CMS issues memo to state survey agencies on maternal best practices

In a recent memo to state survey agencies, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services encouraged hospitals to review their maternal health policies and procedures and incorporate maternal safety bundles and other evidence-based best practices for managing obstetric emergencies and addressing disparities.  

Beginning with discharges on Oct. 1, 2021, the Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting Program asks hospital to attest to whether they participate in a statewide and/or national maternal safety quality collaborative and have implemented recommended patient safety practices or bundles to improve maternal outcomes. 
AHA is a partner in the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health, which works with states, hospitals and other stakeholders to implement maternal safety bundles, practices proven to improve patient outcomes when collectively and reliably implemented in the delivery setting.