Twogether Updates

January 14th, 2022 ICF/IID and HCS Surveys:  HHSC has responded to questions providers have asked regarding the current backlog of surveys and what time period will be reviewed/surveyed when a provider finally receives its survey. Should you have further questions, please email HHSC at:  LTCRPolicy@hhs.texas.gov In regards to ICF surveys, the facility needs to be able to show compliance at all times.  Some areas of compliance require (at least) annual updates (i.e. Individual program plans),...

January 14th, 2022 Twogether Consulting has been informed that it is very important HCS and ICF/IID providers attend the webinar from HHSC on 1/19/22. The webinar is being held in response to recent discussions between the 3 IDD associations and HHSC regarding the increase in COVID cases, ongoing staff (direct care and nurse) shortages (which have now been exacerbated because of COVID), limited to no access to PPE and testing resources and inconsistent (and at times unclear) rules and policies...

January 14th, 2022 Vaccine Mandates: Earlier today the Supreme Court issued its rulings on the CMS and OSHA Vaccine Mandates. The Supreme Court stayed the OSHA mandate and permitted the CMS mandate.  As a reminder, the CMS mandate applies to ICFs/IID.  For further details, go to:  https://www.supremecourt.gov/ December 1st, 2021 Judge Doughty, U.S. District Court, Western District of Louisiana, blocked enforcement of the CMS Interim Final Rule (which among other LTC programs, applies to...

January 14th, 2022 HHSC LTCR Individualized Skills and Socialization Services Webinar HHSC invites Home and Community-based Services, Texas Home Living, Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities, Home and Community Support Services Agency, and other providers to attend the Long-term Care Regulation Individualized Skills and Socialization Services Webinar. Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. If so, try using another browser, such as Google Chrome or...

January 10th, 2022 Update From Twogether Consulting! Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season!  The New Year is here, and we hope 2022 will be a good year for Long-Term Care providers and the individuals they serve.  It will definitely be a year of change!   Please contact us directly for your care coordination, QIDP, and nursing needs at info@twogetherconsulting.com or you may contact our assistant Meghan Jones at meghanjones.tx@gmail.com. We are happy to say that we can still continue to...

Check Out These Resources For Persons With Disabilities From The              Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott https://gov.texas.gov/organization/disabilities/coronavirus Government COVID 19 Information and Resources https://tcdd.texas.gov/resources/covid-19-information/government/ Other Texas Organizations There are a number of disability-related organizations in Texas that are sharing information and resources related to COVID-19. Below you’ll find links to their COVID-19 webpages and...

January 10th, 2022 When was Omicron Variant First Found in Texas and What is This Variant of COVID-19?  (Please see article below) Texas Identifies Case of COVID-19 Omicron Variant News Release Dec. 6, 2021 The first known Texas case of the COVID-19 B.1.1.529 variant has been identified in a resident of Harris County. The adult female resident was recently diagnosed with COVID-19. Results of genetic sequencing this week showed that the infection was caused by the Omicron variant strain. The...

Our free webinar session recordings previously recorded are currently posted on our "Gotostage" page. https://www.gotostage.com/channel/3b0bd3b1a47c4e80be974f4bcfa54d7b Free Webinars!! January 2021 Free Webinar  “1099 Contractor Concerns” Presented by ADP Payroll & HR" Twogether Consulting is happy to have ADP Payroll & HR Services again as a resource for IDD providers in our free webinar series for the month of January 2022! Free Webinar Series Hosted By: Twogether Consulting...

Revised Guidance on Staff Work Restrictions and Return to Work HHSC has issued revised guidance for long-term care providers experiencing staffing shortages due to COVID-19. The requirement to contact LTCR before implementing CDC guidance on staff work restrictions and return-to-work has been removed. "Guidance and Protocol for Long-Term Care Facilities Experiencing Staffing Shortages due to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. This checklist provides guidance for long-term care facilities...

January 9th, 2022 Please click on link below to take you to the "LTC Online Portal Basics" page with important information on usages for the portal,  e-learning training sessions, and pdfs of manuals needed for navigating the portal LTC Online Portal Basics page By Provider Training Services Published: Mar 5, 2021 Duration1h This interactive training provides a basic overview of the Long Term Care (LTC) Online Portal including an overview of the features of the blue navigational bar and the...

January 7th, 2022 ICF COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ Updated – Jan. 7 Document   Version    Date    Change    Comments Version 3.5                1/5/2022     Changes to pages 6, 31, 38, 39, 40, 51, 72 71, and Changes made to reflect the most updated CDC guidance. Version 3.4               12/07/2021  Changes to pages 15, 16, 25, 26, 31, 35 Edited to include revised ICF COVID-19 Provider Response Mitigation Rules for ICFs/IID For changes made previous to 12/07/2021,  please read the Table of...

January 7th, 2022 HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Response Plan Updated – Jan. 7th, 2022 HHSC has revised the HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Response Plan in response to the most recent CDC guidance. September 23rd, 2022 HCS COVID-19 Mitigation & Expansion of Visitation Rules:  Revision Response Plan   COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF) in response to the revised HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Mitigation and Visitation rules Update:   April 17th, 2021 HHSC Publishes HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rules...

