The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made two changes to its Emergency Preparedness Appendix Z. The first change is adding “emerging infectious diseases” to the current definition of all-hazards approach.
Other clarifications include:
- Provided additional clarification on safe temperatures (HVAC) in areas deemed necessary to protect patients.
- Provides elaboration on use of portable generators.
- Clarification on emergency preparedness training for contract-based employees.
- Inclusion of statement allowing facilities that activate their emergency plan twice in one year to exempt out of both annual exercise requirements.
For more information, see the CMS Memo
