Emergency Preparedness Update
May 27, 2025 | Article, Regulatory & Clinical
AHCA has recently developed and published an emergency preparedness program self-assessment and resource tool called the CMS Emergency Preparedness Regulations Crosswalk Tool. The tool is available for AHCA members and requires a log in to access.
If you want to simplify your emergency preparedness program and mitigate risk of non-compliance, the AHCA resources can assist your organization and/or facility.
- The tool identifies each requirement applicable to long-term care.
- Provides key guidance from Appendix Z
- Describes surveyor validation methods.
- Provides useful web links that provide access to information and tools on everything from incident command to after-action reports.
There are 44 individual requirements outlined in Appendix Z, with 24 of them specifically applicable to long-term care. Each requirement has an E-tag designation which translates into 24 potential citations for a nursing home. Appendix Z outlines the requirements, applicability, guidance information, and surveyor procedures for assessing compliance. This is a massive amount of information in a 108-page document, and AHCA has simplified emergency preparedness for providers with great resources at your fingertips.
State Operations Manual – Appendix Z outlines the emergency preparedness requirements for 17 different provider types, including LTC facilities. It does not apply to most assisted living and independent living providers since they are state regulated and do not participate in Medicare or Medicaid programs.
The top emergency preparedness citations in Indiana are as follows:
E0039 – EP testing Requirements
E0041 – Hospital CAH and LTC Emergency Power
E0036 – EP Training and Testing
E0004 – Develop EP Plan, Review and Update Annually
E0029 – Development of a Communication Plan
E0013 – Development of EP Policies and Procedures
E0037 – EP Training Program
E0025 – Arrangement with Other Facilities
E0030 – Names and Contact Information
E0006 – Plan Based on All Hazards Risk Assessment