CMS has issued updated survey guidance clarifying requirements for hospital maintenance of facilities, supplies, and equipment.  Most notably, under certain circumstances, CMS is allowing a hospital to adjust its maintenance, inspection, and testing frequency and activities for facility and medical equipment from what is recommended by the manufacturer, based on a risk-based assessment performed by qualified personnel. Hospitals that choose to employ such “alternate equipment maintenance” activities and/or schedules must implement a documented program to minimize risks to patients and others in the hospital associated with the use of facility or medical equipment.