CMS posts updated appendix to State Operations Manual

CMS has posted its updated Appendix Z of the State Operations Manual in order to tweak the emergency preparedness requirements for health care providers.

 

The changes were posted March 4.

 

In February, CMS alerted state survey agency directors about the changes. The most significant change involves adding “emerging infectious diseases” to the current definition of an all-hazards approach.

 

“After review, CMS determined it was critical for facilities to include planning for infectious diseases within their emergency preparedness program,” according to the February memo from the director of CMS’ quality, safety & oversight group. “In light of events such as the Ebola virus and Zika, we believe that facilities should consider preparedness and infection prevention within their all-hazards approach, which covers both natural and man-made disasters.”