With the holidays rapidly approaching, so is the effective date for the revisions to Medicare and Medicaid Home Health Conditions of Participation (CoPs). After nearly 20 years, CMS is ready to move forward with drastic revisions without delay, and it is imperative that home care agencies are ready to comply.
CMS responded to a NAHC letter that the effective date remains January 13, 2018, but they “will not impose Civil Monetary Penalties on any re-certification survey unless there is an immediate jeopardy situation” for the first year following the effective date.
As many of our existing clients already know, it will affect many sections of the admission booklet. But have no fear – we’ve got you covered. We have all these suggested changes in-house and will be ready to offer them to you when you call to reorder. Some sections that will be affected by the new CoPs include:
- Plan of Care
- Discharge, Transfer and Referral Policy
- Patient Rights and Responsibilities
- Patient In-Home Record
- Visit Schedule
- Medication Profile
- New Home Care Provider and Local Resources
Our editorial department is working diligently to implement these new changes into booklets. However, due to the influx of reorders and the extensive changes necessary, we ask clients to reorder at least 5 to 6 weeks out of needing new booklets, especially as the holiday season approaches. This gives us ample time to make the necessary edits; enough time for you to review the booklet proof; and plenty of time to print and ship the order.
As a new client, jumpstart your preparations today by contacting us to get started with a custom, compliant patient orientation booklet.
The holidays can be a stressful time of year – but the CoPs don’t have to be! Let us help you with the patient admission process. For more information regarding these new CoPs, visit the Federal Register for more information.