COVID-19 Resources January 9th, 2022 January 6, 2022 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session The audio from this session can be found here. Email us for transcript The presentation can be found here. Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly. COVID-19 Provider Information COVID-19 Client Information For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us.   December 30, 2021 COVID-19...

Please go to www.twogetherconsulting.com for more information and registration. Click on  "the calendar" of the Webinar you want to attend.  ********We also have pre-recorded webinars you can purchase for use at your facility.  Please contact Meghan Jones at: meghanjones.tx@gmail.com for more information, registration, and payment.       January 2022 Nursing Documentation & Billable Services Direct Support Staff Documentation: Service Delivery Logs, Behavioral Progress,...

January 9th, 2022 Register for HCS and TxHmL Webinars, Additional Training Resources Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership is hosting Long-term Care Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Waiver Program webinars for program providers, Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities, and financial management services agencies that submit claims on behalf of Consumer Directed Services employers. Each webinar is composed of two sessions. Attendees can register for...

January 9th, 2022 Reminder: SB 809 / Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is posting the list of healthcare institutions, as identified by HHSC, who must submit reports in compliance with Senate Bill 809 or Rider 143. The list also identifies those providers who have not submitted a SB 809/Rider 143 Report. The list can be found on the Provider Finance website under SB 809/Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting Healthcare Institution List. Note: this list is for...

January 8th, 2022 EVV Policy Handbook Revisions – Jan. 7th, 2022 HHSC revised parts of the Electronic Visit Verification Policy Handbook. These revisions are effective Jan. 7 and are listed in Revision Notice 22-1. The handbook’s policies include EVV standards and policy requirements for: Program providers. Financial Management Services Agencies. Consumer Directed Services employers. Payers, such as HHSC and managed care organizations. For questions, email HHSC EVV Operations. November 21st,...

December 30th, 2021 “Study & Prep Session For HCS Provider Applicant Test”  Contact us for a copy of pre-recorded session from November 3rd, 2021 This Training is Not Affiliated In Any Way with HHSC It is Provided by Twogether Consulting, a private consulting company for HCS/TxHmL & ICF providers  (As well as persons  seeking Information about these Medicaid programs) (We will be reviewing some TxHmL information as well) Cost:  $150/person To register, please go to:   Topics:    ...

Based on the many phone calls, emails and contacts through our social media pages concerning Job Positions Desired and Job Openings with HCS providers, I have decided to use our "Updates" page to provide a place where both those persons desiring a position with an HCS Provider and those Posting a Job Position can find each other! We will not neccesarily be posting the job description or information on this page directly.  If you contact Meghan Jones at meghanjones.tx@gmail.com and let her know...

HCS and TxHmL program providers, Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority agencies, and Financial Management Services Agencies billing on behalf of Consumer Directed Services employers can register for webinars starting next month. These webinars will cover information about the Long-Term Care Online Portal and forms that HCS and TxHmL program providers will use. The webinars will: Include a live Q&A session Begin in February 2022 Details, including dates, times, and...

December 25th, 2021 The extension for DH goes through January 31st, 2022 now.  See Nov. 21st, 2021 information below. November 21st, 2021 HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information Revision/Update for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-53) Texas HHSC is temporarily waiving certain requirements in Section 3710, 4381.3, 4381.7(6) and 4381.7(7) of the Home and Community-based Services Billing Guidelines and the Texas Home Living Billing Guidelines. This is due to COVID-19 and to...

December 20th, 2021 Check LEIE/OIG and check With the implementation of FBI-based fingerprinting in 2021, Long-term Care Regulation (LTCR) also implemented Occupations Code (OC), Chapter 53, related to the consequences of a criminal conviction, specifically the 2019 legislative update to OC §53.023 concerning additional factors for licensing authorities to consider after determining a conviction directly relates to the occupation. Policy Details & Provider Responsibilities Long-term care...

December 17th, 2021 The link doesn't inform providers about current information but will provide future information about ARPA funds, and will be available on the newly created HHSC Grants webpage. Press Release: Governor Abbott, HHSC Announce $128 Million To Support Staffing Needs At Rural Hospitals, Nursing Facilities | Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott HHSC Grants Webpage: COVID-19 in Healthcare Relief Grants | Texas Health and Human Services According to the HHSC Provider Finance...

December 12th, 2021 ISS (Individualized Skills and Socialization)   Changes to Day Habilitation (DH) programs are coming for HCS/TxHmL!  The link below contains a discussion concerning the implementation of a recommendation in the Rider 21 Report (General Appropriations Act for FY 2020-2021, 86th Session) related to the monitoring of DH programs which will transition to the provision of ISS. To view, the report go to: ...

