The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a final rule requiring all long-term care facilities to be equipped with sprinkler systems by Aug. 13, 2013, in order to participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. The rule also stipulated maintenance requirements once the sprinkler systems are installed. The federal regulations will not preempt more stringent state and local requirements.
The final rule acknowledges the substantial capital investment needed for this purchase and installation and defers to Congress and states to provide financial assistance. The five-year phase-in period is intended to mitigate this financial impact. Download the final rule.
