emergency plan, a risk assessment would be performed based on utilizing an “all-hazards” approach. An all-hazards approach is an integrated approach to emergency preparedness planning that focuses on capacities and capabilities that are critical to preparedness for a full spectrum of emergencies or disasters. This approach is specific to the location of the provider and supplier considering the particular types of hazards which may most likely occur in their area.
- Policies and procedures: We are proposing that facilities be required to develop and implement policies and procedures based on the emergency plan and risk assessment.
- Communication plan: This proposed rule would require a facility to develop and maintain an emergency preparedness 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 to protect patient health and safety in the event of a disaster.
- Training and testing: We are proposing that a facility develop and maintain an emergency preparedness training and testing program. A well- organized, effective training program must include providing initial training in emergency preparedness policies and procedures. We propose that the facility ensure that staff can demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures and provide this training at least annually. We would require that facilities conduct drills and exercises to test the emergency plan.
At Pedagogy we make providing your staff with Fire and Life Safety Education affordable and easy. Order Positive Fire and Life Safety Practices education before April 15th and you will receive education for your entire facility staff for $225, this includes an unlimited number of “seats” for this online course. Your staff is able to complete education from any computer or tablet device with an internet connection. The course may be completed as their schedule allows.
Positive Fire and Life Safety Practices was written by Stan Szpytek a former deputy fire chief and fire marshal. He is president of Fire and Life Safety Inc. a consulting firm that provides loss control, fire safety and emergency preparedness programs for healthcare providers and focuses on skilled nursing, assisted living and long term care properties. Stan's online course brings to your staff his expertise in a convenient online format that may be taken any time from any computer or tablet device with an internet connection. Your staff will be prepared to recognize fire hazards, and implement safety standards to prevent fire losses and casualties.
Getting Started!
The process is as simple as 1-2-3...In a matter of hours, you can be up and running and your staff can be on their way to quality education!
- Give us a call @ 903-871-2150 or email us at sales@pedagogy-inc.com and provide your basic facility information.
- Choose desired education and a list of names of participating staff.
- Complete payment for your order and start your education instantly!
