Twogether Updates

October 1st, 2022 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. Missed a COVID-19 training? Many COVID-19 presentations...

September 27th, 2022 Please see the newly proposed ISS (Individualized Skills & Socialization) rates.  The proposed rates would be effective January 1st, 2023, if accepted, at the following link:  https://pfd.hhs.texas.gov/sites/rad/files/documents/2023/01-01-2023-pmnt-rates-individualized-skills-socialization-%20srvcs.pdf Hearing: The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct an in-person public hearing to receive public comment on proposed Medicaid payment rates from...

September 26th, 2022 Monthly Meetings/Webinars On Migration To TMHP LTC Portal for HCS/TxHmL/FMSA's  Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) will begin hosting monthly meetings for Providers and Financial Management Services Agencies (FMSAs) who use the Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) waiver programs, beginning in October will be held to discuss trending issues, share solutions established to address barriers providers...

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 25th, 2022 TMHP LTC Portal for HCS/TxHmL Providers and FMSAs Webinar Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) will begin hosting monthly meetings for Providers and Financial Management Services Agencies (FMSAs) who use the Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living...

September 25th, 2022 HHSC Publishes Updated Guidance on the Amelioration of Administrative Penalties for ALF, ICF/IID, and NF Providers HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published Provider Letter 2022-24 - Amelioration of Administrative Penalties (replaces PL 2013-18). The letter provides guidelines to assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities for individuals with an intellectual disability or related conditions, and nursing facilities about the amelioration of administrative...

September 25th, 2022 EVV Updates for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers and FMSAs HHSC and the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership posted helpful information for Home and Community-based Services program providers, Texas Home Living program providers and financial management services agencies required to use Electronic Visit Verification. HHSC Notice This notice is to help program providers and FMSAs that are receiving EVV mismatches for Day Habilitation services. Refer to the Sept. 15...

September 24th, 2022 IDD & PI Webinar October 27th, 2022 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation will host a webinar for HCS, TxHmL and ICF/IID providers regarding the latest information from LTCR. Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. If so, try using another browser, such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Oct. 27, 2022 10–11 a.m. Register for the IDD/PI Webinar

September 24th, 2022 Deadline for Comments on HHS Proposed Rules Due Oct. 17 Texas HHSC is accepting comments from stakeholders on the following proposed rules, which are now posted in the Texas Register. The comment period ends Oct. 17, 2022. Texas Administrative Code, Title 40, Part 1, Chapter 9, Subchapter N, repeal of Sections 9.551, 9.552, 9.554, 9.556, 9.558, 9.560 - 9.563, 9.566 - 9.568, 9.570, 9.571, 9.573 – 9.575, 9.582, 9.583, concerning Home and Community-based Services (HCS)...

September 24th, 2022 HHSC Moved Individualized Skills and Socialization Webpage The Individualized Skills and Socialization webpage moved from the Resources webpage to the main Long-term Care Providers webpage. This was done so its location is consistent with other Long-term Care Regulation programs and is easier to find. Individualized Skills and Socialization can be found under the "Community-based Programs" heading. August 23rd, 2022 No Public Hearing on ISS Licensing Rules There is no...

September 23rd, 2022 TMHP Enhancements There are 2 sets of HHSC and TMHP 'enhancements' (or 'fixes' or 'improvements' to the system) to be released in the near future.  HHSC has said that the first set of 'enhancements' will be released November 4, 2022, and the second set will be released in June of 2023.

September 18th, 2022 Sorry for the delay in this mid-month edition.  Things have been extremely busy with so many new things happening: CIMS system, TMHP issues with Claims, Draft Rules: HCS/TxHmL TAC and Draft Rules: New ISS services rules, updates to the billing requirements, and much more.  I was running a little behind on my updates and I wanted to make sure I didn't forget any of the many changes that have recently occurred or are in process. I am so happy so many of you stopped by our...

September 18th, 2022 THMP has website page with reference material for LTC Waiver Programs.  See link below: https://www.tmhp.com/programs/ltc/reference-material

Updated LTC Online Portal User Guides for HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs Now Available The Long-term Care Online Portal User Guides for Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Waiver Programs have been updated. The learning path has been updated to include detailed instructions for entering Consumer Directed Services services in dollars instead of units, which were added to the 3608 and 8582 Individual Plan of Care Item-by-Item guides. Read the full alert.

September 17th, 2022 EVV Mismatches For DH Providers Must Use Bill Codes Listed in the HCS and TxHmL Bill Code Crosswalk for Claims Submission Concern and Issue HCS and TxHmL providers are receiving unnecessary electronic visit verification (EVV) mismatches for Day Habilitation services due to providers not using proper bill code and modifier combinations based on where services are delivered. Which day habilitation bill codes do I use? In-Home Day Habilitation services delivered in an own...

