Home Health & Hospice Week
Reimbursement:
MedPAC Plays Grinch To HHAs’ Hopes For Reasonable Reimbursement Rates In 2025
Provider numbers, spending, and profit margins have all fallen — again. Home health ag... Read more
MedPAC Plays Grinch To HHAs’ Hopes For Reasonable Reimbursement Rates In 2025
Provider numbers, spending, and profit margins have all fallen — again. Home health ag... Read more
Policy:
Medicare Advantage Draws MedPAC Commissioners’ Attention
HHAs are closing over MA surge, commissioner acknowledges. The Medicare Payment Advisory... Read more
Medicare Advantage Draws MedPAC Commissioners’ Attention
HHAs are closing over MA surge, commissioner acknowledges. The Medicare Payment Advisory... Read more
Hospice:
MedPAC Wants Hospice Rate Freeze For 2025
Will Congress listen to the influential advisory body this time? The winter air isn't all... Read more
MedPAC Wants Hospice Rate Freeze For 2025
Will Congress listen to the influential advisory body this time? The winter air isn't all... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Check Out Your Finalized VBP Interim Performance Report
New in an IQIES folder near you. You can now find out whether Medicare granted your Val... Read more
Check Out Your Finalized VBP Interim Performance Report
New in an IQIES folder near you. You can now find out whether Medicare granted your Val... Read more
Regulations:
Biden Administration Singles Out PE In Healthcare For More Scrutiny
‘Corporate greed' and ‘corporate profiteers' are in the feds' in the crosshairs. Med... Read more
Biden Administration Singles Out PE In Healthcare For More Scrutiny
‘Corporate greed' and ‘corporate profiteers' are in the feds' in the crosshairs. Med... Read more
Compliance:
What’s In A Name? A Recent Lawsuit May Tell You
Watch out: Licensing boards could be paying more attention. If your agency employs DNPs, ... Read more
What’s In A Name? A Recent Lawsuit May Tell You
Watch out: Licensing boards could be paying more attention. If your agency employs DNPs, ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Program Integrity Changes In 2024 HH Final Rule Hit The Books
Read the new provisions on fingerprinting, for example. From including hospices in the 3... Read more
Program Integrity Changes In 2024 HH Final Rule Hit The Books
Read the new provisions on fingerprinting, for example. From including hospices in the 3... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Spending Up Everywhere But Medicare
Medicare's spending slowdown on home health is showing up in the program's overall expendi... Read more
HH Spending Up Everywhere But Medicare
Medicare's spending slowdown on home health is showing up in the program's overall expendi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Multiple Studies Find Home Health, Hospice Equity Issues
More studies are training the spotlight on health equity in home health and hospice. Stud... Read more
Multiple Studies Find Home Health, Hospice Equity Issues
More studies are training the spotlight on health equity in home health and hospice. Stud... Read more
Industry Notes:
Improve Your OASIS Accuracy With New CAM Tool
Help your clinicians improve their cognitive assessments with a new tool from Medicare. T... Read more
Improve Your OASIS Accuracy With New CAM Tool
Help your clinicians improve their cognitive assessments with a new tool from Medicare. T... Read more
Industry Notes:
Staffing Crunch Shuts Hospices' Doors — For Now
Staffing shortages continue to take their toll on home health and hospice providers. Late... Read more
Staffing Crunch Shuts Hospices' Doors — For Now
Staffing shortages continue to take their toll on home health and hospice providers. Late... Read more
Industry Notes:
Senior Living Co. In Show Me State Buys Home Health Provider
St. Louis-based senior living company Lutheran Senior Services plans to acquire St. Louis ... Read more
Senior Living Co. In Show Me State Buys Home Health Provider
St. Louis-based senior living company Lutheran Senior Services plans to acquire St. Louis ... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
OIG Puts Home Health, Hospice In The Hot Seat In Congressional Report
Hospital transfers, underreported falls, and sparing use of telehealth are highlights. Yo... Read more
OIG Puts Home Health, Hospice In The Hot Seat In Congressional Report
Hospital transfers, underreported falls, and sparing use of telehealth are highlights. Yo... Read more
Quality:
Get A Sneak Peek At Potential New Hospice Quality Measures
Symptom assessment, CAHPS topics may be up next. While it's not yet a done deal, recently... Read more
Get A Sneak Peek At Potential New Hospice Quality Measures
Symptom assessment, CAHPS topics may be up next. While it's not yet a done deal, recently... Read more
Medicaid:
HHAs’ Use Of Aides Continues To Draw Attention
One state faces class action lawsuit. The staffing crunch that is hitting the home heal... Read more
HHAs’ Use Of Aides Continues To Draw Attention
One state faces class action lawsuit. The staffing crunch that is hitting the home heal... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Hospice Landscape Changes With Acquisitions, Closures, Mergers
Nonprofit hospices are on the move. As a large health system shuts down its hospice opera... Read more
Hospice Landscape Changes With Acquisitions, Closures, Mergers
Nonprofit hospices are on the move. As a large health system shuts down its hospice opera... Read more
Compliance:
Watch Out For Newly Proposed Information Blocking Penalties
Are you a prime target for the new disincentives? Since the 21st Century Cures Act was ... Read more
Watch Out For Newly Proposed Information Blocking Penalties
Are you a prime target for the new disincentives? Since the 21st Century Cures Act was ... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Keep Tabs On The Information Blocking Timeline
Here's what led to the latest proposals. You won't know your future if you don't know you... Read more
Keep Tabs On The Information Blocking Timeline
Here's what led to the latest proposals. You won't know your future if you don't know you... Read more
Industry Notes:
Concurrent Care Demo Picture Mixed After 6 Years
Do good results matter when not enough patients sign up? The Medicare Care Choices Model... Read more
Concurrent Care Demo Picture Mixed After 6 Years
Do good results matter when not enough patients sign up? The Medicare Care Choices Model... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Warns Beneficiaries Against Remote Patient Monitoring Fraud
Don't let a new OIG fraud alert get in the way of your legitimate remote patient monitorin... Read more
OIG Warns Beneficiaries Against Remote Patient Monitoring Fraud
Don't let a new OIG fraud alert get in the way of your legitimate remote patient monitorin... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH, Hospice Still 'Longstanding Areas Of Concern,' OIG Says
As the year's end approaches, contemplations on its events increase. For HHS, that in... Read more
HH, Hospice Still 'Longstanding Areas Of Concern,' OIG Says
As the year's end approaches, contemplations on its events increase. For HHS, that in... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out 3 Medicare Policies That CMS Recently Updated
Three recently revised coverage policies may affect you. Medicare has revised the Local Co... Read more
Check Out 3 Medicare Policies That CMS Recently Updated
Three recently revised coverage policies may affect you. Medicare has revised the Local Co... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Care Access May Improve For Veterans Thanks To Bill
Home care coverage for veterans is one step closer to improvement. The U.S. House of Repr... Read more
Home Care Access May Improve For Veterans Thanks To Bill
Home care coverage for veterans is one step closer to improvement. The U.S. House of Repr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Mid-Atlantic Chain Buys Northern Virginia Agency
In Virginia, Richmond-based Care Advantage Inc. has acquired Nova Home Health Care ba... Read more
Mid-Atlantic Chain Buys Northern Virginia Agency
In Virginia, Richmond-based Care Advantage Inc. has acquired Nova Home Health Care ba... Read more
Regulations:
Stay Up To Date With Latest OASIS-E Changes
Plus: Circle August on your VBP calendar. Just because the OASIS-E instrument is staying... Read more
Stay Up To Date With Latest OASIS-E Changes
Plus: Circle August on your VBP calendar. Just because the OASIS-E instrument is staying... Read more
Hospice:
Some Answers Revealed About Therapist, Counselor Requirements For Hospices
Stay tuned for forthcoming guidance for more details. While hospices are relieved that Me... Read more
Some Answers Revealed About Therapist, Counselor Requirements For Hospices
Stay tuned for forthcoming guidance for more details. While hospices are relieved that Me... Read more
Enrollment:
Take Action: Enrollment Changes Coming Your Way In 2024
Validate your enrollment information and compliance program provisions to stay ahead of t... Read more
Take Action: Enrollment Changes Coming Your Way In 2024
Validate your enrollment information and compliance program provisions to stay ahead of t... Read more
Compliance:
Get To Know Medicare’s New Revocation, Denial Authorities
Warning: Ten-year-old judgments could haunt you like the Ghost of Christmas Past. Sweepin... Read more
Get To Know Medicare’s New Revocation, Denial Authorities
Warning: Ten-year-old judgments could haunt you like the Ghost of Christmas Past. Sweepin... Read more
Labor Law:
Want To Use AI In Your Hiring Process? Consider This First
Some AI functions may violate ADA, Title VII, EEOC warns. Going through a pile of resumes... Read more
Want To Use AI In Your Hiring Process? Consider This First
Some AI functions may violate ADA, Title VII, EEOC warns. Going through a pile of resumes... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospices In The Hot Seat For Improper Payments, Even As Error Rate Declines
Payment error rate drops by more than half. Following the recent trend, hospices are bump... Read more
Hospices In The Hot Seat For Improper Payments, Even As Error Rate Declines
Payment error rate drops by more than half. Following the recent trend, hospices are bump... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tackle Potential Violence Against Workers In The Home With Multiple Strategies
If you're like many home health and hospice agencies, recent cases of violence against wor... Read more
Tackle Potential Violence Against Workers In The Home With Multiple Strategies
If you're like many home health and hospice agencies, recent cases of violence against wor... Read more
Industry Notes:
Claims Glitch At One Software Vendor Puts Home Health Payments In Jeopardy
Home health agencies using WellSky software may need to go back and check whether a widesp... Read more
Claims Glitch At One Software Vendor Puts Home Health Payments In Jeopardy
Home health agencies using WellSky software may need to go back and check whether a widesp... Read more
Industry Notes:
Use New 855A Medicare Enrollment Form Before Returns Start Next Month
Don't overlook a change to the Medicare enrollment form. On top of numerous revisions to t... Read more
Use New 855A Medicare Enrollment Form Before Returns Start Next Month
Don't overlook a change to the Medicare enrollment form. On top of numerous revisions to t... Read more
Industry Notes:
Starting In May At The Latest, Hospices Must Chase Down Docs' Enrollment Status For Certs
Make sure your hospice has May 1 marked in red on your calendar for next year. Why? “Ef... Read more
Starting In May At The Latest, Hospices Must Chase Down Docs' Enrollment Status For Certs
Make sure your hospice has May 1 marked in red on your calendar for next year. Why? “Ef... Read more
Hospice:
Good News: SFP Won’t Really Get Going Until Late 2024
Bad news: The oversight program for poor performing hospices is still proceeding with ple... Read more
Good News: SFP Won’t Really Get Going Until Late 2024
Bad news: The oversight program for poor performing hospices is still proceeding with ple... Read more
Quality:
Zero In On These CoPs To Avoid Disastrous SFP Inclusion
Do you fall in the majority when it comes to deficiencies? How well you've handled duties... Read more
Zero In On These CoPs To Avoid Disastrous SFP Inclusion
Do you fall in the majority when it comes to deficiencies? How well you've handled duties... Read more
Surveys & Certification:
Get Up To Par On SFP Before A Surveyor Comes Knocking
Follow this expert advice to sidestep SFP pitfalls. Think of the Special Focus Program ... Read more
Get Up To Par On SFP Before A Surveyor Comes Knocking
Follow this expert advice to sidestep SFP pitfalls. Think of the Special Focus Program ... Read more
Appeals:
IDR Finally Arrives For Hospices
Watch out for tight turnaround. Since a big chunk of your Special Focus Program score wi... Read more
IDR Finally Arrives For Hospices
Watch out for tight turnaround. Since a big chunk of your Special Focus Program score wi... Read more
Compliance:
OIG Compliance Guidance Revamp Begins
Tips for small providers, private equity included in new instructions. Think you know eve... Read more
OIG Compliance Guidance Revamp Begins
Tips for small providers, private equity included in new instructions. Think you know eve... Read more
Industry Notes:
DOJ & OIG Focus On Noninstitutional Care
Separate payment for nonhospice items gets more attention. A new joint report from the De... Read more
DOJ & OIG Focus On Noninstitutional Care
Separate payment for nonhospice items gets more attention. A new joint report from the De... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Aims To Expose Private Equity Ownership
Much like the Special Focus Program, another nursing home-focused fraud-fighting initiativ... Read more
HHS Aims To Expose Private Equity Ownership
Much like the Special Focus Program, another nursing home-focused fraud-fighting initiativ... Read more
Industry Notes:
New dNPWT Billing On Deck
Get ready to change how you bill a wound therapy code starting Jan. 1. Reminder: “Medic... Read more
New dNPWT Billing On Deck
Get ready to change how you bill a wound therapy code starting Jan. 1. Reminder: “Medic... Read more
Industry Notes:
Wise Agencies In 3 RCD States Will Make Review Choices Soon
Home health agencies in multiple Review Choice Demonstration states had better circle ... Read more
Wise Agencies In 3 RCD States Will Make Review Choices Soon
Home health agencies in multiple Review Choice Demonstration states had better circle ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Peruse Home Health Stats In Updated Compilation
Looking for a home health statistic? Chances are it's in the Home Care Chartbook 2023 from... Read more
Peruse Home Health Stats In Updated Compilation
Looking for a home health statistic? Chances are it's in the Home Care Chartbook 2023 from... Read more
Industry Notes:
Dementia Model Applications Due By Jan. 30
If you're interested in participating in the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience ... Read more
Dementia Model Applications Due By Jan. 30
If you're interested in participating in the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Ring In The New Year With New Grouper Software
You can now download the new Prospective Payment System Grouper software taking effect on ... Read more
Ring In The New Year With New Grouper Software
You can now download the new Prospective Payment System Grouper software taking effect on ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Visiting Nurse Killed In Connecticut
Another senseless killing of a home health nurse on the job is bringing more attention to ... Read more
Visiting Nurse Killed In Connecticut
Another senseless killing of a home health nurse on the job is bringing more attention to ... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
2024 Final HH Rule Clears The Path For Further PDGM Cuts
This year's reimbursement relief, inadequate as it is, may not last long, experts predict.... Read more
2024 Final HH Rule Clears The Path For Further PDGM Cuts
This year's reimbursement relief, inadequate as it is, may not last long, experts predict.... Read more
Reimbursement:
Follow These 4 Tips To Counter Future PDGM Rate Cuts
How clean is your data? What can home health agencies do with the threat of massive cuts ... Read more
Follow These 4 Tips To Counter Future PDGM Rate Cuts
How clean is your data? What can home health agencies do with the threat of massive cuts ... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices Are Off The Hook For MHC, MFT Interdisciplinary Group Members — Mostly
Keep an eye peeled for interpretive guidance on the topic. Hospices have caught a much ne... Read more
Hospices Are Off The Hook For MHC, MFT Interdisciplinary Group Members — Mostly
Keep an eye peeled for interpretive guidance on the topic. Hospices have caught a much ne... Read more
Kickbacks:
Now’s The Time To Lay the Groundwork For Holiday Gifting Compliance
Prepare now, before the full holiday rush hits. With Halloween in the rearview mirror and... Read more
Now’s The Time To Lay the Groundwork For Holiday Gifting Compliance
Prepare now, before the full holiday rush hits. With Halloween in the rearview mirror and... Read more
Compliance:
Take These 6 Steps To Protect Yourself Against Gifting Violations
Don't let common gift-giving practices get you into hot water. Reduce your risk during th... Read more
Take These 6 Steps To Protect Yourself Against Gifting Violations
Don't let common gift-giving practices get you into hot water. Reduce your risk during th... Read more
Coverage:
MedPAC Puts Hospice Under The Microscope
Nonhospice spending gets another go-round. Hospices may feel they've been examined six w... Read more
MedPAC Puts Hospice Under The Microscope
Nonhospice spending gets another go-round. Hospices may feel they've been examined six w... Read more
Industry Notes:
Review Choice Demo Contractor To Become Quicker On The Draw With PCR Resubmissions
Start date for sixth state is almost here. As the Review Choice Demonstration expands, on... Read more
Review Choice Demo Contractor To Become Quicker On The Draw With PCR Resubmissions
Start date for sixth state is almost here. As the Review Choice Demonstration expands, on... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tune In To Forthcoming Webinar To Hear CMS Review Hospice Provisions Of Home Health Final Rule
If you have questions about the hospice provisions in the 2024 home health final rule, you... Read more
Tune In To Forthcoming Webinar To Hear CMS Review Hospice Provisions Of Home Health Final Rule
If you have questions about the hospice provisions in the 2024 home health final rule, you... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHAs Will Become Responsible For Covering This Wound Supplies Code In The New Year
Add one more code to the home health bundling list, starting Jan. 1. A9272 (Wound suction... Read more
HHAs Will Become Responsible For Covering This Wound Supplies Code In The New Year
Add one more code to the home health bundling list, starting Jan. 1. A9272 (Wound suction... Read more
Industry Notes:
Assessments, Quality Improvement Focus Of New VBP Tools
A couple of new Value-Based Purchasing educational tools may help you boost your performan... Read more
Assessments, Quality Improvement Focus Of New VBP Tools
A couple of new Value-Based Purchasing educational tools may help you boost your performan... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
HHAs Look To Congress For Relief As CMS Imposes Crushing Rate Adjustment
Scaled-back cut won't stave off access problems, industry reps warn. A meager 0.8 percent... Read more
HHAs Look To Congress For Relief As CMS Imposes Crushing Rate Adjustment
Scaled-back cut won't stave off access problems, industry reps warn. A meager 0.8 percent... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
VBP Model Baseline Moves Yet Again, Among Other Program Changes
Get friendly with PPH and other new measures. Do you think you have the hang of value-ba... Read more
VBP Model Baseline Moves Yet Again, Among Other Program Changes
Get friendly with PPH and other new measures. Do you think you have the hang of value-ba... Read more
Hospice:
Medicare Plows Ahead With Half Baked Special Focus Program For Hospices
More details about SFP selection process come to light. If you perused the hospice Spec... Read more
Medicare Plows Ahead With Half Baked Special Focus Program For Hospices
More details about SFP selection process come to light. If you perused the hospice Spec... Read more
Quality:
DC Function Measure May Pose Problems, Expert Worries
Plus: COVID vaccination rates are about to become more important to HHAs. Most of the qu... Read more
DC Function Measure May Pose Problems, Expert Worries
Plus: COVID vaccination rates are about to become more important to HHAs. Most of the qu... Read more
Enrollment:
Watch Out For These Enrollment Changes
Get used to the 36-month rule for hospices. Life is about to get harder for some hospices... Read more
Watch Out For These Enrollment Changes
Get used to the 36-month rule for hospices. Life is about to get harder for some hospices... Read more
