How do we respond to an inspection report?
It is a business decision if you want to respond to an inspection report and what information you provide in your response; however, we strongly encourage a response. If you elect to submit a response:
- Responses should be comprehensive and well-organized, and must utilize the inspection response template.
- Responses must be timely. Responses are accepted if provided within 30 calendar days from the time the report is issued. Multiple responses are permitted as long as they are sent within 30 days.
- Provide additional information and/or clarification to the inspection report, any records or documentation that were unavailable at the time of the inspection, and any actions taken to address any observations, whether current or proactive. To fully demonstrate actions were implemented, inspection responses may include a description of the actions taken, who is responsible for implementing the actions, new or revised procedures implemented, and documentation to evidence the action was implemented such as photographs, records (without Protected Health Information), purchase orders, training confirmation, or other documentation. If the facility needs a long-term strategy to implement an action plan, you can describe the actions planned with a timeline for implementation.
- Respond to questions marked as unknown.