September 17th, 2022 HHSC publishes revised PL 20-55 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated Provider Letter 20-55 to include an updated link to the new amelioration form for HCS and TxHmL program providers. The form is entitled 3708-A HCS and TxHmL Amelioration Request. May 30th, 2022 HHSC has revised HCS and TxHmL Survey Operations Transformation (PL 21-26) HHSC revised PL 2021-26 to reflect updates to the HCS or TxHmL Program Manager and Assistant Regional Director contact list. Read PL...

September 15th, 2022 Updated Webinar Resource Document and TMHP Account Setup Quick Reference Guide  (HCS and TxHmL Waiver Program Providers) From HHSC Alert September 12th, 2022 The Webinar Resource document that accompanied the Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal Training for Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Waiver Programs webinar and the TMHP Account Setup for HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs Quick Reference Guide have been updated. Read the full alert...

September 12th, 2022 Avoiding HCS and TxHmL Overpayment of Services Effective Jan. 2, 2023 Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) will perform monthly calculations on services for the Individual Plan of Care that overlaps the May 1, 2022 implementation of the new process for submitting Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living forms and claims. On a quarterly basis, TMHP will calculate all services that have been paid through Client Assignment and Registration System...

September 11th, 2022 HHSC Publishes Revision 22-2 of the HCS and TxHmL Program Billing Requirements, CFC Billing Requirements Revision 22-2 is effective Sept. 1. All revisions are outlined in the Revision 22-2 Section of each document. The Billing Requirements are located on the Long-term Care Providers webpage and Handbooks webpage and are outlined below: Home and Community-based Services Program Billing Requirements (PDF) Texas Home Living Program Billing Requirements (PDF) Community First...

August 31st, 2022   September 11th, 2022 HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs: Trending Issue Support, Volume 8 -Termination Forms Submitted by LIDDAs For clients who have CDS services only, termination forms are submitted by LIDDAs. After form submission, LIDDAs need to contact HHSC Program & Eligibility Support (PES) to acknowledge and review the forms. LIDDAs can contact HHCS PES by calling 512-438-2484, faxing 512-438-4249, or emailing enrollmenttransferdischargeinfo@hhs.texas.gov. Read...

Sept. 7th, 2022  September 1 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information Session These sessions will continue to share information with stakeholders about the implementation of various Medicaid/CHIP flexibilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 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...

September 1st, 2022 Rising To The Challenge! PPAT Fall Conference DoubleTree Hotel Austin 6505 IH 35 North  Austin, 78752 Please click on below for session info: Conference At A Glance/Agenda   The Association’s 25th Annual Conference is just around the corner. And, of course, a conference is not a conference without the help of many wonderful people like you and your colleagues. To ensure success we need your help. There are several ways to demonstrate your support and at the same time...

August 31st, 2022 TMHP has stated that FEI Systems sent emails to required users who had yet to log into CIMS.  Some providers have indicated that they did not receive an email.  According to HHSC FEI Systems did send emails out using a DONOTREPLY/FEI email address.  If you did not receive this email, please check your spam mailbox. If you did not receive it, email the CIMS mailbox for assistance at: MCS_CIMS@hhs.texas.gov Initial CIMS User Account Email On Monday, Aug. 29, FEI Systems sent...

From our friends at PACSTX! 2022 Annual PACSTX Conference November 1st & 2nd Embassy Suites Conference Center San Marcos, Tx FOR THE FULL BROCHURE CLICK HERE HOTEL REGISTRATION

August 23d, 2022 From our friends at the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities! Last Chance to Apply! The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) has issued Requests for Applications (RFA) for four new grant opportunities. The deadline to apply for all four RFAs is this Friday, Aug. 26, 2022, by 11:59 p.m. CT.These grants will help expand inclusion, training, and cultural understanding for people with developmental disabilities (DD) in Texas communities. You can learn more...

August 23rd, 2022 Frequently Asked Questions HHSC shared during the ISS draft rules webinar on August 23rd, 2022. These are questions received during the ISS webinar on July 19th, 2022 Q1: Will current day hab providers be grandfathered into the new program? Or do they have to be program provider to have a day hab contract with HHSC? A1: No, Day Hab Providers are not grandfathered into the Individualized Skills and Socialization program. Any provider who is interested in delivering...

