Two Sets of Emergency Preparedness FAQs Available from CMS

​The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has published responses to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the final rule regarding emergency preparedness requirements for Medicare and Medicaid participating providers, suppliers, and facilities. Subject to an implementation deadline of November 16, 2017, the rule aims to establish consistent emergency preparedness requirements, improve patient safety during emergencies, and establish a more coordinated response to natural and human-caused disasters—including earthquakes, severe weather events, wildfires, influenza, and homeland security threats. The rule requires compliance with four core elements: First, to address risk assessment and emergency planning, CMS requires an integrated "all-hazards" approach to mitigate risk. Second, facilities will be required to develop and implement policies and procedures that support the successful execution of an emergency plan.