Home Health & Hospice Week
COVID-19:
Latest Federal Court Ruling Switches Medicare Vaccination Mandate Back On For Majority Of States
Providers are getting whiplash from the twists and turns of the mandate's legal journey. ... Read more
Latest Federal Court Ruling Switches Medicare Vaccination Mandate Back On For Majority Of States
Providers are getting whiplash from the twists and turns of the mandate's legal journey. ... Read more
Budget:
MedPAC Sharpens Budget Ax For HH, Hospice With Cut, Freeze Recs
Hospice industry is full of bad actors, one commissioner claims. For home health and h... Read more
MedPAC Sharpens Budget Ax For HH, Hospice With Cut, Freeze Recs
Hospice industry is full of bad actors, one commissioner claims. For home health and h... Read more
Reimbursement:
Beware Serious NOA Challenges Come Jan. 1
Artificial dates for cases that span Jan. 1 with new billing periods are at the top of the... Read more
Beware Serious NOA Challenges Come Jan. 1
Artificial dates for cases that span Jan. 1 with new billing periods are at the top of the... Read more
Strategy:
Follow These 8 Steps Now To Achieve NOA Success
Tip: If you struggled with no-pay RAPs, double down on Notice of Admission preparation. ... Read more
Follow These 8 Steps Now To Achieve NOA Success
Tip: If you struggled with no-pay RAPs, double down on Notice of Admission preparation. ... Read more
Regulations:
Keep January 2023 Circled For OASIS-E Implementation
Plus: Shorter HH CAHPS survey may be in the works. Don't get confused by the Office of M... Read more
Keep January 2023 Circled For OASIS-E Implementation
Plus: Shorter HH CAHPS survey may be in the works. Don't get confused by the Office of M... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Wants Early HH Discharge Penalty For Rehab Facility Patients Too
Policy would cut Medicare spending by nearly $1 billion — and likely cool referrals. R... Read more
OIG Wants Early HH Discharge Penalty For Rehab Facility Patients Too
Policy would cut Medicare spending by nearly $1 billion — and likely cool referrals. R... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Reaches Out To KY Agencies Ravaged By Tornadoes
Home health and hospices agencies affected by the devastating tornadoes in Kentucky on Dec... Read more
MAC Reaches Out To KY Agencies Ravaged By Tornadoes
Home health and hospices agencies affected by the devastating tornadoes in Kentucky on Dec... Read more
Industry Notes:
Feds Give Agencies Breathing Room On MultiFactor Auth Deadline For PECOS
Remember that switch over to Multi-Factor Authentication for the PECOS system? You'll have... Read more
Feds Give Agencies Breathing Room On MultiFactor Auth Deadline For PECOS
Remember that switch over to Multi-Factor Authentication for the PECOS system? You'll have... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tune Into Free Education Sessions From Joint HHH MAC Summit
If you missed the big joint HHH MAC education session in September, you're in luck — you... Read more
Tune Into Free Education Sessions From Joint HHH MAC Summit
If you missed the big joint HHH MAC education session in September, you're in luck — you... Read more
Industry Notes:
VNA Pays $2.4 Million To Settle Charges Related To Doc Signatures
With Medicare rules and regulations more confusing than ever, you may end up needing to us... Read more
VNA Pays $2.4 Million To Settle Charges Related To Doc Signatures
With Medicare rules and regulations more confusing than ever, you may end up needing to us... Read more
Billing:
Review Tricky NOA Billing Instruction For January
If you enter the incorrect date, it may cost you big in delays — and reimbursement. Hom... Read more
Review Tricky NOA Billing Instruction For January
If you enter the incorrect date, it may cost you big in delays — and reimbursement. Hom... Read more
COVID-19 Vaccination:
With Medicare Enforcement Suspension In Place, Weigh Pros And Cons Of Vaccination Requirements
Just how tight your local labor market is may determine your course. Home health and h... Read more
With Medicare Enforcement Suspension In Place, Weigh Pros And Cons Of Vaccination Requirements
Just how tight your local labor market is may determine your course. Home health and h... Read more
Compliance:
Blame This Newly Revealed Fraud Case For RAPs’ Exit
Report to Congress conveniently omits the fact that OIG had to walk back nearly half of i... Read more
Blame This Newly Revealed Fraud Case For RAPs’ Exit
Report to Congress conveniently omits the fact that OIG had to walk back nearly half of i... Read more
Hospice:
Medical Directors Rack Up 23 Years In Prison For Hospice Fraud
Plus: Whistleblowers rake in cool million in Crossroads qui tam case. Two Texas physic... Read more
Medical Directors Rack Up 23 Years In Prison For Hospice Fraud
Plus: Whistleblowers rake in cool million in Crossroads qui tam case. Two Texas physic... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Whistleblower Receives $700K Of HHA’s $4.2M Fraud Settlement
Feds pursue PT fraud in Michigan. If you're tempted to sweep your billing transgressions... Read more
Whistleblower Receives $700K Of HHA’s $4.2M Fraud Settlement
Feds pursue PT fraud in Michigan. If you're tempted to sweep your billing transgressions... Read more
Medicaid:
Crackdown On Medicaid Home Health Fraud Produces Stiff Prison Sentences For Fraudsters
Illinois HHA administrative assistant draws 6-year prison term. Another home health em... Read more
Crackdown On Medicaid Home Health Fraud Produces Stiff Prison Sentences For Fraudsters
Illinois HHA administrative assistant draws 6-year prison term. Another home health em... Read more
Industry Notes:
6% Sequestration Cuts Should Be A Near Miss
Medicare and PAYGO sequestration cuts should get put on ice. Home health and hospice age... Read more
6% Sequestration Cuts Should Be A Near Miss
Medicare and PAYGO sequestration cuts should get put on ice. Home health and hospice age... Read more
Industry Notes:
It's Time To Change Out Your OASIS-D Forms, If You're On Paper
You are officially allowed to use the OASIS-D form another year. Along with a postponemen... Read more
It's Time To Change Out Your OASIS-D Forms, If You're On Paper
You are officially allowed to use the OASIS-D form another year. Along with a postponemen... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get Up To Speed On Hospice Star Ratings With Free CMS Webinar
A lot is happening with the Hospice Quality Reporting Program, and you can get up to spe... Read more
Get Up To Speed On Hospice Star Ratings With Free CMS Webinar
A lot is happening with the Hospice Quality Reporting Program, and you can get up to spe... Read more
Industry Notes:
Opt To Take The Easier Route When It Comes To RCD
Florida and North Carolina home health agencies, don't miss out on your chance to change y... Read more
Opt To Take The Easier Route When It Comes To RCD
Florida and North Carolina home health agencies, don't miss out on your chance to change y... Read more
Industry Notes:
Utah Chain Expands To Indiana With Private Equity Backing
Fortis Home Health & Hospice has acquired Select Home Health based in Indianapolis, Fo... Read more
Utah Chain Expands To Indiana With Private Equity Backing
Fortis Home Health & Hospice has acquired Select Home Health based in Indianapolis, Fo... Read more
Industry Notes:
New HH Heart Failure Certification Offered By AHA
If your agency specializes in treating patients with heart failure, a new certification ma... Read more
New HH Heart Failure Certification Offered By AHA
If your agency specializes in treating patients with heart failure, a new certification ma... Read more
Covid-19 :
The CMS Vaccination Mandate Rule Is Blocked — Now What?
If you're leaning toward pausing your vaccination requirement process, be ready to crank i... Read more
The CMS Vaccination Mandate Rule Is Blocked — Now What?
If you're leaning toward pausing your vaccination requirement process, be ready to crank i... Read more
Lawsuits:
Vax Mandate Legal Challenges Are Headed To The Supreme Court
Will the high court's decision be a present under the tree or a lump of coal in agencies'... Read more
Vax Mandate Legal Challenges Are Headed To The Supreme Court
Will the high court's decision be a present under the tree or a lump of coal in agencies'... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
PE-Backed Chains Get Ready To Start The Year With Newly Acquired Additions
Plus: BAYADA forges joint venture with health system. A 17-state chain with private equit... Read more
PE-Backed Chains Get Ready To Start The Year With Newly Acquired Additions
Plus: BAYADA forges joint venture with health system. A 17-state chain with private equit... Read more
Hospice:
Federal Watchdog Wants Hospices To Cover More DME
Medicare shoots down idea of including curative services in hospice. Hospices failing t... Read more
Federal Watchdog Wants Hospices To Cover More DME
Medicare shoots down idea of including curative services in hospice. Hospices failing t... Read more
Industry Notes:
Take Note Of Telehealth Trends
Preexisting relationships with providers are most common. The HHS Office of Inspector G... Read more
Take Note Of Telehealth Trends
Preexisting relationships with providers are most common. The HHS Office of Inspector G... Read more
Industry Notes:
Inpatient Hospices May Be Next On TPE Hit List, Attorneys Warn
If you want Targeted Probe and Educate review to go away quick and easy, make sure you are... Read more
Inpatient Hospices May Be Next On TPE Hit List, Attorneys Warn
If you want Targeted Probe and Educate review to go away quick and easy, make sure you are... Read more
Industry Notes:
Number Of MA Plans Offering In-Home Support Services More Than Doubles
Medicare Advantage plans may be finally catching on to the fact that covering non-medical ... Read more
Number Of MA Plans Offering In-Home Support Services More Than Doubles
Medicare Advantage plans may be finally catching on to the fact that covering non-medical ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Ouch: Quality Data Reporting Penalty Gets Steeper
Don't let a crucial year-end deadline pass you by. Reminder: A hospice that serves fewer ... Read more
Ouch: Quality Data Reporting Penalty Gets Steeper
Don't let a crucial year-end deadline pass you by. Reminder: A hospice that serves fewer ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Pulls The Plug On Hospice-Related Test Program
Medicare's Seriously Ill Population test program is officially dead. “After careful con... Read more
Medicare Pulls The Plug On Hospice-Related Test Program
Medicare's Seriously Ill Population test program is officially dead. “After careful con... Read more
Industry Notes:
Part B Premium Increase Set To Hit Your Patients In The Pocketbook
Don't be surprised if you hear complaints from your patients about a Medicare Part B premi... Read more
Part B Premium Increase Set To Hit Your Patients In The Pocketbook
Don't be surprised if you hear complaints from your patients about a Medicare Part B premi... Read more
Industry Notes:
ARP Rural Relief Funding Goes To Hundreds Of HH, Hospice Agencies
If you applied for American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural funding this fall, the feds have start... Read more
ARP Rural Relief Funding Goes To Hundreds Of HH, Hospice Agencies
If you applied for American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural funding this fall, the feds have start... Read more
COVID-19:
Employee Vaccination Mandate Throws Challenges At HHAs, Hospices
Will lawsuits block the new requirements? Under a new interim final rule with comment per... Read more
Employee Vaccination Mandate Throws Challenges At HHAs, Hospices
Will lawsuits block the new requirements? Under a new interim final rule with comment per... Read more
Compliance:
HH, Hospice Improper Payment Rates Creep Up After Years Of Declines
HHAs, hospices racked up more than $3.5 million in wrong payments, according to latest CE... Read more
HH, Hospice Improper Payment Rates Creep Up After Years Of Declines
HHAs, hospices racked up more than $3.5 million in wrong payments, according to latest CE... Read more
Quality:
Prepare For Resumption Of Public Reporting In New Year
claims-based measures will stay frozen at least another six months. It may seem like not... Read more
Prepare For Resumption Of Public Reporting In New Year
claims-based measures will stay frozen at least another six months. It may seem like not... Read more
Hospice:
Ring In 2022 With A Bevy Of Hospice Survey Changes — Some Welcome, Some Not
Keep confusing array of implementation dates straight with this guidance. Between new h... Read more
Ring In 2022 With A Bevy Of Hospice Survey Changes — Some Welcome, Some Not
Keep confusing array of implementation dates straight with this guidance. Between new h... Read more
Compliance:
Watch Out For Holiday Gift Traps
Sharing holiday cheer with your patients may be admirable, but don't let it become questio... Read more
Watch Out For Holiday Gift Traps
Sharing holiday cheer with your patients may be admirable, but don't let it become questio... Read more
Industry Notes:
Enrollment, Revalidation Activities Are Back On
Don't be surprised by the new $631 fee associated with them. If your revalidation date ca... Read more
Enrollment, Revalidation Activities Are Back On
Don't be surprised by the new $631 fee associated with them. If your revalidation date ca... Read more
Industry Notes:
Need Help Filling Out Section GG Items Accurately? Medicare Has Your Back With Multiple New Education Tools
Medicare wants you to get up to speed on mobility, self-care, prior functioning, and prior... Read more
Need Help Filling Out Section GG Items Accurately? Medicare Has Your Back With Multiple New Education Tools
Medicare wants you to get up to speed on mobility, self-care, prior functioning, and prior... Read more
Industry Notes:
Automatic Cost Report Extensions For COVID Are A Thing Of The Past, MAC Stresses
Cost reports for fiscal years ending June 30, 2021, are due Nov. 30, and no blanket extens... Read more
Automatic Cost Report Extensions For COVID Are A Thing Of The Past, MAC Stresses
Cost reports for fiscal years ending June 30, 2021, are due Nov. 30, and no blanket extens... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Alone Is For Holiday Movies, Not Hospital Patients: Nurses Protest Hospital At Home Programs
Hospital at Home programs are getting backlash from nurses, and that could affect their fu... Read more
Home Alone Is For Holiday Movies, Not Hospital Patients: Nurses Protest Hospital At Home Programs
Hospital at Home programs are getting backlash from nurses, and that could affect their fu... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
HHAs Get Breathing Room On Value-Based Purchasing
This time next year you should be putting finishing touches on your VBP implementation pl... Read more
HHAs Get Breathing Room On Value-Based Purchasing
This time next year you should be putting finishing touches on your VBP implementation pl... Read more
Payment:
National Cohorts Here To Stay, As Is Risk Level
Watch for the VBP base year to possibly change. While the one-year delay to Home Health ... Read more
National Cohorts Here To Stay, As Is Risk Level
Watch for the VBP base year to possibly change. While the one-year delay to Home Health ... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
‘Surprise Pay Boost’ Features In 2022 Final Rule
CMS expects to fund more outlier episodes. The 2022 home health final rule may not conta... Read more
‘Surprise Pay Boost’ Features In 2022 Final Rule
CMS expects to fund more outlier episodes. The 2022 home health final rule may not conta... Read more
Reimbursement:
CMS Shuts Down HHAs On Behavioral Adjustment
Is the budget neutrality cup half full or half empty? Home health agencies have been dea... Read more
CMS Shuts Down HHAs On Behavioral Adjustment
Is the budget neutrality cup half full or half empty? Home health agencies have been dea... Read more
OASIS:
HHAs’ OASIS-E Reprieve Cut Short By Final Rule
Watch for draft of revamped assessment tool in early summer. If you're under pressure fr... Read more
HHAs’ OASIS-E Reprieve Cut Short By Final Rule
Watch for draft of revamped assessment tool in early summer. If you're under pressure fr... Read more
Conditions of Participation:
HHAs Win Important Change In Aide Supervision Flexibility
CMS tries for middle ground with change to observation for aides of nonskilled patients. ... Read more
HHAs Win Important Change In Aide Supervision Flexibility
CMS tries for middle ground with change to observation for aides of nonskilled patients. ... Read more
Therapy:
Permanent OT Assessments For Therapy-Only Cases Sail Through Finalization
Cases involving nursing are still status quo — at least for now. A Consolidated Approp... Read more
Permanent OT Assessments For Therapy-Only Cases Sail Through Finalization
Cases involving nursing are still status quo — at least for now. A Consolidated Approp... Read more
Quality:
Get To Know Your New HCI Components
Say goodbye to current hospitalization measures, and hello to a new ‘potentially preven... Read more
Get To Know Your New HCI Components
Say goodbye to current hospitalization measures, and hello to a new ‘potentially preven... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices Secure Some Key Changes In Coming Survey Revamp
Special Focus Program taken off fast track. The 2022 home health final rule will make a ... Read more
Hospices Secure Some Key Changes In Coming Survey Revamp
Special Focus Program taken off fast track. The 2022 home health final rule will make a ... Read more
Industry Note:
Home Infusion Rates To Increase 5%
New benefit sees a pay bump. Home health agencies aren't the only ones seeing a pay ra... Read more
Home Infusion Rates To Increase 5%
New benefit sees a pay bump. Home health agencies aren't the only ones seeing a pay ra... Read more
Industry Notes:
Health System Self-Discloses HH & Hospice Errors, Pays $18M
A health system is forking over more than $18 million for bogus home health and hospice cl... Read more
Health System Self-Discloses HH & Hospice Errors, Pays $18M
A health system is forking over more than $18 million for bogus home health and hospice cl... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Tricky NOA Submissions
Don't forget that home health Notices of Admission are “right around the corner,” emph... Read more
Beware Tricky NOA Submissions
Don't forget that home health Notices of Admission are “right around the corner,” emph... Read more
Policy:
Home Care A Focus Of Newly Revamped CMS Priorities
Innovation Center is changing course. If you're wondering whether Home Health Value-Base... Read more
Home Care A Focus Of Newly Revamped CMS Priorities
Innovation Center is changing course. If you're wondering whether Home Health Value-Base... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Private Equity Invests More In Home Care
Plus: National chain expands JV with health system. New York-based private equity firm W... Read more
Private Equity Invests More In Home Care
Plus: National chain expands JV with health system. New York-based private equity firm W... Read more
Hospice:
Survey Consistency Can’t Come Soon Enough
‘A deficiency in Texas should be the same as a deficiency in Maine,' hospice rep tells C... Read more
Survey Consistency Can’t Come Soon Enough
‘A deficiency in Texas should be the same as a deficiency in Maine,' hospice rep tells C... Read more
Regulations:
Hospice Survey Deadlines Get Pushed — A Little Bit
Hospices have some breathing room on enforcement remedies, public display of survey findin... Read more
Hospice Survey Deadlines Get Pushed — A Little Bit
Hospices have some breathing room on enforcement remedies, public display of survey findin... Read more
Survey & Certification:
Train Surveyors Centrally, Commenters Urge
But education can't happen overnight. You can't have survey consistency unless surveyors... Read more
Train Surveyors Centrally, Commenters Urge
But education can't happen overnight. You can't have survey consistency unless surveyors... Read more
Industry Notes:
Celebrate — And Grow — In National Home Care & Hospice Month
Turkey isn't all you should show gratitude for this month. Don't let the impending home ... Read more
Celebrate — And Grow — In National Home Care & Hospice Month