August 22nd, 2022 PEMS The Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) is experiencing an unusually high volume of calls and emails from providers with requests for Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS) assistance. As a result, TMHP requests the following of providers requiring PEMS assistance: TMHP encourages providers that request PEMS assistance to wait for a call back. Requests are being handled in the order they are received. TMHP requests that providers not initiate a...

August 15th, 2022 REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE AAIDD: Annual Texas Chapter Conference 2022!         For more information and registration please click on the link below Texas AAIDD Conference Registration Download The Brochure for Agenda, Speakers, Sponsors, and more   Reserve Your Room Today! Grand Galvez has pleased guests worldwide for more than 100 years. Elegantly restored and tastefully modernized to welcome guests with the utmost in Gulf Coast luxury, Grand...

August 14th, 2022 Extreme Drought Conditions Texas is currently experiencing statewide drought conditions. Numerous water systems are stressed and may continue to experience issues as the drought progresses, and there are concerns about the impacts on long-term care facilities. Water may become limited, in addition due to the extreme heat Texas is using a record amount of electricity so we may be subject to rolling blackouts in the near future.   A/C systems are stressed and foundation...

  Recording of Individualized Skills and Socialization Provider Webinar August 13, 2022 HHSC hosted the Individualized Skills and Socialization Provider Webinar on July 19 and Aug. 22 for Home and Community-based Services, Texas Home Living, and Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities program providers. This webinar — offered on Tuesday, July 19, from 2:30–4:30 p.m. and on Monday, Aug. 22, from 2–4 p.m. — provided information on the upcoming new service, individualized skills and...

August 11th, 2022 Critical Incident Management System (CIMS) Now Live HHSC announces the new Critical Incident Management System is now live. CIMS is a statewide tool for reporting critical incidents. All providers must begin entering critical incidents into CIMS no later than Nov. 1. See IL 2022-23 for more information about CIMS. This alert applies to: Community Living Assistance and Support Services providers Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities providers CLASS case management agencies...

August 8th, 2022 New LTC Boundaries for Survey and Investigation purposes In effect as of August 1st, 2022 See new map HHSC has published Provider Letter 2022-18 - New Regional Boundaries for Long-term Care Providers (PDF). The letter indicates that HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has redrawn regional boundaries for survey and investigation purposes effective August 1, 2022. All LTC providers are affected by the new regional boundaries. Former  Region 7 is now separated into two new regions:...

August 4th, 2022 All New LTC Providers must Enroll in Texas Medicaid.  (So, this means even HCS provider applicants, at least once they are nearing the stage of having their application approved and/or at the latest, prior to receiving their contract/s.  Remember, you can't start providing services and accepting clients to your HCS program until you get your letter with the approved contract/s. LTC-only Providers Enrolling Through Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS) "A new...

July 30th, 2022 HHSC Reminds LTC Providers of Offsite Investigation Requirements (PL 2022-15) HHSC has published Provider Letter 2022-15 - Offsite Review Responsibility Requirements (PDF). The letter reminds facilities and agencies that they have the same obligation to respond to an investigation that HHSC conducts virtually and offsite as they do during an investigation that HHSC conducts in-person and onsite. Read the PL details.

July 30th, 2022 The TexMedConnect User Guide has instructions for adjusting a previously submitted claim with dates of service on May 1 or later. However, the guide does not have instructions for adjusting a previously adjusted claim. The user guide will be updated to include these instructions. In the meantime, follow the steps in the full alert for adjusting a previously adjusted claim in TexMedConnect. Read the full alert.

July 30th, 2022 Entering Non-Waiver Services in the LTC Online Portal in the HCS Program Effective immediately, Home and Community-based Services Program providers are responsible for entering all non-HCS Program and non-Community First Choice services into the HHSC data system. Non-HCS and non-CFC services data are entered in the “Non-Waiver” services tab of the individual plan of care in the Long-term Care Online Portal. During a meeting to develop or revise an IPC, the service coordinator...

Subscribe To The Twogether Consulting Mailing List! July 15th, 2022 July 1st, 2022 June 16th, 2022 June 1st, 2022 May 17th, 2022 May 2nd, 2022 April 9th, 2022 Change is inevitable, as we all know well in this line of work.  Our editor for the newsletter (James) has been with us for almost 8 years now and we will miss him, but his schedule has gotten super busy and he will not have as much time available. Meghan Jones will be transitioning as the new editor.  Many of you know Meghan as she is...

From HHSC: "The FAQ document has been updated to reflect additional questions that were received during the June 8, 2022 webinar. Some questions were similar so HHSC combined the main themes of questions received and provided the answer/response below. The FAQ has also been updated to reflect an extension of the deadline for the attestation and initial report. It was July 1, 2022 and has been extended to August 15, 2022. If you have a question not addressed by this document, please contact:...