Regulations:
Aide Utilization, Health Equity, And More Round Out Final Rule
Plus: Health equity is on CMS' mind. The voluminous 531-page 2024 home health final rul... Read more
Aide Utilization, Health Equity, And More Round Out Final Rule
Plus: Health equity is on CMS' mind. The voluminous 531-page 2024 home health final rul... Read more
Industry Notes:
VBP Recalculation Deadline Looms
An OASIS data glitch isn't fixable right now, however. Don't miss your chance to get your... Read more
VBP Recalculation Deadline Looms
An OASIS data glitch isn't fixable right now, however. Don't miss your chance to get your... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Punts On RCD Direction
Is no news good news when it comes to the fate of the Review Choice Demonstration, as show... Read more
MAC Punts On RCD Direction
Is no news good news when it comes to the fate of the Review Choice Demonstration, as show... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG IDs Billions In Improperly Calculated PRF Payments
Postpayment review of Provider Relief Fund payments may tighten up following a new HHS Off... Read more
OIG IDs Billions In Improperly Calculated PRF Payments
Postpayment review of Provider Relief Fund payments may tighten up following a new HHS Off... Read more
Industry Notes:
Here's A Survey You May Actually Want
Want to give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services your two cents on how it can... Read more
Here's A Survey You May Actually Want
Want to give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services your two cents on how it can... Read more
Industry Notes:
November Is Home Care & Hospice Month
Don't forget to celebrate Home Care & Hospice Month this month. Access ideas for recog... Read more
November Is Home Care & Hospice Month
Don't forget to celebrate Home Care & Hospice Month this month. Access ideas for recog... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Officials Prepare To Field Questions On Health Equity Reports
Not sure how to use those Health Equity Confidential Feedback Reports CMS gave you last mo... Read more
Medicare Officials Prepare To Field Questions On Health Equity Reports
Not sure how to use those Health Equity Confidential Feedback Reports CMS gave you last mo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out PPH And More Updated Data On Care Compare
Your latest Home Health Quality Reporting Program data is up on Medicare's Care Compare we... Read more
Check Out PPH And More Updated Data On Care Compare
Your latest Home Health Quality Reporting Program data is up on Medicare's Care Compare we... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Automatic Reinstatement Claims For Exclusions
If a potential hire tells you their exclusion from Medicare or Medicaid has timed out, so ... Read more
Beware Automatic Reinstatement Claims For Exclusions
If a potential hire tells you their exclusion from Medicare or Medicaid has timed out, so ... Read more
Telehealth:
Fulfill Your Telehealth Billing Duties Or Risk Noncompliance, Lower Reimbursement
Make sure those visits get into the PoC. Home health agencies have a lot on their plat... Read more
Fulfill Your Telehealth Billing Duties Or Risk Noncompliance, Lower Reimbursement
Make sure those visits get into the PoC. Home health agencies have a lot on their plat... Read more
Reimbursement:
Review Telehealth Code Descriptions
Pop quiz: Which code requires different unit reporting? Nearly four months into mandator... Read more
Review Telehealth Code Descriptions
Pop quiz: Which code requires different unit reporting? Nearly four months into mandator... Read more
Oasis:
Newest OASIS Quarterly Q&As; Tackle Critical Functional Domain Item
Falls, hospitalizations get a little more clarity. Medicare's bare bones instructions o... Read more
Newest OASIS Quarterly Q&As; Tackle Critical Functional Domain Item
Falls, hospitalizations get a little more clarity. Medicare's bare bones instructions o... Read more
HIPAA:
HHA Socked With Double Whammy Of Ransomware, Fine
You may have to worry about more than HHS if your patients' data gets exposed. If you thi... Read more
HHA Socked With Double Whammy Of Ransomware, Fine
You may have to worry about more than HHS if your patients' data gets exposed. If you thi... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Nonprofit Hospices Launch Potential Regional Network
Maryland and Virginia may be just the beginning. Two more veteran nonprofit hospices are... Read more
Nonprofit Hospices Launch Potential Regional Network
Maryland and Virginia may be just the beginning. Two more veteran nonprofit hospices are... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice VBID Report Indicates Full Steam Ahead
Use of in-network hospices is growing. Hospices hoping that early problems with the Medi... Read more
Hospice VBID Report Indicates Full Steam Ahead
Use of in-network hospices is growing. Hospices hoping that early problems with the Medi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check For 2024 HHQRP Rate Ding
You've got just a couple of short weeks to fight a noncompliance determination for home he... Read more
Check For 2024 HHQRP Rate Ding
You've got just a couple of short weeks to fight a noncompliance determination for home he... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Part B Premium To Jump 6% Next Year
Medicare has announced price hikes for beneficiaries' premiums and deductibles. The stand... Read more
Medicare Part B Premium To Jump 6% Next Year
Medicare has announced price hikes for beneficiaries' premiums and deductibles. The stand... Read more
Industry Notes:
Accessing Judicial Reviews Will Be A Hair Easier In 2024
Medicare premiums and deductibles may be going up for 2024, but a potential cost-based bar... Read more
Accessing Judicial Reviews Will Be A Hair Easier In 2024
Medicare premiums and deductibles may be going up for 2024, but a potential cost-based bar... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Assessment-Related Misdeeds Costs Cigna Big
Bogus in-home assessments are part of the reason insurer Cigna has agreed to a big fraud s... Read more
Home Assessment-Related Misdeeds Costs Cigna Big
Bogus in-home assessments are part of the reason insurer Cigna has agreed to a big fraud s... Read more
Industry Notes:
Mark This PRF Reporting Makeup Date On Your Calendar
If you failed to report your COVID expenses on time for the Provider Relief Fund's Reporti... Read more
Mark This PRF Reporting Makeup Date On Your Calendar
If you failed to report your COVID expenses on time for the Provider Relief Fund's Reporti... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Aiming To Serve Minority Population Strikes Out On CON
Data shows minority patients are often underserved by hospice, but a chance for North Caro... Read more
Hospice Aiming To Serve Minority Population Strikes Out On CON
Data shows minority patients are often underserved by hospice, but a chance for North Caro... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Facilities Plan Openings
Two new hospice facilities are opening on opposite sides of the nation. In Virginia: The ... Read more
Hospice Facilities Plan Openings
Two new hospice facilities are opening on opposite sides of the nation. In Virginia: The ... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Drink In New VBP Data As You Wait For Final Rule Verdict
October IPRs will be out shortly, CMS official confirmed. The day you'll be paid based ... Read more
Drink In New VBP Data As You Wait For Final Rule Verdict
October IPRs will be out shortly, CMS official confirmed. The day you'll be paid based ... Read more
Review Choice Demonstration:
Agencies In Newest RCD State Must Nail Down Review Option Pronto
Newly revealed demonstration stats are likely to lead to an extension. Keep an eye out ... Read more
Agencies In Newest RCD State Must Nail Down Review Option Pronto
Newly revealed demonstration stats are likely to lead to an extension. Keep an eye out ... Read more
Quality:
OASIS Manual Gets A Facelift
Plus: January Care Compare preview reports have arrived. Updated guidance on OASIS-E sho... Read more
OASIS Manual Gets A Facelift
Plus: January Care Compare preview reports have arrived. Updated guidance on OASIS-E sho... Read more
Regulations:
Hospices Anxiously Await Physician Final Rule For MFT/MHC Decision
Plus: HOPE tool, HIS data migration seem to be bogged down. Hospices hoping for a hint a... Read more
Hospices Anxiously Await Physician Final Rule For MFT/MHC Decision
Plus: HOPE tool, HIS data migration seem to be bogged down. Hospices hoping for a hint a... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Leaders Of Massive Miami-Based Home Health Fraud Ring Convicted
Plus: Being senior citizens won't keep you out of jail for home health fraud. A federa... Read more
Leaders Of Massive Miami-Based Home Health Fraud Ring Convicted
Plus: Being senior citizens won't keep you out of jail for home health fraud. A federa... Read more
Medicaid:
States Continue Hunt For Medicaid Home Health Fraud
In one case, a criminal deposited fraudulent checks after pleading guilty. If you're won... Read more
States Continue Hunt For Medicaid Home Health Fraud
In one case, a criminal deposited fraudulent checks after pleading guilty. If you're won... Read more
Hospice:
Hospital-Based Hospice Closures Raise Access Fears
But Washington-state health system breathes new life into one facility. While private eq... Read more
Hospital-Based Hospice Closures Raise Access Fears
But Washington-state health system breathes new life into one facility. While private eq... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Beats The Hospital Early Discharge Proration Drum Yet Again
Isn't 275 DRGs enough to prorate? You could see favorable hospital referrals slow if Med... Read more
OIG Beats The Hospital Early Discharge Proration Drum Yet Again
Isn't 275 DRGs enough to prorate? You could see favorable hospital referrals slow if Med... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS AHRQ Wants Your HCBS Scientific Information
Want to improve the HHS Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's Evidence Map on Home ... Read more
HHS AHRQ Wants Your HCBS Scientific Information
Want to improve the HHS Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's Evidence Map on Home ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HCBS Waiver Procedures Could Change Under Recently Proposed Application Revisions
You have until Nov. 13 to comment on another Home and Community Based Services document. T... Read more
HCBS Waiver Procedures Could Change Under Recently Proposed Application Revisions
You have until Nov. 13 to comment on another Home and Community Based Services document. T... Read more
Industry Notes:
Enhabit Stock Slump Continues After Investment Firm Shareholder Demands Sale
At press time, the stock price of Enhabit Inc. was back in the basement after receiving a ... Read more
Enhabit Stock Slump Continues After Investment Firm Shareholder Demands Sale
At press time, the stock price of Enhabit Inc. was back in the basement after receiving a ... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Leave VBP Baseline Year Right Where It Is, HHAs Urge
Quit moving the Value-Based Purchasing goalposts, commenters tell CMS. Many home health a... Read more
Leave VBP Baseline Year Right Where It Is, HHAs Urge
Quit moving the Value-Based Purchasing goalposts, commenters tell CMS. Many home health a... Read more
Quality:
Put The Brakes On VBP Quality Measure Changes, Agencies Agree
PPH, Discharge Function measure changes are too much, too soon. The Medicare home heal... Read more
Put The Brakes On VBP Quality Measure Changes, Agencies Agree
PPH, Discharge Function measure changes are too much, too soon. The Medicare home heal... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Texas-Based Home Health Chain Makes Buy In Illinois
Plus: Two more veteran nonprofit hospices merge, this time in the Golden State. Elara Ca... Read more
Texas-Based Home Health Chain Makes Buy In Illinois
Plus: Two more veteran nonprofit hospices merge, this time in the Golden State. Elara Ca... Read more
Labor Law:
Overtime Exemption Changes Poised To Hit HH, Hospice Providers In The Wallet
Gauge how much anticipated revisions will cost you. The feds' new effort to expand ove... Read more
Overtime Exemption Changes Poised To Hit HH, Hospice Providers In The Wallet
Gauge how much anticipated revisions will cost you. The feds' new effort to expand ove... Read more
Compliance:
Take These Steps Now To Head Off Overtime Slips Later
You've got less than a month to give the DOL your 2 cents. You don't have to wait for th... Read more
Take These Steps Now To Head Off Overtime Slips Later
You've got less than a month to give the DOL your 2 cents. You don't have to wait for th... Read more
Legislation:
Lawmakers Weigh In On Multiple HH & Hospice Hot Topics
Senator shines spotlight on Medicaid access problems. Don't count the United HealthGro... Read more
Lawmakers Weigh In On Multiple HH & Hospice Hot Topics
Senator shines spotlight on Medicaid access problems. Don't count the United HealthGro... Read more
Industry Notes:
Aging Notice Of Admission Glitch Fix Nears
Pointer: Check to make sure the returned claim is actually an error. A payment system gli... Read more
Aging Notice Of Admission Glitch Fix Nears
Pointer: Check to make sure the returned claim is actually an error. A payment system gli... Read more
Industry Notes:
No End In Sight For Hospice Service Intensity Add-On Billing Headaches
Billing hassles will not be so easily bypassed for certain SIA add-on scenarios. The prob... Read more
No End In Sight For Hospice Service Intensity Add-On Billing Headaches
Billing hassles will not be so easily bypassed for certain SIA add-on scenarios. The prob... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Home Health, Hospice Impact Of Proposed Nursing Home Staffing Minimums
If you think nursing home staffing minimums won't affect you, think again. A Centers for ... Read more
Beware Home Health, Hospice Impact Of Proposed Nursing Home Staffing Minimums
If you think nursing home staffing minimums won't affect you, think again. A Centers for ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Another Hospice Nurse Imposter Strikes, This Time In Michigan
Don't let the nurse staffing shortage tempt you into skipping steps on background checks. ... Read more
Another Hospice Nurse Imposter Strikes, This Time In Michigan
Don't let the nurse staffing shortage tempt you into skipping steps on background checks. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Failure To Meet State Labor Reporting Requirements Costs One Agency Big Time
A California home care providers is shelling out close to six figures to settle labor law ... Read more
Failure To Meet State Labor Reporting Requirements Costs One Agency Big Time
A California home care providers is shelling out close to six figures to settle labor law ... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Put October Value-Based Purchasing IPRs On Your Calendar
Get more info on whether you'll see a pay boost or penalty based on your performance. Whe... Read more
Put October Value-Based Purchasing IPRs On Your Calendar
Get more info on whether you'll see a pay boost or penalty based on your performance. Whe... Read more
Reimbursement:
HHAs Get Fuller Picture Of Their VBP Payment Fate With October IPR’s Total Performance Score
TPS isn't binding yet, however. With home health agencies nearly three-fourths done with ... Read more
HHAs Get Fuller Picture Of Their VBP Payment Fate With October IPR’s Total Performance Score
TPS isn't binding yet, however. With home health agencies nearly three-fourths done with ... Read more
Hospice:
SFP Burdened With A Plethora Of Flaws, Providers Warn CMS
From CAHPS issues to surveyor shortfalls, serious faults dog the program — and could cl... Read more
SFP Burdened With A Plethora Of Flaws, Providers Warn CMS
From CAHPS issues to surveyor shortfalls, serious faults dog the program — and could cl... Read more
Surveys & Certification:
Medicare Should Change These 5 Things About SFP, Commenters Urge
Start with taking CMS' foot off the gas pedal. Hospices are not happy with Medicare's pro... Read more
Medicare Should Change These 5 Things About SFP, Commenters Urge
Start with taking CMS' foot off the gas pedal. Hospices are not happy with Medicare's pro... Read more
Telehealth:
Home Health Telehealth Needs Watching, OIG Tells Medicare
Have agencies learned from their initial mistakes? In the early days of the COVID-19 publ... Read more
Home Health Telehealth Needs Watching, OIG Tells Medicare
Have agencies learned from their initial mistakes? In the early days of the COVID-19 publ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HRSA Continues To Recoup PRF Relief Funds
Heads up: RP 6 reports are due Dec. 31. As more reporting period deadlines for CARES Act ... Read more
HRSA Continues To Recoup PRF Relief Funds
Heads up: RP 6 reports are due Dec. 31. As more reporting period deadlines for CARES Act ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tackle Coding Conundrums For BIMS, N0415 With New Educational Tools From Medicare
Boost your assessment staff 's OASIS accuracy with two new educational tools from Medicare... Read more
Tackle Coding Conundrums For BIMS, N0415 With New Educational Tools From Medicare
Boost your assessment staff 's OASIS accuracy with two new educational tools from Medicare... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Medicare Advantage VBID Carve-In Area Shrinks A Bit Geographically
The Medicare Advantage hospice carve-in will change shape a bit next year, Medicare offici... Read more
Hospice Medicare Advantage VBID Carve-In Area Shrinks A Bit Geographically
The Medicare Advantage hospice carve-in will change shape a bit next year, Medicare offici... Read more
Industry Notes:
Head Off Steep Settlements With Smart Onboarding Checks
If you don't have a spare $150K lying around, then be sure to check your employees against... Read more
Head Off Steep Settlements With Smart Onboarding Checks
If you don't have a spare $150K lying around, then be sure to check your employees against... Read more
Industry Notes:
Equity Reports To Hit Post-Acute Providers In October
Keep watch for two new equity-focused reports coming your way next month — the Discharge... Read more
Equity Reports To Hit Post-Acute Providers In October
Keep watch for two new equity-focused reports coming your way next month — the Discharge... Read more
Industry Notes:
Take A Look At New Medicaid Hospice Payment Rates
Check out Medicaid payment rates for hospice services at www.medicaid.gov/sites/default/... Read more
Take A Look At New Medicaid Hospice Payment Rates
Check out Medicaid payment rates for hospice services at www.medicaid.gov/sites/default/... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
Home Health ‘Rate Assault’ May Close Agencies’ Doors And Shrink Rural Access Even Further
2024 rate cuts will be devastating, commenters agree. Home health agencies are coming fo... Read more
Home Health ‘Rate Assault’ May Close Agencies’ Doors And Shrink Rural Access Even Further
2024 rate cuts will be devastating, commenters agree. Home health agencies are coming fo... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Comment Letter Volume Reflects Urgency Of Rate Cuts
Public feedback amount fluctuates significantly. Just how much Medicare officials will li... Read more
Comment Letter Volume Reflects Urgency Of Rate Cuts
Public feedback amount fluctuates significantly. Just how much Medicare officials will li... Read more
Reimbursement:
Labor Costs Are Crushing HHAs
CMS ignores this pain point at beneficiaries' peril, commenters warn. One of the most cit... Read more
Labor Costs Are Crushing HHAs
CMS ignores this pain point at beneficiaries' peril, commenters warn. One of the most cit... Read more
Compliance:
Review PHE Basics With These Facts
Do you know the difference between a waiver and a flexibility? After years of being under... Read more
Review PHE Basics With These Facts
Do you know the difference between a waiver and a flexibility? After years of being under... Read more
Finance:
Senate Hearing Brings Attention To Home Health, Both Positive And Negative
Former MedPAC commissioner cites agencies' high profit margins. Home health agencies have... Read more
Senate Hearing Brings Attention To Home Health, Both Positive And Negative
Former MedPAC commissioner cites agencies' high profit margins. Home health agencies have... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Care Agency Withdraws From Alabama Due To Low Reimbursement
Medicaid rates aren't keeping pace, chain indicates. Access issues aren't restricted to M... Read more
Home Care Agency Withdraws From Alabama Due To Low Reimbursement
Medicaid rates aren't keeping pace, chain indicates. Access issues aren't restricted to M... Read more
Industry Notes:
Updated Home Health, Hospice Info Is Now At Agencies' Fingertips.
A new year of data is now available in Medicare's Post-Acute Care and Hospice Provider Uti... Read more
Updated Home Health, Hospice Info Is Now At Agencies' Fingertips.