November 4th, 2021 HCS and TxHmL Annual Vendor Submission Timeframe The timeframe to submit for annual vendor approval is Nov.1, 2021 through Jan. 31, 2022. Required documentation for annual vendor requests are in the HCS and TxHmL Billing Guidelines, Section 6160(b)(2), Approval of Annual Vendor. Email packet submissions to Billing and Payment with the subject line: Annual Vendor Approval. Submissions sent to any other email addresses may not be received. If you are unable to meet the...

The HHS Learning Portal  Please bookmark the new location or click here and save to “Favorites” The new web address for the HHS Learning Portal is: https://learningportal.hhs.texas.gov New & Current HCS/TxHmL Providers, Please Take These Trainings The e-learning portal. This is where Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation Training ( the ANE training) for you and your staff is. All staff at the facility should take this at least initially and maybe every 1-2 years ANE E-Learning page ***You may need...

November 23rd, 2021  While most of the suspensions related to COVID-19 have ended, the following HCS suspensions are still in place. HHSC will still allow an HCS four-person residence to add up to two additional individuals temporarily if the residence has the space to accommodate them and has been approved as a four-person residence by HHSC. (Rule: 40 TAC §9.153(39)(B)) Suspension of the requirement for HCS providers to ensure at least one complete staff shift change per day for individuals...

November 23rd, 2021 Very Important !!!!  HCS & TxHmL Providers:  Migration of CARE to TMHP "Beginning March 1, 2022, Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) program providers, local intellectual developmental disability authority (LIDDA) agencies, and financial management services agencies (FMSAs) billing on behalf of consumer-directed services (CDS) employers will submit claims and forms to the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP). It’s...

November 10, 2021, HCS, TxHmL, CLASS, DBMD Webinar Recording Available Last updated on 11/22/2021 A recording of the November 10, 2021, Home and Community-based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living (TxHmL), Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS), and Deaf-blind Multiple Disabilities (DBMD) Webinar with Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Long-term Services and Supports is available for those who could not attend. Read the HCS, TxHmL, CLASS, and DBMD Webinar (PDF)....

As some of you may know, Twogether Consulting does not work for Taskmaster Pro, but we do have quite a bit of experience with their software and I love the benefits of this "cloud-based" program.  In the past, I have also used the software for my own HCS program as we had HCS contracts in over 32 counties.  Electronic Records were a must for us with that many counties to keep track of and service providers to monitor!  No matter who you choose to provide those services.  I do, however, highly...

November 21st, 2021 COVID-19 Update to Temporary Change for Service Providers of Respite and CFC PAS/HAB HHSC has lifted the ban on service providers of respite and CFC PAS/HAB from living in the same home as the person receiving Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living program services. This gives access to needed services for people living in their own or family’s home. A person’s spouse or a minor child’s parent still cannot be a paid service provider of these services due to...

Get Your Promotions for Becoming A New ADP Clients:  - 1st  3 months free   - Other Discounts Available! November 21st, 2021 Twogether Consulting strives to find a variety of good resources for our IDD providers and hope that ADP may be able to help some of you out there with Payroll and HR needs. Our newest contact from ADP is, Rachel Sawyer. She is the Major Accounts District Manager for Austin, Texas area, but can help you wherever you are located.  She can assist our HCS/TxHmL/and...

November 16th, 2021 Many states have already filed lawsuits against the COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate. This includes lawsuits against the CMS Interim Final rule, the OSHA  Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) and the Federal Contractors rule.  The Texas Attorney General (AG) Office announced it is also challenging the CMS Federal Contractors rules. Not sure what this means for providers yet, but you may need to continue to prepare for implementation until otherwise directed. See links below for more...

November 16th, 2021 Starting August 2021, HHSC has begun the transition to one system for Provider Enrollment Management which will move to 1 "smart system" if you want to become a Medicaid vendor/Medicaid provider, re-enrollment every 5 years, and the forms/application will be uniform.  They will go directly into TMHP system, not to HHSC.  The current paper application forms will not be required.  They have begun the process with existing providers. One system=PEMS One NPI-based enrollment...

November 6th, 2021 LTC Providers May Request COVID-19 Emergency Support For Emergency Staffing Support: The Office of the Governor directed DSHS to use staffing agencies to provide medical personnel from out-of-state to Texas health care facilities to assist in COVID-19 operations. This support will be available to residential long-term care providers. -Providers must demonstrate that they have exhausted all other options. -Also that they have urgent need for assistance before requesting...

August 12th, 2021 HCS/TxHmL Certification Principle Interpretive Guidance Series Starting August 12, 2021, the HCS/ TxHmL Joint Training Program bgan presenting a series of nine webinars designed to provide interpretive guidance on the HCS and TxHmL Principles of Certification, as outlined in the Texas Administrative Code. You may click on the links to previously recorded trainings below to watch any of the nine sessions on Certification Principles from the Texas Administrative Codes....

CMS and OSHA just released their respective interim final rules on the vaccine mandate.  Below are links to their rules, webinars and other related items. For further details see below as well as the information at the following link:  https://homehealthcarenews.com/2021/11/cms-releases-emergency-regulation-requiring-covid-19-vaccinations-for-medicare-medicaid-providers/?euid=6e81729339&utm_source=hhcn-newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=c7ada108f8 CMS: Link to Interim Final...