July 27th, 2022 American Rescue Plan Act HCBS & TxHmL Provider Retention Payments HCBS ARPA Payments in CARE/HCBS Enhanced FMAP Payments in CARE The Texas Health and Human Services Commission implements American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) provider retention payments. HCS and TxHmL claims processed on the ID CARE system for dates of service between March 1–April 30, 2022, meeting the eligibility requirements for receiving the ARPA rate add on, will begin...

July 18th, 2022 Monthly Reporting Required REMINDER FROM HHSC: Completion of the Senate Bill 809/Rider 143 Monthly Report is REQUIRED of all participating providers, regardless of whether a provider or facility has received additional federal funding during the reporting month. All participating providers must complete the Senate Bill 809/Rider 143 Monthly Report every month, even if they did not receive additional federal funds during the reporting month. The reports are due no later than 5...

July 14th, 2022 Important Medicaid Coverage-Don't Wait-Please Respond to Medicaid Letters- Changes To Occur in Medicaid Coverage After Public Health Emergency Ends This information letter gives service coordinators, case managers, and providers information to help individuals prepare for ending continuous Medicaid coverage. HHSC requests providers support the information campaign –Don’t Wait –Respond and Update! –by communicating with individuals and incorporating campaign materials into...

July 10th, 2022 Date: October 1st, 2022 (San Antonio, Tx)  2022 AccessAbility fest & abilitySTRONG Parade REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! It's time to REGISTER!  At disABILITYsa, we are excited to host the 16th Annual AccessAbility fest and abilitySTRONG Parade on Saturday, October 1st, 2022 at Hemisfair. Early bird discounts end on August 15th, 2022! * Sponsorship Opportunities * Exhibitor Registration * Parade Entries * Program Partners * Information Only * and more! * You will have a...

Juliy 11th, 2022 Our good friend at IntellectAbility, Patrick Lane has provided a link where providers or anyone else interested can register for online Person-Centered Thinking training.  FYI-this is a requirement in the HCS/TxHmLTAC rules for all persons who are a part of the development of the Implementation Plan (IP), to have this training within the first 2 year of hire. Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements The session is a $275 per person. This is a 3-day series of zoom...

July 11th, 2022 Hurry, Hurry this onference is filling up quickly! HHS, in collaboration with The University of Texas Steve Hicks School of Social Work, will host an informative two-day, free conference on quality in long-term care. 2022 QLTCC “Resilient, Responsive and Ready” Aug. 11–12 Renaissance Austin Hotel 9721 Arboretum Blvd. Austin, TX 78759 Register for the conference. Continuing education credits for multiple disciplines will be provided for this event from nationally and...

July 11th, 2022 Error in HHSC Reminder Notice re:  Due Date for June 2022 SB 809 Data Earlier today, HHSC issued a reminder notice about the COVID-19 monthly reporting requirement (SB 809). The notice inadvertently stated that July 2022 data was due August 1, 2022. The notice should have stated that the June 2022 data will be due August 1, 2022.

July 11th, 2022 Provider Letter 2022-13, Version 2: Petition To Suspend Essential Caregiver Visits HHSC issues PL 2022-13, Version 2 with additional information regarding how a facility or program provider may petition HHSC to suspend in-person essential caregiver visits.  Read PL 2022-13, Version 2 here. "A facility or program provider may petition HHSC to suspend in-person essential caregiver visits for no more than 7 consecutive calendar days if in-person visitation poses a serious...

COVID-19 Resources July 11th, 2022 July 7, 2022 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session Thank you for your interest in listening to the July 7 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 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...

Thought this was great info. and wanted to share- From IntellectAbility Long-haul COVID in People with IDD "People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are at a greater risk of infection and poorer COVID-19 related health outcomes than the general population. Prevalence of comorbidities, living in congregate settings, and difficulties practicing preventative measures contribute to this risk; however, the inability to effectively communicate symptoms of illness may be the most...

July 4th, 2022 The Provider Finance Department (PFD) Open Enrollment Portal experienced technical difficulties. Those issues have been resolved. The portal is now available for providers to complete Open Enrollment for the Attendant Compensation Rate Enhancement and Direct Care Staff Enhancement programs and Liability Insurance Rate Add-ons for Nursing Facilities. The PFD portal is available. Please click here to access the portal. The PFD portal will be open from July 1, 2022 to August 1,...