A new year of data is now available in Medicare's Post-Acute Care and Hospice Provider Uti... Read more
Industry Notes:
Philly Agency Opens Its Doors
Brightstar Care of Center City has secured approval from the state of Pennsylvania's Dep... Read more
Philly Agency Opens Its Doors
Brightstar Care of Center City has secured approval from the state of Pennsylvania's Dep... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check And Double-Check Your Nurses' Credentials
Check your clinicians' licenses or pay for the mistake later. That's a lesson Agape Hospi... Read more
Check And Double-Check Your Nurses' Credentials
Check your clinicians' licenses or pay for the mistake later. That's a lesson Agape Hospi... Read more
Industry Notes:
PT Home Health Owner Convicted Of Kickbacks
A Florida federal jury has convicted a physical therapist of paying kickbacks for home hea... Read more
PT Home Health Owner Convicted Of Kickbacks
A Florida federal jury has convicted a physical therapist of paying kickbacks for home hea... Read more
Industry Notes:
Agency, Owner In The Big Easy Must Pay Workers $630K In Back Pay, Undergo Audits
A New Orleans-area home care agency and its owner must pay up in a wage case. Parishes Su... Read more
Agency, Owner In The Big Easy Must Pay Workers $630K In Back Pay, Undergo Audits
A New Orleans-area home care agency and its owner must pay up in a wage case. Parishes Su... Read more
Industry Notes:
Review These Diabetes-Related Program Developments To See If They May Help
Like many healthcare providers, home health and hospice agencies see many patients with di... Read more
Review These Diabetes-Related Program Developments To See If They May Help
Like many healthcare providers, home health and hospice agencies see many patients with di... Read more
Oasis:
HHAs Called On The Carpet For Seriously Underreporting Falls
Watch out: Extremely low falls QM figures may become a red flag. Providers self-reporting... Read more
HHAs Called On The Carpet For Seriously Underreporting Falls
Watch out: Extremely low falls QM figures may become a red flag. Providers self-reporting... Read more
Quality:
These OASIS-Based Quality Measures May Be Next To Draw Feds’ Ire
Will your data for the OASIS items feeding into these measures hold up? The 11 OASIS-base... Read more
These OASIS-Based Quality Measures May Be Next To Draw Feds’ Ire
Will your data for the OASIS items feeding into these measures hold up? The 11 OASIS-base... Read more
Assessment:
Brace For Stepped-Up Scrutiny Of OASIS Reporting
Surveys may become much more focused on OASIS compliance. The HHS Office of Inspector Ge... Read more
Brace For Stepped-Up Scrutiny Of OASIS Reporting
Surveys may become much more focused on OASIS compliance. The HHS Office of Inspector Ge... Read more
Studies & Surveys:
Hospice Reduces Medicare Costs, Even For Dementia Patients, Study Says
Plus: Two more recent studies address health equity issues. Law- and policymakers need to... Read more
Hospice Reduces Medicare Costs, Even For Dementia Patients, Study Says
Plus: Two more recent studies address health equity issues. Law- and policymakers need to... Read more
Overpayments:
Take Some Steps Now, Some Later For Overpayment Compliance In Light Of 60-Day Rule
Be ready to run with the new regs. What can home health and hospice agencies do as they a... Read more
Take Some Steps Now, Some Later For Overpayment Compliance In Light Of 60-Day Rule
Be ready to run with the new regs. What can home health and hospice agencies do as they a... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
2 Nonprofit Florida Hospices Plan To Join Forces
Plus: Amedisys-UnitedHealth deal clears next hurdle. Empath Health and Trustbridge are be... Read more
2 Nonprofit Florida Hospices Plan To Join Forces
Plus: Amedisys-UnitedHealth deal clears next hurdle. Empath Health and Trustbridge are be... Read more
Industry Notes:
Step Up For TEP Activity In HH, Hospice
Quality measures, Value-Based Purchasing opportunities available. If home health and hosp... Read more
Step Up For TEP Activity In HH, Hospice
Quality measures, Value-Based Purchasing opportunities available. If home health and hosp... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get Comfortable In Your Assigned VBP Cohort, At Least For The Next Year
If you have questions about the Value-Based Purchasing program, a new question-and-answer ... Read more
Get Comfortable In Your Assigned VBP Cohort, At Least For The Next Year
If you have questions about the Value-Based Purchasing program, a new question-and-answer ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Submit Your Provider Relief Fund Report By Sept. 30 Or Pay Back Affected Funds
The COVID-19 public health emergency is getting farther and farther back in the rearview m... Read more
Submit Your Provider Relief Fund Report By Sept. 30 Or Pay Back Affected Funds
The COVID-19 public health emergency is getting farther and farther back in the rearview m... Read more
Industry Notes:
Recoupments To Hit Hospitals For DRG Payments That Were Supposed To Be Prorated For Home Health DCs
You may notice a chilling effect on hospital discharges to home health, following a new OI... Read more
Recoupments To Hit Hospitals For DRG Payments That Were Supposed To Be Prorated For Home Health DCs
You may notice a chilling effect on hospital discharges to home health, following a new OI... Read more
Industry Notes:
New HHS Antidiscrimination Rule May Encourage Home Health Use
The Department of Health and Human Services is taking aim at discrimination in health care... Read more
New HHS Antidiscrimination Rule May Encourage Home Health Use
The Department of Health and Human Services is taking aim at discrimination in health care... Read more
Review Choice Demonstration:
Medicare Tees Up 6th RCD State — Who’s Next?
Claims review program to hit Oklahoma Dec. 1. For the first time since 2020, Medicare is ... Read more
Medicare Tees Up 6th RCD State — Who’s Next?
Claims review program to hit Oklahoma Dec. 1. For the first time since 2020, Medicare is ... Read more
Hospice:
Don’t Mix Up Fraud-Fighting With Quality Improvement, Hospice Reps Urge
Hospices had better start toeing the compliance late before it's too late, attorney warns... Read more
Don’t Mix Up Fraud-Fighting With Quality Improvement, Hospice Reps Urge
Hospices had better start toeing the compliance late before it's too late, attorney warns... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Michigan-Based Chain Partners With IL Health System
Plus: Intermountain snaps up Advent HH. A seven-state home health and hospice chain is pa... Read more
Michigan-Based Chain Partners With IL Health System
Plus: Intermountain snaps up Advent HH. A seven-state home health and hospice chain is pa... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Whistleblower Scoops Up More Cash In Bayada Fraud Case
Chain's HHA purchases disguised ulterior motives, prosecutors allege. Two years after Bay... Read more
Whistleblower Scoops Up More Cash In Bayada Fraud Case
Chain's HHA purchases disguised ulterior motives, prosecutors allege. Two years after Bay... Read more
Finance:
Caution Ahead: Healthcare Antitrust Policy Changes May Throw Up Hurdles To Acquisitions
Will all the changes really promote more open and fair competition, or just make provider... Read more
Caution Ahead: Healthcare Antitrust Policy Changes May Throw Up Hurdles To Acquisitions
Will all the changes really promote more open and fair competition, or just make provider... Read more
Compliance:
These 13 Points May Sink Proposed Transactions
Regulatory changes are afoot for mergers and acquisitions. If you want the feds' approval... Read more
These 13 Points May Sink Proposed Transactions
Regulatory changes are afoot for mergers and acquisitions. If you want the feds' approval... Read more
Industry Notes:
Give CMS Your 2 Cents On VBP Changes
Measures and scoring are up for rearrangement. Interested in serving on a Value-Based Pur... Read more
Give CMS Your 2 Cents On VBP Changes
Measures and scoring are up for rearrangement. Interested in serving on a Value-Based Pur... Read more
Industry Notes:
Bone Up On Z Codes With New Tool From Medicare
Your staff can learn about using Z diagnosis codes to bolster Social Determinants of Healt... Read more
Bone Up On Z Codes With New Tool From Medicare
Your staff can learn about using Z diagnosis codes to bolster Social Determinants of Healt... Read more
Industry Notes:
Is AHEAD Model In Your Future?
A new payment model the feds are launching could affect home care providers down the line.... Read more
Is AHEAD Model In Your Future?
A new payment model the feds are launching could affect home care providers down the line.... Read more
Industry Notes:
Turning Away Patient With HIV Costs New Jersey Agency
A New Jersey home care agency has settled charges of discrimination against a patient with... Read more
Turning Away Patient With HIV Costs New Jersey Agency
A New Jersey home care agency has settled charges of discrimination against a patient with... Read more
Industry Notes:
Waivers Available For Florida PHE
Another natural disaster brings another set of regulatory waivers, this time in Florida. ... Read more
Waivers Available For Florida PHE
Another natural disaster brings another set of regulatory waivers, this time in Florida. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Grouper Software Update On Deck
The latest version of home health PPS Grouper software is now ready for download ahead of ... Read more
HH Grouper Software Update On Deck
The latest version of home health PPS Grouper software is now ready for download ahead of ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Watch Out: Cyberthreats Go Beyond Phishing
You might be familiar with phishing, but do you know these similar cybersecurity attacks t... Read more
Watch Out: Cyberthreats Go Beyond Phishing
You might be familiar with phishing, but do you know these similar cybersecurity attacks t... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Keep Tabs On These New VBP Developments As First Performance Year Rolls On
Plus: Is there any possibility of 2024 rate reduction relief? If you want to survive and ... Read more
Keep Tabs On These New VBP Developments As First Performance Year Rolls On
Plus: Is there any possibility of 2024 rate reduction relief? If you want to survive and ... Read more
Hospice:
Pay Close Attention To This Hospice Change In The Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
Regulatory provision could add to your burden. A regulatory proposal that looked like it ... Read more
Pay Close Attention To This Hospice Change In The Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
Regulatory provision could add to your burden. A regulatory proposal that looked like it ... Read more
Regulations:
HOPE Still A Moving Target
APU appeals, ownership status also addressed in forum. Stay tuned for final Hospice Outc... Read more
HOPE Still A Moving Target
APU appeals, ownership status also addressed in forum. Stay tuned for final Hospice Outc... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
HH Fraudster Caught Up In Nationwide COVID Fraud Sweep
DOJ has recovered $1.4 billion in relief funds so far. The feds are determined to hunt do... Read more
HH Fraudster Caught Up In Nationwide COVID Fraud Sweep
DOJ has recovered $1.4 billion in relief funds so far. The feds are determined to hunt do... Read more
Health IT:
Get Ready For The Latest Cures Act Rules — And Penalties
Don't let confusion over the rules land you in hot water. Starting this month, will you... Read more
Get Ready For The Latest Cures Act Rules — And Penalties
Don't let confusion over the rules land you in hot water. Starting this month, will you... Read more
Enforcement:
These Priorities Could Sink Or Swim Offenders
Patient care features heavily in factors. Keep in mind that the HHS Office of Inspector G... Read more
These Priorities Could Sink Or Swim Offenders
Patient care features heavily in factors. Keep in mind that the HHS Office of Inspector G... Read more
Compliance:
Here’s What Can Save You If You’re Suspected Of Info Blocking
Learn these info blocking exceptions. The 2020 Cures Act Final Rule establishes eight exc... Read more
Here’s What Can Save You If You’re Suspected Of Info Blocking
Learn these info blocking exceptions. The 2020 Cures Act Final Rule establishes eight exc... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Shines Spotlight On Managed Care
Plus: Dirty OIG agent goes down. It's not always home health and hospice providers enduri... Read more
OIG Shines Spotlight On Managed Care
Plus: Dirty OIG agent goes down. It's not always home health and hospice providers enduri... Read more
Industry Notes:
Express Your GUIDE Interest Now
Home health and hospice providers hoping to participate in Medicare's new payment model fo... Read more
Express Your GUIDE Interest Now
Home health and hospice providers hoping to participate in Medicare's new payment model fo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Drug Price Negotiation Test Kicks Off
Stand by to see the impact on your patients as Medicare undertakes a campaign to lower the... Read more
Drug Price Negotiation Test Kicks Off
Stand by to see the impact on your patients as Medicare undertakes a campaign to lower the... Read more
Industry Notes:
Know These 5 Essential Fraud Laws
With fraud and abuse-fighting at an all time high, now may be a good time to brush up on s... Read more
Know These 5 Essential Fraud Laws
With fraud and abuse-fighting at an all time high, now may be a good time to brush up on s... Read more
Industry Notes:
Travel To Other Continents Foils Agency Owner's Claims
In a recent case in Missouri, a federal judge sentenced DeAndre Horne to five years in pri... Read more
Travel To Other Continents Foils Agency Owner's Claims
In a recent case in Missouri, a federal judge sentenced DeAndre Horne to five years in pri... Read more
Industry Notes:
Collared Home Health Fraud Fugitive Pleads Guilty
A fugitive in a nearly decade-old home care fraud case has been brought to justice. Recap... Read more
Collared Home Health Fraud Fugitive Pleads Guilty
A fugitive in a nearly decade-old home care fraud case has been brought to justice. Recap... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Look At Your New New IPR Report For VBP
Comment on proposed rule before you lose your chance. Third time's the charm for the firs... Read more
Look At Your New New IPR Report For VBP
Comment on proposed rule before you lose your chance. Third time's the charm for the firs... Read more
Hospice:
Feds Prepare To Deactivate Up To 400 Hospices Following Site Visits
But states' lagging surveys may contribute to that initial figure. Medicare officials con... Read more
Feds Prepare To Deactivate Up To 400 Hospices Following Site Visits
But states' lagging surveys may contribute to that initial figure. Medicare officials con... Read more
Compliance:
Target The Bad Guys, Not The Good Guys, With Hospice Fraud Fighting
Many new PI efforts are homing in on the wrong providers, attorney argues. The new progr... Read more
Target The Bad Guys, Not The Good Guys, With Hospice Fraud Fighting
Many new PI efforts are homing in on the wrong providers, attorney argues. The new progr... Read more
Program Integrity:
Keep Up With The Many PI Actions CMS Has Taken Lately
Still no payment suspension, civil money penalty powers. It's no wonder hospice provider... Read more
Keep Up With The Many PI Actions CMS Has Taken Lately
Still no payment suspension, civil money penalty powers. It's no wonder hospice provider... Read more
Reimbursement:
Watch Out For These Glitches Slowing Down Your Cash Flow
Return your claims denied for W7048 for processing. Don't be surprised if any — or all ... Read more
Watch Out For These Glitches Slowing Down Your Cash Flow
Return your claims denied for W7048 for processing. Don't be surprised if any — or all ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Is Keeping Tabs On PEPPER Downloads
The state with the lowest download rate may surprise you — or not. Don't dismiss data f... Read more
Medicare Is Keeping Tabs On PEPPER Downloads
The state with the lowest download rate may surprise you — or not. Don't dismiss data f... Read more
Industry Notes:
Take A Sneak Peak At Your Latest Quality Stats
Don't miss your Hospice Quality Reporting Program Provider Preview Reports. The Centers f... Read more
Take A Sneak Peak At Your Latest Quality Stats
Don't miss your Hospice Quality Reporting Program Provider Preview Reports. The Centers f... Read more
Industry Notes:
Workgroup Examines Conflict Between Diagnosis Coding, F2F Reqs
If you're confused about the intersection of face-to-face requirements and diagnosis codin... Read more
Workgroup Examines Conflict Between Diagnosis Coding, F2F Reqs
If you're confused about the intersection of face-to-face requirements and diagnosis codin... Read more
Industry Notes:
Watch Out For Patients' New Medicare Numbers Due To This Snafu
Healthcare providers aren't the only ones suffering accidental disclosures of HIPAA-covere... Read more
Watch Out For Patients' New Medicare Numbers Due To This Snafu
Healthcare providers aren't the only ones suffering accidental disclosures of HIPAA-covere... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Nurse Imposter Nabbed By Fingerprints
Fingerprint checks are doing their job when it comes to weeding out fraudsters. In Michig... Read more
Hospice Nurse Imposter Nabbed By Fingerprints
Fingerprint checks are doing their job when it comes to weeding out fraudsters. In Michig... Read more
Industry Notes:
Another Alaska HHA Closes Its Doors
Just as access to home health and hospice eases in one part of Alaska, it worsens in anoth... Read more
Another Alaska HHA Closes Its Doors
Just as access to home health and hospice eases in one part of Alaska, it worsens in anoth... Read more
Industry Notes:
Here's How To Handle Info About Family History Under HIPAA
Not sure what all counts as protected health information (PHI) for HIPAA purposes? OCR can... Read more
Here's How To Handle Info About Family History Under HIPAA
Not sure what all counts as protected health information (PHI) for HIPAA purposes? OCR can... Read more
COVID-19:
Hospice Expands In Florida
Texts proved crucial in $1.75 million fraud settlement. An upscale senior living compan... Read more
Hospice Expands In Florida
Texts proved crucial in $1.75 million fraud settlement. An upscale senior living compan... Read more
Finance:
National Chain To Consider Sale
Medicare Advantage growth hits 34-state provider hard. Enhabit Inc. is navigating some... Read more
National Chain To Consider Sale
Medicare Advantage growth hits 34-state provider hard. Enhabit Inc. is navigating some... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Pennsylvania Nonprofits Plan Merger
Plus: Agency beats out 4 other applicants in CON state. The trend of nonprofit hospices ... Read more
Pennsylvania Nonprofits Plan Merger
Plus: Agency beats out 4 other applicants in CON state. The trend of nonprofit hospices ... Read more
Labor:
HHAs Get Some Help With Work Force Woes
Federal, state, and private entities aim to stave off access problems with new initiative... Read more
HHAs Get Some Help With Work Force Woes
Federal, state, and private entities aim to stave off access problems with new initiative... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hawaii Becomes Latest PHE Location
Keep tabs on the developing situation. The COVID-19 public health emergency may be over, ... Read more
Hawaii Becomes Latest PHE Location
Keep tabs on the developing situation. The COVID-19 public health emergency may be over, ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out These Details Before Oct. 1 Hits
Now that Medicare has released the hospice final rule for 2024, you should get familiar wi... Read more
Check Out These Details Before Oct. 1 Hits
Now that Medicare has released the hospice final rule for 2024, you should get familiar wi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tap This Free Education From Medicare
Help your assessment clinicians help themselves — and your agency — with new training ... Read more
Tap This Free Education From Medicare
Help your assessment clinicians help themselves — and your agency — with new training ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Take Some Pressure Off Hospices When It Comes To GIP, Long-Stay Claims, Reps Urge CMS
The feds are taking hospice audits too far, industry representatives warn. “We welcome ... Read more
Take Some Pressure Off Hospices When It Comes To GIP, Long-Stay Claims, Reps Urge CMS
The feds are taking hospice audits too far, industry representatives warn. “We welcome ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check To See Whether Your State Plans To Extend Appendix K Waivers
You may see more state flexibility regarding home-and community-based services for a while... Read more
Check To See Whether Your State Plans To Extend Appendix K Waivers
You may see more state flexibility regarding home-and community-based services for a while... Read more
Industry Notes:
NAHC And NHPCO Mull Merger — And Possible New Name
Two trade groups representing hospices may soon become one. The Boards of the National As... Read more
NAHC And NHPCO Mull Merger — And Possible New Name
Two trade groups representing hospices may soon become one. The Boards of the National As... Read more
Industry Notes:
Email Could Suffice For Breach Notifications If Proposed Changes Are Finalized
Now that the comment period has closed on changes to the Health Breach Notification Rule, ... Read more
Email Could Suffice For Breach Notifications If Proposed Changes Are Finalized
Now that the comment period has closed on changes to the Health Breach Notification Rule, ... Read more
Check Employees Against OIG Exclusions Database, Or You May Regret It
Don't let accidentally hiring an excluded individual cost you $40K, like one Minnesota hom... Read more
Don't let accidentally hiring an excluded individual cost you $40K, like one Minnesota hom... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
IPR Recalc Request Deadline Delayed While CMS Reissues Reports
Have you noticed these errors in your report? If you downloaded your Value-Based Purchas... Read more
IPR Recalc Request Deadline Delayed While CMS Reissues Reports
