This regulation requires ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease) dialysis facilities to include in their emergency preparedness policies and procedures a plan for obtaining emergency medical system assistance when needed, including coordination with nearby hospitals or other ESRD facilities. Policies must be reviewed and updated at least every two years. Surveyors verify that such procedures are documented in the facility's emergency plan.
View official sourceE-0027 (Rev. 204, Issued: 04-16-21; Effective: 04-16-21, Implementation: 04-16-21) §494.62(b)(8) Condition for Coverage: [(b) Policies and procedures. The dialysis facility must develop and implement emergency preparedness policies and procedures, based on the emergency plan set forth in paragraph (a) of this section, risk assessment at paragraph (a)(1) of this section, and the communication plan at paragraph (c) of this section. The policies and procedures must be reviewed and updated at least every 2 years. At a minimum, the policies and procedures must address the following:] (8) How emergency medical system assistance can be obtained when needed. Interpretive Guidelines for §494.62(b)(8). ESRD facilities must include in its emergency plan, policies and procedures for obtaining emergency medical assistance when needed. Medical system assistance can be considered but not limited to, outside assistance such as from a nearby hospital. Additionally, this can mean assistance from other ESRD facilities including personnel to assist during a single-facility disaster. Survey Procedures • Verify the ESRD facility has included in its emergency plan, policies and procedures for obtaining emergency medical assistance when needed.