On September 8, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a
final rule that establishes emergency preparedness requirements for hospitals and other health care providers participating in Medicare and Medicaid.
According to the
CMS press release, the rule requires that Medicare and Medicaid participating providers and suppliers meet “best practice standards” related to developing an emergency plan, a communications plan, training and testing programs, and policies and procedures.
The rule is effective November 15, 2016 and must be implemented by November 15, 2017. In the coming weeks, WHA will continue to review the rule and prepare a communication and resources for member emergency preparedness directors.
If you have questions regarding emergency preparedness, contact Andrew Brenton, WHA assistant general counsel, at 608-274-1820 or
abrenton@wha.org.