Have you noticed these errors in your report? If you downloaded your Value-Based Purchas... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices Will Continue To Struggle Under Inadequate Rate Bump
The slight increase in hospices' 2024 payment rates, as compared to the amount proposed b... Read more
Hospices Will Continue To Struggle Under Inadequate Rate Bump
The slight increase in hospices' 2024 payment rates, as compared to the amount proposed b... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Prepare For More Hassles As Medicare Tightens Qualifications For Certifying Physicians
CMS downplays the increased burden. Hospices have a little more time to get ready for a ... Read more
Prepare For More Hassles As Medicare Tightens Qualifications For Certifying Physicians
CMS downplays the increased burden. Hospices have a little more time to get ready for a ... Read more
Quality:
HOPE Tool Chugs Toward Implementation
Stand by for an update on the assessment tool this fall. Although it's not officially app... Read more
HOPE Tool Chugs Toward Implementation
Stand by for an update on the assessment tool this fall. Although it's not officially app... Read more
Compliance:
Pssst! Medicare Left The Door Open For Changes To The 60-Day Rule
What to understand about Medicare's latest move and what you should do now to be ready. ... Read more
Pssst! Medicare Left The Door Open For Changes To The 60-Day Rule
What to understand about Medicare's latest move and what you should do now to be ready. ... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Industry Fights Back Against Draconian Pay Cuts
New legislation, letter to CMS head are latest shots fired. Home health agencies are hopi... Read more
HH Industry Fights Back Against Draconian Pay Cuts
New legislation, letter to CMS head are latest shots fired. Home health agencies are hopi... Read more
Industry Notes:
NY Agency Slapped With EEOC Racial Discrimination Suit
A Brooklyn, New York home care agency is facing an EEOC lawsuit accusing it of racial disc... Read more
NY Agency Slapped With EEOC Racial Discrimination Suit
A Brooklyn, New York home care agency is facing an EEOC lawsuit accusing it of racial disc... Read more
Industry Notes:
New GUIDE Model May Allow Agencies To Help Dementia Patients
A new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services initiative, the Guiding an Improved Dem... Read more
New GUIDE Model May Allow Agencies To Help Dementia Patients
A new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services initiative, the Guiding an Improved Dem... Read more
Industry Notes:
Latest HH PEPPER Report Is Out
You may feel like your home health agency has its fill of benchmarking data via the new IP... Read more
Latest HH PEPPER Report Is Out
You may feel like your home health agency has its fill of benchmarking data via the new IP... Read more
Industry Notes:
Excluded Personal Assistant Costs NY Agency Big
A home attendant program in New York City has to pay in the high six figures for employing... Read more
Excluded Personal Assistant Costs NY Agency Big
A home attendant program in New York City has to pay in the high six figures for employing... Read more
Hospice:
Enhanced Oversight For New Enrollees, SMRC Review For 90-Day+ Claims, And Site Visits Dog Hospices
Medicare's hospice program integrity campaign revs up even more. Medicare officials ar... Read more
Enhanced Oversight For New Enrollees, SMRC Review For 90-Day+ Claims, And Site Visits Dog Hospices
Medicare's hospice program integrity campaign revs up even more. Medicare officials ar... Read more
Compliance:
Here’s What Will Land You Under Extra Scrutiny
No final approval letter from the MAC? You could be included. The definition of who coun... Read more
Here’s What Will Land You Under Extra Scrutiny
No final approval letter from the MAC? You could be included. The definition of who coun... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Waste No Time In Examining Your New IPR Under VBP
Plus: CMS offers medication management educational recording. The clock is ticking whe... Read more
Waste No Time In Examining Your New IPR Under VBP
Plus: CMS offers medication management educational recording. The clock is ticking whe... Read more
OASIS:
Hospital At Home Still Counts As Hospital For OASIS, New Quarterly Q&As; Make Clear
Make sure you are completing M1000 accurately in light of this new elaboration. It's t... Read more
Hospital At Home Still Counts As Hospital For OASIS, New Quarterly Q&As; Make Clear
Make sure you are completing M1000 accurately in light of this new elaboration. It's t... Read more
Regulations:
Lymphedema Pump Coverage, dNPWT, DME, Infusion Get Their Time In New HH Rule
Your patients may see delivery disruptions if they don't confirm on time. Don't miss a... Read more
Lymphedema Pump Coverage, dNPWT, DME, Infusion Get Their Time In New HH Rule
Your patients may see delivery disruptions if they don't confirm on time. Don't miss a... Read more
Industry Notes:
More Home Care Agencies Pay Big For Wage Violations
Courts aren't afraid to levy big CMPs for ‘willful violations.' A Virginia home care a... Read more
More Home Care Agencies Pay Big For Wage Violations
Courts aren't afraid to levy big CMPs for ‘willful violations.' A Virginia home care a... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Wonky W7048 Denials
A new claims system glitch may be slowing down your hospice payments. The problem: “Sin... Read more
Beware Wonky W7048 Denials
A new claims system glitch may be slowing down your hospice payments. The problem: “Sin... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Updates Targeted Probe & Educate Review Topics
Not sure where to focus when it comes to avoiding claims denials? One MAC's newly revised ... Read more
MAC Updates Targeted Probe & Educate Review Topics
Not sure where to focus when it comes to avoiding claims denials? One MAC's newly revised ... Read more
Industry Notes:
New DOJ-FTC Merger Policy Makes Some Big Changes
You've got until Sept. 18 to give the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission y... Read more
New DOJ-FTC Merger Policy Makes Some Big Changes
You've got until Sept. 18 to give the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission y... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep Your VBID Years Straight
Don't jump the gun on VBID hospice changes for Medicare Advantage. “Starting in CY 2024... Read more
Keep Your VBID Years Straight
Don't jump the gun on VBID hospice changes for Medicare Advantage. “Starting in CY 2024... Read more
Industry Notes:
Boost BIMS Interview Strategies With Free Video Tutorial
Help your assessment staff sharpen their skills with the Brief Interview for Mental Status... Read more
Boost BIMS Interview Strategies With Free Video Tutorial
Help your assessment staff sharpen their skills with the Brief Interview for Mental Status... Read more
Industry Notes:
Pay Attention To This HIPAA Risk From Your Own Employees
Letting unauthorized employees access patients' medical records may cost you — a lot. Ya... Read more
Pay Attention To This HIPAA Risk From Your Own Employees
Letting unauthorized employees access patients' medical records may cost you — a lot. Ya... Read more
Industry Notes:
No Letter Is Good News, When It Comes To HQRP Compliance
If you've ignored your Hospice Quality Reporting Program data reporting compliance status ... Read more
No Letter Is Good News, When It Comes To HQRP Compliance
If you've ignored your Hospice Quality Reporting Program data reporting compliance status ... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
NAHC Lawsuit Aims To Secure Behavioral Adjustment Corrections
Plus: Aide services concern undercut by reimbursement reduction. As home health provider... Read more
NAHC Lawsuit Aims To Secure Behavioral Adjustment Corrections
Plus: Aide services concern undercut by reimbursement reduction. As home health provider... Read more
Quality:
Proposed Patient Vaccination QM Raises Questions
Reporting burden spares HHAs from staff vaccination measure — for now. Look to the Cen... Read more
Proposed Patient Vaccination QM Raises Questions
Reporting burden spares HHAs from staff vaccination measure — for now. Look to the Cen... Read more
Regulations:
Watch For New VBP, OASIS, And Quality Resources Coming Your Way Shortly
COVID-19 quality measure details come into focus. Although it's the hectic summer seaso... Read more
Watch For New VBP, OASIS, And Quality Resources Coming Your Way Shortly
COVID-19 quality measure details come into focus. Although it's the hectic summer seaso... Read more
Hospice:
News Of Painful Penalties For Noncompliance Due Any Day
Plus: SFP, hospice final rule loom large. It's that time of year again — time to fin... Read more
News Of Painful Penalties For Noncompliance Due Any Day
Plus: SFP, hospice final rule loom large. It's that time of year again — time to fin... Read more
Surveys & Certification:
15 Survey Data Points That Can Land You On The SFP Target List
Deficiencies under these 11 CoPs can trigger SFP selection. Check out the information tha... Read more
15 Survey Data Points That Can Land You On The SFP Target List
Deficiencies under these 11 CoPs can trigger SFP selection. Check out the information tha... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
22-State Chain Buys 17-Location Company
Plus: PE-backed firms make purchases. Two chains have had success targeting acquisitions... Read more
22-State Chain Buys 17-Location Company
Plus: PE-backed firms make purchases. Two chains have had success targeting acquisitions... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don’t Forget To Report Latest COVID Relief Fund Spending
Reporting Period 5 is underway. The feds may have stopped handing out COVID relief funds... Read more
Don’t Forget To Report Latest COVID Relief Fund Spending
Reporting Period 5 is underway. The feds may have stopped handing out COVID relief funds... Read more
Industry Notes:
More Mainstream Press Outlets Jump On Hospice Criticism Bandwagon
The hospice industry continues to get a shellacking in the mainstream press. For example:... Read more
More Mainstream Press Outlets Jump On Hospice Criticism Bandwagon
The hospice industry continues to get a shellacking in the mainstream press. For example:... Read more
Industry Notes:
Staffing Continues To Pose Challenges
Out of 41,000 health care jobs added in June, home health care services accounted for more... Read more
Staffing Continues To Pose Challenges
Out of 41,000 health care jobs added in June, home health care services accounted for more... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Common Addendum Pitfalls
Not sure how to legitimately make additions to a patient's medical record? One MAC offers ... Read more
Beware Common Addendum Pitfalls
Not sure how to legitimately make additions to a patient's medical record? One MAC offers ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Comorbidities Plague Neurodivergent Patients
You should consider neurodivergent patients when formulating your policies and procedures ... Read more
Comorbidities Plague Neurodivergent Patients
You should consider neurodivergent patients when formulating your policies and procedures ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Follow All The Way Through On Revalidations
If you think that your Medicare provider revalidation process is complete once you submi... Read more
Follow All The Way Through On Revalidations
If you think that your Medicare provider revalidation process is complete once you submi... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
2.2% Reimbursement Cut To Hammer HHAs Next Year
Medicare officials are slicing deep this time. Medicare is putting beneficiaries' acces... Read more
2.2% Reimbursement Cut To Hammer HHAs Next Year
Medicare officials are slicing deep this time. Medicare is putting beneficiaries' acces... Read more
Reimbursement:
CMS Goes Back To Negative Rate Adjustments After A 5-Year Break
Don't stop at base rate when calculating rule's impact on your pay next year. The 2.2 pe... Read more
CMS Goes Back To Negative Rate Adjustments After A 5-Year Break
Don't stop at base rate when calculating rule's impact on your pay next year. The 2.2 pe... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
VBP Ground Continues To Shift Under HHAs’ Feet, Experts Say
Under newly proposed configuration, half of VBP points will come from only 2 measures. ... Read more
VBP Ground Continues To Shift Under HHAs’ Feet, Experts Say
Under newly proposed configuration, half of VBP points will come from only 2 measures. ... Read more
Quality:
COVID Vax Quality Measure To Land On HHAs’ Plates
Plus: Beware looming DC Function problems. Like much of the rest of the home health lands... Read more
COVID Vax Quality Measure To Land On HHAs’ Plates
Plus: Beware looming DC Function problems. Like much of the rest of the home health lands... Read more
Hospice:
The Other Shoe Finally Drops On Hospice Special Focus Program
Multiple hospice program integrity measures feature in HH rule this year. It's yet ano... Read more
The Other Shoe Finally Drops On Hospice Special Focus Program
Multiple hospice program integrity measures feature in HH rule this year. It's yet ano... Read more
Enrollment:
Take A Closer Look At Hospice Enrollment Changes
CIMO application aims to prevent new hospice ‘flipping.' The hospice Special Focus Pro... Read more
Take A Closer Look At Hospice Enrollment Changes
CIMO application aims to prevent new hospice ‘flipping.' The hospice Special Focus Pro... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Changes To PPEO, Retroactive Termination Aim To Close Loopholes
Plus: Period for non-billing before deactivation will get cut by half. Hospices aren't th... Read more
Changes To PPEO, Retroactive Termination Aim To Close Loopholes
Plus: Period for non-billing before deactivation will get cut by half. Hospices aren't th... Read more
Industry Notes:
Revised Quality Measure Procedures Take Shape As New QM Contractor Ramps Up
Put deadlines for QM book webinar and comments, plus PQM committee nominations, on your ca... Read more
Revised Quality Measure Procedures Take Shape As New QM Contractor Ramps Up
Put deadlines for QM book webinar and comments, plus PQM committee nominations, on your ca... Read more
Industry Notes:
Oklahoma Hospice Pays Modest Settlement To Settle Fraud Charges
A Tulsa, Okla. hospice has agreed to pay $48,830.70 to resolve allegations that it submitt... Read more
Oklahoma Hospice Pays Modest Settlement To Settle Fraud Charges
A Tulsa, Okla. hospice has agreed to pay $48,830.70 to resolve allegations that it submitt... Read more
Industry Notes:
COVID Fraud Remains On Feds' Radar
The COVID-19 public health emergency ended on May 11, but federal enforcement of COVID fra... Read more
COVID Fraud Remains On Feds' Radar
The COVID-19 public health emergency ended on May 11, but federal enforcement of COVID fra... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Get Ready To Use Your New IPR To Thrive Under VBP
Watch out: You have a short window to correct the report. Home health agencies have a n... Read more
Get Ready To Use Your New IPR To Thrive Under VBP
Watch out: You have a short window to correct the report. Home health agencies have a n... Read more
Hospice:
Hospital Chain’s Gaming Of Hospice Admissions Could Reflect Poorly On Industry
A silver lining may be attention on the problem of hospitals pressuring hospices for last-... Read more
Hospital Chain’s Gaming Of Hospice Admissions Could Reflect Poorly On Industry
A silver lining may be attention on the problem of hospitals pressuring hospices for last-... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Watchdog Agency Plans To Scrutinize GIP
Don't assume hospitalization equals GIP eligibility. GIP has long been a target for medic... Read more
Watchdog Agency Plans To Scrutinize GIP
Don't assume hospitalization equals GIP eligibility. GIP has long been a target for medic... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
UnitedHealth Cinches Amedisys Deal For $3.3 Billion
Insurer sweetens its offer to beat out Option Care. It's official: The Option Care Inc.-A... Read more
UnitedHealth Cinches Amedisys Deal For $3.3 Billion
Insurer sweetens its offer to beat out Option Care. It's official: The Option Care Inc.-A... Read more
Compliance:
How The Standardization of Voluntary Self-Disclosure Can Benefit You
The DOJ's new policy explained. Admitting your mistakes may be better for you than you t... Read more
How The Standardization of Voluntary Self-Disclosure Can Benefit You
The DOJ's new policy explained. Admitting your mistakes may be better for you than you t... Read more
Enforcement:
What To Do About The New DOJ Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy
Follow these recommendations to get all your ducks in a row. The Department of Justice i... Read more
What To Do About The New DOJ Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy
Follow these recommendations to get all your ducks in a row. The Department of Justice i... Read more
Industry Notes:
MAC Issues ADRs To Review Choice Demo Agencies By Accident
Plus: Time to make your RCD review choice in Illinois. For once, you can ignore those ADR... Read more
MAC Issues ADRs To Review Choice Demo Agencies By Accident
Plus: Time to make your RCD review choice in Illinois. For once, you can ignore those ADR... Read more
Industry Notes:
MedPAC Tackles Wage Index, Post-Acute PPS In New Report
MedPAC's June report to Congress may not have home health- or hospice-specific chapters li... Read more
MedPAC Tackles Wage Index, Post-Acute PPS In New Report
MedPAC's June report to Congress may not have home health- or hospice-specific chapters li... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHA Dumps COVID Vax Requirement
Providers are starting to drop their staff COVID vaccination requirements, now that the Ce... Read more
HHA Dumps COVID Vax Requirement
Providers are starting to drop their staff COVID vaccination requirements, now that the Ce... Read more
Industry Notes:
NQF Is Out, Battelle Is In As Quality Measure Contractor
When it comes to developing and endorsing new quality measures for Medicare, there's a new... Read more
NQF Is Out, Battelle Is In As Quality Measure Contractor
When it comes to developing and endorsing new quality measures for Medicare, there's a new... Read more
Industry Notes:
New Legislation Aims To Help HHAs
In advance of the home health final rule expected any day, two lawmakers have introduced l... Read more
New Legislation Aims To Help HHAs
In advance of the home health final rule expected any day, two lawmakers have introduced l... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHA Pays OIG High 5 Figures For Employing Excluded Aide
A routine search of Medicare's excluded individuals could potentially save you tens of tho... Read more
HHA Pays OIG High 5 Figures For Employing Excluded Aide
A routine search of Medicare's excluded individuals could potentially save you tens of tho... Read more
Compliance:
Beware These Challenges To Telehealth Reporting Compliance
Manual coding could introduce errors. The new requirement to report home health telehealt... Read more
Beware These Challenges To Telehealth Reporting Compliance
Manual coding could introduce errors. The new requirement to report home health telehealt... Read more
Reimbursement:
Follow These 9 Tips To Ace New Telehealth Requirement
Pointer: Check out clarifications issued by HHH MACs. Whether you've got a full blown te... Read more
Follow These 9 Tips To Ace New Telehealth Requirement
Pointer: Check out clarifications issued by HHH MACs. Whether you've got a full blown te... Read more
Telehealth:
3 New Codes Make Up Your Telehealth Billing Toolkit
Here's what to do when more than one discipline uses remote patient monitoring info. Make... Read more
3 New Codes Make Up Your Telehealth Billing Toolkit
Here's what to do when more than one discipline uses remote patient monitoring info. Make... Read more
COVID-19:
Say Goodbye To Provider Relief Funds
Debt ceiling agreement abruptly ends COVID relief program. If you haven't received Provid... Read more
Say Goodbye To Provider Relief Funds
Debt ceiling agreement abruptly ends COVID relief program. If you haven't received Provid... Read more
HIPAA:
Consider Important Factors When Assessing HIPAA Risk
Using collected info can help you sidestep serious security problems. Regs and tools pro... Read more
Consider Important Factors When Assessing HIPAA Risk
Using collected info can help you sidestep serious security problems. Regs and tools pro... Read more
Hospice:
California, Oregon Get New Hospices
Meanwhile, Georgia hospice facility closes its doors. Crescent City in the northern part ... Read more
California, Oregon Get New Hospices
Meanwhile, Georgia hospice facility closes its doors. Crescent City in the northern part ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tune Into New VBP Educational Live Stream
First IPR is nearly here. Now that you're nearly halfway through your first performance y... Read more
Tune Into New VBP Educational Live Stream
First IPR is nearly here. Now that you're nearly halfway through your first performance y... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Spending To Trend Up
Don't be surprised if and when lawmakers start looking anew for places to cut the Medicare... Read more
Medicare Spending To Trend Up
Don't be surprised if and when lawmakers start looking anew for places to cut the Medicare... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep An Eye Out For Opportunities With New Primary Care Model
Keep an eye on a new Medicare primary care-focused demonstration project, which may affect... Read more
Keep An Eye Out For Opportunities With New Primary Care Model
Keep an eye on a new Medicare primary care-focused demonstration project, which may affect... Read more
Industry Notes:
No Surprises Act Outreach Kicks In
Hearing more from patients regarding the No Surprises Act shouldn't take you unawares. Re... Read more
No Surprises Act Outreach Kicks In
Hearing more from patients regarding the No Surprises Act shouldn't take you unawares. Re... Read more
Industry Notes:
Therapy Telehealth, Palliative Care Bills Introduced
Two new bills would make providers' lives easier if passed. The Expanded Telehealth Acces... Read more
