Federal Shutdown Impact on Nursing Home Surveys
The current federal government shutdown has resulted in the pause of many Medicare-related survey and certification activities for nursing homes, according to a memo issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
However, essential activities that are necessary for protecting life and safety will continue, including:
- Investigations of complaints or incidents involving Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) or individual harm
- Related enforcement actions
- Certain revisit surveys to prevent Medicare termination or payment denials
- Emergency responses, such as those related to public health emergencies or facility closures
“During a lapse in appropriation, it is not legal for CMS or States … to carry out federal survey and certification activities beyond those deemed to be ‘excepted activities’”.
Author's summary: Shutdown affects nursing home surveys.