The fiscal year 2026 proposed hospice rule brings cautious optimism to providers with a projected 2.4% payment increase, though experienced hospices know to factor in the ongoing 2% sequestration when calculating their bottom line. For those who've long struggled with regulatory inconsistencies, this rule delivers welcome clarification on who can certify hospice eligibility, aligning payment regulations with Conditions of Participation after years of confusion.

Most significantly, CMS confirms the HOPE assessment tool will launch on October 1, 2025, as scheduled. Despite earlier speculation about potential delays, hospices should maintain implementation momentum, with CMS planning one final training session this summer. Face-to-face attestation requirements also receive much-needed clarification, potentially reducing one of the top reasons for claim denials.

Beyond operational updates, CMS seeks provider input through several Requests for Information. They're exploring digital quality measurement using FHIR-based reporting, considering new quality measures around well-being and nutrition, and looking for opportunities to streamline regulations and reduce administrative burden. This represents a genuine opportunity for hospice providers to shape future requirements.

The relatively slim 62-page rule contains consequential changes that demand attention. Providers should thoroughly review the complete document, evaluate potential financial impacts, coordinate with state and national associations on comments, and ensure staff education aligns with the clarified regulations. With the comment period closing June 10 and the final rule expected in early August, the time to prepare is now. Let your voice be heard on these important changes that will influence hospice care delivery and reimbursement for years to come.

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The episode examines the top 10 home health survey deficiencies of 2024, underscoring the importance of compliance and effective care planning. Jennifer and Kim provide actionable strategies for home health agencies to enhance their survey readiness and improve quality care.
• Identifying and understanding the top 10 deficiencies for compliance
• Importance of comprehensive assessments in care planning
• Challenges faced in interdisciplinary care coordination
• Significance of infection prevention during home health visits
• Technical requirements regarding patient rights documentation
• Strategies for ongoing survey readiness and case management best practices
• Utilizing CHAP resources for enhanced compliance strategies
• Importance of ongoing education and staff training in home health settings

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Understanding the top 10 hospice deficiencies for 2024 is crucial for providers committed to compliance and quality care. This episode explores key themes like survey readiness, comprehensive assessments, case management roles, and the importance of continuous improvement strategies.

• Importance of recognizing key hospice deficiencies
• Challenges in today's survey environment
• Trends focusing on care planning and assessments
• Case management as an essential component of patient care
• Emphasis on interdisciplinary teamwork and communication
• Necessity of mock surveys for ongoing readiness
• Strategies for maintaining compliance and enhancing care quality

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For over 60 years, CHAP has been leading the way in home and community-based care, and now CHAPcast is leveling up! With a dynamic new format, co-hosts Jennifer Kennedy and Kim Skehan bring their expertise, passion, and a touch of personality to every episode.

Get ready for deeper dives into the issues that matter—breaking down policy updates, exploring cutting-edge trends, and sharing practical tools to help you thrive. Fresh perspectives and actionable insights you can use right away.

Whether on a commute, in the office, or just catching a moment to yourself, CHAPcast is here to keep you informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve.

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Joe Russell, Vice President of Network Management and Contracting at Strategic Healthcare shares his invaluable perspective on how community-based providers can thrive despite the dominance of managed care plans and the ever-present issues of fraud, waste, and abuse.

Our conversation uncovers the influence of pivotal regulatory shifts, such as the Affordable Care Act and CMS initiatives, on managed care. We navigate the delicate balance between cost containment and quality care, addressing critical challenges like authorization limits and the impact of timely payments on providers.

As we look to the horizon, our dialogue transitions into the evolving dynamics of provider-payer relationships, where data-driven quality metrics take center stage. The burgeoning landscape of managed Medicare Advantage plans demands a new level of collaboration between payers and providers, with an emphasis on trust and innovative cost-containment solutions.

We explore the significance of aligning with metrics like star ratings and rehospitalization rates to enhance opportunities and reimbursement. Value-based care in post-acute settings is poised for growth, and providers must lead the charge by understanding their costs and crafting compelling value propositions for managed care plans.

Join us as we chart the course for the future of healthcare, where collaboration and strategic partnerships will redefine success.

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Unlock the strategies that can transform your approach to healthcare communication! Join Jennifer Kennedy, CHAP's lead for compliance and quality, and Pat Driscoll, a professor in healthcare administration and chair of CHAP's board, as they reveal how to effectively communicate value and quality in today's fiercely competitive healthcare landscape. This episode is packed with actionable insights on overcoming the challenges faced by post-acute care providers, ensuring continuity of care, and fostering proactive collaboration between hospital systems and community-based providers.

Discover how to elevate your post-acute care value by engaging with key decision-makers early and designing robust programs for managing chronic diseases and high-acuity patients. Pat Driscoll offers expert advice on becoming indispensable partners in the continuum of care, emphasizing the importance of delivering on promises and embracing value-based care models. The episode concludes with a compelling discussion on fostering dynamic partnerships and integrating learnings back into your organization for continuous quality improvement. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your healthcare practice and improve patient outcomes through effective communication and collaboration.

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How have federal regulatory changes reshaped the role of hospice medical directors from mere formalities to key players in patient care and organizational leadership? Join Jennifer Kennedy and our esteemed guest, Dr. Daniel Maison, as we unpack the historical "three S's" and explore the significant transformations driven by CMS regulations. You'll gain valuable insights into the evolving responsibilities of hospice medical directors, highlighting their integral contributions to both operational and clinical aspects within hospice organizations.

Tune in to discover practical strategies for engaging medical directors in leadership roles and optimizing interdisciplinary group (IDG) meetings. Dr. Maison shares his expert advice on creating a collaborative environment that values physicians' contributions, prevents burnout, and fosters continuous education. Learn how to leverage physicians' expertise for educational opportunities and involve them in decision-making processes to enhance patient care and drive organizational growth. This episode promises a comprehensive look at the enhanced recognition and vital role of hospice medical directors in today's healthcare landscape.

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