The COVID Effect: A Comparative Analysis of April 2020 Medicare SNF Claims

Ken BellSkilled NursingLeave a Comment

The human mind is a poor processer of large numbers (“large” in this case is any figure with more than two digits). Accounting for fatalities from 1918’s influenza pandemic is, unfortunately, a logical place to begin a discussion about this evolutionary shortcoming. As curiosity naturally piqued interest about that strain’s … Read More

Texas SNFs: Nursing facility MDS authorization extensions

Ken BellClient News, Skilled Nursing2 Comments

This just in for Texas skilled nursing facilities: Announced on TMHP’s LTC page, the NF eligibility, MN, and the current RUG will be extended for 90 days.  They are encouraging providers to complete MDS’ as soon as possible. Guidance to Nursing Facility Providers The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) … Read More

NEW: 7 QRP-based QMs in SimpleAnalyzer™

Ken BellClient News, Skilled Nursing2 Comments

SimpleLTC is excited to announce that we’ve added 7 new QRP-based quality measures in SimpleAnalyzer™. You can now analyze and track the following QRP QMs… S001 – Functional Assessment/Care Plan S002 – Percent of Residents or Patients with Pressure Ulcers That Are New/Worsened S007 – Drug Regimen Review S013 – … Read More

New code for COVID-19 effective April 1

Lisa Selman-HolmanClient News, Skilled NursingLeave a Comment

The new code for COVID-19, U07.1, is one of two new codes that will be added to the code set effective April 1, 2020. New codes are usually effective on October 1, except in the case of emergency, so we will have two codes in the new U chapter, one … Read More

CMS waives QRP requirements in response to COVID-19

Ken BellClient News, Skilled NursingLeave a Comment

On Sunday, Mar 22, the Center of Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) waived several QRP requirements for skilled nursing facilities, allowing providers to focus all their attention on residents during the coronavirus pandemic.  “In granting these exceptions and extensions, CMS is supporting clinicians fighting Coronavirus on the front lines,” said … Read More