July 5th, 2022 Since May 2, Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living program providers, local intellectual and developmental disability authorities, and financial management services agencies billing on behalf of Consumer Directed Services have been submitting claims and forms to Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership. TMHP has received feedback from providers indicating more support is needed. Read the full alert.

July 5th, 2022  Information Validation on LTC Claims IL 2022-35 IL 2022-35 is posted on the HHS nursing facility and Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions webpages. Effective June 10, provider information on long-term care claims is being validated using data stored in the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System and the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership Provider Enrollment and Management System. This enhancement ensures...

July 5th, 2022 COVID-19: HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers (Replaces IL 2022-32) IL 2022-36 is posted on the HHS webpage for Home and Community-based Services, Texas Home Living, local intellectual and developmental disability authority, and financial management services agency program providers. HHSC is temporarily waiving certain requirements in Section 3710, 4381.3, 4381.7(6) and 4381.7(7) of the HCS Billing Guidelines and TxHmL Guidelines. This is...

July 4th, 2022 Don't Forget, Informal Comments on HCS & CFC Draft Rules Are Due by July 13th! Texas HHS is accepting comments from stakeholders on the following draft rules: Title 26, new Chapter 565, Home and Community-based Services Program and Community First Choice. The comment period ends July 13. Email comments to Long-term Care Regulation Policy and Rules.

July 4th, 2022 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Retention Payments Initial report is now due by August 15, 2022. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) implements American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Retention payments. HHSC is providing funds to agency providers and consumer-directed services employers to support recruitment and retention efforts for direct care staff delivering HCBS...

July 3rd, 2022 Overview The Provider Finance Department (PFD) develops reimbursement methodology rules for determining payment rates or rate ceilings for recommendation to the Health and Human Service as Commission (HHSC) for Medicaid payment rates and non-Medicaid payment rates for programs operated by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHS) and the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). PFD develops payment rates or rate ceilings in accordance with these rules and agency...

Texas Local IDD Authorities (LIDDA) Click on link below: https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1x52WNDpmumg3J5ANB-G1aWfCSFFnHKM&usp=sharing

HCS Group Home Vacancy Search To find out which companies have group home vacancies, you may go to the following link:  https://resources.hhs.texas.gov/find/HCS.  Please be sure if you are an HCS provider that you are reporting any vacancies in your group home to the state.

June 23rd, 2022 2022 Conference for Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Innovating, Developing & Defining the Future of Service Delivery August 12, 2022 Norris Conference Centers – Dallas Northpointe Centre (Located in: Brightwood College in Dallas:  12005 Ford Rd #200, Dallas, TX 75234) The exhibitor information is available now. See link below.  Registrant information to be posted later this month. Please click on this link for Exhibitor Information

June 23rd, 2022 This is a notice to potential applicants that Request For Applications (RFA) No. HHS0011334 has been posted. This notice is from Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Procurement and Contracting Services (PCS). The RFA and related attachments can be located on the HHS Grants Website: https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/pcs/HHS0011334/   Refer to the RFA for the required submission method(s), Deadline for Submitting Questions or Requests for Clarification, and Deadline for...

June 23rd, 2022 Please see the recent alert below from HHSC.  This has been brought to my attention just recently, however, I find it in conflict with the billing guidelines/requirements prior to even COVID-19, which allows for nurses to complete assessments per video chat  So, most likely they will revise billing requirements.  But know, it was in place prior to the Pandemic. Revised Guidance for COVID-19 Flexibility for Registered Nursing Services Provided by Telehealth for  HCS & TxHmL...

June 17th, 2022 This message will only address the ICF/IID grants. As of May 31st, 2022, there was little else shared by HHSC, other than what was posted on its website on May 19, 2022. There was however information shared during the HHSC IDD Coordination Workgroup meeting shortly after that. 1.  Eligibility Criteria for the SB 8 Grants:   According to HHSC, application for the grants will be through an open procurement process which prohibits HHSC from disclosing any details. HHSC...

June 17th, 2022 Employment First Training Series Amerigroup and the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) are hosting a free, eight-week training series on competitive integrated employment and Employment First. The training is intended for Supported Employment providers throughout the state of Texas. It is not required for providers that maintain the TWC-VR Supported Employment credential. The kickoff for the training series is June 29, 2022. For more information about the...

June 16th, 2022 Yesterday afternoon the HHSC IDD Coordination Workgroup met.  Though many topics were covered, below is the information discussed on HCBS Enhanced FMAP.  Here is a general summary of updates discussed, as follows: State-controlled ARPA, Transition of DHs to ISS, and TMHP migration issues.  Below is their discussion on ARPA funds. Note:  Continue to look for further FAQ's on some of these issues and training to come from HHSC in the near future. HCBS Enhanced FMAP:  Note: ...