November 1st, 2021 October 22nd, 2021 (late mid-month edition) October 3rd, 2021  September 16th, 2021 September 2nd, 2021 August 15th, 2021 August 2nd, 2021 July 18th, 2021 July 5th, 2021 June 15th, 2021 June 1st, 2021 May 15th, 2021 May 2nd, 2021 Newsletter Library Starting this month, we are going to post copies of our bi-monthly e-mail newsletters on this "Newsletter Library" page.  We use a "Mailchimp" platform Here is our most recent bi-monthly newsletter sent out to providers.  See...

HHSC Publishes Acceptable Documentation for a Criminal History Check for Contractors (IL 2021-48) HHSC has published IL 2021-48 (PDF). This letter is provided as a companion letter to PL 2019-01 (PDF) which describes acceptable documentation a contractor may use to demonstrate the contractor conducted a criminal history check of an employment applicant or an employee. Licensed contractors must continue to follow the guidance outlined in PL 2019-01. Unlicensed contractors must follow the...

HHSC Publishes Information to Assist People with Terminated SSI (IL 2021-47) HHSC has published IL 2021-47 (PDF). It assists people with terminated Supplemental Security Income. In Texas, people who get Supplemental Security Income benefits are eligible for Medicaid. Under normal circumstances, termination of SSI benefits results in losing Medicaid coverage.  When the continuous Medicaid coverage period ends, these individuals will lose their Medicaid coverage unless their SSI benefits are...

Vote early in Texas through Friday, October 29 DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST If you are registered to vote, you have the right to vote! Although you are not allowed to use your phone or electronics for notes, you can take handwritten or printed notes with you into the voting booth. That’s why we created a free Plan Your Vote downloadable checklist, which includes the number for Disability Rights Texas’s Voting Hotline in case you encounter issues casting your ballot. It may also help to review your...

Rising To The Challenge! PPAT Fall Conference We are sorry to report that the conference has been canceled at this time.  I believe they plan to reschedule for the Spring of 2022! We should have more information in the near future about the cancelation, and when there is a confirmation of when the conference will be rescheduled. If you signed up as a Sponsor, Vendor, or Registered for the Conference please contact PPAT for more information and reimbursements. You may contact the office at...

October 18th, 2021 SB 8 (ARPA funds) Passed by the Senate and House! The Senate passed SB 8. and the House passed SB 8 as of this evening!  The bill appropriates $13 billion of the $16 billion available in ARPA funds. The bill reflects agreements reached by the conference committee and can be viewed at: https://lrl.texas.gov/scanned/87ccrs/sb0008_3c.pdf#navpanes=0 In reviewing the document, please note the following: Pages 3-24 contain the committee report in bill language.  To view bill...

October 3rd, 2021 HHSC Announces HCS and TxHmL Interpretive Guidance Page HHSC Long-term Care Regulation created the HCS and TxHmL Interpretive Guidance page. This page connects program providers with relevant tools for rule interpretation. It includes the Interpretative Guidance booklet and Certification Principle training. October 3rd, 2021 Twogether Consulting highly recommends you read through the HCS/TxHmL Interpretive Guidance Booklet and keep this PDF downloaded on your desktop for...

September 30th, 2021 CAP Update: Administrative Penalties for ICFs (PL 21-34) HHSC published Provider Letter 21-34 Amended Statutory Cap Regarding Administrative Penalties for Intermediate Care Facilities. PL 21-34 notifies providers of changes to how HHSC determines and imposes administrative penalties based on changes made by House Bill 3720 (87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021).

For Previously Recorded Webinars & FAQ's https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/long-term-care-providers/resources/hcs-txhml-webinars-faqs September 21st, 2021 Updated HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 FAQ  HHSC has revised the Updated HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 FAQ (PDF) August 15th, 2021  HCS and TxHmL Webinar Recording Available " WSC Transition into HHSC LTCR" (From August 10th, 2021) Long-term Care Regulation hosted a webinar for HCS and TxHmL program providers to discuss upcoming...

September 21st, 2021 Updated CDC Guidance for LTC Facilities on Accessing COVID-19 Vaccine – Sept. 2021 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recently updated resources for long-term care facilities on how to help residents and staff access COVID-19 vaccines: Vaccine Access in Long-term Care Settings Care Administrators and Managers: Options for Coordinating Access to COVID-19 Vaccines Jurisdictions Can Ensure COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Staff and Residents in Long-term Care...

September 21, 2021 COVID-19 FAQ's Updated For HCS/TxHmL HHSC has revised the Updated HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 FAQ (PDF)  in response to the revised HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Mitigation and Visitation rules.   September 21st,2021 COVID-19 Response Plan Revised HCS/TxHmL   COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF) in response to the revised HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Mitigation and Visitation rules 9/21/21 Updated to reflect changes in response to GA-38 regarding facemasks and updated CDC guidance The Table...