Turkey isn't all you should show gratitude for this month. Don't let the impending home ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get The Latest Billing, Payment Info On COVID Boosters In This Medicare Resource
The staffing shortage that home care agencies have been wrestling with for months is getti... Read more
Get The Latest Billing, Payment Info On COVID Boosters In This Medicare Resource
The staffing shortage that home care agencies have been wrestling with for months is getti... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check iQIES To See Whether Your HHA Will Get Full Pay In 2022
Come January, what you did for quality reporting last year is going to make a difference t... Read more
Check iQIES To See Whether Your HHA Will Get Full Pay In 2022
Come January, what you did for quality reporting last year is going to make a difference t... Read more
Industry Notes:
Another COVID-19 PHE Renewal Is Under Providers' Belts
The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency is not ending any time soon, and the latest PHE decla... Read more
Another COVID-19 PHE Renewal Is Under Providers' Belts
The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency is not ending any time soon, and the latest PHE decla... Read more
Industry Notes:
New HCBS Website Urges State Innovations
A federal funding boost for home- and community-based services may be tangled in budget de... Read more
New HCBS Website Urges State Innovations
A federal funding boost for home- and community-based services may be tangled in budget de... Read more
Industry Notes:
American Heart Assn Offers HHA Certification
If your agency specializes in treating patients with heart failure, a new certification ma... Read more
American Heart Assn Offers HHA Certification
If your agency specializes in treating patients with heart failure, a new certification ma... Read more
OASIS:
2023 OASIS-E Implementation Date Riles HHAs
The pandemic is still hitting agencies hard, agencies tell CMS. Medicare is backtracking... Read more
2023 OASIS-E Implementation Date Riles HHAs
The pandemic is still hitting agencies hard, agencies tell CMS. Medicare is backtracking... Read more
Assessment:
Check Out All The New Items That Would Come In OASIS-E
Will CMS drop some of the proposed items this time around? Unless Medicare makes changes... Read more
Check Out All The New Items That Would Come In OASIS-E
Will CMS drop some of the proposed items this time around? Unless Medicare makes changes... Read more
Hospice:
Proposed Survey Hit List Has Multiple Red Flags, Commenters Maintain
Implementing SFP too early could be catastrophic. Among the many survey changes on deck... Read more
Proposed Survey Hit List Has Multiple Red Flags, Commenters Maintain
Implementing SFP too early could be catastrophic. Among the many survey changes on deck... Read more
Medical Review:
F2F Kills Most HH Claims In One MAC’s Post-COVID Review
For hospice, terminal prognosis continues to be providers' Achilles heel. Targeted Pro... Read more
F2F Kills Most HH Claims In One MAC’s Post-COVID Review
For hospice, terminal prognosis continues to be providers' Achilles heel. Targeted Pro... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Health Worker Vaccination Rates Catch Press Attention
TV station profiles patients rejecting unvaccinated home care nurse. While lawsuits over... Read more
Home Health Worker Vaccination Rates Catch Press Attention
TV station profiles patients rejecting unvaccinated home care nurse. While lawsuits over... Read more
Industry Notes:
Eligible Patients Wait For Hospice Availability
When hospice agencies and their representatives urge the feds to tread lightly with new ma... Read more
Eligible Patients Wait For Hospice Availability
When hospice agencies and their representatives urge the feds to tread lightly with new ma... Read more
Industry Notes:
Finding It Difficult To Ascertain Your Revalidation Due Date? Use One MAC's Tips To Help
Medicare revalidation is back in action. Do you know how to check when your number is up? ... Read more
Finding It Difficult To Ascertain Your Revalidation Due Date? Use One MAC's Tips To Help
Medicare revalidation is back in action. Do you know how to check when your number is up? ... Read more
Industry Notes:
S. C. Private Equity Firm Enters Hospice Market With Acquisition Of 2-State Provider
Mergers and acquisitions kept up their fast and furious pace in the third quarter of 2021.... Read more
S. C. Private Equity Firm Enters Hospice Market With Acquisition Of 2-State Provider
Mergers and acquisitions kept up their fast and furious pace in the third quarter of 2021.... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHH MACs Reach Out To Home Health, Hospice Workers To 'See Something, Say Something' Regarding Potential Fraud On The Job
“See Something, Say Something” isn't just for Homeland Security anymore. HHH Medicare... Read more
HHH MACs Reach Out To Home Health, Hospice Workers To 'See Something, Say Something' Regarding Potential Fraud On The Job
“See Something, Say Something” isn't just for Homeland Security anymore. HHH Medicare... Read more
Industry Notes:
Texas-Based Chain, Rhode Island Provider Open, Enlarge Inpatient Facilities
Hospice facilities continue to open and grow. For example: Rhode Island's only freestandi... Read more
Texas-Based Chain, Rhode Island Provider Open, Enlarge Inpatient Facilities
Hospice facilities continue to open and grow. For example: Rhode Island's only freestandi... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices Appeal For Payment Suspension Lenience
Plus: Where will all that CMP money go? A whole raft of hospice survey changes are pen... Read more
Hospices Appeal For Payment Suspension Lenience
Plus: Where will all that CMP money go? A whole raft of hospice survey changes are pen... Read more
Surveys and Certification:
Providers, Accreditors Split On Multidisciplinary Survey Teams
Do you want professionals other than RNs surveying your agency? The surveyor-hospice rel... Read more
Providers, Accreditors Split On Multidisciplinary Survey Teams
Do you want professionals other than RNs surveying your agency? The surveyor-hospice rel... Read more
Regulations:
Prohibiting Surveyor Conflicts Of Interest Proves Popular
But what exactly should constitute a conflict? If the latest proposed rule regarding hos... Read more
Prohibiting Surveyor Conflicts Of Interest Proves Popular
But what exactly should constitute a conflict? If the latest proposed rule regarding hos... Read more
HIPAA:
Don’t Let Employee COVID Vaccinations Trip You Up With HIPAA
Do you know if staff vaccination status counts as PHI? State and employer mandates for s... Read more
Don’t Let Employee COVID Vaccinations Trip You Up With HIPAA
Do you know if staff vaccination status counts as PHI? State and employer mandates for s... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
PE-Backed Chain Snaps Up Arizona Agency
Hospice chain raises minimum pay to $20 per hour. Reimbursement and regulatory uncertain... Read more
PE-Backed Chain Snaps Up Arizona Agency
Hospice chain raises minimum pay to $20 per hour. Reimbursement and regulatory uncertain... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Doc Pays $640K To Settle Home Health Kickback Charges
Plus: Medicaid home health agency to fork over whopping $2.9 million for ghost hours. It... Read more
Doc Pays $640K To Settle Home Health Kickback Charges
Plus: Medicaid home health agency to fork over whopping $2.9 million for ghost hours. It... Read more
Industry Notes:
Multiple Vaccination Mandate Regs Converge On Providers
Keep an eye out for Medicare-specific rule. As state-specific COVID vaccination mandates... Read more
Multiple Vaccination Mandate Regs Converge On Providers
Keep an eye out for Medicare-specific rule. As state-specific COVID vaccination mandates... Read more
Industry Notes:
No-Pay RAP HIPPS Code Still Must Match Final Claim, MAC Reminds
Don't let mismatched HIPPS codes on your Requests for Anticipated Payment and final claims... Read more
No-Pay RAP HIPPS Code Still Must Match Final Claim, MAC Reminds
Don't let mismatched HIPPS codes on your Requests for Anticipated Payment and final claims... Read more
Industry Notes:
AIC Remains Unusually Flat For 2022
At least one thing isn't going up next year — the amount in controversy (AIC) threshold.... Read more
AIC Remains Unusually Flat For 2022
At least one thing isn't going up next year — the amount in controversy (AIC) threshold.... Read more
Industry Notes:
Take A Look At Your Neighbor Agencies' Data In Updated Medicare File
A new year of data is now available in the Medicare Post-Acute Care & Hospice by Provi... Read more
Take A Look At Your Neighbor Agencies' Data In Updated Medicare File
A new year of data is now available in the Medicare Post-Acute Care & Hospice by Provi... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Reminds Hospitals Why They Don't Want Early PAC Discharges
If you're wondering why hospital discharges to home may seem sluggish, a recent message fr... Read more
CMS Reminds Hospitals Why They Don't Want Early PAC Discharges
If you're wondering why hospital discharges to home may seem sluggish, a recent message fr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Virginia Agency Shells Out $100K In Back Wages
A Virginia home health agency has paid nearly $100,000 in back pay to aides after a Depart... Read more
Virginia Agency Shells Out $100K In Back Wages
A Virginia home health agency has paid nearly $100,000 in back pay to aides after a Depart... Read more
Condition of Participation:
HHAs Cheer PHE Flexibilities For Aide Supervision Going Permanent
But changes need some fine-tuning to be practical for providers. Home health aide supervi... Read more
HHAs Cheer PHE Flexibilities For Aide Supervision Going Permanent
But changes need some fine-tuning to be practical for providers. Home health aide supervi... Read more
Therapy:
Bring On Permanent OT Assessments, Commenters Urge CMS
Proposed change doesn't go far enough, many commenters insist. The silver lining of the C... Read more
Bring On Permanent OT Assessments, Commenters Urge CMS
Proposed change doesn't go far enough, many commenters insist. The silver lining of the C... Read more
Managed Care:
Number Of Medicare Advantage Plans Offering Hospice To Nearly Double Next Year
NHPCO asks CMS to reconsider model's second year. The more Medicare Advantage plans you h... Read more
Number Of Medicare Advantage Plans Offering Hospice To Nearly Double Next Year
NHPCO asks CMS to reconsider model's second year. The more Medicare Advantage plans you h... Read more
Hospice:
These 13 MA Plans Will Cover Hospice For 2022
Beware: Coverage within a plan's area may vary. AvMed Inc. Cambia Health Solutions Inc. ... Read more
These 13 MA Plans Will Cover Hospice For 2022
Beware: Coverage within a plan's area may vary. AvMed Inc. Cambia Health Solutions Inc. ... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Regional Chain Makes 4th Acquisition Of The Year
Plus: Amedisys is keeping busy. St. Croix Hospice continues to expand, this time in the ... Read more
Regional Chain Makes 4th Acquisition Of The Year
Plus: Amedisys is keeping busy. St. Croix Hospice continues to expand, this time in the ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Provider Relief Fund Fraud Cases Multiply
Don't forget the Round 4 deadline is Oct. 26. With billions of dollars up for grabs, it's... Read more
Provider Relief Fund Fraud Cases Multiply
Don't forget the Round 4 deadline is Oct. 26. With billions of dollars up for grabs, it's... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get Into The Details Of New Hospice Quality Measures.
If you're still a little fuzzy on the new hospice quality measures, a new question-and-ans... Read more
Get Into The Details Of New Hospice Quality Measures.
If you're still a little fuzzy on the new hospice quality measures, a new question-and-ans... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Overlook Legit ADRs Due To RCD Glitch
Glitches with Review Choice Demonstration claims continue. The problem: This time, for RC... Read more
Don't Overlook Legit ADRs Due To RCD Glitch
Glitches with Review Choice Demonstration claims continue. The problem: This time, for RC... Read more
Industry Notes:
Even Short HH Services Delays Lead To Rehospitalizations, Study Says
Another study has shown that prompt home health care can prevent rehospitalizations. “M... Read more
Even Short HH Services Delays Lead To Rehospitalizations, Study Says
Another study has shown that prompt home health care can prevent rehospitalizations. “M... Read more
Industry Notes:
New Hospice Quality Measures Mean New HQRP Documents
You can now download an updated version of the Hospice Quality Reporting Program Quality M... Read more
New Hospice Quality Measures Mean New HQRP Documents
You can now download an updated version of the Hospice Quality Reporting Program Quality M... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hurricane Ida Reporting Exemptions Are Available, CMS Assures
Just because the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services didn't offer a blanket waive... Read more
Hurricane Ida Reporting Exemptions Are Available, CMS Assures
Just because the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services didn't offer a blanket waive... Read more
Industry Notes:
Unlicensed Nurse Costs HHA $47K
Make sure checks for expired nursing licenses don't fall to the bottom of your to-do list,... Read more
Unlicensed Nurse Costs HHA $47K
Make sure checks for expired nursing licenses don't fall to the bottom of your to-do list,... Read more
Industry Notes:
HIPAA Enforcement Agency Gets New Director
Changes for HIPAA enforcement may be ahead. The HHS Office for Civil Rights finally has a ... Read more
HIPAA Enforcement Agency Gets New Director
Changes for HIPAA enforcement may be ahead. The HHS Office for Civil Rights finally has a ... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Will Jan. 1 Start Date For Value-Based Purchasing Hold?
Commenters take aim at rushed implementation, money at stake. Commenters on the 2022 home... Read more
Will Jan. 1 Start Date For Value-Based Purchasing Hold?
Commenters take aim at rushed implementation, money at stake. Commenters on the 2022 home... Read more
Regulations:
Reconsider Those Nationwide Cohorts, Multiple Commenters Urge
Social determinants of health vary by geography. If you think a national cohort for the ... Read more
Reconsider Those Nationwide Cohorts, Multiple Commenters Urge
Social determinants of health vary by geography. If you think a national cohort for the ... Read more
Reimbursement:
VBP To Cripple Non-Improving Patients’ Access To HH, Critics Warn
That lack of access will cost Medicare money. Commenters' favorite Home Health Value-Bas... Read more
VBP To Cripple Non-Improving Patients’ Access To HH, Critics Warn
That lack of access will cost Medicare money. Commenters' favorite Home Health Value-Bas... Read more
Quality:
New Hospitalization Measure To Complicate VBP Implementation
Plus: VBP demonstration states want their 8% bonus for next year. Home Health Value-Base... Read more
New Hospitalization Measure To Complicate VBP Implementation
Plus: VBP demonstration states want their 8% bonus for next year. Home Health Value-Base... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
OIG Examines COVID Infection Control At 8 HHAs
Would your IC practices pass muster? Providers hoping they might get some survey lenienc... Read more
OIG Examines COVID Infection Control At 8 HHAs
Would your IC practices pass muster? Providers hoping they might get some survey lenienc... Read more
Industry Notes:
Gear Up For Patient, Staff COVID Boosters
Don't let regulatory confusion slow your vaccination roll. Whether you give the shots yo... Read more
Gear Up For Patient, Staff COVID Boosters
Don't let regulatory confusion slow your vaccination roll. Whether you give the shots yo... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHA PEPPER Report Retrievals Lag Significantly Behind Hospice PEPPER Downloads
With auditors, surveyors, and medical reviewers on high alert, you don't want to stick out... Read more
HHA PEPPER Report Retrievals Lag Significantly Behind Hospice PEPPER Downloads
With auditors, surveyors, and medical reviewers on high alert, you don't want to stick out... Read more
Industry Notes:
Review Choice Demonstration Claims Glitch Regarding Unique Tracking Numbers Trips Up Agencies
A new claims glitch may be adding to your Pre-Claim Review confusion — and delaying your... Read more
Review Choice Demonstration Claims Glitch Regarding Unique Tracking Numbers Trips Up Agencies
A new claims glitch may be adding to your Pre-Claim Review confusion — and delaying your... Read more
Industry Notes:
The Scariest Thing About October May Be Missing The PRF Round 4 Deadline Before Halloween
You've got less than a month to apply for the latest round of Provider Relief Fund monies.... Read more
The Scariest Thing About October May Be Missing The PRF Round 4 Deadline Before Halloween
You've got less than a month to apply for the latest round of Provider Relief Fund monies.... Read more
Medical Review:
MACs Refine Their Targeted Probe And Educate Hit Lists
Ortho aftercare is one new topic under the medical review gun. If you're one of the ho... Read more
MACs Refine Their Targeted Probe And Educate Hit Lists
Ortho aftercare is one new topic under the medical review gun. If you're one of the ho... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
Thanks For The HH Rate Increase — But We Need More, Agencies Say
Hold off on budget neutrality adjustments, case mix recalibration, commenters urge. The... Read more
Thanks For The HH Rate Increase — But We Need More, Agencies Say
Hold off on budget neutrality adjustments, case mix recalibration, commenters urge. The... Read more
COVID-19:
HHAs Want CMS To Show Them The COVID Money
HH leaders ‘strained to the breaking point,' one industry veteran warns Medicare. Nursi... Read more
HHAs Want CMS To Show Them The COVID Money
HH leaders ‘strained to the breaking point,' one industry veteran warns Medicare. Nursi... Read more
Reimbursement:
Direct Telehealth Pay, Rural Add-On Could Mitigate COVID Pressures
Plus: Some agencies are poised for whiplash — and maybe closure — from major wage inde... Read more
Direct Telehealth Pay, Rural Add-On Could Mitigate COVID Pressures
Plus: Some agencies are poised for whiplash — and maybe closure — from major wage inde... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Latest National Fraud Takedown Involves Miami HH Referrals
Provider Relief Fund misuse, N95 theft included in latest sweep. Authorities have COVI... Read more
Latest National Fraud Takedown Involves Miami HH Referrals
Provider Relief Fund misuse, N95 theft included in latest sweep. Authorities have COVI... Read more
Industry Notes:
Employee Vaccination Mandate Continues To Count Down
Expect your vaccination stats to go public. The official regulation requiring vaccination... Read more
Employee Vaccination Mandate Continues To Count Down
Expect your vaccination stats to go public. The official regulation requiring vaccination... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospices Finally Get A Look At Their Data For New Measures Hospice Care Index, Visits In Last Days Of Life
At long last, hospices are getting some data for two new Hospice Quality Reporting Program... Read more
Hospices Finally Get A Look At Their Data For New Measures Hospice Care Index, Visits In Last Days Of Life
At long last, hospices are getting some data for two new Hospice Quality Reporting Program... Read more
Industry Notes:
Connecticut HHA Payroll Manager Nabbed For Writing Checks To 'Ghost Employees'
It's not just Medicare fraud providers need to worry about. A home health agency payroll m... Read more
Connecticut HHA Payroll Manager Nabbed For Writing Checks To 'Ghost Employees'
It's not just Medicare fraud providers need to worry about. A home health agency payroll m... Read more
Industry Notes:
New MAC Job Aid Shows The Right Way To Bill A Transfer When It's On The Last Day Of A Benefit Period
If hospice patient transfers are snarling your billing, a new job aid from a HHH Medicare ... Read more
New MAC Job Aid Shows The Right Way To Bill A Transfer When It's On The Last Day Of A Benefit Period