June 12th, 2022 Potential Long-Term Care Remittance and Status Report Delays Due to the Home and Community-Based Services American Rescue Plan Act Provider Retention Payments (Add-On) for personal attendant and nursing services, rates are being updated. Refer to Information Letter No. 2022-30 for additional information. From TMHP "Because of the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) provider retention payments (add-on) for personal attendant and nursing...

June 6th, 2022 Register for June 8 HCBS ARPA Stakeholder Update Webinar HCBS providers are urged to attend this HCBS ARPA Stakeholder Update Webinar. HHSC will provide updates on the Texas Home and Community Based Services Spending Plan authorized under Section 9817 of the American Rescue Plan Act HCBS ARPA Stakeholder Update June 8 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Register for the HCBS ARPA Stakeholder Update webinar.

June 3rd, 2022 Guidance related to Emergency Preparedness- Exercise Exemption based on A Facility's Activation of their Emergency Plan *** Revised to provide additional guidance and clarifications due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) REVISED 05.26.2022 *** Memorandum Summary • Emergency Preparedness Training and Testing Program Exemption -CMS regulations for Emergency Preparedness (EP) require facilities to conduct exercises to test the facility’s EP plan to ensure that it...

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...

TMHP & HHSC Response to Common Migration Issues:   Click on link below TMHP Migration Complaints-HHSC Responses-060222   You can contact TMHP directly to submit your questions/ issues/requests for assistance using the  template below and using the following email address:   HCS_TxHml@tmhp.com -Subject: HCS/TxHmL Question/Issue (and a short description of the issue or question) -Point of Contact (POC) Name: -National Provider Identifier (NPI)/Contract Number: -POC Phone Number: -POC...

Status of HCS Rates as of June 3rd  2022 Provider Rate Updates for HCS and TxHmL Providers In early May, HHSC identified missing or incorrect rate keys for some Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living providers. On May 11–12, HHSC completed updates to rate keys for these HCS and TxHmL providers based on rates published on the Provider Finance website. Read the full alert. After confirming rates with Provider Finance and paid claims on the R&S Report, contact the TMHP LTC...

Here is the TMHP page that you can check for updates on fixes, errors discovered and other updates on TMHP issues in HCS. Not sure everything will be sent in provider alerts on our normal Sunday emails we get from HHSC.  Sounds like they won't, so check periodically. https://www.tmhp.com/news?created=2&title=HCS&program_id=56&topic_id=All&category_id=All Here is the main page if you have any issues and you can search for HCS LTC issues...

May 25th, 2022 Tip So a provider mentioned that it might be a good idea to just have a stamp made that says "ENTERED" on the top and underneath it the letters "DLN" with a box next to it to write in the DLN #. This way, every time someone enters their ID/RC's and IPC's,  into TMHP for renewal, revision, etc.. and then you click  "submit" you can write down the "DLN" on the document.  The provider will have to know what DLN # goes with which entry.

May 30th, 2022 LTC Online Portal Dashboard Accessibility Issue Resolved An accessibility issue with the Long-Term Care Online Portal Dashboard has been resolved. "I have received quite a few calls about this issue.  And unfortunately, that made it also very difficult to get a status on claims billed for many providers. So hopefully the issue is now truly resolved." From HHSC: "Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living waiver programs providers and local intellectual developmental...

May 30th, 2022 In Case You Don't Have Enough To Worry About..... HHSC Publishes Information on Preparing for Fee-for-Service Claims Billing Closeout IL 2022-31 IL 2022-31 (PDF) is posted to the HHS site. Just some thoughts: Understand, that this also might mean a period of time where regular payments will be delayed a few weeks, right when the fiscal year closeout occurs at end of August.  Hopefully not, but it has been an issue in past years with CARE. Please be sure to take care of all...

May 30, 2022 COVID-19 Update to Temporary Change for Service Providers of Respite and CFC PAS/HAB In March 2020, HHSC implemented a temporary policy change for respite and Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation. This change allows service providers of respite and CFC PAS/HAB to live in the same home as the person receiving Home and Community-based Services or Texas Home Living program services. This change has given access to needed services for people living in their...

May 29th, 2022 2022 Hurricane Season Emergency Preparedness with COVID-19 Long-term care providers in Texas are reminded to review their emergency preparedness and response plans before the Atlantic hurricane season begins, which runs June 1–Nov. 30. LTC providers should make updates, if necessary. Providers should factor in COVID-19 contingencies when reviewing their preparedness plans. For example, as applicable: Are your receiving facilities and transportation contracts still viable? If...

