CMS posts latest release of Public Use File

CMS has posted the latest Home Health Agency Public Use File (PUF), with data from 2016

CMS to detail progress on major new hospice tool

CMS this month will detail for hospices the progress it’s making on its planned Hospice Evaluation and Assessment Reporting Tool (HEART).

Tip: Audits and the False Claims Act’s far reach

If the results of an internal audit determine that Medicare was billed inappropriately, the provider is in potential violation of the False Claims Act, which describes a violator as any entity or person that causes the federal government to make payments for goods or services that are a) not provided, b) provided contrary to federal standards or law, or c) provided at a level or quality different than what the claim was submitted for.

Alzheimer’s Association launches pilot to help ALFs care for patients

The Alzheimer’s Association has launched a pilot program to connect dementia care experts with assisted-living facilities (ALF). The program is modeled after ECHO, or Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes, a telemonitoring program that uses videoconferencing to share information. This pilot connects dementia care experts with leaders from ALFs. The program lasts six months and will include presentations and case studies to enhance care.

Only $59! SNF Final Rule Webinar

CMS’ final rule, effective in October 2019, is a major overhaul for the long-term care industry, including SNFs. To survive, stakeholders must understand how reimbursement will work and how their facilities will need to function.