HHSC and Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant Bringing webinar series to health care professionals. It discusses the work of Dr. Montessori and the Montessori Method when working with older adults with dementia. Dr. Cameron Camp provides this series. The series will also focus on understanding the application of Montessori principles to improving staff engagement. Discussions includes specific principles and techniques. Montessori Inspired Lifestyle: Montessori Based Dementia...

HHSC Publishes Guidance for Ending of the Temporary Suspension of Certain LTCR Requirements During COVID-19 Outbreak (PL 2021-29) Updated September 15th, 2021  (Originally posted on August 15th, 2021) HHSC has published Provider Letter 2021-29 (replaces PL 2020-21 and 2020-26) - End of Temporary Suspension of Certain LTCR Requirements During COVID-19 Outbreak (PDF). The letter describes the rule suspensions that ended, the rule suspensions that are still in place, and the rule suspensions that...

Very Important Updates on Emergency & Disaster Preparedness During the Pandemic Resources Listed Are From CMS & HHSC  See Info For ICF Facilities Below     Life Safety:  Updated Guidance for Emergency Preparedness-Appendix Z of the State Operations Manual (SOM) Emergency Preparedness Participant Workbook  Interim Guidance for Hurricane Evacuation Transport to General Population Shelters during the COVID-19 Pandemic Interim Guidance for General Population Disaster Shelters...

September 5th, 2021 HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-39) The Texas HHSC is temporarily waiving certain requirements in Section 3710, 4381.3, 4381.7(6) and 4381.7(7) of the Home and Community-based Services Billing Guidelines and the Texas Home Living Billing Guidelines. This is in response to COVID-19 and to provide access to needed day habilitation services. HHSC has published a revision to this guidance, IL 2021-39 In-Home Day...

September 5th, 2021 Now Called Billing Requirements Not Billing Guidelines!!!! HHSC Publishes Revision 21-3 of the HCS and TxHmL Program Billing Requirements and CFC Billing Requirements HHSC Publishes Revision 21-3 of the HCS and TxHmL Program Billing Requirements and CFC Billing Requirements This revision, effective Sept. 1, changes the name from Billing Guidelines to Billing Requirements, and all revisions are outlined in the 21-3 Revision Section of each document. The Billing Requirements...

September 5th, 2021  HHSC Publishes Revised Informal Dispute Resolution (PL 2021-07) HHSC published a revised version of Provider Letter 2021-07, Informal Dispute Resolution (PDF). A revision was made to update the contact phone number. . The Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) process gives nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities, Home and Community-based Service and Texas Home Living waiver providers the opportunity to informally dispute regulatory survey...

September 1st, 2021 The Health and Human Services Commission created the Regulatory Services Division (RSD) in 2017 as regulatory functions consolidated from the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). As part of this consolidation effort, new teams were developed while keeping the division’s core values of quality, consistency, efficiency, and accountability in mind. RSD...

Requests For Exceeding Licensed Capacity During Severe Gulf Coast Weather HHSC Long-term Care Regulation is reminding providers to be ready to implement emergency preparedness plans. If your facility is impacted by severe weather such as wind or flooding, or is in an area under mandatory evacuation orders, contact the HHSC LTCR Regional Director in the region where the facility is located. In addition to contacting the HHSC LTCR RD, all requests to exceed licensed capacity due to an emergency...

August 26, 2021 Assisted living facilities, nursing facilities, and intermediate care facilities for people with intellectual disabilities are only required to report COVID-19 cases in residents or staff to HHSC if: It is the facility’s first ever COVID-19 case It is the facility’s first case after having had no COVID-19 cases among staff or residents for 14 days or longer Read Provider Letter 2021-04 (PDF). Email questions to LTCR Policy for more information, including a decision tree on when...

August 25th, 2021 Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion for HCS (PL 2021-30) HHSC published Provider Letter 2021-30 Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion for HCS. This letter replaces PL 2021-09.  This letter describes the actions a program provider must take to mitigate COVID-19 according to Executive Order GA-38(link is external) and CDC guidance and the criteria for expanded indoor and outdoor visitation as well as essential caregiver...

August 15th, 2021 HHSC Publishes HCS and TxHmL Survey Operations Transformation (PL 2021-26) In advance of the HCS Waiver Survey and Certification unit’s transition to Long-term Care Survey Operations, HHSC has published PL 2021-26, HCS and TxHmL Survey Operations Transformation (PDF). The letter provides information about HHSC’s transformation efforts and what HCS and TxHmL program providers can expect on August 30, 2021.

August 15th, 2021 August and September 2021 LTCR Provider Training Opportunities Long-Term Care Regulatory providers are invited to attend the following trainings hosted in August and September. Visit the Joint Training Opportunities page to register and learn more about each of these events. Emergency Preparedness in Long-Term Care Facilities August 18 1:30 p.m. Register for the webinar. August 25 1:30 p.m. Register for the webinar. September 13 1:30 p.m. Register for the webinar. September...

July 3rd, 2021 Joint Training Page Available for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers The HCS and TxHmL programs now have a Joint Training Opportunities page where providers can register for upcoming classes. Class size will be limited to maximize participation, but classes will be offered regularly. Providers should check the page often for updates. There will be recordings of special presentations available for viewing on-demand later. Access recordings of previous webinars here. March 6th, 2021...

