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Feds give OK to safety facilities
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Posted on Apr 02 1999
The federal government’s Medicare program has given the Commonwealth Health Center’s safety facilities a passing grade after a thorough inspection last March 15, according to Health Secretary Kevin Villagomez.
This is the second approval rating given by the federal government on the hospitalthis year which earlier evaluated the entire facility including the hemodialysis center.
Joe Santos, assistant deputy secretary for hospital administration, said the annual inspection carried out by the U.S. government include the fire alarm system, sprinkler system and fire equipment such as hoses and extinguishers as well as an evaluation of personnel training in case of fire or emergency.
If the hospital fails to meet the standards imposed by the federal government, CHC will not be given reimbursement for medical expenses of Medicare members.
Majority of those covered by the Medicare program are senior citizens. A certain percentage of the actual cost charged by CHC to Medicare members will be paid by the health insurance. Inspected hospitals are usually given three types of rating if they are not given approval grade:1) conditions — gives the hospital time to correct the deficiency; 2) deficiencies– provides list of things that must be corrected but will not affect Medicare condition; 3) jeopardy — the worst rating since this means Medicare would have to pullout.
While CHC was given an approval rating, Santos said the inspection team recommended that the fire alarm system be replaced in five years time to be compatible with the Fire Department’s system.
CHC earlier replaced its entire piping sprinkler system to improve its facility. Authorities from the Kauai Fire Protection System in Hawaii has certified the alarm system of the hospital in good condition.
