BC Advantage - 2020 Issue 5
Opening Up America Again - CMS unveils Flexibilities for Resuming Non-emergent Care
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Article Overview
This article explains CMS’s April 19 recommendations for restarting non-emergent, non-COVID-19 care after pandemic-related disruptions. It is relevant to providers, facility leaders, and billing/coding teams who need to understand the broad operational and compliance considerations surrounding reopening, including safety screening, staffing, sanitation, PPE, testing, and coordination with public health authorities. The article also places CMS’s guidance in the context of delayed procedures and broader planning for restoring elective and preventive services.
Why This Topic Matters
Healthcare organizations needed direction on how to restart postponed care while still managing COVID-19 risk and preserving capacity. The article helps readers understand the general policy and operational framework affecting access to care, facility workflow, and reimbursement-related readiness.
Article Sections
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Recommendations for Restarting Non-Emergent Procedures
CMS guidance on restarting postponed non-emergent care and the general conditions for bringing services back online. The section frames the broader shift from emergency response toward resuming routine patient care.
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General Considerations
Overview of the major operational factors facilities should assess before reopening in-person care. It covers public health coordination, care prioritization, resources, and screening practices at a high level.
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Personal Protective Equipment
General PPE-related considerations for providers, staff, and patients in non-COVID care settings. The section addresses the need for appropriate protective measures during patient care activities.
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Workforce Availability
Staffing and workforce planning considerations for facilities restarting services. The section discusses screening, availability, and maintaining separation between care areas.
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Facility Considerations and Testing
Facility screening, testing, space planning, and visitor-related considerations for reopening. The section focuses on reducing exposure risk and supporting safe patient flow.
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Sanitation and Supplies
Cleaning, disinfection, and supply-readiness considerations for facilities providing non-COVID care. The section covers general preparedness for safe service delivery.
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Moving Forward
The article’s broader discussion of delayed care, emergency preparedness, and planning for resuming services. It also situates CMS guidance within wider concerns about maintaining access to medically necessary treatments.
What You Will Learn
- How CMS framed the restart of non-emergent care during the COVID-19 public health emergency
- What broad operational categories facilities were advised to review before reopening
- How the article situates reopening guidance within wider concerns about delayed care and preparedness
- Which types of healthcare organizations may find the guidance relevant
Who Should Read This
- Healthcare providers
- Medical practice managers
- Facility administrators
- Billing and revenue cycle staff
- Compliance staff
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