May 23, 2022 Very Important! Please see information from TMHP below: Some Rejected Claims May Be Resubmitted Some Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) claims that were submitted to Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) between May 2, 2022, and May 13, 2022, were rejected in error. HCS and TxHmL claims that were rejected with the following explanations of benefits (EOBs) may now be resubmitted for processing: Explanation of Benefits Description...

COVID-19 in Healthcare Relief Grants Senate Bill (SB) 8, 87th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, 2021, appropriates funding for the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to issue awards to support Texas healthcare providers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These awards include funding for Rural Hospitals, Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs), home health agencies (HHA), Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities or...

More Help Available For Persons Entering IPC's Into TMHP! More information about submitting and revising Individual Plans of Care is available in the Long-Term Care Online Portal User Guides for Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Waiver Programs. These user guides are available for the following programs that submit IPC forms 3608 and 8582 in the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership LTC Online Portal: HCS and TxHmL providers. Local intellectual and development...

May 8th, 2022  HCS and TxHmL Must Submit Claims and Forms to TMHP Beginning May 2, 2022 Home and Community-based Services (HCS) providers, Texas Home Living (TxHmL) providers, local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs), and financial management services agencies (FMSAs) billing on behalf of Consumer Directed Services (CDS) employers must submit claims and forms to Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) beginning May 2, 2022, for dates of service on or...

May 5th, 2022 Please see the link below for updated Service Delivery Logs for 05/2022 in Billing Requirements Handbook on page 185. Billing & Payment Billing Requirements For HCBS Waiver   For questions about HCBS Program Billing Requirements, please email:   hcspolicy@hhs.texas.gov

April 28th, 2022 Very Important! Recorded Webinar For Claims Submission in TMHP   Below is the link to the recording of the claims submission webinar TMHP conducted.   Additional information about the migration will be sent under separate cover. Note:  HHSC will not conduct another webinar on claims submission!  https://tmhp.exceedlms.com/student/enrollments/create_enrollment_from_token/fEmzWuXLDuXzfc3jncsErHWU

April 28th, 2022 STAR+PLUS Pilot:  Attached are handouts from the November, 2021 and February, 2022 joint meeting of the IDD SRAC and STAR+PLUS Pilot Program Workgroup related to the pilot and decisions (including eligibility) made thus far. See pages 52 - 102 of the February, 2022 document for information about the pilot. HHSC has created a webpage on the Pilot Program. The link to this webpage...

April 28th, 2022 Effective May 1, 2022, HHSC will transition certain COVID-19 flexibilities to interim guidance in accordance with House Bill (H.B.) 4 (87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021). The following activities are authorized through interim guidance to be provided through a telehealth (synchronous audio-visual) modality: Renewal ID/RC assessments Renewal, revised and transfer IPCs This guidance applies to the following programs: Community Living Assistance and Support Services Home...

April 28th, 2022 Details On Hearing Date, Time & Location:  Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 10:00 a.m., Capitol Extension, E2.030 Purpose:  To receive invited testimony on several of its interim charges:  #1 related to Healthy Families, Healthy Texas Initiative,  #8 related to the 1115 Waiver, and, the one of importance to PPAT members, #4 related to implementation of SB1, Rider 30 (HHSC) and recommendations for reducing the interest list for waiver services for Individuals with IDD and reducing...

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.       May-July 2022 Most Common Nursing Violations Seen By Twogether Consulting:  Prevention & Correction (HCS/TxHmL)   Please Continue To...

April 20th, 2022 HHSC will hold a public hearing on the rules this summer.  Date and time not shared by HHSC yet. Lengthy discussion regarding the proposed provision related to lease agreements and the potential for eviction if R&B payments are not received, has occurred. A process is needed to ensure Providers receive R& B payments However, It is clear that further discussion regarding the proposed process/requirement is needed.

April 18th, 2022 HHSC Updates the ICF/IID COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ Documents – April 18 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ documents for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions program. HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ documents for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions program. Read the...

April 16th, 2022 Effective April 16, 2022 the Public Health Emergency (Pancemic) has been extended another 90 days.  This means, that if not terminated during that 90-day period, it will either end July 15, 2022, or, if deemed necessary, will be extended for another 90-day period

April 13th, 2022 Texas Providers have been reminded that they can be surveyed at any time by a CMS/Federal Surveyor and will need to be in compliance if this occurs. In short, at this time, HHSC Regulatory will not survey for compliance with the federal mandate. The federal mandate and HHSC position apply to certified-only HCSSAs, Hospice, Nursing Homes and ICFs/IID. 

