End Stage Renal Disease Networks' Responsibilities During COVID-19
CDC has stated that beneficiaries with serious underlying medical conditions, such as end stage renal Disease (ESRD), are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. As per the CDC, prompt detection, triage, and isolation of potentially infectious patients are essential to prevent unnecessary exposures among patients and health care personnel at dialysis facilities. ESRD treatment facilities are organized into groups called Networks. Network Organizations under CMS contracts develop relationships with dialysis professionals, providers, and patients, and create a collaborative environment to improve patient care. The Network Organizations' contracts include statutory responsibilities and quality improvement activities that could be important in protecting ESRD beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to Network Organizations, the ESRD National Coordinating Center (NCC) supports and coordinates activities for the ESRD program on a national level. We will interview Network Organizations, NCC, and CMS officials to identify the actions Network Organizations are taking to aid dialysis clinics and patients in response to COVID-19 and keep CMS abreast of quality-of-care issues resulting from COVID-19.
Announced or Revised | Agency | Title | Component | Report Number(s) | Expected Issue Date (FY) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Completed | Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services | End Stage Renal Disease Networks' Responsibilities During COVID-19 | Office of Audit Services |
W-00-22-35851; A-05-20-00051 |
2023 |