Are we ready for the impending flu season?  What about an influenza pandemic?  The OIG recently released a duo of reports addressing preparedness for an influenza pandemic.  In one of the reports, the OIG examined the extent to which states and localities have prepared for a medical surge in response to an influenza pandemic and whether they have conducted and documented exercises that test their medical surge

Flu season is coming and concerns over an H1N1 resurgence are rising.  To make sure hospitals understand their obligations under EMTALA during a disaster or a pandemic, CMS issued, on August 14, 2009, a Survey and Certification Letter.  See CMS S&C-09-52.  The letter has an attached Fact Sheet, which addresses planning for a surge in ED services and waiver rules.