If hospice patient transfers are snarling your billing, a new job aid from a HHH Medicare ... Read more
COVID-19:
Another $25.5 Billion In COVID Relief Funding Is Now Up For Grabs
Waste no time in applying once portal opens on Sept. 29, expert urges. As COVID-19 cont... Read more
Another $25.5 Billion In COVID Relief Funding Is Now Up For Grabs
Waste no time in applying once portal opens on Sept. 29, expert urges. As COVID-19 cont... Read more
Reimbursement:
Feds Grant 60-Day Grace Period For PRF Reporting
Heads up: Later-period reporting deadlines aren't affected. The Department of Health and ... Read more
Feds Grant 60-Day Grace Period For PRF Reporting
Heads up: Later-period reporting deadlines aren't affected. The Department of Health and ... Read more
Compliance:
Vaccination Mandate A Mixed Bag For HH, Hospice Providers
Requirement for employers with 100+ employees may apply to you, even if Medicare mandate d... Read more
Vaccination Mandate A Mixed Bag For HH, Hospice Providers
Requirement for employers with 100+ employees may apply to you, even if Medicare mandate d... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
National Chain Continues To Flex Acquisition Muscle
Plus: Staffing crunch leads hospital to shut HHA's doors. The rapid pace of the home he... Read more
National Chain Continues To Flex Acquisition Muscle
Plus: Staffing crunch leads hospital to shut HHA's doors. The rapid pace of the home he... Read more
Billing:
Newest NOA Instructions Address Confusing Billing Scenario
Warning: Patient status codes are important. The closer the implementation gets for the ... Read more
Newest NOA Instructions Address Confusing Billing Scenario
Warning: Patient status codes are important. The closer the implementation gets for the ... Read more
Industry Notes:
BAYADA Settles Whistleblower Charges For $17 Million
Sometimes an acquisition is more than an acquisition. Home care companies hoping to boos... Read more
BAYADA Settles Whistleblower Charges For $17 Million
Sometimes an acquisition is more than an acquisition. Home care companies hoping to boos... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep Your Eye On Congress For HCBS Funding Boost's Fate
Demand for in-home care services is high, but will the payment for such services be there?... Read more
Keep Your Eye On Congress For HCBS Funding Boost's Fate
Demand for in-home care services is high, but will the payment for such services be there?... Read more
Industry Notes:
GAO Urges Increased HCBS Oversight
Meanwhile, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services should keep a tighter leash on... Read more
GAO Urges Increased HCBS Oversight
Meanwhile, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services should keep a tighter leash on... Read more
Industry Notes:
HQRP Data Penalty Jumps From 2% To 4% Starting With January Submissions
Don't get confused by Medicare's language when it comes to how much your pay will get dock... Read more
HQRP Data Penalty Jumps From 2% To 4% Starting With January Submissions
Don't get confused by Medicare's language when it comes to how much your pay will get dock... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Cracks Down On Docs' CCM Pay
Be on the lookout for hassles over CCM payments to your ordering physicians to potentially... Read more
OIG Cracks Down On Docs' CCM Pay
Be on the lookout for hassles over CCM payments to your ordering physicians to potentially... Read more
Industry Notes:
Agency Owner Draws 12-Year Prison Sentence For Medicaid Fraud
One of the most high-profile, egregious cases of Medicaid home care fraud has ended with a... Read more
Agency Owner Draws 12-Year Prison Sentence For Medicaid Fraud
One of the most high-profile, egregious cases of Medicaid home care fraud has ended with a... Read more
Industry Notes:
FL Hospices Pay After Self-Reporting Nurses With Expired Licenses
Be sure to keep track of your nurses' licensure status, or you could end up paying a steep... Read more
FL Hospices Pay After Self-Reporting Nurses With Expired Licenses
Be sure to keep track of your nurses' licensure status, or you could end up paying a steep... Read more
Reimbursement:
Use New MAC Instructions To Navigate NOAs For Periods Spanning Jan. 1
Plus: Take note of this NOA billing change. Get ready to say goodbye to RAPs and hello t... Read more
Use New MAC Instructions To Navigate NOAs For Periods Spanning Jan. 1
Plus: Take note of this NOA billing change. Get ready to say goodbye to RAPs and hello t... Read more
Billing:
Follow 2 Crucial Tips To Avoid Catastrophic Financial Hits With NOAs
Beware these NOA pitfalls. Home health agencies have known about Notices of Admission fo... Read more
Follow 2 Crucial Tips To Avoid Catastrophic Financial Hits With NOAs
Beware these NOA pitfalls. Home health agencies have known about Notices of Admission fo... Read more
Hospice:
Take These 7 Steps To Protect Your Hospice When New Survey Requirements Hit
It's time to put your money where your surveys are. New hospice survey procedures rangi... Read more
Take These 7 Steps To Protect Your Hospice When New Survey Requirements Hit
It's time to put your money where your surveys are. New hospice survey procedures rangi... Read more
Medical Review:
More HHA MACs Announce TPE Resumption
CMS should rethink bringing back this medical review program, industry reps urge. What's... Read more
More HHA MACs Announce TPE Resumption
CMS should rethink bringing back this medical review program, industry reps urge. What's... Read more
TPE:
Here Are The Topics Your MAC Is Targeting Under TPE
Long LOS may flag your claims for TPE review. While operational details are still somewh... Read more
Here Are The Topics Your MAC Is Targeting Under TPE
Long LOS may flag your claims for TPE review. While operational details are still somewh... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Care Agency Forks Over $235K To Settle Aide Overtime Dispute
Paying aides as independent contractors didn't fly for this Georgia provider. Make sure ... Read more
Home Care Agency Forks Over $235K To Settle Aide Overtime Dispute
Paying aides as independent contractors didn't fly for this Georgia provider. Make sure ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Make Use Of Regulatory Flexibilities In Hurricane Ida's Wake
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, the Department of Health and Human Services has declare... Read more
Make Use Of Regulatory Flexibilities In Hurricane Ida's Wake
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, the Department of Health and Human Services has declare... Read more
Industry Notes:
Revalidations And Other Enrollment Tasks Are Back In A Few Short Weeks
Get ready for some Medicare enrollment-related duties to make a comeback in October. The ... Read more
Revalidations And Other Enrollment Tasks Are Back In A Few Short Weeks
Get ready for some Medicare enrollment-related duties to make a comeback in October. The ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Problem Correcting Certain Institutional Category HH Claims
Watch out for a newly reported claims glitch that could be costing you your rightful reimb... Read more
Beware Problem Correcting Certain Institutional Category HH Claims
Watch out for a newly reported claims glitch that could be costing you your rightful reimb... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Issues New Billing Instructions For RHC/FQHC Hospice Attendings
Don't miss hospice attending billing instructions for Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Fede... Read more
Medicare Issues New Billing Instructions For RHC/FQHC Hospice Attendings
Don't miss hospice attending billing instructions for Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) and Fede... Read more
Medical Review:
It’s Official: TPE Resumed Sept. 1 — At Least At 1 HHH Contractor
GIP is on the TPE radar for hospice claims. Since Medicare announced the resumption of T... Read more
It’s Official: TPE Resumed Sept. 1 — At Least At 1 HHH Contractor
GIP is on the TPE radar for hospice claims. Since Medicare announced the resumption of T... Read more
Hospice:
Major Hospice Survey Changes To Start Hitting Next Month
Will you fall in the ‘poor performer' category requiring surveys every 6 months? Jus... Read more
Major Hospice Survey Changes To Start Hitting Next Month
Will you fall in the ‘poor performer' category requiring surveys every 6 months? Jus... Read more
Survey & Certification:
Hospice Survey Regulation Includes Some Bright Spots
Get ready for a rush of validation surveys. The proposed hospice survey changes could ... Read more
Hospice Survey Regulation Includes Some Bright Spots
Get ready for a rush of validation surveys. The proposed hospice survey changes could ... Read more
Conditions of Participation:
CMPs, Pay Suspension Poised To Make Hospice Surveys A Much More Painful Ordeal
Watch out: You'll have just 2 days' notice of enforcement remedies if a surveyor finds an... Read more
CMPs, Pay Suspension Poised To Make Hospice Surveys A Much More Painful Ordeal
Watch out: You'll have just 2 days' notice of enforcement remedies if a surveyor finds an... Read more
Regulations:
6 Items That Will Determine Enforcement Sanction Levels
Quality of care is key. If you get a condition-level deficiency on your next survey, you... Read more
6 Items That Will Determine Enforcement Sanction Levels
Quality of care is key. If you get a condition-level deficiency on your next survey, you... Read more
Industry Notes:
States Are Mandating COVID Vaccinations For HH, Hospice Workers
6 states and counting will require your staff to get jabbed. Despite the severe staffi... Read more
States Are Mandating COVID Vaccinations For HH, Hospice Workers
6 states and counting will require your staff to get jabbed. Despite the severe staffi... Read more
Industry Notes:
RCD Penalty Won't Apply To Claims From Before Sept. 1 In FL, NC
Good news for home health agencies in Florida and North Carolina: The Review Choice Demons... Read more
RCD Penalty Won't Apply To Claims From Before Sept. 1 In FL, NC
Good news for home health agencies in Florida and North Carolina: The Review Choice Demons... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hurricane Ida Wreaks Havoc On Louisiana Home Care Providers
Meanwhile, some Louisiana home health and hospice agencies are struggling in the aftermath... Read more
Hurricane Ida Wreaks Havoc On Louisiana Home Care Providers
Meanwhile, some Louisiana home health and hospice agencies are struggling in the aftermath... Read more
Industry Notes:
Log In To YouTube To Review Latest OASIS Guidance From CMS
Make sure you're up to speed on the latest OASIS guidance from Medicare with a new free we... Read more
Log In To YouTube To Review Latest OASIS Guidance From CMS
Make sure you're up to speed on the latest OASIS guidance from Medicare with a new free we... Read more
Industry Notes:
Reminder: Your HQRP Data Is Going Up On Care Compare Soon
Don't forget: Medicare's Hospice Quality Reporting Program “will resume public reporting... Read more
Reminder: Your HQRP Data Is Going Up On Care Compare Soon
Don't forget: Medicare's Hospice Quality Reporting Program “will resume public reporting... Read more
Medical Review:
TPE Medical Review Resumes, But Details Hazy
Will Sept. 1 be the kickoff date? Get ready for a lot more scrutiny of your PDGM claims ... Read more
TPE Medical Review Resumes, But Details Hazy
Will Sept. 1 be the kickoff date? Get ready for a lot more scrutiny of your PDGM claims ... Read more
COVID-19:
Push To Get Home Health, Hospice Staff Vaccinated Intensifies
Are Medicare-mandated shots for staff in the cards? As the Delta variant continues to sur... Read more
Push To Get Home Health, Hospice Staff Vaccinated Intensifies
Are Medicare-mandated shots for staff in the cards? As the Delta variant continues to sur... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Beware Of COVID Card Fakes
The feds are prosecuting cases. If you're one of the many employers that is asking employ... Read more
Beware Of COVID Card Fakes
The feds are prosecuting cases. If you're one of the many employers that is asking employ... Read more
Reimbursement:
Medicare Relaxes Criteria For In-Home Vaccination Pay Add-On
Industry reps urge feds to let home health, hospice agencies administer shots. The federa... Read more
Medicare Relaxes Criteria For In-Home Vaccination Pay Add-On
Industry reps urge feds to let home health, hospice agencies administer shots. The federa... Read more
Audits:
OIG Wants New York Nonprofit To Pay $4.2 Million
Seventeen claims lead to multi-million payback estimate. The latest home health agency ta... Read more
OIG Wants New York Nonprofit To Pay $4.2 Million
Seventeen claims lead to multi-million payback estimate. The latest home health agency ta... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Administrator Brooks-LaSure Touts HH VBP
Innovation Center to focus on ‘scaling what works.' If you thought Medicare might be ta... Read more
CMS Administrator Brooks-LaSure Touts HH VBP
Innovation Center to focus on ‘scaling what works.' If you thought Medicare might be ta... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Health Proposed Rule Comments Are Due Now
If you'd like to voice your comments on the Home Health Value-Based Purchasing model's nat... Read more
Home Health Proposed Rule Comments Are Due Now
If you'd like to voice your comments on the Home Health Value-Based Purchasing model's nat... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS To Update List Of MA Plans In Hospice Carve-In Soon
As the Medicare Advantage carve-in of hospice patients proceeds, a data point from a recen... Read more
CMS To Update List Of MA Plans In Hospice Carve-In Soon
As the Medicare Advantage carve-in of hospice patients proceeds, a data point from a recen... Read more
Industry Notes:
OSHA Picks Up CDC Masking Change
Check out the latest updates the Occupational Safety and Health Administration made to its... Read more
OSHA Picks Up CDC Masking Change
Check out the latest updates the Occupational Safety and Health Administration made to its... Read more
Industry Notes:
PPP Loan Forgiveness Denials Are Rolling Out
While you're likely familiar with the Medicare claims appeal process, you may need to get ... Read more
PPP Loan Forgiveness Denials Are Rolling Out
While you're likely familiar with the Medicare claims appeal process, you may need to get ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tune In To Medicare Webinar On HQRP Changes
Stay tuned for a new education session from Medicare to learn more about Hospice Quality R... Read more
Tune In To Medicare Webinar On HQRP Changes
Stay tuned for a new education session from Medicare to learn more about Hospice Quality R... Read more
Industry Notes:
New Orleans Hospice Owner Indicted For Bogus GIP, Doc Charges
The owner of a New Orleans hospice has been indicted on Medicare fraud. Canon Health... Read more
New Orleans Hospice Owner Indicted For Bogus GIP, Doc Charges
The owner of a New Orleans hospice has been indicted on Medicare fraud. Canon Health... Read more
Reimbursement:
Know When To Use The Late RAP Exceptions Process — And When Not To
Qualifying for a deadline exception can save HHAs big. Although it's been more than hal... Read more
Know When To Use The Late RAP Exceptions Process — And When Not To
Qualifying for a deadline exception can save HHAs big. Although it's been more than hal... Read more
OASIS:
Get Your Referral Date Information Straight With Latest OASIS Quarterly Q&A
Clarification could affect your Care Compare star rating. If you want to make your Care ... Read more
Get Your Referral Date Information Straight With Latest OASIS Quarterly Q&A
Clarification could affect your Care Compare star rating. If you want to make your Care ... Read more
Hospice:
Medicare Forges Ahead With 3 Controversial Quality Measures Over Hospices’ Concerns
Lion's share of hospice final rule addresses quality program issues. Get ready for major... Read more
Medicare Forges Ahead With 3 Controversial Quality Measures Over Hospices’ Concerns
Lion's share of hospice final rule addresses quality program issues. Get ready for major... Read more
Quality:
Get To Know Your New HCI Components
Find out what ‘burdensome transitions' are. Your potential patients, referral sources ... Read more
Get To Know Your New HCI Components
Find out what ‘burdensome transitions' are. Your potential patients, referral sources ... Read more
COVID-19:
Watch Out For Faked COVID-19 Vaccination Cards
Feds crack down on counterfeiters. As hospital systems and others across the country ann... Read more
Watch Out For Faked COVID-19 Vaccination Cards
Feds crack down on counterfeiters. As hospital systems and others across the country ann... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Spending Drops As Percentage Of Medicare Outlays
Managed care spending grows more than 50%. As Medicare spending grows, the home health p... Read more
HH Spending Drops As Percentage Of Medicare Outlays
Managed care spending grows more than 50%. As Medicare spending grows, the home health p... Read more
Industry Notes:
SBA Launches Direct Forgiveness Portal For PPP Loans
Did you receive $150,000 or less in CARES Act Paycheck Protection Act funds? Then you can ... Read more
SBA Launches Direct Forgiveness Portal For PPP Loans
Did you receive $150,000 or less in CARES Act Paycheck Protection Act funds? Then you can ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Latest HH PEPPER Reports Feature Comorbidity Benchmarks
If you want to know how to best use your free PEPPER benchmarking report, check out a new ... Read more
Latest HH PEPPER Reports Feature Comorbidity Benchmarks
If you want to know how to best use your free PEPPER benchmarking report, check out a new ... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Collects Half-Million In Cap Overpayments With Plans For More
Thanks to a federal watchdog agency, one HHH Medicare Administrative Contractor is now col... Read more
MAC Collects Half-Million In Cap Overpayments With Plans For More
Thanks to a federal watchdog agency, one HHH Medicare Administrative Contractor is now col... Read more
Industry Notes:
Chicago HHA Forks Over Settlement For Self-Disclosed Misdeeds
An Illinois hospital-based home health agency is paying just short of six figures for a mi... Read more
Chicago HHA Forks Over Settlement For Self-Disclosed Misdeeds
An Illinois hospital-based home health agency is paying just short of six figures for a mi... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Workers Win Back Wages
The Department of Labor has recovered $1.5 million in home health worker back wages from a... Read more
HH Workers Win Back Wages
The Department of Labor has recovered $1.5 million in home health worker back wages from a... Read more
Industry Notes:
Honor Tech Buys Home Instead
The latest in the industry's juggernaut deals: Honor Technology Inc. has acquired Home Ins... Read more
Honor Tech Buys Home Instead
The latest in the industry's juggernaut deals: Honor Technology Inc. has acquired Home Ins... Read more
Quality:
New HH Data To Hit Care Compare In January
CMS turns down suggestion to include a COVID disclaimer on the refreshed stats. Home he... Read more
New HH Data To Hit Care Compare In January
CMS turns down suggestion to include a COVID disclaimer on the refreshed stats. Home he... Read more
Review Choice Demonstration:
Mandatory RCD Hits Florida, North Carolina
Will your state be next? Even though COVID-19 numbers are skyrocketing, Medicare is shutt... Read more
Mandatory RCD Hits Florida, North Carolina
Will your state be next? Even though COVID-19 numbers are skyrocketing, Medicare is shutt... Read more
Reimbursement:
Hospice Pay Increase Dialed Back In 2022 Final Rule
Watch out for revised labor share's impact on your reimbursement. Medicare's hospice fi... Read more
Hospice Pay Increase Dialed Back In 2022 Final Rule
Watch out for revised labor share's impact on your reimbursement. Medicare's hospice fi... Read more
Compliance:
Get Familiar With These Helpful Hospice Addendum Changes
CMS turns away many addendum suggestions, including those addressing steep financial pena... Read more
Get Familiar With These Helpful Hospice Addendum Changes
CMS turns away many addendum suggestions, including those addressing steep financial pena... Read more
Conditions of Participation:
Hospices Welcome Waiver Changes Made Permanent
Pseudo-patient, competency testing requirements will be different — for good. Two chan... Read more
Hospices Welcome Waiver Changes Made Permanent
Pseudo-patient, competency testing requirements will be different — for good. Two chan... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don’t Miss This Crucial PPP Loan Deadline
Make sure you are rock solid on your forgiveness application timing. If you miss the d... Read more
Don’t Miss This Crucial PPP Loan Deadline
Make sure you are rock solid on your forgiveness application timing. If you miss the d... Read more
Industry Notes:
Bill Aims To Establish New Kind Of Medicare Home Care Benefit
Keep an eye on a newly introduced bill in Congress, The Choose Home Care Act of 2021 (S. 2... Read more
Bill Aims To Establish New Kind Of Medicare Home Care Benefit
Keep an eye on a newly introduced bill in Congress, The Choose Home Care Act of 2021 (S. 2... Read more
Industry Notes:
Encompass Health Spin-Off Or Sale Appears Imminent
A spin-off or sale of Encompass Health Corp.'s home health and hospice business is looking... Read more
Encompass Health Spin-Off Or Sale Appears Imminent
A spin-off or sale of Encompass Health Corp.'s home health and hospice business is looking... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Health NOA Details Emerge As Implementation Date Nears
The Notice of Admission for home health agencies is fast approaching its Jan. 1 implementa... Read more
Home Health NOA Details Emerge As Implementation Date Nears
The Notice of Admission for home health agencies is fast approaching its Jan. 1 implementa... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Potential Rate Cuts Loom As CMS Claims HH Pay Far Exceeds Cost
Highest-paying clinical groups see utilization drops under PDGM, Medicare data shows. Po... Read more
Potential Rate Cuts Loom As CMS Claims HH Pay Far Exceeds Cost
Highest-paying clinical groups see utilization drops under PDGM, Medicare data shows. Po... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
Higher Functional Impairment Levels To Become Harder To Achieve
Plus: Get to know big comorbidity group revamp. Data revealed in the recent proposed hom... Read more
Higher Functional Impairment Levels To Become Harder To Achieve
Plus: Get to know big comorbidity group revamp. Data revealed in the recent proposed hom... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Chain Buys Agencies From Coast To Coast
Higher hospice M&A volume persists. National chain LHC Group Inc. has had a busy few... Read more
Chain Buys Agencies From Coast To Coast
Higher hospice M&A volume persists. National chain LHC Group Inc. has had a busy few... Read more
Emergency Preparedness:
Still Operating Under Your Emergency Prep Plan? Don’t Sweat Testing, Updated CMS Memo Assures
Plus: OIG is going to examine EP CoP compliance. Home health and hospice agencies have b... Read more
Still Operating Under Your Emergency Prep Plan? Don’t Sweat Testing, Updated CMS Memo Assures
Plus: OIG is going to examine EP CoP compliance. Home health and hospice agencies have b... Read more
Labor Law:
Brace For OSHA COVID ETS Inspections
2 new OSHA directives are getting inspectors ready — and one highlights whistleblowers.... Read more
Brace For OSHA COVID ETS Inspections
2 new OSHA directives are getting inspectors ready — and one highlights whistleblowers.... Read more
Industry Notes:
Watch Your CASPER Folder For Pay-Docking Notice
Keep in mind: You must pull the trigger on a reconsideration request quickly. Don't let ... Read more
Watch Your CASPER Folder For Pay-Docking Notice
Keep in mind: You must pull the trigger on a reconsideration request quickly. Don't let ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get CERT Program Answers At This New Website
Medicare has a new website for all things CERT-related. The CERT C3HUB web site at https:... Read more
Get CERT Program Answers At This New Website
Medicare has a new website for all things CERT-related. The CERT C3HUB web site at https:... Read more
Industry Notes:
Health IT Experts Sought For Advisory Panel
If you think the feds need to hear more about health IT from the home health and hospice p... Read more
Health IT Experts Sought For Advisory Panel
If you think the feds need to hear more about health IT from the home health and hospice p... Read more
Industry Notes:
Download HH PEPPER Report Now
You can now download the newest version of your Home Health PEPPER Report. “Fourth quar... Read more
Download HH PEPPER Report Now
You can now download the newest version of your Home Health PEPPER Report. “Fourth quar... Read more
Industry Notes:
Sacremento HHA, Hospice Owner Pleads Guilty To Kickbacks
A California home health and hospice agency owner has pleaded guilty to fraud and kickback... Read more
Sacremento HHA, Hospice Owner Pleads Guilty To Kickbacks
A California home health and hospice agency owner has pleaded guilty to fraud and kickback... Read more
Industry Notes:
State Paid $620M For Services Hospices Should Have Covered, Audit Says
It's not just Medicare that is putting payments for non-hospice services to hospice enroll... Read more
State Paid $620M For Services Hospices Should Have Covered, Audit Says
It's not just Medicare that is putting payments for non-hospice services to hospice enroll... Read more
Strategy:
National Chains Snap Up Hospital-At-Home Providers
Review the action-packed developments in this relatively new space. Keep your eye on a... Read more
National Chains Snap Up Hospital-At-Home Providers
Review the action-packed developments in this relatively new space. Keep your eye on a... Read more
Audits:
OIG Tramples On Docs’ Clinical Judgment, Audited Hospices Charge
Nonprofits call OIG on its medical review nonsense. In a long string of audit reports s... Read more
OIG Tramples On Docs’ Clinical Judgment, Audited Hospices Charge
Nonprofits call OIG on its medical review nonsense. In a long string of audit reports s... Read more
Reimbursement:
Medicare Wants Your 2 Cents On In-Home Vaccination Add-On
Beware increased documentation requirements in the future. Home care providers may be in... Read more
Medicare Wants Your 2 Cents On In-Home Vaccination Add-On
Beware increased documentation requirements in the future. Home care providers may be in... Read more
Provider Relief Fund:
Providers Welcome Good News About PRF Reporting
Get to know the latest clarifications on reporting ins and outs. If you blinked over your... Read more
Providers Welcome Good News About PRF Reporting
Get to know the latest clarifications on reporting ins and outs. If you blinked over your... Read more
Labor Law:
Submit COVID ETS Feedback Before Your Chance Is Over
Heads up: You're supposed to already be complying with the ETS. The DOL Occupational Saf... Read more
Submit COVID ETS Feedback Before Your Chance Is Over
Heads up: You're supposed to already be complying with the ETS. The DOL Occupational Saf... Read more
Industry Notes:
Agencies Pony Up After Self-Disclosures
Here's a reminder of why you should always check new hires against the exclusion list. A... Read more
Agencies Pony Up After Self-Disclosures
Here's a reminder of why you should always check new hires against the exclusion list. A... Read more
Industry Notes:
Find Out How Many COVID-19 Hospital Discharges Went To Home Health & Hospice With New Medicare Data Resource
You can get concrete data about how COVID-19 affected Medicare beneficiaries — and the h... Read more
Find Out How Many COVID-19 Hospital Discharges Went To Home Health & Hospice With New Medicare Data Resource
You can get concrete data about how COVID-19 affected Medicare beneficiaries — and the h... Read more
Industry Notes:
Act Fast: Window For Nonprofits To Apply For COVID Training Grants Is Nearly Closed
If you're a non-profit, you could secure funding to train your staff on COVID-19 as requir... Read more
Act Fast: Window For Nonprofits To Apply For COVID Training Grants Is Nearly Closed
If you're a non-profit, you could secure funding to train your staff on COVID-19 as requir... Read more
Industry Notes:
Catch Up On Medicare's Latest Accelerated Payment FAQs
Agencies that received COVID-19 Accelerated and Advance Payments now have one more set of ... Read more
Catch Up On Medicare's Latest Accelerated Payment FAQs
Agencies that received COVID-19 Accelerated and Advance Payments now have one more set of ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Louisiana HHA Execs Indicted In Check Kiting Scheme
Instead of the typical Medicare fraud, two Monroe, Louisiana-area home health agency execu... Read more
Louisiana HHA Execs Indicted In Check Kiting Scheme
Instead of the typical Medicare fraud, two Monroe, Louisiana-area home health agency execu... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Get Ready For Nationwide HH VBP To Hit In 5 Short Months
VBP will strip $3 billion from Medicare spending, CMS estimates. If you're located in one... Read more
Get Ready For Nationwide HH VBP To Hit In 5 Short Months
VBP will strip $3 billion from Medicare spending, CMS estimates. If you're located in one... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Start Your VBP Ramp-Up By Mastering Newly Released Model Specs
Will you qualify for the nationwide smaller or larger cohort? The Value-Based Purchasing... Read more
Start Your VBP Ramp-Up By Mastering Newly Released Model Specs
Will you qualify for the nationwide smaller or larger cohort? The Value-Based Purchasing... Read more
Reimbursement:
Keep An Eye On Proposed 1.7% Home Health Pay Increase For 2022
Warning: Drastic reimbursement cut could be waiting in the wings for HHAs. Medicare is p... Read more
Keep An Eye On Proposed 1.7% Home Health Pay Increase For 2022
Warning: Drastic reimbursement cut could be waiting in the wings for HHAs. Medicare is p... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
CMS Isn’t Budging On LUPAs
CMS Isn't Budging On LUPAs The factors that influence your payment rate are many under t... Read more
CMS Isn’t Budging On LUPAs
CMS Isn't Budging On LUPAs The factors that influence your payment rate are many under t... Read more
Payment:
Brace For Major PDGM Case Mix Shake-Up
Number of high-comorbidity pairing groups more than doubles next year. If you thought Me... Read more
Brace For Major PDGM Case Mix Shake-Up
Number of high-comorbidity pairing groups more than doubles next year. If you thought Me... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
HHAs May Go To War Over Behavioral Adjustment’s Persistence
LUPAs are way up, but the much-protested payment cut stays in proposed rule. After a p... Read more
HHAs May Go To War Over Behavioral Adjustment’s Persistence
LUPAs are way up, but the much-protested payment cut stays in proposed rule. After a p... Read more
Regulations:
Aide Supervision, Telecommunication COVID Waivers Poised To Become Permanent
But what does your state say? Some big COVID-19 Public Health Emergency flexibilities ha... Read more
Aide Supervision, Telecommunication COVID Waivers Poised To Become Permanent
But what does your state say? Some big COVID-19 Public Health Emergency flexibilities ha... Read more
Quality:
OASIS-E’s Newest Implementation Date Is January 2023
Plus: Say goodbye to some quality measures. A host of Home Health Quality Reporting Pro... Read more
OASIS-E’s Newest Implementation Date Is January 2023
Plus: Say goodbye to some quality measures. A host of Home Health Quality Reporting Pro... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Survey Changes Pop Up In Home Health Rule
Alternative sanctions are on the horizon. Hospices surprised that Medicare's hospice pay... Read more
Hospice Survey Changes Pop Up In Home Health Rule
Alternative sanctions are on the horizon. Hospices surprised that Medicare's hospice pay... Read more
Industry Notes:
HIT Updates Proposed
You can also find changes to Medicare's new home infusion therapy (HIT) benefit in the 202... Read more
HIT Updates Proposed
You can also find changes to Medicare's new home infusion therapy (HIT) benefit in the 202... Read more
Industry Notes:
PEP Overpayments Strike
Beware potential PEP overpayments, thanks to no-pay Request for Anticipated Payment instru... Read more
PEP Overpayments Strike
Beware potential PEP overpayments, thanks to no-pay Request for Anticipated Payment instru... Read more
Industry Notes:
COVID Scams Target Providers
COVID fraudsters aren't picky; they are targeting both beneficiaries and providers, accord... Read more
COVID Scams Target Providers
COVID fraudsters aren't picky; they are targeting both beneficiaries and providers, accord... Read more
Labor Law:
Get Ready To Offer OSHA-Required Paid Leave For COVID By July 5
ETS publication in the Federal Register starts compliance countdown. There are a lot of... Read more
Get Ready To Offer OSHA-Required Paid Leave For COVID By July 5
ETS publication in the Federal Register starts compliance countdown. There are a lot of... Read more
Compliance:
Take These 9 Steps To Achieve COVID ETS Compliance
Tip: Your hazard assessment must get specific. OSHA says it will use enforcement discret... Read more
Take These 9 Steps To Achieve COVID ETS Compliance
Tip: Your hazard assessment must get specific. OSHA says it will use enforcement discret... Read more
Hospice:
Are Your Hospice Addendum Policies Up To Snuff As Medical Review Ramps Back Up?
You won't get a pass on this one. It's been nearly nine months since Medicare started re... Read more
Are Your Hospice Addendum Policies Up To Snuff As Medical Review Ramps Back Up?
You won't get a pass on this one. It's been nearly nine months since Medicare started re... Read more
Medical Review:
Face-To-Face Plagues HHA Claims During COVID
Plus: MAC denies $2.1 million in GIP claims. One HHH Medicare Administrative Contractor ... Read more
Face-To-Face Plagues HHA Claims During COVID
Plus: MAC denies $2.1 million in GIP claims. One HHH Medicare Administrative Contractor ... Read more
Industry Notes:
More Therapy Brings More Functional Improvement, Study Shows
Dual-eligibles fared the worst, data snapshot shows. Data about COVID-19's impact on Med... Read more
More Therapy Brings More Functional Improvement, Study Shows
Dual-eligibles fared the worst, data snapshot shows. Data about COVID-19's impact on Med... Read more
Industry Notes:
Mortality Rate In Nursing Homes Rose 32% Under COVID.
As law- and policy-makers continue to work on the idea of a unified payment system for all... Read more
Mortality Rate In Nursing Homes Rose 32% Under COVID.
As law- and policy-makers continue to work on the idea of a unified payment system for all... Read more
Industry Notes:
Learn A Referral Lesson From This Whistleblower Lawsuit
Watch out: If you're paying someone to use their client list for marketing, that could be ... Read more
Learn A Referral Lesson From This Whistleblower Lawsuit
Watch out: If you're paying someone to use their client list for marketing, that could be ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Trade Group's LGBTQ+ Resource Guide Aims To Improve Care
If your hospice is looking for help to improve your services to LGBTQ+ patients, a new too... Read more
Trade Group's LGBTQ+ Resource Guide Aims To Improve Care
If your hospice is looking for help to improve your services to LGBTQ+ patients, a new too... Read more
Industry Notes:
Gray Market Care Poses Risks, Study Indicates
A new Rand Corp. study sheds light on how Americans are paying for home care. “Nearly a... Read more
Gray Market Care Poses Risks, Study Indicates
A new Rand Corp. study sheds light on how Americans are paying for home care. “Nearly a... Read more
Industry Notes:
Financial Targets Figure In Hospice Whistleblower Suit
CURO Health Services Holdings Inc., CURO Health Services, TNMO Healthcare (d/b/a Avalon Ho... Read more
Financial Targets Figure In Hospice Whistleblower Suit
CURO Health Services Holdings Inc., CURO Health Services, TNMO Healthcare (d/b/a Avalon Ho... Read more
Industry Notes:
County Sells Agency To Out-Of-State For-Profit, Over Objections
In North Carolina, opponents of the sale of Dare County's Home Health and Hospice agency t... Read more
County Sells Agency To Out-Of-State For-Profit, Over Objections
In North Carolina, opponents of the sale of Dare County's Home Health and Hospice agency t... Read more
Labor Law:
New OSHA COVID-19 Rule Drops Multiple New Requirements In Your Lap
Stay tuned for possible legal challenges. We're heading into month 17 under the COVID-19... Read more
New OSHA COVID-19 Rule Drops Multiple New Requirements In Your Lap
Stay tuned for possible legal challenges. We're heading into month 17 under the COVID-19... Read more
Compliance:
Address These Items ASAP Under New OSHA COVID ETS
Who will your COVID safety coordinator be? OSHA wants to know. The list of items covered... Read more
Address These Items ASAP Under New OSHA COVID ETS
Who will your COVID safety coordinator be? OSHA wants to know. The list of items covered... Read more
Regulations:
Don’t Miss: Fully Vaccinated HH Settings Are Exempt From ETS Requirements
How do you show your staff are fully vaccinated? OSHA has given healthcare providers a l... Read more
Don’t Miss: Fully Vaccinated HH Settings Are Exempt From ETS Requirements
How do you show your staff are fully vaccinated? OSHA has given healthcare providers a l... Read more
Finance:
HHS Extends PRF Deadlines, Increases Reporting Duties
Reporting portal opens July 1. In a new notice, the Department of Health and Human Serv... Read more
HHS Extends PRF Deadlines, Increases Reporting Duties
Reporting portal opens July 1. In a new notice, the Department of Health and Human Serv... Read more
Audits:
OIG Slaps Hospice With $3.3 Million Overpayment Estimate
Error rate ‘extremely misleading,' hospice's attorneys say. The HHS Office of Inspec... Read more
OIG Slaps Hospice With $3.3 Million Overpayment Estimate
Error rate ‘extremely misleading,' hospice's attorneys say. The HHS Office of Inspec... Read more
Industry Notes:
MedPAC Eyes Medicare Advantage, Rural Utilization
Louisiana racks up highest HH utilization rate, according to new report. Although it see... Read more
MedPAC Eyes Medicare Advantage, Rural Utilization
Louisiana racks up highest HH utilization rate, according to new report. Although it see... Read more
Industry Notes:
Watch Out For New Cost Report Pitfall
It looks to be a rocky year for home health cost report data. Why? The Centers for Medica... Read more
Watch Out For New Cost Report Pitfall
It looks to be a rocky year for home health cost report data. Why? The Centers for Medica... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHA Settles Pay Dispute For $85K
A Massachusetts home health agency has agreed to fork over more than $85,000 to settle cha... Read more
HHA Settles Pay Dispute For $85K
A Massachusetts home health agency has agreed to fork over more than $85,000 to settle cha... Read more
Industry Notes:
Aide Pay Shoots Up 4% Under COVID
If you've had to pay higher wages to attract aides, you are not alone. A new study found ... Read more
Aide Pay Shoots Up 4% Under COVID
If you've had to pay higher wages to attract aides, you are not alone. A new study found ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Aides Plead Guilty To Medicaid Fraud
States continue to crack down on Medicaid personal care services fraud. In Missouri, the ... Read more
Aides Plead Guilty To Medicaid Fraud
States continue to crack down on Medicaid personal care services fraud. In Missouri, the ... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Focuses On COVID Test Fraud
The HHS Office of Inspector General didn't concentrate only on home health and hospice fra... Read more
OIG Focuses On COVID Test Fraud
The HHS Office of Inspector General didn't concentrate only on home health and hospice fra... Read more
Medical Review:
Beware These Targets As Medicare Reinstates Post-Pay Review For COVID-Era Claims
Watch out: PHE waivers may turn into reimbursement-killers. The COVID-19 Public Health E... Read more
Beware These Targets As Medicare Reinstates Post-Pay Review For COVID-Era Claims
Watch out: PHE waivers may turn into reimbursement-killers. The COVID-19 Public Health E... Read more
Targeted Probe & Educate:
When Will Punishing TPE Come Back?
Widespread Review Choice Demo may become a TPE alternative. Medicare is dipping its toe... Read more
When Will Punishing TPE Come Back?