August 1st, 2021 Information Letter No. 21-32 –Requirements for IPC Submissions for Individuals Requesting Services Funded with General Revenue This information letter describes the documentation that a CLASS case manager, DBMD program provider, HCS service coordinator, or HCS program provider must submit to HHSC to request the use of general revenue to pay for services above the individual cost limit of a waiver program. To justify a request to use general revenue when an individual is...

Update to COVID-19 Guidance for Service Coordinators Fee-for-service Medicaid 1915(c) waiver case managers and service coordinators may use telehealth or the phone to conduct service coordination visits. This temporary policy change extends through Aug. 31, 2021. SC's are encouraged to complete visits by phone, telehealth or telemedicine. Program providers must complete the required background checks for all service providers. They must follow: The Texas Administrative Code, Title 40, Part 1,...

Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC   August 1st, 2021 Live HHSC Training Workshop! HHSC is announcing a free, one-day Employment First / Employment Services Training event to be offered in six cities from September 2021 thru December 2021. Employment promotes a more independent living setting and creates independence for a person in many ways. This training is another tool to increase the Employment First focus and provide better tools for...

  See link to August 2021 edition below: The August 2021 Long-Term Care (LTC) Provider Bulletin has been published on the LTC homepage on TMHP.com. Visit the TMHP LTC homepage regularly for news, reminders, training opportunities, and other important program updates. For questions, see the Provider Resources section of the bulletin. See link to February 2021 edition below:...

July 17th, 2021 Texas Medicaid 1115 Transformation Waiver Extension HHSC announces its submission of an extension application to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the Texas Healthcare Transformation Quality Improvement Program (THTQIP) waiver under section 1115 of the Social Security Act. The extension request is for approximately 10 years, which will provide the 1115 waiver authority through 2030. The extension reflects the same terms and conditions agreed to and...

From our friends at PACSTX! For more information click on this link to the newsletter  

July 14, 2021 The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 was signed into law on March 11, 2021. Section 9817 of ARPA provides states with a temporary ten (10) percentage point increase to the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), if certain federal requirements are met. States must use funds equivalent to the amount of federal funds attributable to the increased FMAP to implement activities that enhance or strengthen Medicaid HCBS....

Stakeholder Comments Requested for HCS, TxHmL Billing Guidelines, As Well As Proposed Billing Requirements, Provider Fiscal Compliance and TMHP Revisions HCS and TxHmL Stakeholders can now comment to the HCS, TxHmL and CFC Billing Guidelines by July 18, 2021 about the proposed revisions: Proposed Billing Requirements Provider Fiscal Compliance TMHP revisions The proposed billing guidelines revisions and a summary of changes were posted on June 18, 2021. They are located on the Long-term Care...

July 2nd, 2021 HHSC selected the Bexar service area as the primary service area in which to operate the STAR+PLUS Pilot Program Yesterday members of the IDD SRAC and STAR+PLUS Pilot Program Workgroup were sent the notice below regarding selection of the STAR+PLUS Pilot site.   As the result of HB 4533 (Klick - 86th Session) Chapter 534, Government Code was amended and, among other changes, directs the pilot to assist in evaluating and developing a plan for the transition of all or some of the...

July 3rd, 2021 Updates to HHSC EVV Mailboxes and Website HHSC EVV Mailboxes By June 28, HHSC EVV Operations will update their electronic mailboxes to the following email addresses: HHSC Electronic Visit Verification Mailbox: EVV@hhs.texas.gov Previous email address: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us HHSC EVV Proprietary Systems Mailbox: EVVPSO@hhs.texas.gov Previous email address: EVV_PSO@hhs.texas.gov Additional Information Assess all personal materials, such as contact matrices,...

May 31st, 2021 Status of HB 3240 (Klick) Turn of Events:  Good News For Providers We are happy to say that we were made aware late yesterday that through the efforts of many people including Representative Klick, Representative Frank and Senator Kolkhorst, an agreement was reached to attach the text of HB 3240 (Klick) to HB 3720 (Frank) related to the IDD Waiver Interest Lists.  Though a long shot, late in the afternoon on 5/30/21, HB 3720, as amended, was passed by both the House and...

May 28th, 2021     Due to issues with CARE in the past week or so, HHSC  extended the claim submission deadline through Sunday, 05/23/2021 Noon.  A special run took place to encompass claims submitted from Sunday 5/23/2021 - Wednesday, 05/26/2021.  ** Claims submitted after cutoff Wednesday 5/26/2021 – Friday 5/28/2021, are expected to be processed on normal processing cycle.    

May 25th, 2021 The Federal Communications Commission is offering an Emergency Broadband Benefit. This new benefit will: Help families and households struggling to afford Internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Connect eligible households to jobs, critical health care services, virtual classrooms and more. Read information about the benefit and eligibility requirements here.