Therapy Telehealth, Palliative Care Bills Introduced
Two new bills would make providers' lives easier if passed. The Expanded Telehealth Acces... Read more
Industry Notes:
Companies Link Over Hospice VBID
VNS Health and Compassus will manage the Hospice Benefit Component for several thousand Me... Read more
Companies Link Over Hospice VBID
VNS Health and Compassus will manage the Hospice Benefit Component for several thousand Me... Read more
Industry Notes:
HH Chain, Referral Platform Partner
Elara Caring is partnering with A Place for Mom to provide personal care services to their... Read more
HH Chain, Referral Platform Partner
Elara Caring is partnering with A Place for Mom to provide personal care services to their... Read more
Industry Notes:
Union Touts HH Successes
Union members at Olympic Medical Home Health in Port Angeles, Wash., voted “yes” on ... Read more
Union Touts HH Successes
Union members at Olympic Medical Home Health in Port Angeles, Wash., voted “yes” on ... Read more
Compliance:
Home Health Telehealth Features In Latest OIG Semiannual Report
Plus: MAC needs to collect all cap overages, watchdog agency highlights. Home health and ... Read more
Home Health Telehealth Features In Latest OIG Semiannual Report
Plus: MAC needs to collect all cap overages, watchdog agency highlights. Home health and ... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Surprise Offer Puts Option Care-Amedisys Deal In Question
Cash versus stock features in UnitedHealth's play for the publicly traded chain. Don't as... Read more
Surprise Offer Puts Option Care-Amedisys Deal In Question
Cash versus stock features in UnitedHealth's play for the publicly traded chain. Don't as... Read more
Health IT:
More Data Interoperability Policies Are On Deck
Feds propose follow-up to ‘Cures Act' rule. If you think that the feds forgot about th... Read more
More Data Interoperability Policies Are On Deck
Feds propose follow-up to ‘Cures Act' rule. If you think that the feds forgot about th... Read more
Quiz:
Make Sure You’re Keeping Your Medicare Acronyms Straight With This Quiz
Do you know whether HCPCS, HIPAA, and HIPPS are the same? Find out here. Every year, if n... Read more
Make Sure You’re Keeping Your Medicare Acronyms Straight With This Quiz
Do you know whether HCPCS, HIPAA, and HIPPS are the same? Find out here. Every year, if n... Read more
Quiz Answers:
Measure Your Responses For Our Medicare Acronym Quiz
Consult the answer key to find out whether you're an acronym pro. Once you've answered ... Read more
Measure Your Responses For Our Medicare Acronym Quiz
Consult the answer key to find out whether you're an acronym pro. Once you've answered ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Agency Racks Up $7 Million Bill In Overtime Case
Plus: A flat daily rate won't cut it, DOL warns. The feds' crackdown on wage violations a... Read more
Agency Racks Up $7 Million Bill In Overtime Case
Plus: A flat daily rate won't cut it, DOL warns. The feds' crackdown on wage violations a... Read more
Industry Notes:
2 Sets Of Care Compare Data Have Hit
There's no time like the present to look at the future, when it comes to Care Compare. Ho... Read more
2 Sets Of Care Compare Data Have Hit
There's no time like the present to look at the future, when it comes to Care Compare. Ho... Read more
Industry Notes:
Expect Little Enforcement For COVID Vax Mandate From Now On
You'll need to make some quick decisions about your COVID-19 staff vaccination policies, i... Read more
Expect Little Enforcement For COVID Vax Mandate From Now On
You'll need to make some quick decisions about your COVID-19 staff vaccination policies, i... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out Most Common Part B Services Billed For Hospice
If the two new target areas in your hospice PEPPER report are throwing you for a loop, new... Read more
Check Out Most Common Part B Services Billed For Hospice
If the two new target areas in your hospice PEPPER report are throwing you for a loop, new... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicaid Providers Need An Extension, Reps Say
Medicare needs to give providers a little more time to digest its latest Medicaid rule. So... Read more
Medicaid Providers Need An Extension, Reps Say
Medicare needs to give providers a little more time to digest its latest Medicaid rule. So... Read more
Industry Notes:
Tenn. Hospice Won't Be Selling, It Confirms
After weeks of very public controversy over a potential sale to a for-profit entity, nonpr... Read more
Tenn. Hospice Won't Be Selling, It Confirms
After weeks of very public controversy over a potential sale to a for-profit entity, nonpr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Facilities Close In MS, IA
Hospices facilities continue to open and close across the nation. In Mississippi: The Jac... Read more
Hospice Facilities Close In MS, IA
Hospices facilities continue to open and close across the nation. In Mississippi: The Jac... Read more
Covid-19:
Start The Countdown To Dropping COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate
New vaccination quality measures may affect Compare, VBP instead of surveys, rule says. P... Read more
Start The Countdown To Dropping COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate
New vaccination quality measures may affect Compare, VBP instead of surveys, rule says. P... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Brace For CAHPS Score Drops Under VBP
Turn this negative into a positive with preemptive action Another sign that Medicare rus... Read more
Brace For CAHPS Score Drops Under VBP
Turn this negative into a positive with preemptive action Another sign that Medicare rus... Read more
Education:
Correct Your OASIS Data Quickly If You Want It To Count For VBP
Plus: Medicare offers 2 new Value-Based Purchasing educational tools. A new month brings ... Read more
Correct Your OASIS Data Quickly If You Want It To Count For VBP
Plus: Medicare offers 2 new Value-Based Purchasing educational tools. A new month brings ... Read more
Labor Law:
Non-Competes Take Another Drubbing
NLRB head takes a turn targeting the arrangements. Prospects for holding onto your non-co... Read more
Non-Competes Take Another Drubbing
NLRB head takes a turn targeting the arrangements. Prospects for holding onto your non-co... Read more
Industry Notes:
Debt Ceiling Legislation Claws Back Unspent COVID Funds
Package spending increase ‘insufficient,' rep says. The deal to suspend the $31.4 trill... Read more
Debt Ceiling Legislation Claws Back Unspent COVID Funds
Package spending increase ‘insufficient,' rep says. The deal to suspend the $31.4 trill... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Urges Qui Tam Relators To Step Up
A federal watchdog agency is on the prowl for more whistleblowers. “Whistleblowers are ... Read more
OIG Urges Qui Tam Relators To Step Up
A federal watchdog agency is on the prowl for more whistleblowers. “Whistleblowers are ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Faulty Inflation Math Means Hospices Should Get 3.7% Pay Bump, Reps Say
It's not just home health agencies that should receive a positive payment adjustment due t... Read more
Faulty Inflation Math Means Hospices Should Get 3.7% Pay Bump, Reps Say
It's not just home health agencies that should receive a positive payment adjustment due t... Read more
Industry Notes:
Heed New WHD Clarification On FMLA Calculations
The fate of non-competes isn't the only thing you have to worry about in the labor law rea... Read more
Heed New WHD Clarification On FMLA Calculations
The fate of non-competes isn't the only thing you have to worry about in the labor law rea... Read more
Industry Notes:
HQRP Intro Materials Get A Facelift
Check out an updated version of Medicare's Introduction to the Hospice Quality Reporting P... Read more
HQRP Intro Materials Get A Facelift
Check out an updated version of Medicare's Introduction to the Hospice Quality Reporting P... Read more
Industry Notes:
Alive Hospice Sale Drama Continues
A longtime nonprofit hospice in Tennessee continues to get flack about a potential sale to... Read more
Alive Hospice Sale Drama Continues
A longtime nonprofit hospice in Tennessee continues to get flack about a potential sale to... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep Up With Post-PHE Billing Requirements
Don't forget to fine tune your billing if you've been using the CR modifier and DR conditi... Read more
Keep Up With Post-PHE Billing Requirements
Don't forget to fine tune your billing if you've been using the CR modifier and DR conditi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Avoid Penalties By Reviewing Medicare Overpayment Basics
Don't overlook overpayments as a source of risk. According to the Centers for Medicare &a... Read more
Avoid Penalties By Reviewing Medicare Overpayment Basics
Don't overlook overpayments as a source of risk. According to the Centers for Medicare &a... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHA Owner Headed To The Slammer
More than 15 months after pleading guilty to Medicare fraud, a Houston home health agency ... Read more
HHA Owner Headed To The Slammer
More than 15 months after pleading guilty to Medicare fraud, a Houston home health agency ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Health, Hospice Clinicians Hold Strike Vote
Unionization is still alive and well in home health. Case in point: At press time, Provid... Read more
Home Health, Hospice Clinicians Hold Strike Vote
Unionization is still alive and well in home health. Case in point: At press time, Provid... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
OASIS Upcoding May Be Driving VBP Increases, New Report Implies
CMS report serves as an accusation, industry expert says. You'd better make sure your OA... Read more
OASIS Upcoding May Be Driving VBP Increases, New Report Implies
CMS report serves as an accusation, industry expert says. You'd better make sure your OA... Read more
Hospice:
Combat Terminal Illness Denials With These Tips
‘Terminal illness not supported' shot down over half of claims in latest MAC TEP round.... Read more
Combat Terminal Illness Denials With These Tips
‘Terminal illness not supported' shot down over half of claims in latest MAC TEP round.... Read more
Documentation:
CTIs Must Nail These 6 Elements
Don't forget specific dates. It's increasingly likely that your claim's number could come... Read more
CTIs Must Nail These 6 Elements
Don't forget specific dates. It's increasingly likely that your claim's number could come... Read more
Education:
Stock Your CTI Toolbox With These Free MAC Resources
Check out these disease-specific guidance documents, among other materials.> Hospice... Read more
Stock Your CTI Toolbox With These Free MAC Resources
Check out these disease-specific guidance documents, among other materials.> Hospice... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Sham Medical Directorship And Lease Cost HHA, Owner, And Docs Hundreds Of Thousands
Whistleblower lawsuits lead to settlements. Even when the stakes don't run into the milli... Read more
Sham Medical Directorship And Lease Cost HHA, Owner, And Docs Hundreds Of Thousands
Whistleblower lawsuits lead to settlements. Even when the stakes don't run into the milli... Read more
HIPAA:
Home Medical Breach Highlights HIPAA Duties
Feds emphasize the need for a ‘timely response.' A new HIPAA breach notice from Apria... Read more
Home Medical Breach Highlights HIPAA Duties
Feds emphasize the need for a ‘timely response.' A new HIPAA breach notice from Apria... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Survey Info Debuts on CMS Website
Plus: Recent home health and hospice survey data availability delayed due to system migrat... Read more
Hospice Survey Info Debuts on CMS Website
Plus: Recent home health and hospice survey data availability delayed due to system migrat... Read more
Industry Notes:
Reps To CMS: Correct Past Home Health Underfunding In 2024 Rule
Home health industry representatives are making a pitch for Medicare to rectify past reimb... Read more
Reps To CMS: Correct Past Home Health Underfunding In 2024 Rule
Home health industry representatives are making a pitch for Medicare to rectify past reimb... Read more
Industry Notes:
Celebrate Part B Therapy Win With Extension Of Flexibilities
If your home health agency has therapists who bill Medicare under Part B for outpatient se... Read more
Celebrate Part B Therapy Win With Extension Of Flexibilities
If your home health agency has therapists who bill Medicare under Part B for outpatient se... Read more
Industry Notes:
QRP Waivers Apply Under Mississippi PHE For Tornadoes, Storms
Many COVID PHE waivers may be done, but waivers still apply for other disasters. For exam... Read more
QRP Waivers Apply Under Mississippi PHE For Tornadoes, Storms
Many COVID PHE waivers may be done, but waivers still apply for other disasters. For exam... Read more
Industry Notes:
Circle Back For Hospice PEPPER Education You Might Have Missed
If you missed the PEPPER contractor's webinar on the newly released hospice benchmarking r... Read more
Circle Back For Hospice PEPPER Education You Might Have Missed
If you missed the PEPPER contractor's webinar on the newly released hospice benchmarking r... Read more
Industry Notes:
Mass. Agency Expands Footprint With Hospice Buy
A Massachusetts home care provider has branched out into hospice. Advanced Home Care has a... Read more
Mass. Agency Expands Footprint With Hospice Buy
A Massachusetts home care provider has branched out into hospice. Advanced Home Care has a... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Dive Into Risk Adjustment With Latest VBP Educational Tools
Plus: Medicare urges you to use strategic practices for maintenance patients. As home hea... Read more
Dive Into Risk Adjustment With Latest VBP Educational Tools
Plus: Medicare urges you to use strategic practices for maintenance patients. As home hea... Read more
Hospice:
Get A Sneak Peek At SFP Details
TEP report may signal what will be in forthcoming proposed rule. The home health propose... Read more
Get A Sneak Peek At SFP Details
TEP report may signal what will be in forthcoming proposed rule. The home health propose... Read more
Surveys & Certification:
SFP Public Reporting, Graduation Criteria Get The Expert Treatment
Where will CMS land on these hot button Special Focus Program issues? The Special Focus P... Read more
SFP Public Reporting, Graduation Criteria Get The Expert Treatment
Where will CMS land on these hot button Special Focus Program issues? The Special Focus P... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Providers Experience Pushback On Sales, Closures
Plus: Nonprofits finalize affiliation. Accepting donations, affiliation with a hospital o... Read more
Providers Experience Pushback On Sales, Closures
Plus: Nonprofits finalize affiliation. Accepting donations, affiliation with a hospital o... Read more
Labor Law:
Don’t Let The Proposed Non-Compete Rule Put You On The Wrong Side Of The Law
Heed this practical advice for what you need to do now. Contemplating or already requiri... Read more
Don’t Let The Proposed Non-Compete Rule Put You On The Wrong Side Of The Law
Heed this practical advice for what you need to do now. Contemplating or already requiri... Read more
Compliance:
Follow These 5 Steps While You Watch Closely For Non-Competes’ Fate
Tip: Duration and geography matter. With a Federal Trade Commission rulemaking on non-com... Read more
Follow These 5 Steps While You Watch Closely For Non-Competes’ Fate
Tip: Duration and geography matter. With a Federal Trade Commission rulemaking on non-com... Read more
Industry Notes:
MA Hospice Aims To Further Health Equity, CMS Doc Says
Hospices partnering with MA plans have ‘history of serving underserved communities,' CMS... Read more
MA Hospice Aims To Further Health Equity, CMS Doc Says
Hospices partnering with MA plans have ‘history of serving underserved communities,' CMS... Read more
Industry Notes:
Submit Your 2 Cents On Cost Reports
If you have thoughts on the Medicare home health cost report, now's the time to voice them... Read more
Submit Your 2 Cents On Cost Reports
If you have thoughts on the Medicare home health cost report, now's the time to voice them... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware NOA/NOE Delays With Claims System 'Dark Days'
The so-called “Dark Days” scheduled for the Medicare claims payment system changeover ... Read more
Beware NOA/NOE Delays With Claims System 'Dark Days'
The so-called “Dark Days” scheduled for the Medicare claims payment system changeover ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Heed Deadline For Updated ABN
Make sure you have the updated version of the Advance Beneficiary Notice form up and runni... Read more
Heed Deadline For Updated ABN
Make sure you have the updated version of the Advance Beneficiary Notice form up and runni... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get Your FIPS Code Right On Claims
Don't pass up the chance for a little more Medicare money if you operate in one of the low... Read more
Get Your FIPS Code Right On Claims
Don't pass up the chance for a little more Medicare money if you operate in one of the low... Read more
Industry Notes:
Doc, Admin Owe $3M For Kickbacks
A Chicago physician and his wife must pay more than $3 million after a federal jury held t... Read more
Doc, Admin Owe $3M For Kickbacks
A Chicago physician and his wife must pay more than $3 million after a federal jury held t... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Inpatient Facilities Open
Hospice facilities continue to open around the nation, even as others close. In Illinois:... Read more
Hospice Inpatient Facilities Open
Hospice facilities continue to open around the nation, even as others close. In Illinois:... Read more
Industry Notes:
Veteran Nonprofit Hospice Faces Class Action Wage Suit
A California nonprofit hospice is facing a class action lawsuit over wages. Former employ... Read more
Veteran Nonprofit Hospice Faces Class Action Wage Suit
A California nonprofit hospice is facing a class action lawsuit over wages. Former employ... Read more
COVID-19:
Last-Minute Update Eases Medication Access Risks For Hospice Patients — For Now
In contrast, home health agencies find no joy on therapist assessment front. The ground i... Read more
Last-Minute Update Eases Medication Access Risks For Hospice Patients — For Now
In contrast, home health agencies find no joy on therapist assessment front. The ground i... Read more
Regulations:
Loss Of Therapist Assessment Waiver Pains HHAs
Questions remain as PHE end date passes. Federal officials in Medicare and many other pro... Read more
Loss Of Therapist Assessment Waiver Pains HHAs
Questions remain as PHE end date passes. Federal officials in Medicare and many other pro... Read more
Labor Law:
Heed Eleventh Hour Employment Law Updates For PHE’s End
DOL encourages continued use of extended enrollment deadlines. Hospices received good n... Read more
Heed Eleventh Hour Employment Law Updates For PHE’s End
DOL encourages continued use of extended enrollment deadlines. Hospices received good n... Read more
Compliance:
Keep An Eye Out For Restructured OIG Compliance Guidance
Medicare Advantage, nursing homes first up for CPG revamp. More frequent updates to the H... Read more
Keep An Eye Out For Restructured OIG Compliance Guidance
Medicare Advantage, nursing homes first up for CPG revamp. More frequent updates to the H... Read more
Oasis:
Make Sure You’ve Trained Staff Well On D0150
New Q&A shows why PHQ-2 to 9 proficiency is key. If you thought you had time to get y... Read more
Make Sure You’ve Trained Staff Well On D0150
New Q&A shows why PHQ-2 to 9 proficiency is key. If you thought you had time to get y... Read more
Finance:
PHE’s End Won’t Stop PRF Spending
Heads up: PRF reporting now differentiates between expenses and losses. Providers that st... Read more
PHE’s End Won’t Stop PRF Spending
Heads up: PRF reporting now differentiates between expenses and losses. Providers that st... Read more
Industry Notes:
Move QAPI To Front Burner With VBP Tool
Where are your weak spots? With full QAPI activities coming back online, now may be a goo... Read more
Move QAPI To Front Burner With VBP Tool
Where are your weak spots? With full QAPI activities coming back online, now may be a goo... Read more
Industry Notes:
You Don't Necessarily Have To Cancel An NOA When A Patient's MBI Changes
Do you know how to handle billing when a patient's MBI changes? If not, one HHH Medicare A... Read more
You Don't Necessarily Have To Cancel An NOA When A Patient's MBI Changes
Do you know how to handle billing when a patient's MBI changes? If not, one HHH Medicare A... Read more
Industry Notes:
MA Plan Penetration Affects Even Non-MA Patient Utilization
The rise of Medicare Advantage plans isn't just affecting your agency — it's suppressing... Read more
MA Plan Penetration Affects Even Non-MA Patient Utilization
The rise of Medicare Advantage plans isn't just affecting your agency — it's suppressing... Read more
Industry Notes:
Document Carefully To Gain MAC Help With Dispute Billing
Hospices wrestling with transfer patient billing problems can use a form to help them reso... Read more
Document Carefully To Gain MAC Help With Dispute Billing
Hospices wrestling with transfer patient billing problems can use a form to help them reso... Read more
Industry Notes:
Claims System Dark Days Shift Later In The Month
If you have Medicare claims system “dark days” marked on your calendar for May 12-May ... Read more
Claims System Dark Days Shift Later In The Month
If you have Medicare claims system “dark days” marked on your calendar for May 12-May ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Worry About 1 Less HIPAA Task
Don't sweat it if you've been sending claims with protected health information in the mail... Read more
Worry About 1 Less HIPAA Task
Don't sweat it if you've been sending claims with protected health information in the mail... Read more
COVID-19:
COVID Vax Mandate Expected To End May 11
Stay tuned for official guidance before acting, however. Home health and hospice agencie... Read more
COVID Vax Mandate Expected To End May 11
Stay tuned for official guidance before acting, however. Home health and hospice agencie... Read more
