Influenza poses a deadly threat to the 65+ population. - SpecialtyRx
November 27, 2017
Influenza poses a deadly threat to the 65+ population.

Here’s how the latest Medicare changes help
us further embrace long-distance services

Technology has transformed the face of medicine as we know it, but its conveniences are never more apparent than in the areas of long-term and post-acute care. In the past, we’ve educated our partners on the advantages of incorporating telehealth services into their facilities. The problem is, Medicare policy puts limits on who and where providers can render these tech-savvy services, which ultimately hinders their potential.

The LTC telehealth trio

Superior patient care

Telehealth resources grant nurses greater confidence while treating their patients, giving them faster access to the right physicians exactly when they need them

Higher customer satisfaction

By avoiding unnecessary hospital transfers and admissions, patients and their families enjoy a more stable, comfortable and affordable quality of life

Greater cost benefits

For facilities lacking full-time specialized support staff, remote communication is a valuable money-saving asset; it also saves patients on expensive ER bills

New Year, New Codes

 

In early November, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services published official amendments to the 2018 CMS Physician Fee Schedule. These changes will expand the breadth of those services applicable to long-term care. Among the updates are four new addon codes addressing a wide range of patient-caregiver scenarios. Beginning in 2018, the CMS will also increase charges paid by originating sites to $25.76, as well as modify the GT coding requirement to lessen existing administrative burdens.

 

 

THE BIG FOUR

telehealth add-on codes

 

Ready for reimbursement

While not every CMS change will benefit LTC and similar facilities, regulatory consultants agree it’s a big win for everyone in the industry. Telehealth expert Emily Wein says, “Likely the most relevant development for LTC and PAC providers is the recognition of remote patient monitoring and the promise of more to come.” These transformations may be slow moving, but Wein recommends that we position ourselves to take full advantage.

Big benefits are just beyond the horizon

Stay with SpecialtyRx for more LTC regulatory revelations