A designation given by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to eligible rural hospitals in the United States. CAHs are intended to improve access to healthcare services in rural areas by providing essential services to communities with limited access to healthcare facilities.
Refers to healthcare services provided to residents of rural areas, which often face challenges such as geographic isolation, limited resources, and a shortage of healthcare professionals.
Established by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, this program aims to support rural healthcare by providing funding and regulatory flexibility to CAHs. It helps them maintain essential healthcare services and adapt to the unique needs of their communities.
A crucial factor in determining the necessity of a CAH designation. CMS requires that CAHs be located a certain distance (usually at least 35 miles) from another hospital to ensure access to emergency medical services in rural areas.
Basic medical services that CAHs are required to provide, including emergency care, outpatient care, laboratory services, and limited inpatient services. These services are tailored to meet the needs of the local community.
Federal regulations that healthcare providers, including CAHs, must meet to participate in the Medicare program. CoPs cover various aspects of patient care, safety, and quality assurance to ensure that patients receive high-quality healthcare services.
The use of telecommunications technology to provide healthcare services remotely, allowing CAHs to access specialized expertise and resources that may not be available locally. Telemedicine helps overcome geographic barriers and improves access to care for rural residents.
A process through which CAHs identify the health needs and priorities of the communities they serve. CHNAs help CAHs develop strategies to address local health challenges and improve health outcomes for residents.
Refers to the scarcity of healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and specialists, in rural areas. CAHs often face challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled healthcare workers, which can impact their ability to deliver quality care.
Efforts undertaken by CAHs to continuously monitor and enhance the quality of care they provide. Quality improvement initiatives may include implementing evidence-based practices, adopting patient safety measures, and participating in quality reporting programs to track and improve healthcare outcomes.