Upcoming Webinar: How to Create a Culture of Data-Driven Decision Making! "The Value of Data-Driven Service Provision" Date: June 11, 2021  Time:  1:00 PM (EST) Presenter: Jason Laws (Director of Quality & Data Initiatives) jason.laws@therapservices.net Are you looking to create a culture of data-driven decision-making at your organization? Join us for an engaging webinar presentation to learn more about: Defining key metrics and indicators Identifying what data has meaning Tracking...

May 19, 2021  Updated CDC Guidance and Governor's Executive Order GA - 36:  In light of the Governor's Executive Order GA-36 issued yesterday, HHSC and DSHS were asked when providers would receive notice of not only the updated CDC Guidance issued last week and its impact on the programs they operate (including the DSHS Day Habilitation Guidance), but also Executive Order GA-36 .  Below are the responses from HHSC received.   HHSC: "We are currently working through the implications of...

The University of North Texas Workplace Inclusion & Sustainable Employment (UNTWISE) is offering a free on-demand, prerecorded webinar called Ethics of Informed Choice, which is available through April 22, 2022. This training outlines informed choice and helps contractors, vendors, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) staff understand its importance in the VR process. Information on the training can be found on the UNTWISE web page. "This training will define Informed Choice and help...

Please click on the link below and enjoy this free video presented by Michelle Garcia, Psy.D Clinical Psychologist, and her group.  Super helpful in these times! Social Media A Practical Guide to Improving Safety with Dr. Garcia & Associates     To learn more about their innovative services where Michelle's group can come to your location to improve quality of life, visit their NEW website at: www.drmgarcia.com "In addition to counseling and curriculum, Michelle and her team...

May 16th, 2021 For those of you wanting a separate copy of the ANE TAC principles that were put into the HCS TAC in October of 2019, I have attached links to a few pdf versions for you to use at your facility.  These particular set of HCS principles are important to keep handy, especially concerning follow-up timelines as well as who to contact, when to contact and report and what to report. after an allegation.   40 Tex. Admin. Code § 9.175 Certification Principles: Requirements Related to...

May 16th, 2021 When to Call the IDD Ombudsman The IDD Ombudsman receives complaints from individuals, family members, and the general public about the care, treatment, or services provided to an individual. Individuals receiving services or family members of the individual may prefer to call the IDD Ombudsman to assist in resolving an issue rather than speaking with their LIDDA service coordinator (SC) or HCS provider. (In addition, if you are not sure where to make a complaint or who to make...

Attention: HCS, TxHmL, CDS, CLASS, DBMD, ICF/IID, SNF's, and other HHSC programs Providers can sign up to receive Gov Delivery, an electronic mailer from HHSC that includes current news and topics of interest for LTC providers.

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May 3rd, 2021 Information Letter No. 2021-19 Termination of Waiver Services during the Public Health Emergency was on hold for eligibility issues, but that is now back in effect as of May 10th, 2021. This information letter is to notify you that, starting May 10, 2021, HHSC will resume ending waiver services of an individual who is not eligible for CLASS, DBMD, HCS, or TxHmL. This is being done in accordance with a rule promulgated by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services...

April 20th, 2021  HHSC is seeking comments on their draft rules..  The rules apply to a host of LTC programs and, once adopted, will be permanent rules for LTC providers during an infectious disease outbreak, epidemic or pandemic.  See attached pages 38-47 which apply to ICF, HCS and TxHmL Infection Control-Outbreak Practices-HHSC draft-ICF-HCS-TxHmL-041921 Please review and send feedback to your provider associations. To ease your review, please note the following: Table of Contents:    ...

E-Learning Portal Training From HHSC Direct link to main E-Learning portal page for Medicaid training below: https://learningportal.hhs.texas.gov/course/index.php?categoryid=42 Monitoring and Maintaining Medicaid Eligibility for HCS/TxHmL   This training will cover initial and ongoing eligibility requirements for participation in Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) programs. Financial Eligibility – Medicaid Medicaid or SSI Medicaid Program Transfers...

April 17th, 2021 Status of IDD-Related Bills That Are of Relevance To Certain IDD Providers  HB 149 (Reynolds & Shaheen) related to a study to evaluate state and local regulation of certain facilities and group homes:  The bill is anticipated to pass in the House today after which it will go to the Senate. https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/87R/billtext/pdf/HB00149H.pdf#navpanes=0 HB 326 (Howard) related to workplace violence prevention in certain facilities:  As amended on the House Floor,...

April 17th, 2021 HCS Retainer Payments Status We have been informed that CMS has finally approved retainer payments for HCS.  Certain provider associations will have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the draft Information Letter related to the payments.  HHSC is also developing rules related to this initiative, but those associations will not be able to provide feedback on them.   HHSC  will conduct a webinar on the HCS retainer payments.

  MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM WEB-BASED TRAINING FROM HHSC Abuse Neglect and Exploitation Competency Training and Exam      ( WE RECOMMEND HCS/TXHML PROVIDERS HAVE DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF COMPLETE THIS TRAINING) This training is designed to meet the basic ANE training requirements for staff providing direct care in a community setting. By the end of the training, staff should be able to identify which acts constitute ANE, how to recognize ANE, understand risk factors for ANE, and what methods...

