The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people and industries across the country, exacting a heavy toll on every American. The lives lost and the impact of the economic toll have touched every aspect of American life. With that knowledge and the response experience gained in 2020, CMS improved its Pandemic Plan to ensure the Agency is able to meet the needs of its stakeholders and as a result, now stands better prepared for any future pandemic events. CMS’s Pandemic plan has not simply been updated; it has been completely redesigned and provides CMS with the guidance and decision-making framework needed to best meet the needs of its internal and external stakeholders. This plan also details the steps taken to protect those on the CMS workforce who worked tirelessly to fulfill the agency’s mission in service to all Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and all Americans enrolled in individual or group market coverage.