Compliance:
Prepare For Heavier Workload With PHE Unwinding
Reverting to ‘normal' may be more like starting from scratch. The drawbacks of returnin... Read more
Prepare For Heavier Workload With PHE Unwinding
Reverting to ‘normal' may be more like starting from scratch. The drawbacks of returnin... Read more
Regulations:
Medicare May Offer Leniency On A Few Fronts
Hospice volunteer requirement may not be hard and fast. Home health and hospice agencies... Read more
Medicare May Offer Leniency On A Few Fronts
Hospice volunteer requirement may not be hard and fast. Home health and hospice agencies... Read more
Hospice:
Why Framing These Hospices With A Fraud And Abuse Lens Isn’t Fair
Aggressive audits naturally reduce care, experts point out. In its proposed hospice payme... Read more
Why Framing These Hospices With A Fraud And Abuse Lens Isn’t Fair
Aggressive audits naturally reduce care, experts point out. In its proposed hospice payme... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Amedisys Valued At $3.6 Billion In Option Care Merger
Plus: CenterWell snaps up Florida chain from PE firm. One of the nation's largest home h... Read more
Amedisys Valued At $3.6 Billion In Option Care Merger
Plus: CenterWell snaps up Florida chain from PE firm. One of the nation's largest home h... Read more
Medicaid:
New Medicaid Rule Could Sink Small, Rural HCBS Providers
80% pass-through is the wrong approach, experts tell CMS. Everyone seems to agree that w... Read more
New Medicaid Rule Could Sink Small, Rural HCBS Providers
80% pass-through is the wrong approach, experts tell CMS. Everyone seems to agree that w... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get More Facts About PHE’s End Here
CMS attempts to shed light on hospice telehealth. The winding down of the COVID-19 publi... Read more
Get More Facts About PHE’s End Here
CMS attempts to shed light on hospice telehealth. The winding down of the COVID-19 publi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Advantage Rule Tackles Prior Auth, Access, And More
As new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services rules rush at you, don't miss the one ... Read more
Medicare Advantage Rule Tackles Prior Auth, Access, And More
As new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services rules rush at you, don't miss the one ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get A Sneak Peek At Possible Hospice Special Focus Program Details
Check out what might be coming your way under the hospice Special Focus Program. The Techn... Read more
Get A Sneak Peek At Possible Hospice Special Focus Program Details
Check out what might be coming your way under the hospice Special Focus Program. The Techn... Read more
Industry Notes:
Mark This Claims System Dark Day On Your Calendar
Don't expect to interact with most Medicare claims system features on May 15. All HHH Medi... Read more
Mark This Claims System Dark Day On Your Calendar
Don't expect to interact with most Medicare claims system features on May 15. All HHH Medi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Year-End Cost Reports Due This Month, MAC Warns
If your fiscal year end was Dec. 31, waste no time in filing your cost report. “Cost re... Read more
Year-End Cost Reports Due This Month, MAC Warns
If your fiscal year end was Dec. 31, waste no time in filing your cost report. “Cost re... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out New Care Compare Stats
Your latest Home Health Care Compare stats are out in the world. For this April refresh... Read more
Check Out New Care Compare Stats
Your latest Home Health Care Compare stats are out in the world. For this April refresh... Read more
Program Integrity:
Prepare For Your Ownership Info To Attract Public Attention
Biden administration stresses transparency with new database. Will Medicare's new listing... Read more
Prepare For Your Ownership Info To Attract Public Attention
Biden administration stresses transparency with new database. Will Medicare's new listing... Read more
Enforcement:
Take A Peek At Your Competitors’ Ownership Data
Watch out: CMS expects use by enforcement agencies. Industry veterans may be somewhat sk... Read more
Take A Peek At Your Competitors’ Ownership Data
Watch out: CMS expects use by enforcement agencies. Industry veterans may be somewhat sk... Read more
OASIS:
Catch Up On Latest OASIS-E Clarifications
Catch Up On Latest OASIS-E Clarifications With new information at hand, now's the time t... Read more
Catch Up On Latest OASIS-E Clarifications
Catch Up On Latest OASIS-E Clarifications With new information at hand, now's the time t... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Feds Paint Hospices Providing Little To No High-Level Care As Shirkers
Plus: Neuro diagnosis codes are most common, data shows. As hospice continues its explos... Read more
Feds Paint Hospices Providing Little To No High-Level Care As Shirkers
Plus: Neuro diagnosis codes are most common, data shows. As hospice continues its explos... Read more
Regulations:
Give Your Critical Input On Hospice Pain Points By May 30
More data collection surrounding health equity may be on the horizon. Medicare is weighi... Read more
Give Your Critical Input On Hospice Pain Points By May 30
More data collection surrounding health equity may be on the horizon. Medicare is weighi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep On Top Of Telehealth Transitions
CMS walks back reinstatement of a date matching requirement. With OASIS-E, Value-Based Pu... Read more
Keep On Top Of Telehealth Transitions
CMS walks back reinstatement of a date matching requirement. With OASIS-E, Value-Based Pu... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Prepares To Overhaul 25-Year-Old Compliance Guidance
You know that compliance program guidance the HHS Office of Inspector General issued for h... Read more
OIG Prepares To Overhaul 25-Year-Old Compliance Guidance
You know that compliance program guidance the HHS Office of Inspector General issued for h... Read more
Industry Notes:
Comparative Billing Reports Hit Hospice Patient Claims
Part B claims with modifier GW are getting Medicare's Comparative Billing Report treatment... Read more
Comparative Billing Reports Hit Hospice Patient Claims
Part B claims with modifier GW are getting Medicare's Comparative Billing Report treatment... Read more
Industry Notes:
Double-Check Your Coding Following Grouper Update
If you're getting weird diagnosis code-related messages with returned claims, you may want... Read more
Double-Check Your Coding Following Grouper Update
If you're getting weird diagnosis code-related messages with returned claims, you may want... Read more
Industry Notes:
PHE End Date Holds Steady
Make sure you've wrapped up any necessary COVID-related policies by the time the Public He... Read more
PHE End Date Holds Steady
Make sure you've wrapped up any necessary COVID-related policies by the time the Public He... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Of Fake Nurse Diplomas That Flooded The Nation
Add one more item to your list of hiring headaches. Not only do you need to check the HHS... Read more
Beware Of Fake Nurse Diplomas That Flooded The Nation
Add one more item to your list of hiring headaches. Not only do you need to check the HHS... Read more
Industry Notes:
New Data Focuses On COVID Vaccination In The Community
If you're wondering whether your patients' vaccination status is typical, a new resource f... Read more
New Data Focuses On COVID Vaccination In The Community
If you're wondering whether your patients' vaccination status is typical, a new resource f... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
VBP Picture Becomes Clearer As HHAs Progress Into First Performance Year
Plus: Don't forget to check your latest QAO report. Keep your eyes peeled for more crit... Read more
VBP Picture Becomes Clearer As HHAs Progress Into First Performance Year
Plus: Don't forget to check your latest QAO report. Keep your eyes peeled for more crit... Read more
Oasis:
Hospice Discharge Exclusions Apply To More Measures Than ‘Discharged To Community’
The list of affected home health measures may be longer than you think. The longer OASI... Read more
Hospice Discharge Exclusions Apply To More Measures Than ‘Discharged To Community’
The list of affected home health measures may be longer than you think. The longer OASI... Read more
Quality:
Watch Out For 2 Forthcoming HOPE-Based Quality Measures
Plus: IDR proposal should be in home health rule with SFP provision. Medicare hasn't eve... Read more
Watch Out For 2 Forthcoming HOPE-Based Quality Measures
Plus: IDR proposal should be in home health rule with SFP provision. Medicare hasn't eve... Read more
Budget:
Biden Executive Order May Boost Home Care
Medicaid regulations, dementia respite care, and model employment agreements rate mention... Read more
Biden Executive Order May Boost Home Care
Medicaid regulations, dementia respite care, and model employment agreements rate mention... Read more
HIPAA:
Don’t Forget — HIPAA Enforcement Discretion Is Sunsetting Along With The PHE
OCR is going to teach you how to say goodbye. With the COVID public health emergency comi... Read more
Don’t Forget — HIPAA Enforcement Discretion Is Sunsetting Along With The PHE
OCR is going to teach you how to say goodbye. With the COVID public health emergency comi... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices Dump Undesirable Facilities
NC health system sheds in-home hospice service, conversely. Hospice inpatient facilities ... Read more
Hospices Dump Undesirable Facilities
NC health system sheds in-home hospice service, conversely. Hospice inpatient facilities ... Read more
Industry Notes:
South Texas HHA Owner Faces 4 Years In Prison
Directing employees to create “ghost notes” is among the crimes. After pleading guilt... Read more
South Texas HHA Owner Faces 4 Years In Prison
Directing employees to create “ghost notes” is among the crimes. After pleading guilt... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out Recording, Transcript Of PDGM Cut Webinar
If you missed the chance to hear Medicare officials justify the program's steep PDGM cuts,... Read more
Check Out Recording, Transcript Of PDGM Cut Webinar
If you missed the chance to hear Medicare officials justify the program's steep PDGM cuts,... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Spends Vast Majority Of Its Time On CMS Oversight
If you feel the heat of the HHS Office of Inspector General's gaze, it's probably not your... Read more
OIG Spends Vast Majority Of Its Time On CMS Oversight
If you feel the heat of the HHS Office of Inspector General's gaze, it's probably not your... Read more
Industry Notes:
Ditch XREF DCNs On These Claims
Get ready to potentially change your billing procedures. Old way: Home Health & Hospi... Read more
Ditch XREF DCNs On These Claims
Get ready to potentially change your billing procedures. Old way: Home Health & Hospi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Heed MAC's Advice On Confusing Primary Diagnosis Coding
Not sure what to do when you have a combination diagnosis code listed on the plan of care ... Read more
Heed MAC's Advice On Confusing Primary Diagnosis Coding
Not sure what to do when you have a combination diagnosis code listed on the plan of care ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don’t waste time and resources
Don't waste time and resources on appeals tasks you don't need to do, urges one HHH Medica... Read more
Don’t waste time and resources
Don't waste time and resources on appeals tasks you don't need to do, urges one HHH Medica... Read more
Industry Notes:
LHC Snaps Up Summit
LHC Group Inc. has acquired Summit Home Care in Delaware for undisclosed terms. It's the n... Read more
LHC Snaps Up Summit
LHC Group Inc. has acquired Summit Home Care in Delaware for undisclosed terms. It's the n... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Find Out How Hospice Discharges Affect Your ‘Discharged To Community’ Measure Under VBP
Plus: Tap multiple new quality improvement resources. Make time in your schedule to stay ... Read more
Find Out How Hospice Discharges Affect Your ‘Discharged To Community’ Measure Under VBP
Plus: Tap multiple new quality improvement resources. Make time in your schedule to stay ... Read more
Hospice:
Underwhelming Hospice Pay Update Proposed For 2024
Don't forget the 4 percent payment penalty for failing to submit required quality data is ... Read more
Underwhelming Hospice Pay Update Proposed For 2024
Don't forget the 4 percent payment penalty for failing to submit required quality data is ... Read more
Compliance:
Hospice Proposed Reg Tackles Fraud Concerns
But look to forthcoming home health rule for Special Focus Program details. Get ready f... Read more
Hospice Proposed Reg Tackles Fraud Concerns
But look to forthcoming home health rule for Special Focus Program details. Get ready f... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Home Health Marketer Charged $500 Per Cert Kickback
Hospice cases result in guilty verdict, plea. After a two-day trial, a federal jury has ... Read more
Home Health Marketer Charged $500 Per Cert Kickback
Hospice cases result in guilty verdict, plea. After a two-day trial, a federal jury has ... Read more
COVID-19:
Put These 3 Compliance Items On Your Post-PHE To-Do List
Watch out: There are still more Provider Relief Fund Reporting Periods to go. Many home h... Read more
Put These 3 Compliance Items On Your Post-PHE To-Do List
Watch out: There are still more Provider Relief Fund Reporting Periods to go. Many home h... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice NPI Billing Glitch Solution Is Just Around The Corner
But SIA-related snafu is not yet resolved, MAC reveals. Medicare would like to require a... Read more
Hospice NPI Billing Glitch Solution Is Just Around The Corner
But SIA-related snafu is not yet resolved, MAC reveals. Medicare would like to require a... Read more
Industry Notes:
Methodology For Drastic PDGM Cuts Is Flawed, Reps Maintain
A March 29 webinar about how CMS is calculating the payment rate cuts under the Patient-Di... Read more
Methodology For Drastic PDGM Cuts Is Flawed, Reps Maintain
A March 29 webinar about how CMS is calculating the payment rate cuts under the Patient-Di... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Gathers Ideas On Making Providers' Oversight Data Accessible
If you care about how the feds can disseminate your data, you might want to tune in to an ... Read more
OIG Gathers Ideas On Making Providers' Oversight Data Accessible
If you care about how the feds can disseminate your data, you might want to tune in to an ... Read more
Industry Notes:
New PPH Measure Now On Deck, And You Can Get A Sneak Peek
Your home health Preview Reports and Star Rating Preview Reports for the July 2023 Care Co... Read more
New PPH Measure Now On Deck, And You Can Get A Sneak Peek
Your home health Preview Reports and Star Rating Preview Reports for the July 2023 Care Co... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Let Competitors Beat You To The Punch With PEPPER
It's time to check your stats against your peers with the latest Hospice Program for Evalu... Read more
Don't Let Competitors Beat You To The Punch With PEPPER
It's time to check your stats against your peers with the latest Hospice Program for Evalu... Read more
Industry Notes:
AccentCare Forms Joint Venture With Texas Health System
AccentCare is forming a joint venture with Houston-based Memorial Hermann Health System, t... Read more
AccentCare Forms Joint Venture With Texas Health System
AccentCare is forming a joint venture with Houston-based Memorial Hermann Health System, t... Read more
Patient-Driven Groupings Model:
CMS Digs In On Behavioral Adjustment Cut
Accurate prediction of behavior changes is irrelevant, according to webinar speakers. Ho... Read more
CMS Digs In On Behavioral Adjustment Cut
Accurate prediction of behavior changes is irrelevant, according to webinar speakers. Ho... Read more
Know Your Facts:
PDGM Stats Justify Cuts, CMS Webinar Contends
Big swing in impairment levels noted post-PDGM. Ask and ye shall receive, at least when i... Read more
PDGM Stats Justify Cuts, CMS Webinar Contends
Big swing in impairment levels noted post-PDGM. Ask and ye shall receive, at least when i... Read more
Billing:
Make Sure Your Claims Are Free Of These PHE-Related Items By May 12
Have you been using DR codes incorrectly? If your billing staff have been adding the DR c... Read more
Make Sure Your Claims Are Free Of These PHE-Related Items By May 12
Have you been using DR codes incorrectly? If your billing staff have been adding the DR c... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
PE-Backed Midwest Firm Targets Dual Eligible Population
Plus: CVS finalizes $8 billion Signify purchase. Midwest-focused chain PurposeCare has e... Read more
PE-Backed Midwest Firm Targets Dual Eligible Population
Plus: CVS finalizes $8 billion Signify purchase. Midwest-focused chain PurposeCare has e... Read more
Industry Notes:
Provider Pays To Settle Charges It Failed To Provide An Interpreter
HHS, DOJ will monitor for 18 months. If you've been neglecting your duty to furnish inter... Read more
Provider Pays To Settle Charges It Failed To Provide An Interpreter
HHS, DOJ will monitor for 18 months. If you've been neglecting your duty to furnish inter... Read more
Industry Notes:
VBID Extended Five More Years To 2030
Hospice agencies hoping to see the end of the Medicare Advantage Value-Based Insurance Des... Read more
VBID Extended Five More Years To 2030
Hospice agencies hoping to see the end of the Medicare Advantage Value-Based Insurance Des... Read more
Industry Notes:
More IAH Benes Used Home Health In 2020, Says Latest Demo Eval
While the Independence at Home (IAH) demon-stration tests home-based primary care, it has ... Read more
More IAH Benes Used Home Health In 2020, Says Latest Demo Eval
While the Independence at Home (IAH) demon-stration tests home-based primary care, it has ... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Puts Hospices In Yet Another Hot Seat
As if hospices haven't taken enough heat, a federal watchdog agency has dedicated a new ... Read more
OIG Puts Hospices In Yet Another Hot Seat
As if hospices haven't taken enough heat, a federal watchdog agency has dedicated a new ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Solution To U5210/U5220 Glitch Finally In Place, MAC Says
Home health agencies can take action on those claims derailed by a recent Notice of Admiss... Read more
Solution To U5210/U5220 Glitch Finally In Place, MAC Says
Home health agencies can take action on those claims derailed by a recent Notice of Admiss... Read more
Industry Notes:
Experts Put Their Heads Together To Tackle Workforce Crisis
Home care providers struggling with labor shortages may get some ideas for solutions from ... Read more
Experts Put Their Heads Together To Tackle Workforce Crisis
Home care providers struggling with labor shortages may get some ideas for solutions from ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Brush Up On CERT Basics
With the flurry of audits that have hit home health and hospice providers lately, you migh... Read more
Brush Up On CERT Basics
With the flurry of audits that have hit home health and hospice providers lately, you migh... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Overlook CDC COVID Portal
Although the COVID-19 public health emergency is winding down, you can still get vital inf... Read more
Don't Overlook CDC COVID Portal
Although the COVID-19 public health emergency is winding down, you can still get vital inf... Read more
Industry Notes:
Texas HHA Owners Get Years In Prison For Medicare Fraud
Houston is the site of two new home health fraud case developments. Case No. 1: Joseph Nw... Read more
Texas HHA Owners Get Years In Prison For Medicare Fraud
Houston is the site of two new home health fraud case developments. Case No. 1: Joseph Nw... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospital-At-Home Programs Grow
Hospital at Home initiatives continue to break new ground. Example No. 1: Inbound Health,... Read more
Hospital-At-Home Programs Grow
Hospital at Home initiatives continue to break new ground. Example No. 1: Inbound Health,... Read more
Hospice:
MedPAC Wants Hospices To Do More With Less — Up To $10 Billion Less
New industry-commissioned report shows the dangers of cutting hospice support. For once, ... Read more
MedPAC Wants Hospices To Do More With Less — Up To $10 Billion Less
New industry-commissioned report shows the dangers of cutting hospice support. For once, ... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Hospices Must Live Down Highest Medicare Profit Margin In A Decade
Users, LOS, and more are down, however. You may agree with the famous Mark Twain quote ... Read more
Hospices Must Live Down Highest Medicare Profit Margin In A Decade
Users, LOS, and more are down, however. You may agree with the famous Mark Twain quote ... Read more
Budget:
Medicare Advantage VBID, Live Discharge, Star Ratings Feature In New MedPAC Report
Plus: Expect a rate increase in the neighborhood of 2.9 percent for 2024, Commission esti... Read more
Medicare Advantage VBID, Live Discharge, Star Ratings Feature In New MedPAC Report
Plus: Expect a rate increase in the neighborhood of 2.9 percent for 2024, Commission esti... Read more
Compliance:
Home Care Wage Fixing Cases Build — And Fall
Tread carefully and expect scrutiny, legal experts advise. A Las Vegas home health staff... Read more
Home Care Wage Fixing Cases Build — And Fall
Tread carefully and expect scrutiny, legal experts advise. A Las Vegas home health staff... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Watch Out: The Hunt For COVID Accelerated and Advance Payment Fraud Gains Speed
Doc convicted of CAAP fraud may be a warning shot. If you thought you were in the clear... Read more
Watch Out: The Hunt For COVID Accelerated and Advance Payment Fraud Gains Speed
Doc convicted of CAAP fraud may be a warning shot. If you thought you were in the clear... Read more
Industry Notes:
HCBS Rule Takes Effect After 8 Years — Yet States Still Have More Time To Comply
March 17 was the official deadline. Depending on where you operate, you may have seen a l... Read more