Widespread Review Choice Demo may become a TPE alternative. Medicare is dipping its toe... Read more
Strategy:
Take These 4 Steps To Head Off Increased Medical Review Impact
Tip: Double-check reviewer decisions to make sure waivers are considered. Now's the time ... Read more
Take These 4 Steps To Head Off Increased Medical Review Impact
Tip: Double-check reviewer decisions to make sure waivers are considered. Now's the time ... Read more
COVID-19:
Medicare Nearly Doubles Pay Rate For At-Home COVID Shots
But pay increase only applies if there are no other Medicare-covered services during that... Read more
Medicare Nearly Doubles Pay Rate For At-Home COVID Shots
But pay increase only applies if there are no other Medicare-covered services during that... Read more
Compliance:
Transportation, Socioeconomic Barriers Qualify For Additional Vaccination Pay
Get the details on who makes the cut. One relief for the new payment boost for at-home C... Read more
Transportation, Socioeconomic Barriers Qualify For Additional Vaccination Pay
Get the details on who makes the cut. One relief for the new payment boost for at-home C... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Trains Spotlight on Provider Review Fund Fraud
Floating reporting deadline lessens urgency — but it shouldn't. The reporting deadli... Read more
OIG Trains Spotlight on Provider Review Fund Fraud
Floating reporting deadline lessens urgency — but it shouldn't. The reporting deadli... Read more
Industry Notes:
Study Says HHVBP Saves Medicare Money, Improves Outcomes
The idea of value-based purchasing may not be as trendy in policy circles as it once was, ... Read more
Study Says HHVBP Saves Medicare Money, Improves Outcomes
The idea of value-based purchasing may not be as trendy in policy circles as it once was, ... Read more
Industry Notes:
UTN Glitch Sows Confusion
Don't fall for a newly reported claims processing glitch related to Unique Tracking Number... Read more
UTN Glitch Sows Confusion
Don't fall for a newly reported claims processing glitch related to Unique Tracking Number... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get To Know HVLDL Specifics
If you're still struggling to get your hands around the new Hospice Visits in Last Days of... Read more
Get To Know HVLDL Specifics
If you're still struggling to get your hands around the new Hospice Visits in Last Days of... Read more
Industry Notes:
Stay On Top Of Patient Record Requests Or Risk HIPAA Payout
Letting responses to patient record requests fall to the bottom of your to-do pile could c... Read more
Stay On Top Of Patient Record Requests Or Risk HIPAA Payout
Letting responses to patient record requests fall to the bottom of your to-do pile could c... Read more
Industry Notes:
Learn How To Handle COVID Vaccination Waste
With COVID-19 vaccinations potentially becoming more common for home health and hospice pr... Read more
Learn How To Handle COVID Vaccination Waste
With COVID-19 vaccinations potentially becoming more common for home health and hospice pr... Read more
Audits:
OIG Wants HHA To Repay $4.4 Million After Audit
Watchdog agency serves up its long string of HHA, hospice audits to Congress in latest sem... Read more
OIG Wants HHA To Repay $4.4 Million After Audit
Watchdog agency serves up its long string of HHA, hospice audits to Congress in latest sem... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
HHA Owner Charged With Provider Relief Fund Fraud
Plus: Crackdown on state personal care services fraudsters continues A home health agenc... Read more
HHA Owner Charged With Provider Relief Fund Fraud
Plus: Crackdown on state personal care services fraudsters continues A home health agenc... Read more
Enforcement:
Crackdown On State Personal Care Services Fraudsters Continues
D.C. aide billed for 32 hours of services per day. Home health fraud isn't limited to fe... Read more
Crackdown On State Personal Care Services Fraudsters Continues
D.C. aide billed for 32 hours of services per day. Home health fraud isn't limited to fe... Read more
Compliance:
Keep Up With New Regulations On Signing Certs
NPs, CNSs, and PAs are officially on the list. New Medicare regulations regarding who ca... Read more
Keep Up With New Regulations On Signing Certs
NPs, CNSs, and PAs are officially on the list. New Medicare regulations regarding who ca... Read more
Regulations:
New Requirement On Owner Reporting Set To Increase Burden
Can home health and hospice agencies avoid the extra work? Stay tuned to forthcoming regul... Read more
New Requirement On Owner Reporting Set To Increase Burden
Can home health and hospice agencies avoid the extra work? Stay tuned to forthcoming regul... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Fraud Is OIG ‘Top Priority,’ Agency Tells Congress
Hospice fraudster grabs the spotlight. The high-profile Merida Group case in South Texas... Read more
Hospice Fraud Is OIG ‘Top Priority,’ Agency Tells Congress
Hospice fraudster grabs the spotlight. The high-profile Merida Group case in South Texas... Read more
Industry Notes:
HOPE Is Coming, Care Compare Changes Are Here
Stay abreast of new Hospice Quality Reporting Program developments with newly released res... Read more
HOPE Is Coming, Care Compare Changes Are Here
Stay abreast of new Hospice Quality Reporting Program developments with newly released res... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Whistleblower Case Founders On Lack Of Specificity
Providers fending off whistleblower cases may be heartened by a recent unpublished ruling ... Read more
Hospice Whistleblower Case Founders On Lack Of Specificity
Providers fending off whistleblower cases may be heartened by a recent unpublished ruling ... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Mulls Penalizing More Early Hospital Discharges To Home Care
Expect the payment penalty for early hospital discharges to home health agencies to expand... Read more
OIG Mulls Penalizing More Early Hospital Discharges To Home Care
Expect the payment penalty for early hospital discharges to home health agencies to expand... Read more
Industry Notes:
In-Home Care Demand Climbing
Two recent studies and surveys say what you may already know — demand for in-home care i... Read more
In-Home Care Demand Climbing
Two recent studies and surveys say what you may already know — demand for in-home care i... Read more
Industry Notes:
CDC Tool Aims To Sway Vaccine-Hesitant Direct Care Workers
You've got one more free tool to put in your vaccination campaign toolbox. The Centers for... Read more
CDC Tool Aims To Sway Vaccine-Hesitant Direct Care Workers
You've got one more free tool to put in your vaccination campaign toolbox. The Centers for... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Asks Employers To Talk To Workers About Insurance Marketplace
If you don't furnish health insurance to your employees, the government would like you to ... Read more
HHS Asks Employers To Talk To Workers About Insurance Marketplace
If you don't furnish health insurance to your employees, the government would like you to ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Fraudster Draws 17-Year Sentence
A serious criminal enterprise running on-paper-only home health agencies has resulted in a... Read more
HH Fraudster Draws 17-Year Sentence
A serious criminal enterprise running on-paper-only home health agencies has resulted in a... Read more
Labor Law:
Apply Independent Contractor Designation Carefully After Regulatory Change
Compliance for claiming contractor status is a ‘moving target,' attorney warns. If you... Read more
Apply Independent Contractor Designation Carefully After Regulatory Change
Compliance for claiming contractor status is a ‘moving target,' attorney warns. If you... Read more
Compliance:
Do Your Contractors Measure Up Under These 7 ‘Economic Realities’ Factors?
Degree of control is key. If you're claiming workers are independent contractors but the... Read more
Do Your Contractors Measure Up Under These 7 ‘Economic Realities’ Factors?
Degree of control is key. If you're claiming workers are independent contractors but the... Read more
Audits:
Protect Yourself From Audits With These 5 Tips
OIG deems 20% of nonprofit hospice's audited claims ‘unallowable' and assesses $13 mill... Read more
Protect Yourself From Audits With These 5 Tips
OIG deems 20% of nonprofit hospice's audited claims ‘unallowable' and assesses $13 mill... Read more
COVID-19:
Vaccine Incentive Rules For Employees, Patients Get Clearer
Use these important safeguards to offer incentives to patients. Sooner than you think, y... Read more
Vaccine Incentive Rules For Employees, Patients Get Clearer
Use these important safeguards to offer incentives to patients. Sooner than you think, y... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Physicians Take Center Stage In Home Health Fraud
Kickbacks for referrals, certs, and more land docs in the courtroom. A federal jury ha... Read more
Physicians Take Center Stage In Home Health Fraud
Kickbacks for referrals, certs, and more land docs in the courtroom. A federal jury ha... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Home Health Company Launches Joint Venture
Plus: Hospice deals continue to flourish. Alternate Solutions Health Network and The Ohi... Read more
Home Health Company Launches Joint Venture
Plus: Hospice deals continue to flourish. Alternate Solutions Health Network and The Ohi... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Administrator Finally Confirmed
Home health, hospice representatives welcome Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. The Centers for Med... Read more
CMS Administrator Finally Confirmed
Home health, hospice representatives welcome Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. The Centers for Med... Read more
Industry Notes:
HCBS Reporting Hits Federal Register
If you'd like to give Medicare your two cents on the reporting required of states for usin... Read more
HCBS Reporting Hits Federal Register
If you'd like to give Medicare your two cents on the reporting required of states for usin... Read more
Industry Notes:
Submit NOEs Electronically, CMS Urges
CMS thinks hospices can do better regarding electronic submission of Notices of Election. ... Read more
Submit NOEs Electronically, CMS Urges
CMS thinks hospices can do better regarding electronic submission of Notices of Election. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tune In To Free Hospice Composite Measure Webinar
Find out more about Medicare's new Hospice Quality Composite Measure and how it differs fr... Read more
Tune In To Free Hospice Composite Measure Webinar
Find out more about Medicare's new Hospice Quality Composite Measure and how it differs fr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Peek At NOA Instructions To MACs
You've now got more home health NOA information at your fingertips. The Centers for Medica... Read more
Peek At NOA Instructions To MACs
You've now got more home health NOA information at your fingertips. The Centers for Medica... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Kickbacks From Software Co
If you feel like you've been doing a good job fending off any illegal kickbacks, you may w... Read more
Beware Kickbacks From Software Co
If you feel like you've been doing a good job fending off any illegal kickbacks, you may w... Read more
Industry Notes:
Heed OIG's Vaccination Billing Don'ts
The HHS Office of Inspector General has vehemently reminded COVID-19 vaccine providers tha... Read more
Heed OIG's Vaccination Billing Don'ts
The HHS Office of Inspector General has vehemently reminded COVID-19 vaccine providers tha... Read more
Budget:
Keep Your Eyes Peeled For HCBS Enhancements In Your State
FMAP increase should translate to additional $12.7 billion. Details should soon emerge ab... Read more
Keep Your Eyes Peeled For HCBS Enhancements In Your State
FMAP increase should translate to additional $12.7 billion. Details should soon emerge ab... Read more
Reimbursement:
Medicare Issues More HH Notice of Admission Details
1 NOA works for all subsequent periods of care — and also could wreck them. You've got ... Read more
Medicare Issues More HH Notice of Admission Details
1 NOA works for all subsequent periods of care — and also could wreck them. You've got ... Read more
Medical Review:
OIG Hits Hospices With Millions In Overpayment Assessments
Reviewers wield 6-month prognosis as a denial weapon. The heat is on, and not because it... Read more
OIG Hits Hospices With Millions In Overpayment Assessments
Reviewers wield 6-month prognosis as a denial weapon. The heat is on, and not because it... Read more
Audits:
OIG Auditors Rake Hospices Over The Coals
Providers strike back with claims of flawed audit processes. If you don't think hospices... Read more
OIG Auditors Rake Hospices Over The Coals
Providers strike back with claims of flawed audit processes. If you don't think hospices... Read more
Industry Notes:
Watch For Possible Provider Relief Fund Extension
June 30 deadline is fast approaching. If you're among the providers that don't think the... Read more
Watch For Possible Provider Relief Fund Extension
June 30 deadline is fast approaching. If you're among the providers that don't think the... Read more
Industry Notes:
Last Round Of Testing For HOPE Assessment Tool Is On The Calendar
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is planning to start beta testing of the ... Read more
Last Round Of Testing For HOPE Assessment Tool Is On The Calendar
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is planning to start beta testing of the ... Read more
Industry Notes:
What Will It Take To Get Your Workers To Get The COVID Vaccination? One State May Have The Answer
If you feel like you're not making much headway in convincing your vaccine-hesitant worker... Read more
What Will It Take To Get Your Workers To Get The COVID Vaccination? One State May Have The Answer
If you feel like you're not making much headway in convincing your vaccine-hesitant worker... Read more
Industry Notes:
FBI To Healthcare Providers: Be On Guard Against Ransomware Attacks Like The Colonial Pipeline Case
Lining up for gas isn't the only impact you should have seen from the Colonial Pipeline ra... Read more
FBI To Healthcare Providers: Be On Guard Against Ransomware Attacks Like The Colonial Pipeline Case
Lining up for gas isn't the only impact you should have seen from the Colonial Pipeline ra... Read more
Industry Notes:
Pennant Group Makes Texas Home Health Buy
The Pennant Group Inc. has acquired the assets of Cardiovascular Home Care in Fort Worth, ... Read more
Pennant Group Makes Texas Home Health Buy
The Pennant Group Inc. has acquired the assets of Cardiovascular Home Care in Fort Worth, ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Venerable VNA Hands Reins Over To National Chain
Amedisys Inc. will buy 125-year-old, nonprofit Visiting Nurse Association in Omaha, Nebras... Read more
Venerable VNA Hands Reins Over To National Chain
Amedisys Inc. will buy 125-year-old, nonprofit Visiting Nurse Association in Omaha, Nebras... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Illegal Kickbacks From Unexpected Quarters
Think you've been doing a good job fending off any illegal kickbacks? You may want to thin... Read more
Beware Illegal Kickbacks From Unexpected Quarters
Think you've been doing a good job fending off any illegal kickbacks? You may want to thin... Read more
OASIS:
Map Out Your OASIS-E Ramp-Up Strategy Now
Pencil in summertime training. Medicare officials are keeping their word to hold off on... Read more
Map Out Your OASIS-E Ramp-Up Strategy Now
Pencil in summertime training. Medicare officials are keeping their word to hold off on... Read more
Labor Law:
DOL Pulls Back Trump-Era Independent Contractor Rule
Overtime rulings in 3 home health cases lead to agencies paying millions in back wages. ... Read more
DOL Pulls Back Trump-Era Independent Contractor Rule
Overtime rulings in 3 home health cases lead to agencies paying millions in back wages. ... Read more
Audits:
Once Again, OIG Reverses Nearly Half Of Its Noncompliant Determinations In HHA Audit
Unqualified medical reviewers, ‘rule of thumb' usage contested. The latest audit in ... Read more
Once Again, OIG Reverses Nearly Half Of Its Noncompliant Determinations In HHA Audit
Unqualified medical reviewers, ‘rule of thumb' usage contested. The latest audit in ... Read more
COVID-19:
Consider These Tools To Boost Staff Vaccination Rates
Whether you want to use financial or lifestyle incentives may depend on your audience. W... Read more
Consider These Tools To Boost Staff Vaccination Rates
Whether you want to use financial or lifestyle incentives may depend on your audience. W... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Private Equity-Backed Hospice Chain Makes Buy
Two hospital systems shut down their home health agencies. About four months after unvei... Read more
Private Equity-Backed Hospice Chain Makes Buy
Two hospital systems shut down their home health agencies. About four months after unvei... Read more
Industry Notes:
3-Year Extension For Joint Replacement Bundling Demo Finalized
CMS turns down suggestions to mandate gainsharing, suspend post-acute transfer proration ... Read more
3-Year Extension For Joint Replacement Bundling Demo Finalized
CMS turns down suggestions to mandate gainsharing, suspend post-acute transfer proration ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HIPPS Code Glitch Makes Extra Work For HHAs
If you've received less pay than you were supposed to due to the Medicare claims system fa... Read more
HIPPS Code Glitch Makes Extra Work For HHAs
If you've received less pay than you were supposed to due to the Medicare claims system fa... Read more
Industry Notes:
Speak Now On OSHA's Updated Bloodborne Pathogen Requirements
You have about a month to bend the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's ear abo... Read more
Speak Now On OSHA's Updated Bloodborne Pathogen Requirements
You have about a month to bend the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's ear abo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Kickbacks For HH Certifications Leads To Stiff 25-Year Prison Sentence
A physician clinic owner has received a stiff 25-year prison sentence for her part in a ho... Read more
Kickbacks For HH Certifications Leads To Stiff 25-Year Prison Sentence
