Many updates have been released in relation to the Home Health Quality Reporting Program. The first of which pertains to the HHCAHPS Star Ratings Preview Reports that were released in September, and will influence the Care Compare update coming in October 2024. The data included in these reports covers the period from April 2023 through March 2024. It’s important that someone in your organization reviews these preview reports to understand how your organization will be reflected in the Care Compare update in October.
Agencies must stay compliant with the Home Health Quality Reporting Program, which helps prevent your agency from facing payment penalties in future years. This requires full participation in HHCAHPS. Your CMS-certified vendor will handle the survey process and submit the necessary information on your behalf.
Additionally, OASIS compliance requires that 90% of your OASIS assessments meet quality standards.
There is additionally a new requirement for transmitting OASIS for every patient, regardless of payer. Starting in July 2025, this will apply to all patients who meet the criteria for an OASIS assessment. While this will eventually affect your outcome measures, we’ve been informed that the impact won’t be immediate, but is something to keep in mind moving forward.
The Home Health Proposed Rule under the Home Health Quality Reporting Program includes plans to incorporate Social Determinants of Health starting in 2027. The proposed assessment items include one related to living situation, two addressing food security, and one focused on utilities. Additionally, they are proposing changes to the existing transportation item currently part of the OASIS assessment.
The Home Health Quality Reporting Program is evolving, with ongoing updates to the OASIS Assessment and how Outcome Measures are calculated. We’re also anticipating potential changes to the HHCAHPS survey in the next year or so.
As your agency navigates these updates to the Home Health Quality Reporting Program, it’s essential to ensure that your agency remains compliant and maximizes its potential for reimbursement. If you’re looking for assistance with billing and collections to help you adapt to these changes and optimize your revenue cycle, our team of knowledgeable, US-based professionals are here to help. Click here to schedule a call with our team and discover how our Billing and Collections services can support your organization in achieving its financial goals.
Healthcare Provider Solutions stands ready to help you with any of your Quality Reporting Program needs. For any questions you may have, please feel free to reach out to us.
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