HCBS Rule Takes Effect After 8 Years — Yet States Still Have More Time To Comply
March 17 was the official deadline. Depending on where you operate, you may have seen a l... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Miss Out On These Free Tools From Medicare To Boost Your Staff's OASIS-E Expertise
Home health agencies have more free tools to put in their OASIS-E training toolbox. The C... Read more
Don't Miss Out On These Free Tools From Medicare To Boost Your Staff's OASIS-E Expertise
Home health agencies have more free tools to put in their OASIS-E training toolbox. The C... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHAs In These 3 States That Miss Review Choice Demo Deadline Will Face Unpleasant Consequences
The small window for home health agencies in Ohio, Florida, and North Carolina to jump int... Read more
HHAs In These 3 States That Miss Review Choice Demo Deadline Will Face Unpleasant Consequences
The small window for home health agencies in Ohio, Florida, and North Carolina to jump int... Read more
Industry Notes:
5 Home Health Applicants Throw Their Hats In The Ring For North Carolina CON
Home health companies are getting in line for the chance to start a home health agency in ... Read more
5 Home Health Applicants Throw Their Hats In The Ring For North Carolina CON
Home health companies are getting in line for the chance to start a home health agency in ... Read more
Reimbursement:
MedPAC Throws Spotlight On ‘All-Time High’ Profit Margin To Justify 7% HH Rate Cut Rec
‘Medicare has always overpaid for home health services,' advisory body insists in new re... Read more
MedPAC Throws Spotlight On ‘All-Time High’ Profit Margin To Justify 7% HH Rate Cut Rec
‘Medicare has always overpaid for home health services,' advisory body insists in new re... Read more
Know Your Facts:
Home Health Stats Continued Their Slow Decline In 2021
Spending, number of HHAs, users, and periods of care all down in latest period. Policy- a... Read more
Home Health Stats Continued Their Slow Decline In 2021
Spending, number of HHAs, users, and periods of care all down in latest period. Policy- a... Read more
Hospice:
MedPAC Urges Congress To Cut Hospice Cap By 20%
Commission follows through on arbitrary slash to aggregate cap. Over industry protest, ... Read more
MedPAC Urges Congress To Cut Hospice Cap By 20%
Commission follows through on arbitrary slash to aggregate cap. Over industry protest, ... Read more
Budget:
$150 Billion Increase For HCBS Headlines Biden Budget Proposal For Home Care Providers
Watch out: Boosted survey funding would translate to more surveys. The Biden administrati... Read more
$150 Billion Increase For HCBS Headlines Biden Budget Proposal For Home Care Providers
Watch out: Boosted survey funding would translate to more surveys. The Biden administrati... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Biden Administration Wants To Rev Fraud-Fighting Engine Even Higher
More medical review, audits, and enforcement are in the 2024 budget proposal. If the curr... Read more
Biden Administration Wants To Rev Fraud-Fighting Engine Even Higher
More medical review, audits, and enforcement are in the 2024 budget proposal. If the curr... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
PE-Backed Rural Hospice Chain Expands In Missouri
Plus: North Carolina hospice provider sheds home health business. An Alabama-based hospic... Read more
PE-Backed Rural Hospice Chain Expands In Missouri
Plus: North Carolina hospice provider sheds home health business. An Alabama-based hospic... Read more
Industry Notes:
OIG Set To End Its COVID Flexibilities, Too
Check your own policies for compliance — before the OIG does. Don't forget that the Cen... Read more
OIG Set To End Its COVID Flexibilities, Too
Check your own policies for compliance — before the OIG does. Don't forget that the Cen... Read more
Industry Notes:
Wage Index System Needs An Overhaul, MedPAC Indicates
Provider payment cuts aren't the only topics MedPAC is tackling. In its March meeting, Me... Read more
Wage Index System Needs An Overhaul, MedPAC Indicates
Provider payment cuts aren't the only topics MedPAC is tackling. In its March meeting, Me... Read more
Industry Notes:
Oversight Agencies Examine MA Denials, Supplemental Benefits
The feds are looking at Medicare Advantage plans more and more closely. So indicate two re... Read more
Oversight Agencies Examine MA Denials, Supplemental Benefits
The feds are looking at Medicare Advantage plans more and more closely. So indicate two re... Read more
Industry Notes:
Nonprofit And Accredited Agencies Score Higher, Studies Say
Potential patients, referral sources, and others could be swayed by two recent studies poi... Read more
Nonprofit And Accredited Agencies Score Higher, Studies Say
Potential patients, referral sources, and others could be swayed by two recent studies poi... Read more
Industry Notes:
Kickbacks Feature In Texas Fraud Case
A Houston home health agency owner is facing fraud charges. Rose Davies, owner of Pri H... Read more
Kickbacks Feature In Texas Fraud Case
A Houston home health agency owner is facing fraud charges. Rose Davies, owner of Pri H... Read more
Industry Notes:
NY Agency Agrees To Data Breach Class Action Settlement
A New York home care agency has agreed to pay up for a HIPAA data breach. AssistCare Home... Read more
NY Agency Agrees To Data Breach Class Action Settlement
A New York home care agency has agreed to pay up for a HIPAA data breach. AssistCare Home... Read more
Industry Notes:
DOL Warns Against Retaliation
A Department of Labor investigation does not appear to be going well for another New York ... Read more
DOL Warns Against Retaliation
A Department of Labor investigation does not appear to be going well for another New York ... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Medicare Clears Up A Question About VBP’s Smaller Cohort
Value-based care delivery is here to stay, expert predicts. Home health agencies' payment... Read more
Medicare Clears Up A Question About VBP’s Smaller Cohort
Value-based care delivery is here to stay, expert predicts. Home health agencies' payment... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
Crackdown On Medicaid Home Care Fraud Leads To Jail Terms, Restitution, And More
Plus: One state claimed more than $50 million in unallowable PCA services, OIG report cha... Read more
Crackdown On Medicaid Home Care Fraud Leads To Jail Terms, Restitution, And More
Plus: One state claimed more than $50 million in unallowable PCA services, OIG report cha... Read more
Kickbacks:
Don’t Let the Anti-Kickback Statute Put You In The Feds’ Crosshairs
Beware triggering unexpected dangers when compensating your medical directors. Does the O... Read more
Don’t Let the Anti-Kickback Statute Put You In The Feds’ Crosshairs
Beware triggering unexpected dangers when compensating your medical directors. Does the O... Read more
Compliance:
Move Compliance Program To The Front Burner
How's your internal monitoring going? A crucial best practice is a strong compliance prog... Read more
Move Compliance Program To The Front Burner
How's your internal monitoring going? A crucial best practice is a strong compliance prog... Read more
Industry Notes:
Utah Hospice Pays $1 Million To Settle Fraud Charges
Plus: Hospice medical director gets 5 years in prison, $15 million in restitution. Termin... Read more
Utah Hospice Pays $1 Million To Settle Fraud Charges
Plus: Hospice medical director gets 5 years in prison, $15 million in restitution. Termin... Read more
Industry Notes:
Biden: Home Health Saves Money
President Biden has more praise for home care, this time on the Medicaid side. “Milli... Read more
Biden: Home Health Saves Money
President Biden has more praise for home care, this time on the Medicaid side. “Milli... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home-Based Cardiac Rehab Saves Lives, New VA Study Shows
A new study of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) shows that patients receiving HBCR... Read more
Home-Based Cardiac Rehab Saves Lives, New VA Study Shows
A new study of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) shows that patients receiving HBCR... Read more
Industry Notes:
Learn About Cost Report System Updates In Upcoming Webinar
With cost report deadlines approaching for many providers, now's a good time to brush up o... Read more
Learn About Cost Report System Updates In Upcoming Webinar
With cost report deadlines approaching for many providers, now's a good time to brush up o... Read more
Industry Notes:
Review HH Billing Fundamentals With New MAC Tool
Your billing folks may appreciate a handy new tool from one HHH Medicare Administrati... Read more
Review HH Billing Fundamentals With New MAC Tool
Your billing folks may appreciate a handy new tool from one HHH Medicare Administrati... Read more
Industry Notes:
EEOC Goes After Inova Home Health For Unequal Pay
Employment law-related problems for home health agencies aren't solely related to Wage and... Read more
EEOC Goes After Inova Home Health For Unequal Pay
Employment law-related problems for home health agencies aren't solely related to Wage and... Read more
Industry Notes:
Find Free COVID Test Sites For Patients With New CDC Site
With the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency winding down, a new resource from the Centers fo... Read more
Find Free COVID Test Sites For Patients With New CDC Site
With the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency winding down, a new resource from the Centers fo... Read more
Industry Notes:
Fundraising Woes Challenge Hospices
If your fundraising has taken a hit lately, you're not alone. Sunshine Haven Inc., a hosp... Read more
Fundraising Woes Challenge Hospices
If your fundraising has taken a hit lately, you're not alone. Sunshine Haven Inc., a hosp... Read more
Industry Notes:
Two National Hospice Trade Groups Explore Alliance
The national trade group scene may be about to change. “For many years, the National As... Read more
Two National Hospice Trade Groups Explore Alliance
The national trade group scene may be about to change. “For many years, the National As... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Keep Up To Date On New VBP Info
Here's how OASIS-E will affect your VBP numbers. The end of the first quarter of Expande... Read more
Keep Up To Date On New VBP Info
Here's how OASIS-E will affect your VBP numbers. The end of the first quarter of Expande... Read more
Regulations:
New DEA Telemedicine Rule Doesn’t Go Far Enough
Schedule II and narcotic drug prescriptions will be off the table for telemedicine visits... Read more
New DEA Telemedicine Rule Doesn’t Go Far Enough
Schedule II and narcotic drug prescriptions will be off the table for telemedicine visits... Read more
COVID-19:
Keep An Eye On PHE Waiver Documents For Deadline Tweaks
Aide training, volunteers addressed in latest Medicare updates. The May 11 end of the C... Read more
Keep An Eye On PHE Waiver Documents For Deadline Tweaks
Aide training, volunteers addressed in latest Medicare updates. The May 11 end of the C... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
Gentiva Plans Buy From Beleaguered Health System
Plus: Multiple nonprofit hospice mergers are underway. If you haven't heard the name Gen... Read more
Gentiva Plans Buy From Beleaguered Health System
Plus: Multiple nonprofit hospice mergers are underway. If you haven't heard the name Gen... Read more
Employment Law:
DOL Continues To Crack Down On Home Care Agencies
Illinois provider must cough up $1.1 million. Now's the time to double-check that your pa... Read more
DOL Continues To Crack Down On Home Care Agencies
Illinois provider must cough up $1.1 million. Now's the time to double-check that your pa... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Overlooks Home Health Rural Add-On
Medicare officials miss another opportunity to improve care in remote areas. Medicare wou... Read more
CMS Overlooks Home Health Rural Add-On
Medicare officials miss another opportunity to improve care in remote areas. Medicare wou... Read more
Industry Notes:
New Diagnosis Codes Are In Updated HH Grouper Software
Get ready for a new version of the Home Health PPS Grouper Software Package for claims sta... Read more
New Diagnosis Codes Are In Updated HH Grouper Software
Get ready for a new version of the Home Health PPS Grouper Software Package for claims sta... Read more
Industry Notes:
Share Your Ideas On Collecting Race, Ethnicity Data More Accurately
If you've got thoughts on the collection of race and ethnicity data across federal agencie... Read more
Share Your Ideas On Collecting Race, Ethnicity Data More Accurately
If you've got thoughts on the collection of race and ethnicity data across federal agencie... Read more
Industry Notes:
Neglect Cost Reporting Duties At Your Own Financial Peril
Is cost reporting low on your priority list? If so, it's time to reconsider. “The penal... Read more
Neglect Cost Reporting Duties At Your Own Financial Peril
Is cost reporting low on your priority list? If so, it's time to reconsider. “The penal... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get A Handle On New Hospice Survey Guidance With Training
Check out what your next survey will look like by accessing new hospice surveyor training.... Read more
Get A Handle On New Hospice Survey Guidance With Training
Check out what your next survey will look like by accessing new hospice surveyor training.... Read more
Industry Notes:
Don't Let Excluded Employees Cost You Tens Of Thousands
Two Ohio cases show why it's important to check potential and current employees — includ... Read more
Don't Let Excluded Employees Cost You Tens Of Thousands
Two Ohio cases show why it's important to check potential and current employees — includ... Read more
Covid-19:
Feds Walk Further Down Path Of Ending PHE
You should already be engaging in your wind-down process, experts say. The clock is ticki... Read more
Feds Walk Further Down Path Of Ending PHE
You should already be engaging in your wind-down process, experts say. The clock is ticki... Read more
Reimbursement:
Telehealth Claims Glitch Hampers Intro Of New Reporting Component
Plus: U5210/U5220, RCD exclusions, and ongoing 31755 problems burden HHAs — and their ca... Read more
Telehealth Claims Glitch Hampers Intro Of New Reporting Component
Plus: U5210/U5220, RCD exclusions, and ongoing 31755 problems burden HHAs — and their ca... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
HH, Hospice Owners Draw Lengthy Prison Sentences For Fraud
From 25 months to 10 years, owners are paying big. The owner of a licensed home health ... Read more
HH, Hospice Owners Draw Lengthy Prison Sentences For Fraud
From 25 months to 10 years, owners are paying big. The owner of a licensed home health ... Read more
Compliance:
Authorities Crack Down On Financial Scammers
And any PHI breaches from novice billing contractors are on you, MAC stresses. Fraudsters... Read more
Authorities Crack Down On Financial Scammers
And any PHI breaches from novice billing contractors are on you, MAC stresses. Fraudsters... Read more
Managed Care:
Medicare Scales Back Managed Care Organizations’ Pay Raise
Hurry: You only have a few weeks to comment. If you feel like Medicare Advantage plans ar... Read more
Medicare Scales Back Managed Care Organizations’ Pay Raise
Hurry: You only have a few weeks to comment. If you feel like Medicare Advantage plans ar... Read more
Industry Notes:
HHS Secretary Praises Home Health
But praise needs to come with reimbursement, industry advocates point out. A top Biden ad... Read more
HHS Secretary Praises Home Health
But praise needs to come with reimbursement, industry advocates point out. A top Biden ad... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Schedules Home Health Webinar For March 29
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services may be responding to home health agencies... Read more
Medicare Schedules Home Health Webinar For March 29
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services may be responding to home health agencies... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice Industry Reps Meet With CMS Administrator Over Program Integrity Concerns
Representatives for hospice providers are hoping their Feb. 15 face-to-face meeting with t... Read more
Hospice Industry Reps Meet With CMS Administrator Over Program Integrity Concerns
Representatives for hospice providers are hoping their Feb. 15 face-to-face meeting with t... Read more
Industry Notes:
OSHA Readies Workplace Safety Rule For Healthcare, Including HH
If you have thoughts on how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration should regul... Read more
OSHA Readies Workplace Safety Rule For Healthcare, Including HH
If you have thoughts on how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration should regul... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Wants Candid Feedback On VBP Training So Far
You now have a chance to give CMS a piece of your mind about how they've conducted Home He... Read more
CMS Wants Candid Feedback On VBP Training So Far
You now have a chance to give CMS a piece of your mind about how they've conducted Home He... Read more
Industry Notes:
Get Preview Of Care Compare Stats For Next Time
The latest Care Compare data refresh for hospices is live, and you can already get a peek ... Read more
Get Preview Of Care Compare Stats For Next Time
The latest Care Compare data refresh for hospices is live, and you can already get a peek ... Read more
Industry Notes:
More Rural Hospitals Cut Their Home Health Programs
Two more hospitals, both in California, are shutting down their home health business lines... Read more
More Rural Hospitals Cut Their Home Health Programs
Two more hospitals, both in California, are shutting down their home health business lines... Read more
Industry Notes:
CMS Shoots For Ownership Transparency
Don't be surprised to see a push to make ownership and management of home health and hospi... Read more
CMS Shoots For Ownership Transparency
Don't be surprised to see a push to make ownership and management of home health and hospi... Read more
Reimbursement:
Edit 31755 Headaches Continue To Plague Home Health Claims
Keep on top of RTP'd claims to avoid cash delays. Don't let a reactivated claim edit dera... Read more
Edit 31755 Headaches Continue To Plague Home Health Claims
Keep on top of RTP'd claims to avoid cash delays. Don't let a reactivated claim edit dera... Read more
Surveys & Certification:
Major Hospice Survey Overhaul Hits Hospices
Surveyors will single out live discharges, CHC, GIP, and bereavement for sampling. The... Read more
Major Hospice Survey Overhaul Hits Hospices
Surveyors will single out live discharges, CHC, GIP, and bereavement for sampling. The... Read more
Hospice:
Boost Compliance Under New Survey Protocols With 10 Expert Tips
End of COVID PHE heightens hospices' risk under new framework. Hospices have a lot to gr... Read more
Boost Compliance Under New Survey Protocols With 10 Expert Tips
End of COVID PHE heightens hospices' risk under new framework. Hospices have a lot to gr... Read more
Compliance:
Keep Your Eyes Peeled For Hospice Enforcement Remedies
Warning: CMPs can cost up to $10K per day. Medicare has released a bevy of hospice s... Read more
Keep Your Eyes Peeled For Hospice Enforcement Remedies
Warning: CMPs can cost up to $10K per day. Medicare has released a bevy of hospice s... Read more
Industry Notes:
End Of Waivers Not Crystal Clear
What exactly needs to be made up when it comes to training, trade group asks.> Though ... Read more
End Of Waivers Not Crystal Clear
What exactly needs to be made up when it comes to training, trade group asks.> Though ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Home Health Agencies Are Smack In The Middle Of A Massive Michigan Fraud Case
Another home health fraud case has been announced in Michigan — this one citing fraud to... Read more
Home Health Agencies Are Smack In The Middle Of A Massive Michigan Fraud Case
Another home health fraud case has been announced in Michigan — this one citing fraud to... Read more
Industry Notes:
Justice Department Touts $2.2 Billion In False Claims Act Recoveries — Mostly In Health Care
Expect whistleblower complaints to continue to proliferate. “Settlements and judgments ... Read more
Justice Department Touts $2.2 Billion In False Claims Act Recoveries — Mostly In Health Care
Expect whistleblower complaints to continue to proliferate. “Settlements and judgments ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Pennsylvania Agency Must Pay $2.3 Million In Back Wages For Overtime Violations
Another home health wage case will result in millions in back wages paid to workers. Affe... Read more
Pennsylvania Agency Must Pay $2.3 Million In Back Wages For Overtime Violations
Another home health wage case will result in millions in back wages paid to workers. Affe... Read more
Industry Notes:
Part B Therapy Caps Have Increased To $2,230 This Year
Home health agencies that also furnish Part B therapy should pay attention to the new Part... Read more
Part B Therapy Caps Have Increased To $2,230 This Year
Home health agencies that also furnish Part B therapy should pay attention to the new Part... Read more
Industry Notes:
Mistaken Death Pronouncement For Hospice Patient Grabs Headlines
Hospice care is once again in the news for a story that could turn people off of the benef... Read more
Mistaken Death Pronouncement For Hospice Patient Grabs Headlines
Hospice care is once again in the news for a story that could turn people off of the benef... Read more
Covid-19:
Say Goodbye To COVID PHE May 11
After 12 PHE renewals, the feds' wind-down will drop a significant workload on HHAs and h... Read more
Say Goodbye To COVID PHE May 11
After 12 PHE renewals, the feds' wind-down will drop a significant workload on HHAs and h... Read more
Compliance:
Follow 8 Steps To Ward Off Trouble When The PHE Ends In May
Watch out: 2 years is a long time for your staff to have gotten used to lax ways. With th... Read more
Follow 8 Steps To Ward Off Trouble When The PHE Ends In May
Watch out: 2 years is a long time for your staff to have gotten used to lax ways. With th... Read more
Regulations:
Check Which Vital Home Health Flexibilities Will Disappear — And Which Won’t — With The PHE
