As we welcome in hurricane season, it seems timely to focus on emergency preparedness. As such, AHCA/NCAL has developed an Emergency Preparedness Program Checklist / Assessment Tool. The tool is intended to assist providers with reviewing, updating and overall management of their EPP. An effective EPP is essential in protecting residents and staff during a disaster. Managing and maintaining the program not only ensures continuous readiness, but also establishes compliance with CMS requirements.
A comprehensive EPP generally includes multiple key components including:
- Hazard analysis and mitigation
- All hazard emergency plans
- Communication plans
- Continuity of operations and succession plans
- Disaster specific response plans
- Training
- Testing / exercises
The
EPP checklist breaks down each of these areas providing explanatory material, links to resources, and a checklist to ensure compliance.
For those providers located in areas where hurricanes are a legitimate concern, a key to your planning this time of year revolves around resources and supplies. This is the time to verify emergency supplies including how you address food, water, medications, and generator fuel. Managing and updating vendor contact information is also critical. If a hurricane watch is issued, topping off supplies or increasing supplies beyond normal levels can be extremely beneficial. Have a relationship with your local emergency manager and a direct line of communication to discuss evacuation decision-making before a storm hits.
Effective emergency preparedness programs include a continuous process of assessing, mitigating, planning, training, and testing. Ensure your program is up to date, comprehensive and compliant.