What is required for hospitals reimbursed under the Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS)?

The correct choice reflects the requirement for hospitals reimbursed under the Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) to participate in HCAHPS surveys. HCAHPS, or the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, are standardized surveys that assess patient experiences during hospital stays. Completion of these surveys is vital for hospitals not only to comply with federal requirements but also to determine a portion of their reimbursement rates. The data collected through HCAHPS surveys provide insights into patient satisfaction and care quality, which are essential metrics for hospital performance under the IPPS.

Regarding the other options, while annual audits by a regulatory body, implementation of patient safety protocols, and staff nurse-to-patient ratios are all important aspects of hospital operations and quality assurance, they do not specifically relate to the reimbursement structure established under the IPPS. Instead, these items may be associated with other regulatory or quality improvement initiatives but are not direct requirements for reimbursement under this particular payment system.