On June 27, 2008, CMS published a final rule setting forth conditions of participation (COP) requirements for hospitals that transfuse blood and blood components to aid in the prevention of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Among other things, the rule requires hospitals to follow written procedures for handling blood and blood components that are at increased risk for transmitting HCV, quarantine prior collections from donors who are at increased risk for transmitting HCV infection; and notify affected transfusion recipients of the need for HCV testing and counseling. The rule is effective June 27, 2008.