On April 16, 2021, CMS issued a transmittal containing the finalized update to Appendix Z, Emergency Preparedness, of the State Operations Manual. Below is (1) The transmittal and (2) the original QSO memo announcing the update:
1. Revisions to the State Operations Manual (SOM) Appendix Z - Emergency Preparedness
I. SUMMARY OF CHANGES: This Transmittal includes revisions based on recent federal regulation changes via (CMS–3346–F) and is a follow up to memo QSO 20-07 released on December 20, 2019. In addition to updates on the interpretive guidelines, this update also provides additional guidance on emerging infectious diseases. We are making changes to Appendix Z to reflect lessons learned and additional guidance related to pandemic preparedness as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency.
NEW/REVISED MATERIAL - EFFECTIVE DATE: April 16, 2021
IMPLEMENTATION DATE: April 16, 2021
2. QSO Memo # QSO-21-15-ALL
Posting Date 2021-03-26
Fiscal Year 2021
Summary
Burden Reduction Final Rule Interpretive Guidelines: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is releasing interpretive guidelines and updates to Appendix Z of the State Operations Manual (SOM) as a result of the revisions of the Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Regulatory Provisions to Promote Program Efficiency, Transparency, and Burden Reduction (CoPs) (CMS 3346-F) Final Rule.
Expanded Guidance related to Emerging Infectious Diseases (EIDs): CMS is also providing additional guidance based on best practices, lessons learned and general recommendations for planning and preparedness for EID outbreaks.