AHA signs letter urging CMS to provide guidance on signage against ED violence

The American Hospital Association and nine other organizations urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to issue clear written guidance enabling hospitals to post signage in emergency departments to discourage threats and violence against health care workers. The organizations say that without clear guidance, hospitals risk violating the Emergency Medical and Treatment Act, which prohibits ED signage that could deter individuals from remaining for medical screening exams and stabilizing treatment. The organizations also request CMS to communicate the guidance directly to state survey agencies and accrediting organizations, and to incorporate examples of acceptable signage into surveyor training materials and frequently asked questions. “Doing so would promote consistency, reduce unnecessary citations, and support and encourage hospitals to maintain safe care environments,” the organizations state. (AHA comment letter, 1/20/26)