CMS: Facilities Aren’t Prepared for Widespread Disasters

CMS has issued a proposed rule that aims to establish nationwide emergency preparedness requirements for Medicare- and Medicaid-participating providers, including long-term care facilities.

According to the proposed rule, current emergency preparedness guidelines aren’t sufficient to ensure that facilities are prepared for widespread disasters that could affect most or all of the facilities in their area and tax the ability of local, state and federal emergency management officials to provide assistance.  The agency is proposing the following additional requirements to help LTC facilities be prepared for emergencies they might face now or in the future:

• Develop and annually update a plan based on an “all-hazards” approach that focuses on being prepared for a full spectrum of emergencies and disasters 
• Develop and implement policies and procedures based on the emergency plan and risk assessment, which must be reviewed and updated at least annually 
• Develop and maintain an emergency preparedness communication plan that complies with both federal and state law. Additionally, LTC facilities must develop a method for sharing pertinent information from the emergency plan with residents and their families or representatives.
• Develop and maintain training and testing programs, including initial training in policies and procedures. 
• Have generators on hand and develop policies and procedures that address providing alternate sources of energy to maintain temperatures that protect resident health and safety and allow for the safe and sanitary storage of provisions. These sources of energy also need to power emergency lighting and allow fire protection and alarm systems to continue to function. LTC facilities should also consider their individual residents’ power needs, such as motorized wheelchairs and CPAP machines. 

To view the proposed rule in its entirety, click here.

Your ProMed territory manager is ready to meet with you and help you review your emergency preparedness plan. We can connect you with the products you need to ensure you’re prepared, including beds that roll at any height, transfer boards, fire prevention materials, batteries, first aid kits and more. To connect with us, contact your territory manager directly, give us a call at (800) 648-5190 or visit us online at promedsupply.com.