March 2015 is quickly approaching, which means that Texas nursing facilities have less than five months to complete their preparations for the transition from fee-for-service to Medicaid managed care (STAR+PLUS).

The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) issued a bulletin this week reminding Texas facilities of the looming March 1, 2015 deadline.

Beginning on that date, nursing home residents who are covered by Medicaid and who are eligible for STAR+PLUS will get their basic health services (acute care) and long-term care services through STAR+PLUS managed care. The current fee for service payment structure will be eliminated.

In addition, people who get both Medicaid and Medicare (dual eligible) will get their basic health services through Medicare and their long-term care services through STAR+PLUS Medicaid.

Managed care organizations (MCOs) began contracting with nursing homes in July 2014. Providers must have current Medicaid certification status and a current license to be eligible to contract with STAR+PLUS MCOs.

DADS suggest that long-term care providers visit the DADS nursing facility managed care page to keep abreast of the changes and deadlines. Questions about managed care can also be emailed to HHSC.

As we’ve noted before, SimpleCFS™ will continue to support the many changing facets of Texas Medicaid for our nearly 900 Texas SNF customers. If you have questions, please feel free to contact us.