The Latest News From SDAHO

Medicare SNF Value Based Purchasing (VBP)

Long Term Care News February 23, 2017

This program will begin with the rate year starting on Oct. 1, 2018. In the first year, the only quality measure used will be 30-day all cause readmission rates (both the overall rate and improvement by each facility). The first measurement period will be calendar year 2017.

Medicare Overpayments Rule

Long Term Care News February 23, 2017

CMS has implemented a rule governing the ACA requirement to identify and return Medicare overpayments to CMS within 60 days. Under the rule, providers, including Skilled Nursing Facilities, are required to use “reasonable diligence” to identify overpayments and to see that they are returned within the time frame to avoid penalties.

Medicare and Medicaid Conditions of Participation for Home Health Agencies

Federal News February 23, 2017

This proposed federal rule revises the conditions of participation that home health agencies must meet to participate in Medicare and Medicaid. It updates many existing regulatory requirements and creates new requirements.

Hazardous Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Long Term Care News February 23, 2017

The EPA has proposed a rule that would increase regulations regarding disposal of pharmaceuticals classified as hazardous waste. Facilities would be prohibited from disposing of hazardous waste pharmaceuticals by flushing them down the toilet or into a drain.