In May 2022, CMS sent out information to providers regarding exemptions to  CMS emergency preparedness testing exercise requirements during the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE). Some agencies have been running their organization on their emergency preparedness plan since the PHE was declared. Other agencies have reactivated their emergency preparedness plan due to an increase of COVID cases in their surrounding area. While some agencies have resumed normal operating status. Continue reading →

Some states require home health agencies to complete a criminal background check on all new direct employees. Other states require staff complete fingerprint checks prior to hire. If you are a Hospice agency Medicare requires Hospice Agencies to complete background checks on all direct care employees and volunteers §418.114(d). Continue reading →

As of January 13, 2017 the Federal Register published the final rule for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) regarding changes to Home Health’s Conditions of Participation (CoPs). The changes in the new CoPs were to be effective July 13, 2017. This has now been delayed to January 13, 2018. Continue reading →

On September 8, 2016, the Federal Register posted the final rule Emergency Preparedness Requirements for Medicare and Medicaid Agencies. This is required of all 17 Medicare provider and supplier types including Home Health and Hospice Agencies.Agencies must comply will all applicable Federal, State and local Emergency Preparedness requirements. Continue reading →