The updates include the addition of one new item to the OASIS. Additionally, two items will be removed entirely, a change anticipated due to their limited relevance in OASIS calculations. Three existing items have been revised refer to the manual for further details on those updates. Lastly, the skip pattern for M0102 has been updated.
The manual itself underwent only minor revisions, all of which are in Chapter 1. A paragraph from the OASIS Q&A was added to this chapter, along with an example in the section on OASIS data collection. This example includes a Medicaid-certified Pediatric Home Health Agency. Updates were also made in section 1.5.1.1, where information about All-Payer OASIS was included. Additionally, examples from the OASIS Q&A address scenarios involving pediatric patients who turn 18. As a reminder, OASIS is not required for pediatric patients, but if a patient transitions to adulthood while still receiving skilled services, OASIS will need to be completed for them.
Starting January 1, 2025, completing OASIS for all patients, regardless of payer, will be required on a voluntary basis, becoming fully mandatory on July 1, 2025. It’s important to note that OASIS submission is only required for patients who meet the criteria for OASIS completion. For example, OASIS is not currently completed for pediatric patients, so they will not fall under this requirement. Similarly, patients receiving only home health aide services, non-skilled home health aide services, or homemaker services will continue to be exempt from OASIS collection.
Remember, this applies to any patient seen under your Medicare-certified agency. Whether the patient is private pay, paying directly by check, a workers’ compensation case, or otherwise, you would need to complete OASIS for them if the services provided would require OASIS completion under the Medicare benefit.
It’s important to ensure your agency is fully prepared for this requirement. Don’t wait until July 1 to get started. It is recommended that beginning preparations by March to ensure your agency is ready and compliant well in advance.
Healthcare Provider Solutions will be updating its five-part OASIS-E series to reflect the changes in OASIS-E1. This updated series will be available for purchase on our website.
Additionally, we offer OASIS-E1 education for your staff, both in-person and virtually. If you need any assistance with OASIS education, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
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