By Shannon Muchmore
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The issues healthcare organizations need to consider when preparing for a disaster are myriad. They include supply chain integrity, information sharing, protecting and preserving patient records, shelter-in-place plans, essential equipment, evacuation plans, patient surge and managing mass fatalities.
Experts say most hospitals are not currently fully prepared for any disaster, but those looking to improve don't have to look hard for guidance or financial assistance. Hospital executives and board members must adopt a long-term outlook in order to recognize the importance of continually investing in preparedness.
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In less than two months, providers will be required to adhere to a new CMS rule titled "Emergency Preparedness Requirements for Medicare and Medicaid Participating Providers and Suppliers." Its purpose is to establish national emergency preparedness requirements and ensure “coordination with federal, state, tribal, regional and local emergency preparedness systems.”
It requires all 17 provider and supplier types that receive CMS reimbursement to develop an emergency plan based on an “all-hazards” risk assessment.
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