Re: Governor's Orders for Masks and Re-Openings of Businesses Until further notice providers must continue to adhere to all current COVID-related guidance, rules and infection control policies, according to HHSC.  At this time changes to these policies will only occur when CMS and/or the CDC issues revised guidance. HHSC's position also applies to rules and guidance related to attendance at DHs:  HCS Rules:...

Tax Deadline Extensions for Individuals and Businesses The IRS announced last week that because of last month's winter storms, Texans will have until June 15, 2021, to file their individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. This includes 2020 individual and business returns normally due on April 15, as well as various 2020 business returns due on March 15. Among other things, this also means that affected taxpayers will have until June 15 to make 2020 IRA contributions. The June...

HHSC Notice:  In the event you did not receive or inadvertently overlooked, see below for the notice HHSC issued earlier today regarding resources for LTC providers during the winter storm, or click HERE LTC Provider Resources During an Emergency Long-term care providers impacted by the current severe weather event should be implementing emergency management plans. LTC providers in need of resources or assistance during an emergency, such as the current severe weather, are reminded that you...

HCS/TxHmL & CLASS Programs If you have questions about CLASS Program Policy, call 512-438-5077, 877-438-5658 or email ClassPolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us. For questions about HCS Program Policy, call 512-438-4478 or email HCSPolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us. For questions about TxHmL Program Policy, call 512-438-4639 or email TxHmlPolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us. (TxHmL) billing and payment reviews, call the Billing and Payment Hotline at: 512-438-5359 or email: HCS.TxHml.BPR@hhsc.state.tx.us. For questions about...

Certain Medicaid Waiver Payments May Be Excludable From Income See the following IRS page for the full FAQ https://www.irs.gov/individuals/certain-medicaid-waiver-payments-may-be-excludable-from-income Last Update: New Q&A's 1-20 were added on February 23, 2015. The original text and Q&A's follow at the end. On January 3, 2014, the Internal Revenue Service issued Notice 2014-7, 2014-4 I.R.B. 445. Notice 2014-7 provides guidance on the federal income tax treatment of certain payments to...

Check out our instant services you can purchase at our "Store" page on the website:  https://twogetherconsulting.com/store/   OFF-SITE CONSULTATION:  $75/hr You can purchase 1, 3, 6, 9 or 12 hrs of off-site consultationfor assistance with HCS, TxHmL, or ICF and Additional IDD Waiver Programs. This includes: research, phone calls, video chats, webinars, emails and texts.  You may use this off-site consultation time as needed or all at once.  You can schedule a conference call, video chat...

12/28/20 IMPORTANT REMINDER! HCS and TxHmL Program Providers and LIDDA Service Coordinators- IL20-45 HHSC is automatically renewing individual plans of care and Intellectual Disability/Related Condition assessments that expire on or before Dec. 30, 2020. This is due to the COVID public health emergency. The renewal is for one year from the expiration date. HHSC is not automatically renewing IPCs and ID/RCs that expire on or after Dec. 31, 2020.  This is explained in IL 20-45 (PDF). Program...

January Webinar - Flu & COVID: What You Need to Know HHSC is holding this webinar for all our providers to offer guidance on flu and COVID-19. In this webinar, we will review: The similarities and the differences between flu and COVID-19 The importance of getting a flu shot How flu vaccination along with good infection control practices protect everyone Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on administering flu vaccines this season amid the coronavirus pandemic. This webinar...

D E C // 1 8 // 2 0 2 0 AADMD Releases Statement on Covid-19 Vaccine Equity for People with IDD Read the Official Statement - and Join the Movement The Covid-19 vaccine is here - and AADMD joined forces with like-minded organizations to issue a Joint Position Statement on “Equity for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation and Safety.” NCD Opportunity Through board member Rick Rader, MD — who was appointed to the National Council on...

Twogether Consulting has added some new services to include: DEVELOPMENT OF INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES & PROCEDURES, or at least to update your one with COVID-19 policies and protocols.   (Based on Guidance noted in the HCS & ICF COVID-19 Response Plans                                                       HCS-covid-response-plan.pdf     ICF-covid-19-plan.pdf DEVELOPMENT OF EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLANS  In particular, so HCS/TxHmL providers are able to meet  compliance with Appendix K: ...

Pre-Webinar Survey For those Nurses registered or planning to register for our Dec 11th, 2020 follow-up session:                                                                                      “Round Table Discussion For Nursing Concerns In IDD Programs” (HCS/TxHmL/ICF) We did not get to at least 4 of our questions primarily on COVID during the 1st Round Table Discussion on 11/5/20.  We still have some questions on RN Delegations that we need feedback on for future sessions and COVID-19. ...

Check out our page at "Gotostage" where we are providing  recordings of our free webinar sessions and other education For HCS, TxHmL, and ICF Providers https://www.gotostage.com/channel/3b0bd3b1a47c4e80be974f4bcfa54d7b