We have updated our policies to be in line with CMS's policy of onsite surveys being unannounced and unscheduled. We want to make sure you are aware of these changes and well-prepared for your next onsite survey.

What Changed?

• All site surveys must now be completely unscheduled and unannounced – your facility should be ready for an onsite survey once your application has been approved.
• We can no longer accept requests for blackout dates.
• We can no longer provide estimated survey windows.

How can you prepare?

Have a backup! - Emergencies can happen, so it’s important that you designate as part of your facility’s contingency plan which individual(s) will serve as a backup contact for your onsite survey. This individual must have access to your facility and all administrative records. They do not need to be an owner or a patient care provider.

Provide reliable contact info – It’s imperative that you list on your application current and serviceable mobile numbers for your primary and backup contacts. If a surveyor arrives and finds your facility closed, they will first call your facility’s main line and then your facility’s primary contact and backup contact (if provided).

Be there during business hours - Please ensure that someone is available during your posted business hours. Surveyors will only conduct surveys during those times.

Surveyors will not conduct surveys on federal holidays, but if your state or city observes a holiday that is not a federal holiday, please feel free to email us with this information for further consideration.

What if you miss your survey?

• If your surveyor cannot reach someone at your facility, they will inform ABC that your facility was closed. Keep in mind that surveyors cannot reschedule their own onsite surveys but will leave behind a business card with further contact information.
• If your surveyor cannot conduct your onsite survey, you will have to reapply, with all applicable fees, and be resurveyed. There are NO exceptions, NO reduced fees and NO expedited surveys.
• If your surveyor cannot conduct your survey AND your facility’s accreditation expires, your accreditation will be revoked until another onsite survey is completed and passed.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding these changes or need additional assistance preparing for your onsite survey, please contact us any time.