Tip: Tighten up those OASIS completion and submission time frames. The past two years h... Read more
Check Which Vital Home Health Flexibilities Will Disappear — And Which Won’t — With The PHE
Tip: Tighten up those OASIS completion and submission time frames. The past two years h... Read more
Hospice:
Telehealth F2F, Volunteer, and Many Other Hospice Flexibilities Are Due To Sunset With The PHE
Plus: Comprehensive assessments will go back to 15-day deadline. Most hospice flexibiliti... Read more
Telehealth F2F, Volunteer, and Many Other Hospice Flexibilities Are Due To Sunset With The PHE
Plus: Comprehensive assessments will go back to 15-day deadline. Most hospice flexibiliti... Read more
Finance:
Countdown To Hospice Cap Reporting For 2022 Approaches Final Hours
Avoid a payment suspension with timely filing. If you haven't done so yet, it's time to... Read more
Countdown To Hospice Cap Reporting For 2022 Approaches Final Hours
Avoid a payment suspension with timely filing. If you haven't done so yet, it's time to... Read more
Industry Notes:
New Hospice Survey Guidelines Drop
Don't look for enforcement remedies provisions, though. The massive survey overhaul for h... Read more
New Hospice Survey Guidelines Drop
Don't look for enforcement remedies provisions, though. The massive survey overhaul for h... Read more
Industry Notes:
A Month Into OASIS-E Is A Good Time For A Gut Check
Now's the time to do an OASIS-E checkup. So say OASIS experts. “We have been using the ... Read more
A Month Into OASIS-E Is A Good Time For A Gut Check
Now's the time to do an OASIS-E checkup. So say OASIS experts. “We have been using the ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep HH VBP On Your Priority List For This Year
If you missed CMS' first Expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing educational event of ... Read more
Keep HH VBP On Your Priority List For This Year
If you missed CMS' first Expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing educational event of ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware This Common Hospice Billing Mistake That's On The Rise
Don't let a common hospice claim problem affect your cash flow, one HHH Medicare Administr... Read more
Beware This Common Hospice Billing Mistake That's On The Rise
Don't let a common hospice claim problem affect your cash flow, one HHH Medicare Administr... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Plans Upgrades To The Clunky PECOS System
If you find the PECOS enrollment system a drag, there's good news. “Submitting and trac... Read more
Medicare Plans Upgrades To The Clunky PECOS System
If you find the PECOS enrollment system a drag, there's good news. “Submitting and trac... Read more
Industry Notes:
OASIS-Based Measures Return To Normal On Care Compare
Potential patients and referral sources may finally get an accurate picture of your care q... Read more
OASIS-Based Measures Return To Normal On Care Compare
Potential patients and referral sources may finally get an accurate picture of your care q... Read more
Budget:
MedPAC Locks And Loads Home Health, Hospice Pay Cut Recommendations
Push for cap cut is an ‘attack on the hospice benefit itself,' one expert bla... Read more
MedPAC Locks And Loads Home Health, Hospice Pay Cut Recommendations
Push for cap cut is an ‘attack on the hospice benefit itself,' one expert bla... Read more
Access:
Continued Closures Imperil Access In Certain Areas
Higher costs, staffing shortages cited as reasons. The Medicare Payment Advisory Commissi... Read more
Continued Closures Imperil Access In Certain Areas
Higher costs, staffing shortages cited as reasons. The Medicare Payment Advisory Commissi... Read more
Oasis:
January OASIS Q&As; Shed Little Light On OASIS-E Troubles
High-risk drug item confusion persists into the new year. Assessing clinicians continue t... Read more
January OASIS Q&As; Shed Little Light On OASIS-E Troubles
High-risk drug item confusion persists into the new year. Assessing clinicians continue t... Read more
Reimbursement:
HHAs Hit With 31755 Claim Returns This Month
Don't make the mistake of reporting the first day of the billing period instead of the fir... Read more
HHAs Hit With 31755 Claim Returns This Month
Don't make the mistake of reporting the first day of the billing period instead of the fir... Read more
Labor Law:
Wage Scheme To Reduce Hourly Rates Won’t Fly With The DOL
2 agencies pay millions in back wages and damages. Wage and hour-based cases continue t... Read more
Wage Scheme To Reduce Hourly Rates Won’t Fly With The DOL
2 agencies pay millions in back wages and damages. Wage and hour-based cases continue t... Read more
HIPAA:
Right Of Access Already Dominating HIPAA Enforcement In New Year
Just because a patient is deceased doesn't mean you can slack on producing their records, ... Read more
Right Of Access Already Dominating HIPAA Enforcement In New Year
Just because a patient is deceased doesn't mean you can slack on producing their records, ... Read more
HIPAA:
Add These Right Of Access Tips To Your HIPAA Wheelhouse
Remember, ‘happy patients don't complain to HHS,' expert highlights. Right of... Read more
Add These Right Of Access Tips To Your HIPAA Wheelhouse
Remember, ‘happy patients don't complain to HHS,' expert highlights. Right of... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check In On SNF Programs To Get Sneak Peek At Enforcement
CMS plans to post disputed survey citations on Care Compare. If you're wondering what the... Read more
Check In On SNF Programs To Get Sneak Peek At Enforcement
CMS plans to post disputed survey citations on Care Compare. If you're wondering what the... Read more
Industry Notes:
Medicare Overpayment Rules May Change For The Worse
During holiday craziness, you may have missed Medicare's proposed rule on overpayment proc... Read more
Medicare Overpayment Rules May Change For The Worse
During holiday craziness, you may have missed Medicare's proposed rule on overpayment proc... Read more
Industry Notes:
For-Profit Hospices Targeted Again
Mainstream media outlets aren't done smearing the hospice industry. Slate.com's daily Wha... Read more
For-Profit Hospices Targeted Again
Mainstream media outlets aren't done smearing the hospice industry. Slate.com's daily Wha... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep QRP Data Straight With Tips
Finding it hard to keep track of which information is going into your quality measures, in... Read more
Keep QRP Data Straight With Tips
Finding it hard to keep track of which information is going into your quality measures, in... Read more
Industry Notes:
PRF Reconsideration Deadline Is Soon
If you think your Provider Relief Fund/American Rescue Plan rural payments weren't calcula... Read more
PRF Reconsideration Deadline Is Soon
If you think your Provider Relief Fund/American Rescue Plan rural payments weren't calcula... Read more
Industry Notes:
Add To Your Emergency Prep Toolbox
Get a head start on planning for the next public health emergency with a new ASPR res... Read more
Add To Your Emergency Prep Toolbox
Get a head start on planning for the next public health emergency with a new ASPR res... Read more
OASIS:
Increased OASIS-E Burden Slams HHAs
Agencies are ringing in the new year with increased workloads. OASIS updates always stra... Read more
Increased OASIS-E Burden Slams HHAs
Agencies are ringing in the new year with increased workloads. OASIS updates always stra... Read more
Billing:
Review Your NOA Processes In Wake Of Related System Changes Jan. 1
Reminder: No NOA means no reimbursement. One Notice of Admission Medicare claims system ... Read more
Review Your NOA Processes In Wake Of Related System Changes Jan. 1
Reminder: No NOA means no reimbursement. One Notice of Admission Medicare claims system ... Read more
Reimbursement:
Don’t Let Coding, HIPPS Code Mismatches Derail Your NOAs
Plus: A centralized billing goof could doom your reimbursement. Knowing what not to do is... Read more
Don’t Let Coding, HIPPS Code Mismatches Derail Your NOAs
Plus: A centralized billing goof could doom your reimbursement. Knowing what not to do is... Read more
Regulations:
CMS Issues New VBP Resources
Rural add-on extension officially hits the books. Don't neglect Expanded Home Health Valu... Read more
CMS Issues New VBP Resources
Rural add-on extension officially hits the books. Don't neglect Expanded Home Health Valu... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices’ Reporting Burden Will Increase, If GAO Gets Its Way
Additional reporting makes sense for hospitals and SNFs, not hospices, HHS maintains. Hos... Read more
Hospices’ Reporting Burden Will Increase, If GAO Gets Its Way
Additional reporting makes sense for hospitals and SNFs, not hospices, HHS maintains. Hos... Read more
Labor Law:
FTC Proposes Ditching Non-Competes Across The Board
Give the feds your 2 cents by March 10. Your labor landscape could look very different i... Read more
FTC Proposes Ditching Non-Competes Across The Board
Give the feds your 2 cents by March 10. Your labor landscape could look very different i... Read more
Industry Note:
COVID PHE Extended Again — Perhaps For The Last Time
Enjoy those PHE-affiliated regulatory flexibilities while you can. On Jan. 11, HHS Secret... Read more
COVID PHE Extended Again — Perhaps For The Last Time
Enjoy those PHE-affiliated regulatory flexibilities while you can. On Jan. 11, HHS Secret... Read more
Industry Note:
VBID Hospice Carve-In Letter To Hit Hospice Mailboxes
Hospices should soon see a letter in their mailboxes aiming to explain the Medicare Advant... Read more
VBID Hospice Carve-In Letter To Hit Hospice Mailboxes
Hospices should soon see a letter in their mailboxes aiming to explain the Medicare Advant... Read more
Industry Note:
Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period Starts, With More On The Way
If you received more than $10,000 in one or more Provider Relief Fund (General or Targeted... Read more
Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period Starts, With More On The Way
If you received more than $10,000 in one or more Provider Relief Fund (General or Targeted... Read more
Industry Note:
Combat High GIP Claim Denial Rate With New MAC Education
The hospice General Inpatient (GIP) level of care is under heavy scrutiny, so a new educat... Read more
Combat High GIP Claim Denial Rate With New MAC Education
The hospice General Inpatient (GIP) level of care is under heavy scrutiny, so a new educat... Read more
Industry Note:
Email Hacking Leads To HIPAA Breach At Southern Hospice Chain
A hospice chain has had to report a HIPAA data breach. On Dec. 22, 2022, Legacy Operating... Read more
Email Hacking Leads To HIPAA Breach At Southern Hospice Chain
A hospice chain has had to report a HIPAA data breach. On Dec. 22, 2022, Legacy Operating... Read more
Billing:
Expect A New Zip Code-Related Claims Edit, If OIG Gets Its Way
4% of home health claims in review lacked valid FIPS code. Home health access in rural ar... Read more
Expect A New Zip Code-Related Claims Edit, If OIG Gets Its Way
4% of home health claims in review lacked valid FIPS code. Home health access in rural ar... Read more
Regulations:
What Do Those County Categories Indicate?
Counties still eligible for an add-on have dwindled to 17%. If you're wondering why your ... Read more
What Do Those County Categories Indicate?
Counties still eligible for an add-on have dwindled to 17%. If you're wondering why your ... Read more
Hospice:
Hospices’ CERT Improper Payment Rate Is Up — Way Up — For 2022
On the other hand, HHA error rate is down a hair. If you're wondering how much review pre... Read more
Hospices’ CERT Improper Payment Rate Is Up — Way Up — For 2022
On the other hand, HHA error rate is down a hair. If you're wondering how much review pre... Read more
Fraud & Abuse:
NY Agency Agrees To Pay $3.26M In Fraud Settlement, Back Wages
Plus: Physician pays the price for referral remuneration. Violating wage and hour laws ca... Read more
NY Agency Agrees To Pay $3.26M In Fraud Settlement, Back Wages
Plus: Physician pays the price for referral remuneration. Violating wage and hour laws ca... Read more
Industry Note:
OIG Pushes Home Health Surety Bond, Hospice Bundling In Unimplemented Recommendations Report
Plus: Watchdog agency wants hospice pay in nursing homes to go down. Home health and hosp... Read more
OIG Pushes Home Health Surety Bond, Hospice Bundling In Unimplemented Recommendations Report
Plus: Watchdog agency wants hospice pay in nursing homes to go down. Home health and hosp... Read more
Industry Note:
Mileage Rate Climbs To 65.5 Cents Per Mile
To no one's surprise, the Internal Revenue Service has once again upped its mileage rate. ... Read more
Mileage Rate Climbs To 65.5 Cents Per Mile
To no one's surprise, the Internal Revenue Service has once again upped its mileage rate. ... Read more
Industry Note:
Latest Hospice Stats Now Available From Trade Group
Some new hospice statistics may surprise you. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Org... Read more
Latest Hospice Stats Now Available From Trade Group
Some new hospice statistics may surprise you. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Org... Read more
Industry Note:
Hospital-At-Home Extension Will Encourage Investment
The recent Hospital at Home program extension included in the Consolidated Appropriations ... Read more
Hospital-At-Home Extension Will Encourage Investment
The recent Hospital at Home program extension included in the Consolidated Appropriations ... Read more
Industry Note:
Review California's New Tougher Hospice Regs
If you missed the more stringent hospice regulations signed into law in California this fa... Read more
Review California's New Tougher Hospice Regs
If you missed the more stringent hospice regulations signed into law in California this fa... Read more
Industry Note:
Make Sure Your Telehealth G-Code Documentation Is In Order
Don't miss an important requirement when you start using telehealth G codes. Reminder: Ho... Read more
Make Sure Your Telehealth G-Code Documentation Is In Order
Don't miss an important requirement when you start using telehealth G codes. Reminder: Ho... Read more
Industry Note:
Keep An Eye To Hospice VBID Future While Coping With The Present
Start preparing for the next phase of the hospice Medicare Advantage carve-in. The Center... Read more
Keep An Eye To Hospice VBID Future While Coping With The Present
Start preparing for the next phase of the hospice Medicare Advantage carve-in. The Center... Read more
Industry Note:
Midwestern HHAs Hit With Survey Fines
The quote “all publicity is good publicity” may not apply when it comes to survey resu... Read more
Midwestern HHAs Hit With Survey Fines
The quote “all publicity is good publicity” may not apply when it comes to survey resu... Read more
Budget:
Budget For 2023 Comes With Pros And Cons For Home Health
Appropriations act passed on the night before Christmas Eve. Home health agencies are g... Read more
Budget For 2023 Comes With Pros And Cons For Home Health
Appropriations act passed on the night before Christmas Eve. Home health agencies are g... Read more
Hospice:
Hospice Cap News Is Both Good And Bad In Year-End Budget Package
MedPAC's 20% cap cut suggestion didn't make it in, much to providers' relief. Hospices'... Read more
Hospice Cap News Is Both Good And Bad In Year-End Budget Package
MedPAC's 20% cap cut suggestion didn't make it in, much to providers' relief. Hospices'... Read more
Mergers & Acquisitions:
National Chain Beefs Up Florida Presence
Plus: Hospice non-profit collaborative nears 100 members. Enhabit Inc. has acquired Sout... Read more
National Chain Beefs Up Florida Presence
Plus: Hospice non-profit collaborative nears 100 members. Enhabit Inc. has acquired Sout... Read more
HIPAA:
Check Out New HIPAA Guidance To Ensure Compliance
OCR takes on website privacy in more detail. Add a couple of year-end HIPAA regulations t... Read more
Check Out New HIPAA Guidance To Ensure Compliance
OCR takes on website privacy in more detail. Add a couple of year-end HIPAA regulations t... Read more
Industry Note:
Data Breach Hits Medicare Contractor, Necessitating New Cards
More than a quarter-million beneficiaries will get new Medicare cards and numbers. Healt... Read more
Data Breach Hits Medicare Contractor, Necessitating New Cards
More than a quarter-million beneficiaries will get new Medicare cards and numbers. Healt... Read more
Industry Note:
Hospital-At-Home Programs Score Extension In Budget Bill
Hospital-at-Home programs are getting a boost from the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill... Read more
Hospital-At-Home Programs Score Extension In Budget Bill
Hospital-at-Home programs are getting a boost from the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill... Read more
Industry Note:
Don't Forget: You Can Report Telehealth G-Codes Starting Jan. 1
It may not be a requirement yet, but the sooner you start submitting telehealth visits on ... Read more
Don't Forget: You Can Report Telehealth G-Codes Starting Jan. 1
It may not be a requirement yet, but the sooner you start submitting telehealth visits on ... Read more
Industry Note:
Bypass The Wait With A Clerical Error Reopening
Looking for a quick resolution to a clerical error claim problem? Your MAC can help. “W... Read more
Bypass The Wait With A Clerical Error Reopening
Looking for a quick resolution to a clerical error claim problem? Your MAC can help. “W... Read more
Industry Note:
CMS' Newest January Listening Session May Interest You
If you've got opinions about electronic signature requirements, Medicare officials want to... Read more
CMS' Newest January Listening Session May Interest You
If you've got opinions about electronic signature requirements, Medicare officials want to... Read more
Industry Note:
Home Office Cost Report Update Could Pose Trouble For The Unprepared
Don't miss an update to the home office cost report that came out recently. The Centers f... Read more
Home Office Cost Report Update Could Pose Trouble For The Unprepared
Don't miss an update to the home office cost report that came out recently. The Centers f... Read more
Industry Note:
Beware Of This Common Patient Records Scenario Pitfall
If a patient owes your agency money, can you withhold their medical records? HHS has the a... Read more
Beware Of This Common Patient Records Scenario Pitfall
If a patient owes your agency money, can you withhold their medical records? HHS has the a... Read more
Budget:
MedPAC Gears Up To Push 7% Cut To Home Health Pay
Sky-high profit margin puts target on HHAs' backs. Home health agency numbers and Medicar... Read more
MedPAC Gears Up To Push 7% Cut To Home Health Pay
Sky-high profit margin puts target on HHAs' backs. Home health agency numbers and Medicar... Read more
Payment:
MedPAC Commissioners Express Enthusiasm For Home Health Copays
Medicare beneficiaries don't have enough skin in the game, advisors to Congress argue. Wa... Read more
MedPAC Commissioners Express Enthusiasm For Home Health Copays
Medicare beneficiaries don't have enough skin in the game, advisors to Congress argue. Wa... Read more
Hospice:
MedPAC Set To Play Hospice Cap Broken Record — Again
One-third of hospices would exceed cap under lower threshold, according to estimates. ... Read more
MedPAC Set To Play Hospice Cap Broken Record — Again
One-third of hospices would exceed cap under lower threshold, according to estimates. ... Read more
Value-Based Purchasing:
Home Health VBP Is CMS Innovation Center Darling
Jan. 1 start date holds, as CMS celebrates saving a million dollars with the program. If ... Read more
Home Health VBP Is CMS Innovation Center Darling
Jan. 1 start date holds, as CMS celebrates saving a million dollars with the program. If ... Read more
Industry Notes:
Keep An Eye On Budget Legislation As 2022 Winds Down
Details remain fuzzy for the moment. Whether you see higher or lower payment rates in 202... Read more
Keep An Eye On Budget Legislation As 2022 Winds Down
Details remain fuzzy for the moment. Whether you see higher or lower payment rates in 202... Read more
Industry Notes:
Beware Edit 31755 In New Year
Don't forget: It's not just OASIS-E changes that may be snarling your systems come Jan. 1.... Read more
Beware Edit 31755 In New Year
Don't forget: It's not just OASIS-E changes that may be snarling your systems come Jan. 1.... Read more
Industry Notes:
Hospice MCCM Program's Stumbles Highlighted In New CMS Innovation Center Report
The hard time hospices had getting patients to enroll in the Medicare Care Choices Model i... Read more
Hospice MCCM Program's Stumbles Highlighted In New CMS Innovation Center Report
The hard time hospices had getting patients to enroll in the Medicare Care Choices Model i... Read more
Industry Notes:
Check Out Latest CDC Offering For COVID Prep
You can help your patients prepare for possible COVID cases with a new government resource... Read more
Check Out Latest CDC Offering For COVID Prep
You can help your patients prepare for possible COVID cases with a new government resource... Read more
Industry Notes:
Risk Your Reimbursement If Your F2F Documentation Fails The Test
Don't forget the details of your F2F duties, with so much else on your plate. “As a con... Read more
Risk Your Reimbursement If Your F2F Documentation Fails The Test
Don't forget the details of your F2F duties, with so much else on your plate. “As a con... Read more
Industry Notes:
HIPAA Noncompliance Can Lead To Jail Time, Recent Case Shows
If you think a HIPAA violation won't land you with a prison term, think again. Though rare... Read more
HIPAA Noncompliance Can Lead To Jail Time, Recent Case Shows
If you think a HIPAA violation won't land you with a prison term, think again. Though rare... Read more
Industry Notes:
PE-Backed Chain Makes Indiana Buy
The Care Team based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, has acquired 1st Care Home Health and C... Read more
PE-Backed Chain Makes Indiana Buy
The Care Team based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, has acquired 1st Care Home Health and C... Read more
Industry Notes:
Excluded CNA Costs Agency 6 Figures
Heed another reminder of why you need to check the OIG exclusions list. Summit Management... Read more
Excluded CNA Costs Agency 6 Figures
Heed another reminder of why you need to check the OIG exclusions list. Summit Management... Read more