A physician clinic owner has received a stiff 25-year prison sentence for her part in a ho... Read more
Industry Notes:
Note This NOTR Wrinkle For Concurrent Care Demo Patients
If you're participating in the Medicare Care Choices Model for concurrent care and have su... Read more
Note This NOTR Wrinkle For Concurrent Care Demo Patients
If you're participating in the Medicare Care Choices Model for concurrent care and have su... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Points Out 1 No-Pay RAP Silver Lining: Auto-Cancels No Longer Matter
With no-pay Requests for Anticipated Payment in effect, it is probably no surprise that Me... Read more
MAC Points Out 1 No-Pay RAP Silver Lining: Auto-Cancels No Longer Matter
With no-pay Requests for Anticipated Payment in effect, it is probably no surprise that Me... Read more
Oasis:
Burdensome OASIS-E Changes Are Barreling Toward HHAs
Implementation will wait for COVID PHE's end, CMS confirms. The OASIS-E deadline is still... Read more
Burdensome OASIS-E Changes Are Barreling Toward HHAs
Implementation will wait for COVID PHE's end, CMS confirms. The OASIS-E deadline is still... Read more
Assessment:
Get Ready To Onboard These New OASIS Items
Your staff will need to get comfortable collecting Social Determinants of Health data. Yo... Read more
Get Ready To Onboard These New OASIS Items
Your staff will need to get comfortable collecting Social Determinants of Health data. Yo... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Watch For Diagnosis Coding Crackdown Ahead For Hospices
Plus: For-profit hospices continue to proliferate, to CMS' apparent chagrin. Hospices hav... Read more
Watch For Diagnosis Coding Crackdown Ahead For Hospices
Plus: For-profit hospices continue to proliferate, to CMS' apparent chagrin. Hospices hav... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
HH, Hospice Operations Manager Must Repay $4.7 Million
Kickbacks and sham medical directorships feature in egregious case. You don't have to be ... Read more
HH, Hospice Operations Manager Must Repay $4.7 Million
Kickbacks and sham medical directorships feature in egregious case. You don't have to be ... Read more
Labor Law:
OSHA COVID-19 Guidance About To Go From Advisory To Mandatory
Emergency temporary standard for COVID-19 in final stages of approval. As expected by man... Read more
OSHA COVID-19 Guidance About To Go From Advisory To Mandatory
Emergency temporary standard for COVID-19 in final stages of approval. As expected by man... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Puts Its Muscle Behind Vaccination Boosting Effort
VNA starts distributing vaccinations in major Texas city. Now that COVID vaccinations are... Read more
HHS Puts Its Muscle Behind Vaccination Boosting Effort
VNA starts distributing vaccinations in major Texas city. Now that COVID vaccinations are... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware CBSA/FIPS Claims System Error
A claims system glitch is giving home health agencies more work to obtain their rightful r... Read more
Beware CBSA/FIPS Claims System Error
A claims system glitch is giving home health agencies more work to obtain their rightful r... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep Up With Latest Emergency Preparedness Guidance
You may feel like you've been living out your emergency preparedness plan for the past yea... Read more
Keep Up With Latest Emergency Preparedness Guidance
You may feel like you've been living out your emergency preparedness plan for the past yea... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Administrator Nom Still Stalled
More than three months into the Biden administration during a global pandemic, the Presi... Read more
CMS Administrator Nom Still Stalled
More than three months into the Biden administration during a global pandemic, the Presi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Duplication Glitch Leads To Bogus Rejections For PCR Requests
Stand by for a solution to a new claims processing error in the Review Choice Demonstratio... Read more
Duplication Glitch Leads To Bogus Rejections For PCR Requests
Stand by for a solution to a new claims processing error in the Review Choice Demonstratio... Read more
Industry Notes:
Telehealth Bill Aims To Help HHAs
Advocates for home health agencies are try, trying again to gain some equity regarding tel... Read more
Telehealth Bill Aims To Help HHAs
Advocates for home health agencies are try, trying again to gain some equity regarding tel... Read more
Industry Notes:
Humana, Encompass Make Buys
The mergers and acquisition market continues to hum. Humana Inc. has agreed to acquire the... Read more
Humana, Encompass Make Buys
The mergers and acquisition market continues to hum. Humana Inc. has agreed to acquire the... Read more
Industry Notes:
Excluded Therapist Costs Agency
If you need a reminder of why you must check the HHS Office of Inspector General's exclusi... Read more
Excluded Therapist Costs Agency
If you need a reminder of why you must check the HHS Office of Inspector General's exclusi... Read more
Regulations:
Get Home Health Notice Of Admission Details In New Guide
Plus: OASIS-E training is coming to you this summer. You may be feeling you're just get... Read more
Get Home Health Notice Of Admission Details In New Guide
Plus: OASIS-E training is coming to you this summer. You may be feeling you're just get... Read more
Hospice:
CMS Eyes Hospice Bundling In Latest Proposed Rule
Is prior auth for so-called ‘maintenance drugs' Medicare's next step? There are no off... Read more
CMS Eyes Hospice Bundling In Latest Proposed Rule
Is prior auth for so-called ‘maintenance drugs' Medicare's next step? There are no off... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
M&A Engine Revs In Recent Weeks With Multiple Deals
Private equity-backed transactions dominate Q1. San Diego-based Mission Healthcare has o... Read more
M&A Engine Revs In Recent Weeks With Multiple Deals
Private equity-backed transactions dominate Q1. San Diego-based Mission Healthcare has o... Read more
Reimbursement:
New MAC Tool May Help You Right RAP Wrongs
Tip: 3 words in the remarks section probably isn't going to win back your rightful reimbur... Read more
New MAC Tool May Help You Right RAP Wrongs
Tip: 3 words in the remarks section probably isn't going to win back your rightful reimbur... Read more
Industry Notes:
COVID PHE Renewed As Senate Stalls On CMS Administrator Appointment
PHE expected to last all year. The Biden administration has taken its first turn at a ... Read more
COVID PHE Renewed As Senate Stalls On CMS Administrator Appointment
PHE expected to last all year. The Biden administration has taken its first turn at a ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Avoid Pay Suspension By Submitting Credit Balance Report
Don't forget an April 30 deadline that could land you in Medicare payment suspension if yo... Read more
Avoid Pay Suspension By Submitting Credit Balance Report
Don't forget an April 30 deadline that could land you in Medicare payment suspension if yo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Next Review Choice Demo Cycle Set To Start in Florida, North Carolina
Time's up. For the Review Choice Demonstration, “providers in the states of Florida and ... Read more
Next Review Choice Demo Cycle Set To Start in Florida, North Carolina
Time's up. For the Review Choice Demonstration, “providers in the states of Florida and ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Texas Providers May Qualify For QRP Exceptions
If you operate in Texas and were affected by the severe winter storms in February, Medicar... Read more
Texas Providers May Qualify For QRP Exceptions
If you operate in Texas and were affected by the severe winter storms in February, Medicar... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out Newest Features of MCReF Cost Reporting Filing System
Some updates to the Medicare Cost Report e-Filing (MCReF) system can make submitting cost ... Read more
Check Out Newest Features of MCReF Cost Reporting Filing System
Some updates to the Medicare Cost Report e-Filing (MCReF) system can make submitting cost ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Missing Comorbidity Adjustment Restored, But You Must Take Action
If you want your rightful reimbursement for a newly resolved Medicare claims system glitch... Read more
Missing Comorbidity Adjustment Restored, But You Must Take Action
If you want your rightful reimbursement for a newly resolved Medicare claims system glitch... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Solicits IT Advice In Hospice Proposed Rule
If you have thoughts on how the Hospice Quality Reporting Program and technology should wo... Read more
CMS Solicits IT Advice In Hospice Proposed Rule
If you have thoughts on how the Hospice Quality Reporting Program and technology should wo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Feds Wage War On PRF, PPP, And Other CARES Act Fraud
A former home health agency owner holds the distinction of being indicted on “the first ... Read more
Feds Wage War On PRF, PPP, And Other CARES Act Fraud
A former home health agency owner holds the distinction of being indicted on “the first ... Read more
Quality:
Surprise! Home Health Provision Appears In Hospice Rule
Your quality data from the COVID era will hit screens in January. If you've skipped over... Read more
Surprise! Home Health Provision Appears In Hospice Rule
Your quality data from the COVID era will hit screens in January. If you've skipped over... Read more
Reimbursement:
Labor Share Change May Wipe Out Your FY 2022 Hospice Pay Increase From Medicare
Revamped labor share figures will create winners, losers. Medicare plans to increase hos... Read more
Labor Share Change May Wipe Out Your FY 2022 Hospice Pay Increase From Medicare
Revamped labor share figures will create winners, losers. Medicare plans to increase hos... Read more
Conditions of Participation:
COVID Aide Flexibility To Become Permanent
Hospice-home health alignment encourages efficiency. If the regulatory waiver allowing t... Read more
COVID Aide Flexibility To Become Permanent
Hospice-home health alignment encourages efficiency. If the regulatory waiver allowing t... Read more
Regulations:
Small Hospice Addendum Problems Solved, Large Ones Remain
Tip: Add a ‘date furnished' entry to your charts and forms. Hospices will get a little... Read more
Small Hospice Addendum Problems Solved, Large Ones Remain
Tip: Add a ‘date furnished' entry to your charts and forms. Hospices will get a little... Read more
Quality:
Star Ratings, Composite Index Measure Are Coming Hospices’ Way
HCI to include info on frequency and duration of visits. There are plenty of quality-rela... Read more
Star Ratings, Composite Index Measure Are Coming Hospices’ Way
HCI to include info on frequency and duration of visits. There are plenty of quality-rela... Read more
Industry Notes:
Claims Glitch Involving Dummy HIPPS Codes Evades Resolution
LUPA-related glitch should be fixed shortly. CMS and its contractors are knocking out Pa... Read more
Claims Glitch Involving Dummy HIPPS Codes Evades Resolution
LUPA-related glitch should be fixed shortly. CMS and its contractors are knocking out Pa... Read more
Industry Notes:
2% Sequestration Holiday To Continue Until The End Of The Year, Thanks To Quick Legislative Action
Home health and hospice providers' efforts to fend off the reimposition of the 2 percent s... Read more
2% Sequestration Holiday To Continue Until The End Of The Year, Thanks To Quick Legislative Action
Home health and hospice providers' efforts to fend off the reimposition of the 2 percent s... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Mulls Inclusion of Cross-Setting SPADES In Forthcoming HOPE Assessment Tool
Development of the Hospice Outcome and Patient Evaluation tool continues, and it might not... Read more
CMS Mulls Inclusion of Cross-Setting SPADES In Forthcoming HOPE Assessment Tool
Development of the Hospice Outcome and Patient Evaluation tool continues, and it might not... Read more
Finance:
It’s Good News/Bad News For COVID Financial Relief
Accelerated payment bills come due, but providers have another shot at PPP loans. You'... Read more
It’s Good News/Bad News For COVID Financial Relief
Accelerated payment bills come due, but providers have another shot at PPP loans. You'... Read more
Hospice:
Hospital Stay Lengths Increase After PAC Transfer Policy Includes Discharges To Hospice
Plus: Hospitals are skirting proration for HH discharges, OIG accuses. If you think in... Read more
Hospital Stay Lengths Increase After PAC Transfer Policy Includes Discharges To Hospice
Plus: Hospitals are skirting proration for HH discharges, OIG accuses. If you think in... Read more
Budget:
HCBS Funding, Unions Could See Boost From Latest Biden Proposal
Senate gridlock threatens to impact policies. Details are fuzzy, but one main thrust o... Read more
HCBS Funding, Unions Could See Boost From Latest Biden Proposal
Senate gridlock threatens to impact policies. Details are fuzzy, but one main thrust o... Read more
Review Choice Demonstration:
Weigh RCD Participation Pros, Cons With New Cycles Approaching
You can still skip the demo with no price to pay — for now. Home health agencies in the... Read more
Weigh RCD Participation Pros, Cons With New Cycles Approaching
You can still skip the demo with no price to pay — for now. Home health agencies in the... Read more
COVID-19:
It’s Nearly Time To Tackle New COVID Dilemmas
Mandatory vaccinations are likely to end up in court. Vaccination numbers are changing q... Read more
It’s Nearly Time To Tackle New COVID Dilemmas
Mandatory vaccinations are likely to end up in court. Vaccination numbers are changing q... Read more
Reimbursement:
RAP Diagnosis Code, Service Date Instructions Have Changed
Plus: Other claims system glitches fixed, with one still waiting. The Centers for Medica... Read more
RAP Diagnosis Code, Service Date Instructions Have Changed
Plus: Other claims system glitches fixed, with one still waiting. The Centers for Medica... Read more
Industry Notes:
Sequestration Rescue Is Most Likely On Its Way
2 percent cut is nearly averted — but not quite. Both the House of Representatives and... Read more
Sequestration Rescue Is Most Likely On Its Way
2 percent cut is nearly averted — but not quite. Both the House of Representatives and... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Updates Provider Relief Fund Guidance
Check out a number of new Provider Relief Fund frequently asked questions released April 1... Read more
HHS Updates Provider Relief Fund Guidance
Check out a number of new Provider Relief Fund frequently asked questions released April 1... Read more
Industry Notes:
HIS V3.00 Training Finally Available
Better late than never, tune in April 15 for education on Hospice Item Set changes that to... Read more
HIS V3.00 Training Finally Available
Better late than never, tune in April 15 for education on Hospice Item Set changes that to... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Kicks Affiliated Provider Enrollment Headaches Down The Road A Piece
Providers have at least another year before they have to start worrying too hard about aff... Read more
CMS Kicks Affiliated Provider Enrollment Headaches Down The Road A Piece
Providers have at least another year before they have to start worrying too hard about aff... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Carve-In Billing Explained
Find out more details about how the Value-Based Insurance Design Model's Hospice Benefit C... Read more
Hospice Carve-In Billing Explained
Find out more details about how the Value-Based Insurance Design Model's Hospice Benefit C... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Your New PEPPER Report
The newest hospice PEPPER reports are now available, and you can register for training on ... Read more
Check Your New PEPPER Report
The newest hospice PEPPER reports are now available, and you can register for training on ... Read more
Budget:
Decline In Key HH Indicators Doesn’t Stop MedPAC’s Cut Rec
Data analysis fails to acknowledge HHAs' average non-Medicare payer load is around one-thi... Read more
Decline In Key HH Indicators Doesn’t Stop MedPAC’s Cut Rec
Data analysis fails to acknowledge HHAs' average non-Medicare payer load is around one-thi... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Every Home Health Indicator Except One Declined In Latest Period
Highest profit margin in nearly a decade may contribute to cut recommendation. The Medic... Read more
Every Home Health Indicator Except One Declined In Latest Period
Highest profit margin in nearly a decade may contribute to cut recommendation. The Medic... Read more
Hospice:
MedPAC Takes Aim At Hospice Long Stays With Cap Cut, Rate Freeze
Commission IDs long lengths of stay, live discharges, nursing and independent living faci... Read more
MedPAC Takes Aim At Hospice Long Stays With Cap Cut, Rate Freeze
Commission IDs long lengths of stay, live discharges, nursing and independent living faci... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices, Reps Decry Potential Cap Cut
Adopting MedPAC recommendation would prove catastrophic. When lawmakers go looking for b... Read more
Hospices, Reps Decry Potential Cap Cut
Adopting MedPAC recommendation would prove catastrophic. When lawmakers go looking for b... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
CEO In Notorious Hospice Fraud Case Finally Pleads Guilty
Plus: Home health cases snare physician, SNF worker fraudsters. Five years after federal ... Read more
CEO In Notorious Hospice Fraud Case Finally Pleads Guilty
Plus: Home health cases snare physician, SNF worker fraudsters. Five years after federal ... Read more
Administration:
Agencies Hope New HHS Secretary Becerra Will Boost Care At Home
Confirmation comes 3 months after nomination, 2 months after inauguration. After a lengt... Read more
Agencies Hope New HHS Secretary Becerra Will Boost Care At Home
Confirmation comes 3 months after nomination, 2 months after inauguration. After a lengt... Read more
COVID-19:
Are Home Health, Hospice Agencies Largely Missing Out On Administering Vaccinations For Homebound?
Some agencies are blazing the way, however. The good news is that Americans confined to ... Read more
Are Home Health, Hospice Agencies Largely Missing Out On Administering Vaccinations For Homebound?
