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