On January 9th, CMS issued a final rule that will update the Conditions of Participation (CoP) for home health agencies (HHAs) that participate in Medicare and Medicaid. The final rule updates clinical record requirements and formalizes skilled professional services criteria. It requires the implementation of: an integrated communication system, a quality assessment and performance improvement (QAPI) program, an infection and control program, and an emergency preparedness program. Unless otherwise noted, the provisions of the rule will go into effect on July 13, 2017.
The attached document summarizes key provisions of the rule. The text of the final rule is available here.