Some agencies are blazing the way, however. The good news is that Americans confined to ... Read more
Industry Notes:
All Eyes Are On Sequestration Legislation As Deadline Looms
Will 2% sequestration cut hit March 31? President Biden's 1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief p... Read more
All Eyes Are On Sequestration Legislation As Deadline Looms
Will 2% sequestration cut hit March 31? President Biden's 1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief p... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHAs Near Top Of MFCU Conviction List For 2020
If you're feeling the heat of state fraud scrutiny, you are not alone. Home health agencie... Read more
HHAs Near Top Of MFCU Conviction List For 2020
If you're feeling the heat of state fraud scrutiny, you are not alone. Home health agencie... Read more
Industry Notes:
Climbing Rates Of Hospital Discharges To Home Aren't New
The trend of patients being discharged from hospitals to home health rather than skilled n... Read more
Climbing Rates Of Hospital Discharges To Home Aren't New
The trend of patients being discharged from hospitals to home health rather than skilled n... Read more
Industry Notes:
Amazon Care, Including Home Visits, Expands
Keep an eye on Amazon Care, the online retail behemoth's telemedicine business unit. It's ... Read more
Amazon Care, Including Home Visits, Expands
Keep an eye on Amazon Care, the online retail behemoth's telemedicine business unit. It's ... Read more
Reimbursement:
No-Pay RAPs Are Living Up To Bad Rep
From losing pay to pouring in more resources, the cons far outweigh the pros. Home healt... Read more
No-Pay RAPs Are Living Up To Bad Rep
From losing pay to pouring in more resources, the cons far outweigh the pros. Home healt... Read more
Payment:
Submit A RAP For Your LUPA Episodes Every Time, Experts Urge
It's too risky not to. Confusion abounds over how no-pay RAPs and LUPAs affect each other... Read more
Submit A RAP For Your LUPA Episodes Every Time, Experts Urge
It's too risky not to. Confusion abounds over how no-pay RAPs and LUPAs affect each other... Read more
Billing:
No-RAP Claims System Glitches Bedevil HHAs
Medicare system snafus compound RAP confusion. Medicare has been supplying just what home... Read more
No-RAP Claims System Glitches Bedevil HHAs
Medicare system snafus compound RAP confusion. Medicare has been supplying just what home... Read more
Regulations:
Rough No-Pay RAP Road Paves Way For Smooth NOA Transition Next Year
No-pay RAPs have a few more silver linings too. If you're looking for some good news abou... Read more
Rough No-Pay RAP Road Paves Way For Smooth NOA Transition Next Year
No-pay RAPs have a few more silver linings too. If you're looking for some good news abou... Read more
Strategy:
Follow These 8 Crucial Tips To Improve Your No-Pay RAP Process
RAP submission within 24 hours is possible, billing expert maintains. No-pay RAPs can c... Read more
Follow These 8 Crucial Tips To Improve Your No-Pay RAP Process
RAP submission within 24 hours is possible, billing expert maintains. No-pay RAPs can c... Read more
Industry Notes:
MedPAC Makes HH, Hospice Cut Recommendations Official
Where's the 2020 data? Harsh recommendations from an influential advisory body to Congr... Read more
MedPAC Makes HH, Hospice Cut Recommendations Official
Where's the 2020 data? Harsh recommendations from an influential advisory body to Congr... Read more
Industry Notes:
ARPA Equips OIG With Funding To Drill Down On COVID Spending
As legal, reimbursement, and other experts comb through the massive American Rescue Plan A... Read more
ARPA Equips OIG With Funding To Drill Down On COVID Spending
As legal, reimbursement, and other experts comb through the massive American Rescue Plan A... Read more
Industry Notes:
2% Sequestration Cut Hangs In The Legislative Balance
Congress may circle back to furnish providers with one major provision that got left out o... Read more
2% Sequestration Cut Hangs In The Legislative Balance
Congress may circle back to furnish providers with one major provision that got left out o... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Updates COVID Portal
The HHS Office of Inspector General continues to get serious about COVID-19 fraud. The wat... Read more
OIG Updates COVID Portal
The HHS Office of Inspector General continues to get serious about COVID-19 fraud. The wat... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Be Surprised To See Dashes In HQRP CASPER Reports
The demise of HIS Section O brings with it some changes to Hospice Quality Reporting Progr... Read more
Don't Be Surprised To See Dashes In HQRP CASPER Reports
The demise of HIS Section O brings with it some changes to Hospice Quality Reporting Progr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Ups Vaccination Pay Rate
Medicare now pays providers more for COVID vaccine administration. Effective March 15, th... Read more
Medicare Ups Vaccination Pay Rate
Medicare now pays providers more for COVID vaccine administration. Effective March 15, th... Read more
COVID-19 Vaccination:
Learn Lessons From VNSNY’s COVID Vaccination Practice
Learn Lessons From VNSNY's COVID Vaccination Practice About 50 percent of the agency's ... Read more
Learn Lessons From VNSNY’s COVID Vaccination Practice
Learn Lessons From VNSNY's COVID Vaccination Practice About 50 percent of the agency's ... Read more
Strategy:
Heed These 6 Tips To Boost Your Vaccination Efforts
Help workers overcome technology, language barriers. You may want to take a page from th... Read more
Heed These 6 Tips To Boost Your Vaccination Efforts
Help workers overcome technology, language barriers. You may want to take a page from th... Read more
Legislation:
$1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Stimulus Package Passes With Pros And Cons
Rural providers will get a boost, but suspension of sequestration cuts ends this month. ... Read more
$1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Stimulus Package Passes With Pros And Cons
Rural providers will get a boost, but suspension of sequestration cuts ends this month. ... Read more
Survey & Certification:
HH, Hospice Access Problems To SNFs May Be Eased By Liberalized Visitor Guidance
Indoor visitation should resume in most cases, CMS urges. Get ready for more referral-imp... Read more
HH, Hospice Access Problems To SNFs May Be Eased By Liberalized Visitor Guidance
Indoor visitation should resume in most cases, CMS urges. Get ready for more referral-imp... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Will Spend $250 Million To Encourage COVID-19 Safety, Vaccination For Underserved Population
Health literacy grants are available. In addition to the funding coming from the newly p... Read more
HHS Will Spend $250 Million To Encourage COVID-19 Safety, Vaccination For Underserved Population
Health literacy grants are available. In addition to the funding coming from the newly p... Read more
Industry Notes:
Catch This CMS Overview Of The VBID Hospice Carve-In For 2022
Find out about the 2022 Payment Design of the Hospice Benefit Component of the Medicare Ad... Read more
Catch This CMS Overview Of The VBID Hospice Carve-In For 2022
Find out about the 2022 Payment Design of the Hospice Benefit Component of the Medicare Ad... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Is Discriminating Against Long-Term Home Care Patients With PDGM, Bene Advocacy Group Claims
The Patient Driven Groupings Model is unfairly pushing the Medicare home health benefit to... Read more
CMS Is Discriminating Against Long-Term Home Care Patients With PDGM, Bene Advocacy Group Claims
The Patient Driven Groupings Model is unfairly pushing the Medicare home health benefit to... Read more
Industry Notes:
April Start Date Scuttled For SIP Model
Medicare's Seriously Ill Population program under the Primary Care First Model is on ice. ... Read more
April Start Date Scuttled For SIP Model
Medicare's Seriously Ill Population program under the Primary Care First Model is on ice. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Largest U.S. PACE Provider Goes Public, Raising $350 Million
The nation's largest PACE provider has made its Initial Public Offering. Denver-based Inn... Read more
Largest U.S. PACE Provider Goes Public, Raising $350 Million
The nation's largest PACE provider has made its Initial Public Offering. Denver-based Inn... Read more
Industry Notes:
New HH Advocacy Group Includes Amazon Health
A new home care advocacy group is on the scene, and it includes one well-known heavy hitte... Read more
New HH Advocacy Group Includes Amazon Health
A new home care advocacy group is on the scene, and it includes one well-known heavy hitte... Read more
Industry Notes:
Accountant Arrested In Relation To Client's Fraud Scheme In Texas
A recent $134 million fraud case in Houston serves as a stark reminder that it's not just ... Read more
Accountant Arrested In Relation To Client's Fraud Scheme In Texas
A recent $134 million fraud case in Houston serves as a stark reminder that it's not just ... Read more
Finance:
HH, Hospice Companies Post Positive Earnings For Year Containing Many Negatives
Virtual visits keep in-person utilization in check at one national chain. Like for about... Read more
HH, Hospice Companies Post Positive Earnings For Year Containing Many Negatives
Virtual visits keep in-person utilization in check at one national chain. Like for about... Read more
COVID-19:
Nurse Staffing Shortage Threatens To Drag Down Home Health, Hospice Agencies
Staff quarantine siphons millions from companies' bottom lines. While multiple factors h... Read more
Nurse Staffing Shortage Threatens To Drag Down Home Health, Hospice Agencies
Staff quarantine siphons millions from companies' bottom lines. While multiple factors h... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Healthcare Giant To Pay $400 Million For Brookdale Home Health, Hospice Business
Senior living company expects ‘steep' growth for majority-HCA-owned business. If COV... Read more
Healthcare Giant To Pay $400 Million For Brookdale Home Health, Hospice Business
Senior living company expects ‘steep' growth for majority-HCA-owned business. If COV... Read more
Hospice:
Medicare Finalizes Hospice Item Set V3.00
Say goodbye to Section O. It's official: The Office of Management and Budget has finally... Read more
Medicare Finalizes Hospice Item Set V3.00
Say goodbye to Section O. It's official: The Office of Management and Budget has finally... Read more
Lawsuits:
Utah Federal Court Decision May Help Rein In Whistleblower Suits
Ruling ups the stakes for qui tam relators to support their claims. Bogus whistleblower ... Read more
Utah Federal Court Decision May Help Rein In Whistleblower Suits
Ruling ups the stakes for qui tam relators to support their claims. Bogus whistleblower ... Read more
Industry Note:
Medicaid Private Duty Orders Still Must Come From The Doc
COVID-sparked regulatory changes give rise to confusion. If you furnish private duty ser... Read more
Medicaid Private Duty Orders Still Must Come From The Doc
COVID-sparked regulatory changes give rise to confusion. If you furnish private duty ser... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out These PPP Loan Revisions
The Biden administration has adopted a new set of changes for the CARES Act Paycheck Prote... Read more
Check Out These PPP Loan Revisions
The Biden administration has adopted a new set of changes for the CARES Act Paycheck Prote... Read more
Industry Notes:
First Provider Relief Fund Fraudster Under Indictment Is An HHA Owner
Home health often gets painted with a broad Medicare fraud brush, and now it may get paint... Read more
First Provider Relief Fund Fraudster Under Indictment Is An HHA Owner
Home health often gets painted with a broad Medicare fraud brush, and now it may get paint... Read more
Industry Notes:
Heavy Hitters Beseech Senate To Extend Sequestration Suspension
Sequestration suspension has helped bail out struggling home health and hospice agencies d... Read more
Heavy Hitters Beseech Senate To Extend Sequestration Suspension
Sequestration suspension has helped bail out struggling home health and hospice agencies d... Read more
Industry Notes:
Section J Fall Item Training Is Here
A new educational tool on filling out the Section J items that came with OASIS-D is availa... Read more
Section J Fall Item Training Is Here
A new educational tool on filling out the Section J items that came with OASIS-D is availa... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Pledges To Root Out Telehealth Fraud Before Expansion
The extent to which pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities get made permanent may depend on... Read more
OIG Pledges To Root Out Telehealth Fraud Before Expansion
The extent to which pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities get made permanent may depend on... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Overlook This Group When Securing Vaccinations
Don't forget to include unpaid workers in your efforts to get staff vaccinated. In its li... Read more
Don't Overlook This Group When Securing Vaccinations
Don't forget to include unpaid workers in your efforts to get staff vaccinated. In its li... Read more
COVID-19:
CDC Vaccination Guidelines For Homebound Persons Address Storage, Transport, More
Vaccine should go straight to home health and hospice providers, trade group suggests. As... Read more
CDC Vaccination Guidelines For Homebound Persons Address Storage, Transport, More
Vaccine should go straight to home health and hospice providers, trade group suggests. As... Read more
Regulations:
Can New PREP Act Change Eliminate HH, Hospice Vaccination Hurdles?
Can New PREP Act Change Eliminate HH, Hospice Vaccination Hurdles? If the feds can see ... Read more
Can New PREP Act Change Eliminate HH, Hospice Vaccination Hurdles?
Can New PREP Act Change Eliminate HH, Hospice Vaccination Hurdles? If the feds can see ... Read more
Hospice:
Visits For Last Days Of Life Measure Must Be On Separate Days
HIS V3.00, Hospice Care Index also touched on. Hospices are finally getting some answers... Read more
Visits For Last Days Of Life Measure Must Be On Separate Days
HIS V3.00, Hospice Care Index also touched on. Hospices are finally getting some answers... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Agencies And Owners Pay $1.85 Million In Sham Medical Director Case
Everything's bigger in Texas — including fraud settlements. From bogus medical direc... Read more
Agencies And Owners Pay $1.85 Million In Sham Medical Director Case
Everything's bigger in Texas — including fraud settlements. From bogus medical direc... Read more
Enforcement:
HH, Hospice CEO Draws Lengthy Prison Sentence
South Texas executive's prison term is outstripped only by his co-conspirator's. Telling... Read more
HH, Hospice CEO Draws Lengthy Prison Sentence
South Texas executive's prison term is outstripped only by his co-conspirator's. Telling... Read more
Industry Note:
Stay Tuned For Possible Help Via $1.9 Trillion COVID Stimulus Package
Keep a close eye on possible minimum wage hike. What exactly will be in or out of the fi... Read more
Stay Tuned For Possible Help Via $1.9 Trillion COVID Stimulus Package
Keep a close eye on possible minimum wage hike. What exactly will be in or out of the fi... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Sec. Confirmation Slow Going
The Biden administration's nominee for HHS Secretary was looking far from assured for conf... Read more
HHS Sec. Confirmation Slow Going
The Biden administration's nominee for HHS Secretary was looking far from assured for conf... Read more
Industry Notes:
RAC Targets Hospice CHC
Hospices should brace for yet more scrutiny on Continuous Home Care. Recovery Audit Contr... Read more
RAC Targets Hospice CHC
Hospices should brace for yet more scrutiny on Continuous Home Care. Recovery Audit Contr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Payment System Glitch Shortchanges PDGM Claims Spanning Jan. 1
Stay tuned for how to fix a new Medicare claims system glitch affecting home health episod... Read more
Payment System Glitch Shortchanges PDGM Claims Spanning Jan. 1
Stay tuned for how to fix a new Medicare claims system glitch affecting home health episod... Read more
Industry Notes:
Outreach Guide Takes Aim At Inequities In Hospice
Hospices have a new tool to try to address disparities in utilization. The National Hospic... Read more
Outreach Guide Takes Aim At Inequities In Hospice
Hospices have a new tool to try to address disparities in utilization. The National Hospic... Read more
Industry Notes:
Texas Storm Flexibilities In Place
Devastating winter storms that affected Texas may not have triggered as many waivers from ... Read more
Texas Storm Flexibilities In Place
Devastating winter storms that affected Texas may not have triggered as many waivers from ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tap Further Vaccine Ed Resources
You may be used to looking to CMS, the CDC, and your state and local authorities for COVID... Read more
Tap Further Vaccine Ed Resources
You may be used to looking to CMS, the CDC, and your state and local authorities for COVID... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware NOEs Returned With U5106
Notice of Election submissions are confusing enough, but a new claims system glitch will m... Read more
Beware NOEs Returned With U5106
Notice of Election submissions are confusing enough, but a new claims system glitch will m... Read more
Regulations:
HH, Hospice Agencies Tackle Ongoing Vaccination Access Problems
Allowing agencies to vaccinate patients at home should be a priority too, reps urge. Home... Read more
HH, Hospice Agencies Tackle Ongoing Vaccination Access Problems
Allowing agencies to vaccinate patients at home should be a priority too, reps urge. Home... Read more
COVID-19:
Vaccination Hesitancy Hurts Efforts To Protect HH Staff, Patients
Did your staff lose their spot in line? In areas where home health and hospice workers h... Read more
Vaccination Hesitancy Hurts Efforts To Protect HH Staff, Patients
Did your staff lose their spot in line? In areas where home health and hospice workers h... Read more
Human Resources:
Boost Your Staff Vaccination Rates With These 8 Tips
Are financial or other incentives the right fit for your agency? It's time to stock your... Read more
Boost Your Staff Vaccination Rates With These 8 Tips
Are financial or other incentives the right fit for your agency? It's time to stock your... Read more
Compliance:
What About Mandatory Vaccination?
HHAs may have to catch up to market demand in a hurry. The decision of whether to requir... Read more
What About Mandatory Vaccination?
HHAs may have to catch up to market demand in a hurry. The decision of whether to requir... Read more
Strategy:
Tap These Free Tools To Fuel Your Education Efforts
Pointer: Don't overlook state and local resources. Your staff education program can bene... Read more
Tap These Free Tools To Fuel Your Education Efforts
Pointer: Don't overlook state and local resources. Your staff education program can bene... Read more
Industry Notes:
Search For New CMS Administrator Narrows
HHS Secretary confirmation hearing still on hold. Although the U.S. Senate still hasn'... Read more
Search For New CMS Administrator Narrows
HHS Secretary confirmation hearing still on hold. Although the U.S. Senate still hasn'... Read more
Industry Notes:
See The Latest List Of Biggest HH, Hospice Agencies
If you're wondering who makes up the largest agencies in the fractured home health and hos... Read more
See The Latest List Of Biggest HH, Hospice Agencies
If you're wondering who makes up the largest agencies in the fractured home health and hos... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Trust This RAP Matching Edit
Yet another glitch is affecting the processing of no-pay Requests for Anticipated Payment ... Read more
Don't Trust This RAP Matching Edit
Yet another glitch is affecting the processing of no-pay Requests for Anticipated Payment ... Read more
Industry Notes:
MA Plans Offer More In-Home Services
If you thought offering supplemental benefits would take off as a Medicare Advantage plan ... Read more
MA Plans Offer More In-Home Services
If you thought offering supplemental benefits would take off as a Medicare Advantage plan ... Read more
Industry Notes:
NC, FL Agencies Must Submit 10 Successful Claims For RCD By Feb. 28 To Secure Lighter Review Load
The end of the Review Choice Demonstration phase-in period for Florida and North Carolina ... Read more
NC, FL Agencies Must Submit 10 Successful Claims For RCD By Feb. 28 To Secure Lighter Review Load
The end of the Review Choice Demonstration phase-in period for Florida and North Carolina ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Minimum Wage Hike Affects Aide Pay
One-time hazard pay is on its way to almost 26,000 home health and personal care aides who... Read more
Minimum Wage Hike Affects Aide Pay
One-time hazard pay is on its way to almost 26,000 home health and personal care aides who... Read more
Industry Notes:
In-Home Hospice Demand Surges
The uptick in hospice utilization is not going unnoticed. Hospices are seeing double-digit... Read more
In-Home Hospice Demand Surges
The uptick in hospice utilization is not going unnoticed. Hospices are seeing double-digit... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Offers Updated Hospice Audit Tool Incorporating Addendum
If you want to bulletproof your hospice claims against Medicare denials, one HHH Medicare ... Read more
MAC Offers Updated Hospice Audit Tool Incorporating Addendum
If you want to bulletproof your hospice claims against Medicare denials, one HHH Medicare ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Publicly Traded Chain Gets 3rd Degree
Many large home care and hospice companies consider lawsuits part of the cost of doing bus... Read more
Publicly Traded Chain Gets 3rd Degree
Many large home care and hospice companies consider lawsuits part of the cost of doing bus... Read more
Human Resources:
Public Charge Rule Review May Help Staffing Crisis
Public Charge Rule Review May Help Staffing Crisis With policy proposals such as an incr... Read more
Public Charge Rule Review May Help Staffing Crisis
Public Charge Rule Review May Help Staffing Crisis With policy proposals such as an incr... Read more
COVID-19:
Providers Struggle To Increase Worker Vaccination Rates
Some providers are offering cash bonuses, others education. The rollout of COVID-19 vac... Read more
Providers Struggle To Increase Worker Vaccination Rates
Some providers are offering cash bonuses, others education. The rollout of COVID-19 vac... Read more
Labor Law:
Mandatory Vaccines Are OK Under ADA, Title VII, Attorneys Say
Critical: Would an unvaccinated person pose a ‘direct threat' under the law? As home h... Read more
Mandatory Vaccines Are OK Under ADA, Title VII, Attorneys Say
Critical: Would an unvaccinated person pose a ‘direct threat' under the law? As home h... Read more
Audits:
Documenting Homebound Status Must Be Top Priority, Latest OIG Audit Shows
Eighteen claims equal $1.8 million overpayment in new report. The HHS Office of Inspec... Read more
Documenting Homebound Status Must Be Top Priority, Latest OIG Audit Shows
Eighteen claims equal $1.8 million overpayment in new report. The HHS Office of Inspec... Read more
Industry Notes:
How Does Your Therapy Utilization Measure Up Under PDGM?
If your therapy visits have fallen more than your non-therapy ones, you're going to stick... Read more
How Does Your Therapy Utilization Measure Up Under PDGM?
