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Katrina Disaster Update - 9/2/2005
To: Residents, Programs Directors (PDs) and Designated Institutional Officials (DIOs) ACGME continues to receive many calls from PDs and DIOs at institutions outside of the Katrina disaster area offering to take residents, either on a temporary or permanent basis. This generosity is wonderful and very reassuring. ACGME is coordinating with other agencies such as Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) in addressing many issues related to residency education (requirements for board certification, training licenses, GME reimbursement, etc). At present, the FSMB has been granted display agent status for the state of Louisiana in order to expedite information processing related to granting of temporary licensure. Although ACGME has a database on all institutions, residency programs and individual residents in the disaster area, we still do not know the full extent of the needs that must be addressed. Establishing a sound communication system remains the biggest obstacle with which the affected institutions must deal. In addition, ACGME has developed a database of offers by programs and institutions who could accommodate additional residents. The leadership of institutions in the affected areas are preparing strategic plans to deal with the crisis. Of utmost concern, however, remains the evacuation and safety of patients and staff remaining in the most seriously damaged facilities. Both Tulane and Louisiana State University ask that residents use time in the temporary housing to which many have been evacuated as an opportunity to rest at least somewhat from this terrible ordeal. ACGME will develop an expedited process for resident transfers as needed; residents from the affected institutions will receive direction as soon as possible and can expect to receive further information next week. Additional information, including links to important websites, will be posted on this website and sent via email early next week. |
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