On Nov. 25, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced the Acute Hospital Care at Home program, significantly expanding the existing Hospital Without Walls waiver. Program details are available in a summary prepared by CHA.
According to CMS, the new model provides additional flexibility for hospitals to treat patients in locations outside the hospital, including their homes. The waiver is expected to be in effect for the duration of the public health emergency.
CHA is in communication with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) about state policies and procedures for establishing and oversight of the Acute Hospital Care at Home program. CDPH reports it is reviewing the program and will issue an All Facilities Letter in the near future.