If your therapy visits have fallen more than your non-therapy ones, you're going to stick... Read more
Industry Notes:
Masks, Prevention Programs, And More Addressed In OSHA Guidelines Issued After Executive Order
New advisory guidance from OSHA may give you a peek at mandatory requirements coming soon.... Read more
Masks, Prevention Programs, And More Addressed In OSHA Guidelines Issued After Executive Order
New advisory guidance from OSHA may give you a peek at mandatory requirements coming soon.... Read more
Industry Notes:
Compliance Plan Can Help Ward Off Telehealth Audit Troubles
If you've had less-than-stellar documentation of telemedicine visits, it's not too late to... Read more
Compliance Plan Can Help Ward Off Telehealth Audit Troubles
If you've had less-than-stellar documentation of telemedicine visits, it's not too late to... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Gets Specific On What's Allowed For Telehealth F2F Visits
Home health agencies shouldn't forget that a phone call won't suffice when it comes to the... Read more
MAC Gets Specific On What's Allowed For Telehealth F2F Visits
Home health agencies shouldn't forget that a phone call won't suffice when it comes to the... Read more
Industry Notes:
Take A Look At Your Competitors' Data With This New CMS File
A new year of data is now available in Medicare's Post-Acute Care and Hospice Provider Uti... Read more
Take A Look At Your Competitors' Data With This New CMS File
A new year of data is now available in Medicare's Post-Acute Care and Hospice Provider Uti... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep COVID Vaccine Billing Info Top Of Mind As Immunizations Kick Into Gear
For a quick rundown of info you may need if you furnish COVID-19 vaccinations, take a look... Read more
Keep COVID Vaccine Billing Info Top Of Mind As Immunizations Kick Into Gear
For a quick rundown of info you may need if you furnish COVID-19 vaccinations, take a look... Read more
Industry Notes:
Early RAP Penalty Instructions Hit MAC Websites
If you're looking for written guidance on the glitch with “early” Requests for Anticip... Read more
Early RAP Penalty Instructions Hit MAC Websites
If you're looking for written guidance on the glitch with “early” Requests for Anticip... Read more
Industry Notes:
Revalidations Still On Pause
You don't need to sweat revalidation concerns among all the other priorities on your plate... Read more
Revalidations Still On Pause
You don't need to sweat revalidation concerns among all the other priorities on your plate... Read more
Industry Notes:
Kindred Settles Disability Suit
If you don't have six figures to spare, you'd better make sure you are complying with disc... Read more
Kindred Settles Disability Suit
If you don't have six figures to spare, you'd better make sure you are complying with disc... Read more
Reimbursement:
Claims System Glitch Penalized So-Called Early RAPs
Tip: Act fast to avoid penalty for returned RAPs. You'll need to wait a little longer fo... Read more
Claims System Glitch Penalized So-Called Early RAPs
Tip: Act fast to avoid penalty for returned RAPs. You'll need to wait a little longer fo... Read more
Payment:
Watch Out For These RAP Hiccups
CBSA code, line-item date edits gum up RAP submissions. Along with no-pay Requests for A... Read more
Watch Out For These RAP Hiccups
CBSA code, line-item date edits gum up RAP submissions. Along with no-pay Requests for A... Read more
Hospice:
Confusion Abounds Over New Hospice Quality Measure On Last Visits
Tip: You can submit HIS with or without Section O. Hospices are nearly a month into data... Read more
Confusion Abounds Over New Hospice Quality Measure On Last Visits
Tip: You can submit HIS with or without Section O. Hospices are nearly a month into data... Read more
Compliance:
OIG Adds Home Health Telehealth To Its Oversight List
Watch out: Telehealth scrutiny could hit hospice next. A federal watchdog agency has tr... Read more
OIG Adds Home Health Telehealth To Its Oversight List
Watch out: Telehealth scrutiny could hit hospice next. A federal watchdog agency has tr... Read more
Mergers and Acquisitions:
M&A Surges In Year-End Quarter
Buckle up as deal activity continues full steam ahead. As home health and hospice compan... Read more
M&A Surges In Year-End Quarter
Buckle up as deal activity continues full steam ahead. As home health and hospice compan... Read more
COVID-19:
HH, Hospice Agencies Strive To Overcome Vaccination Obstacles
Tip: Try to team up with partner facilities. While COVID-19 vaccinations for home health... Read more
HH, Hospice Agencies Strive To Overcome Vaccination Obstacles
Tip: Try to team up with partner facilities. While COVID-19 vaccinations for home health... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHAs May Still Get Paid For Antibiotic Infusion Services, CMS Clarifies
Check the HIT covered drug list. The new Home Infusion Therapy benefit launched Jan. 1, ... Read more
HHAs May Still Get Paid For Antibiotic Infusion Services, CMS Clarifies
Check the HIT covered drug list. The new Home Infusion Therapy benefit launched Jan. 1, ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hop On Hospice Cap Data
If you think you may be anywhere near your hospice aggregate cap for 2020, be sure to hop ... Read more
Hop On Hospice Cap Data
If you think you may be anywhere near your hospice aggregate cap for 2020, be sure to hop ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS: PHE Expected To Last All Year
Home care and hospice providers can expect to see COVID-19 public health emergency flexibi... Read more
HHS: PHE Expected To Last All Year
Home care and hospice providers can expect to see COVID-19 public health emergency flexibi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep Close Tabs On PPP Deadline
With the recent Paycheck Protection Program changes included in the COVID-19 relief packag... Read more
Keep Close Tabs On PPP Deadline
With the recent Paycheck Protection Program changes included in the COVID-19 relief packag... Read more
Industry Notes:
Labor Changes Are Likely Ahead
One state's home care workers are saying their COVID-19 hazard pay is too little, too late... Read more
Labor Changes Are Likely Ahead
One state's home care workers are saying their COVID-19 hazard pay is too little, too late... Read more
Industry Notes:
Gift Cards May Invite Compliance Problems, New OIG Guidance Says
If you handed out gift cards to patients this holiday season, you may want to make it the ... Read more
Gift Cards May Invite Compliance Problems, New OIG Guidance Says
If you handed out gift cards to patients this holiday season, you may want to make it the ... Read more
Covid-19:
Hold Off On Provider Relief Fund Portal Registration
Erase Feb. 15 due date from your calendar. The Department of Health and Human Services h... Read more
Hold Off On Provider Relief Fund Portal Registration
Erase Feb. 15 due date from your calendar. The Department of Health and Human Services h... Read more
Finance:
Know Your Provider Relief Fund Lost Revenue Options
Don't hang yourself with the rope HHS is giving you. Whether you get to keep all your Pro... Read more
Know Your Provider Relief Fund Lost Revenue Options
Don't hang yourself with the rope HHS is giving you. Whether you get to keep all your Pro... Read more
Policy:
Vaccination Should Be Top Biden Administration Priority
Neglecting vaccination of home care workers is dangerous, reps warn. Home health and hosp... Read more
Vaccination Should Be Top Biden Administration Priority
Neglecting vaccination of home care workers is dangerous, reps warn. Home health and hosp... Read more
Reimbursement:
MedPAC Finalizes Recommendations For HH, Hospice Cuts
Commission increases profit margin estimate based on sequestration change. As expected, ... Read more
MedPAC Finalizes Recommendations For HH, Hospice Cuts
Commission increases profit margin estimate based on sequestration change. As expected, ... Read more
Labor Law:
Heed New DOL Opinion Letters, Settlement
Tip: Trust but verify what your payroll company tells you. With the pandemic came altere... Read more
Heed New DOL Opinion Letters, Settlement
Tip: Trust but verify what your payroll company tells you. With the pandemic came altere... Read more
Industry Notes:
Longtime CMS Staffer Steps Into Acting Administrator Role
New agency head has a hospital background. With the turnover of presidents comes the turn... Read more
Longtime CMS Staffer Steps Into Acting Administrator Role
New agency head has a hospital background. With the turnover of presidents comes the turn... Read more
Industry Notes:
1-Page PPP Forgiveness Form Is Out.
Paycheck Protection Act borrowers were happy to welcome the eagerly awaited simplified loa... Read more
1-Page PPP Forgiveness Form Is Out.
Paycheck Protection Act borrowers were happy to welcome the eagerly awaited simplified loa... Read more
Industry Notes:
Some Providers Offer Staff Cash To Get Vaccinated
Health care providers struggling with gaining staff buy-in for COVID-19 vaccinations may w... Read more
Some Providers Offer Staff Cash To Get Vaccinated
Health care providers struggling with gaining staff buy-in for COVID-19 vaccinations may w... Read more
Industry Notes:
CERT Audit List Is No Good, CMS Says
A federal watchdog agency is serving up a list of problematic providers to audit on a silv... Read more
CERT Audit List Is No Good, CMS Says
A federal watchdog agency is serving up a list of problematic providers to audit on a silv... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHAs Save Medicare Money On Wound Care Patients
Since Medicare began paying long-term care hospitals less for patients requiring severe wo... Read more
HHAs Save Medicare Money On Wound Care Patients
Since Medicare began paying long-term care hospitals less for patients requiring severe wo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Suit: NH Residents Need Home Care
A new lawsuit aims to get New Hampshire residents out of institutions and into home care. ... Read more
Suit: NH Residents Need Home Care
A new lawsuit aims to get New Hampshire residents out of institutions and into home care. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Report HQRP Data — Or Else
Don't forget: Jan. 1 started the Hospice Quality Reporting Program data collection that ru... Read more
Report HQRP Data — Or Else
Don't forget: Jan. 1 started the Hospice Quality Reporting Program data collection that ru... Read more
Industry Notes:
Surveyors Have New IC Tool
Check out the updated tool surveyors will use to assess your agency for an infection contr... Read more
Surveyors Have New IC Tool
Check out the updated tool surveyors will use to assess your agency for an infection contr... Read more
Industry Notes:
SNF Consolidated Billing No Barrier To Vaccinations
If you are set up to vaccinate patients against COVID-19, you don't have to worry about wh... Read more
SNF Consolidated Billing No Barrier To Vaccinations
If you are set up to vaccinate patients against COVID-19, you don't have to worry about wh... Read more
Quality:
Value-Based Purchasing Expansion May Be Nationwide
Program set to dock HHAs' pay up to 8% in 2022. If you're maximizing your quality scores,... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing Expansion May Be Nationwide
Program set to dock HHAs' pay up to 8% in 2022. If you're maximizing your quality scores,... Read more
Finance:
PPP Loan Portal Open For Business Again
Simplified 1-page application should be coming soon. Whether you're applying for a Pay... Read more
PPP Loan Portal Open For Business Again
Simplified 1-page application should be coming soon. Whether you're applying for a Pay... Read more
Cost Reports:
Medicare Gives Providers More Breathing Room On Cost Reports
Cost reports for years ending Dec. 31, 2020 are due in August. Just as the COVID-19 publi... Read more
Medicare Gives Providers More Breathing Room On Cost Reports
Cost reports for years ending Dec. 31, 2020 are due in August. Just as the COVID-19 publi... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Hospice Deals Continue To Dominate Market
Plus: Amedisys, Option Care partner on COVID-19 treatment in long-term care facilities. C... Read more
Hospice Deals Continue To Dominate Market
Plus: Amedisys, Option Care partner on COVID-19 treatment in long-term care facilities. C... Read more
Audits:
OIG Rules 1/3 Of Claims Noncompliant In Latest HHA Audit
OIG walks back adverse determinations on 6 claims after challenge. Home health agencies c... Read more
OIG Rules 1/3 Of Claims Noncompliant In Latest HHA Audit
OIG walks back adverse determinations on 6 claims after challenge. Home health agencies c... Read more
Covid-19:
Home Health, Hospice COVID Staff Vaccinations Continue To Roll Out
Will drive-through vaccinations help? More home health and hospice staff and their patien... Read more
Home Health, Hospice COVID Staff Vaccinations Continue To Roll Out
Will drive-through vaccinations help? More home health and hospice staff and their patien... Read more
Industry Notes:
Agencies Want Provider Relief Fund Answers
Will Feb. 15 reporting deadline get pushed? Keep an eye out for Provider Relief Fund clar... Read more
Agencies Want Provider Relief Fund Answers
Will Feb. 15 reporting deadline get pushed? Keep an eye out for Provider Relief Fund clar... Read more
Industry Notes:
Public Health Emergency Declaration Gets 4th Extension
As expected, HHS Secretary Alex Azar has extended the COVID-19 public health emergency f... Read more
Public Health Emergency Declaration Gets 4th Extension
As expected, HHS Secretary Alex Azar has extended the COVID-19 public health emergency f... Read more
Industry Notes:
RCD, TPE Medical Review, Hospice Addendum Top CMS-Issued List Of Accomplishments In Last 4 Years
Trump administration officials have released a report outlining their triumphs at the Cent... Read more
RCD, TPE Medical Review, Hospice Addendum Top CMS-Issued List Of Accomplishments In Last 4 Years
Trump administration officials have released a report outlining their triumphs at the Cent... Read more
Industry Notes:
Access New Medicare Webinars On Cross-Setting QMs, Pressure Ulcers
New on-demand training from Medicare is now available on cross-setting quality measures an... Read more
Access New Medicare Webinars On Cross-Setting QMs, Pressure Ulcers
New on-demand training from Medicare is now available on cross-setting quality measures an... Read more
Industry Notes:
Rescheduled Education Session Focuses On VBID Hospice Carve-In For 2022
Medicare has pushed a webinar about the second year of the Value-Based Insurance Design ho... Read more
Rescheduled Education Session Focuses On VBID Hospice Carve-In For 2022
Medicare has pushed a webinar about the second year of the Value-Based Insurance Design ho... Read more
COVID-19:
Home Care Agencies Face Big Challenges Getting Staff Vaccinated
COVID-19 vaccinations are starting to roll out amid confusion and disarray. Whether home ... Read more
Home Care Agencies Face Big Challenges Getting Staff Vaccinated
COVID-19 vaccinations are starting to roll out amid confusion and disarray. Whether home ... Read more
STRATEGY:
Work Overtime On Educating Staff On Vaccination To Boost Rates
Plus: ‘We need more vaccine,' rep stresses. Confusion and disorder are keeping many ho... Read more
Work Overtime On Educating Staff On Vaccination To Boost Rates
Plus: ‘We need more vaccine,' rep stresses. Confusion and disorder are keeping many ho... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Hang On Through No-Pay RAPs — Better NOA Times Are Coming
Both will put your reimbursement at risk, however. Home health agencies are just starting... Read more
Hang On Through No-Pay RAPs — Better NOA Times Are Coming
Both will put your reimbursement at risk, however. Home health agencies are just starting... Read more
BILLING:
Here’s When ‘Late’ Kicks In For RAPs, NOAs
Know Day 0 apart from Day 1. Home health agencies need to get the details straight on whe... Read more
Here’s When ‘Late’ Kicks In For RAPs, NOAs
Know Day 0 apart from Day 1. Home health agencies need to get the details straight on whe... Read more
LEGISLATION:
Don’t Overlook These PPP Changes That May Benefit You
Should you apply for a ‘second draw' loan? If you held off on requesting relief for you... Read more
Don’t Overlook These PPP Changes That May Benefit You
Should you apply for a ‘second draw' loan? If you held off on requesting relief for you... Read more
INDUSTRY NOTES:
Review Choice Demonstration Opt Out Extended Another 3 Months
FL, NC can forego RCD submissions, but risk post-pay review. The Centers for Medicare &am... Read more
Review Choice Demonstration Opt Out Extended Another 3 Months
FL, NC can forego RCD submissions, but risk post-pay review. The Centers for Medicare &am... Read more
INDUSTRY NOTES:
Provider Relief Fund Reporting Deadline Of Feb. 15 Stands, Despite Gray Areas Introduced By COVID Relief Law
As home health and hospice agencies await clarifications on top of the Provider Relief Fun... Read more
Provider Relief Fund Reporting Deadline Of Feb. 15 Stands, Despite Gray Areas Introduced By COVID Relief Law
As home health and hospice agencies await clarifications on top of the Provider Relief Fun... Read more
INDUSTRY NOTES:
Stark Changes Open Potential Value-Based Doorways
In addition to no-pay RAPs, COVID-19 loan forgiveness and reporting, Patient-Driven Groupi... Read more
Stark Changes Open Potential Value-Based Doorways
In addition to no-pay RAPs, COVID-19 loan forgiveness and reporting, Patient-Driven Groupi... Read more
INDUSTRY NOTES:
Hospice Index Quality Measure Undergoes NQF Test This Month
You can now get a more comprehensive look at the newest proposed quality measure for hospi... Read more
Hospice Index Quality Measure Undergoes NQF Test This Month
You can now get a more comprehensive look at the newest proposed quality measure for hospi... Read more
INDUSTRY NOTES:
Medicare Hospital At Home Program Participation Skyrockets
The ranks of hospitals offering Hospital At Home services has risen significantly since CM... Read more
Medicare Hospital At Home Program Participation Skyrockets
The ranks of hospitals offering Hospital At Home services has risen significantly since CM... Read more
INDUSTRY NOTES:
Billing Confusion Reigns As VBID Hospice Carve-In Begins
Hospices and their representatives would rather the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Se... Read more
Billing Confusion Reigns As VBID Hospice Carve-In Begins
Hospices and their representatives would rather the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Se... Read more
Legislation:
Latest COVID Relief Package Contains Hits, Misses For Home Health & Hospice
Latest COVID Relief Package Contains Hits, Misses For Home Health & Hospice After Con... Read more
Latest COVID Relief Package Contains Hits, Misses For Home Health & Hospice
Latest COVID Relief Package Contains Hits, Misses For Home Health & Hospice After Con... Read more
Finance:
More Provider Relief Fund Money On The Way
Does new ‘lost revenues' clarification help or hurt agencies? The feds put Provider R... Read more
More Provider Relief Fund Money On The Way
Does new ‘lost revenues' clarification help or hurt agencies? The feds put Provider R... Read more
Hospice:
Coronavirus Relief Package Also Relieves Hospice Survey Woes
But surveys will come every 6 months in ‘special focus' program and alternative sanctio... Read more
Coronavirus Relief Package Also Relieves Hospice Survey Woes
But surveys will come every 6 months in ‘special focus' program and alternative sanctio... Read more
Surveys and Certification:
All Hospice Survey Results Available Online Soon
Accrediting body surveys no longer exempt, starting this fall. In addition to a raft of ... Read more
All Hospice Survey Results Available Online Soon
Accrediting body surveys no longer exempt, starting this fall. In addition to a raft of ... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
A New Year Brings Many Newly Merged And Acquired Home Health, Hospice Companies
2 powerhouse chains will offer referral sources streamlined option. As the year wound dow... Read more
A New Year Brings Many Newly Merged And Acquired Home Health, Hospice Companies
2 powerhouse chains will offer referral sources streamlined option. As the year wound dow... Read more
Quality:
Keep Tabs On Your Internal QM Stats During Compare Freeze
Medicare still will share updated QRP figures. More than the weather is frozen, Medicare... Read more
Keep Tabs On Your Internal QM Stats During Compare Freeze
Medicare still will share updated QRP figures. More than the weather is frozen, Medicare... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Owner Sentenced To 20 Years
The owner of a chain of Texas hospices has been sentenced to 20 years in prison and $120 m... Read more
Hospice Owner Sentenced To 20 Years
The owner of a chain of Texas hospices has been sentenced to 20 years in prison and $120 m... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Health Spending Revs Up In Latest Year
Medicare, Medicaid made up 71 percent of home health spending in 2019, according to CMS. ... Read more
Home Health Spending Revs Up In Latest Year
Medicare, Medicaid made up 71 percent of home health spending in 2019, according to CMS. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
COVID-19 Relief Package Brings Rural Hospice Change For The Better
A change included in the newly enacted COVID-19 relief package may help patients access ho... Read more
COVID-19 Relief Package Brings Rural Hospice Change For The Better
A change included in the newly enacted COVID-19 relief package may help patients access ho... Read more
Industry Notes:
MCFUs Put HCBS Patient Abuse, Neglect In Their Crosshairs
More provisions from the newly enacted COVID-19 relief package that may affect home health... Read more
MCFUs Put HCBS Patient Abuse, Neglect In Their Crosshairs
More provisions from the newly enacted COVID-19 relief package that may affect home health... Read more
Industry Notes:
RCD Gets With The Maintenance Therapy Program
With the new year comes a change that will clear up a Review Choice Demonstration billing ... Read more
RCD Gets With The Maintenance Therapy Program
With the new year comes a change that will clear up a Review Choice Demonstration billing ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get COVID Vaccine Info Here
If you and your staff are fielding questions about COVID-19 vaccines, the Centers for Dise... Read more
Get COVID Vaccine Info Here
If you and your staff are fielding questions about COVID-19 vaccines, the Centers for Dise... Read more