Infection control requirements for dialysis facilities and clarification regarding guidance on parenteral medication vials.

In April 2008, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published in the Federal Register its final rule on Conditions for Coverage for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Facilities. The rule establishes new conditions dialysis facilities must meet to be certified under the Medicare program and is intended to update CMS standards for delivery of quality care to dialysis patients. CDC's 2001 Recommendations for Preventing Transmission of Infections among Chronic Hemodialysis Patients have been incorporated by reference into the new CMS conditions for coverage. Thus, effective October 14, 2008, all ESRD facilities are expected to follow the CDC recommendations as a condition for receiving Medicare payment for outpatient dialysis services.