| To: | Enrolled Hospice Agencies |
| Date: | November 7, 2016 |
| Re: |
Chapter K-200, Handbook for Hospice Agencies - Reissue
|
The Department is reissuing the Handbook for Hospice Agencies, Chapter K-200, Policy and Procedures for Hospice Services. Providers are encouraged to review the handbook in its entirety. This handbook, in conjunction with the Handbook for Providers of Medical Services, Chapter 100, General Policy and Procedures, provides information necessary for providers to receive payment from the Department for hospice services.
Some updates of particular note:
- Physician certification requirements have been modified to state if the hospice cannot obtain the written certification of terminal illness within two calendar days after a benefit period begins, it must obtain an oral certification within two calendar days, and the written certification before it submits a claim for payment. Previously there were non-payment ramifications as identified in notices dated April 7, 2014 and July 30, 2014 if the hospice did not get the written certification within eight days after care was initiated.
- Policy has been included regarding the two-tier routine home care payment system and the service intensity add-on payment.
Any questions may be directed to a hospice billing consultant in the Bureau of Hospital and Provider Services at 1-877-782-5565.
Felicia F. Norwood
Director
