ALL >> Health >> View Article
Specificity Scores Over Length When It Comes To Hospice Documentation

Worried about how physicians should write their attestations of hospice patients terminal illness? Hospices don't get much guidance from a recent CMS Q&A on the matter.
When you check out the new CMS requirement that took effect on October 1 last year, you'll find out that they have not mandated that specific language be included in the physician's attestation.
CMS lays down that any language under the physician's signature which attests that by signing, the physician confirms that she composed the narrative based on her review of the patient's medical record or, if applicable, her examination of the patient meets the attestation regulatory requirement.
The physician narrative is not tricky, but it can be hard to get physician paperwork. As such, you need to have a system in place where you track down the doctor to get the dated and signed certification paper work before you bill.
In fact, some home health agencies send clerks to wait in the doctor's office and ...
... actually find that it saves money in the long run. Instead, if you are caught up in a fraud edit, you would need to pull records, make copies and scans, pay for an attorney, and conduct an appeals process. All this can add up to great expenditure.
Performing internal compliance audits, with the help of a qualified attorney can be cheaper in the long run. Anything found would be covered under attorney client privilege and you can fix what you found before it lands you in trouble with the government.
The narrative can be short, but by simply stating ‘based on the patient's diagnosis, I certify that this patient has a prognosis of six months or less' will do the trick for you.
Surveyors can cite failure to have this documentation on file. If you miss a record, it can bring unwanted attention. The narrative must be specific and unique to the patient and should not contain check boxes or boilerplate text.
Provides free weekly newswire of home health agency and offers learning opportunity about hospice documentation and CMS that keeps connected to the latest developments in health-oriented services.
Add Comment
Health Articles
1. Top Chiropractic Billing Mistakes That Hurt Your Practice’s RevenueAuthor: infohubconsultancy
2. A Comprehensive Guide To Pet Respiratory Support
Author: VetSupply
3. Are Premium Supplements Worth The Price? Benefits Of Best Health Supplement
Author: John Smith
4. Exploring How Digital Imaging Has Revolutionized Diagnostic Processes
Author: Vheartcare
5. Discover Comfortable Root Canal Care For A Healthy Smile
Author: Dr Abhilash
6. Choosing The Right Hair Transplant Clinic In Ahmedabad: What To Know In 2025
Author: new touch
7. Pet Pain Relief: The Complete Vet-approved Guide For Caring Pet Parents
Author: VetSupply
8. What Is Implant Supported Overdenture?
Author: Perio PDX
9. Ivf Centre In Saudi Arabia: Global Choices From Uae To South Africa For Your Parenthood Journey
Author: Juhi Fertility
10. Top Occurrence Codes Used In Snf Billing And What They Mean
Author: Charlie Robinson
11. For Effective Weight Loss And A Fit Body And Mind Get Enrolled In A Weight Loss Clinic!
Author: Alexis Pelloe
12. Enjoy An Adult Massage To Calm Your Mind And Soul
Author: Emma Brain
13. From Tooth Loss To Confidence: The Impact Of Dental Prosthetics
Author: Ansley Colton
14. Nitrous Oxide Vs. Oral Sedation For Kids: Which Is Safer?
Author: Pat
15. Dr. Tirumala Prasad: The Foremost Robotic Surgeon
Author: Dr.Tirumala Prasad