April 12th, 2022 Information As of Now on Draft ISS Rules: The program rules will go to MCAC on August 11, 2022.  The regulatory or license rules will go to the HHSC Executive Council but no date set yet. The program and regulatory rules will be published in the Texas Register for formal comment in late July, and HHSC will hold a public hearing on the rules. HHSC has decided to eliminate the on-site ratios. Though the off-site ratios have not been eliminated, HHSC is considering revisions to...

April 10th, 2022 HHSC Launches Individualized Skills and Socialization Portal Information Page HHSC launched a new Individualized Skills and Socialization Services Provider Portal. This new portal allows providers access to information on Individualized Skills Socialization services. Including: Complete and review trainings. Find and review provider letters and other information and releases. Link to rules and other services. March 9th, 2022 At the recent HHSC IID Coordination Workgroup...

March 7th, 2022  (See link below to FAQ's) HCS/TxHmL FAQ Document Answers to Additional Questions related to the Migration Can you clarify the next steps to get providers registered for the billing training? The claims training will be provided from TMHP. Providers need to sign up to receive TMHP alerts as the announcement will come from a TMHP alert. HHSC may send out an alert also, but providers have been missing out on announcements because they do not get TMHP alerts. What does a provider...

March 10, 2022 Draft of ISS Rules below: Texas Administrative Code, Title 26, Part 1, Chapter 559, Subchapters A and H, Individualized Skills and Socialization Email comments before March 28th, 2022 to Long-term Care Regulation Policy and Rules.

March 9th, 2022 CARE Banner In CARE system for HCS/TxHmL providers: Moving the date of migration of HCS and TxHmL waivers has resulted in significant technology changes. In preparation for this migration, TMHP and HHSC will begin deployment activities on 04/06/22. Some Provider/LIDDA data entry screens in CARE will be unavailable starting COB 04/06/22 until 04/30/22. A Gov Delivery notice will be sent with a complete list of affected screens next week.  HHSC will notify you if the migration...

March 7th, 2022 Claims Training for CARE Migration:    Training will occur from 10:00 to Noon on March 22nd and again on March 24th. Click on link below to register for one of the training sessions. "TMHP is hosting HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs webinars on March 22 and March 24 for program providers, LIDDAs, and FMSAs who submit claims on behalf of CDS employers. These webinars will train attendees how to submit and manage claims using TexMedConnect." For more info, copy and paste this URL...

March 7th, 2022 Public Comment Period for STP HHSC will submit a Statewide Transition Plan to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This is required by the federal Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule. The STP describes HHSC’s plan to meet the requirements of the HCBS Settings Rule. HHSC invites members of the public, including HCBS recipients and their families, providers, and other stakeholders, to submit comments on the STP. Comments will be accepted until 11:59 pm on...

March 4th, 2022 If you attended the 2/9/22 Plans of Correction (POC's) training webinar for HCS & TxHmL, here are the answers to some of the follow-up questions asked during the session:  Q: I have experienced that the POC has a date that is 8 days in the past but the postage stamp would be 2 days ago. This leaves me with 6 days to complete the POC. Do I use the date on the letter or the postage date for the 14-day time period? A: §9.183(f) states the program provider must submit the POC...

LTC Providers May Need to Update Fire Alarm System Cellular Communication Services In 2022 cellular companies will retire their older 3G technology. These companies include T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and AT&T. LTC providers with a fire alarm system supported by an older cellular communicator running on 3G signals should upgrade their fire alarm communication equipment. Many fire alarm systems use cellular communication devices to send signals to a 24-hour central monitoring station. The...

March 1st, 2022 HCS and TxHmL Form Submission on LTC Online Portal Unavailable Until May 1, 2022 Due to Postponement, submissions of Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living forms using the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership Long-Term Care Online Portal are unavailable until May 1st, 2022. Data migration to the TMHP LTC Online Portal took place prior to March 1st, 2022. FYI-Any HCS and TxHmL form submitted to the LTC Online Portal before March 1 could be removed and...

March 1st, 2022 Claims & Forms Submissions:    The March 1 release of claims and forms submissions to Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership is postponed to May 1, 2022. Home and Community-based Services Texas Home Living program providers Providers should continue to use the Client Assignment and Registration system for submitting claims and forms until May 1, 2022. The postponement allows more time for Providers to set up the necessary TMHP accounts and take relevant training...

February 27th, 2022 HCS and TxHmL Webinar Slated for March 3 moved to March 10th, 2022 Program providers and other interested stakeholders can now register for the upcoming HCS and TxHmL webinar. Webinar topics include: HCS & TxHmL Forms and Claims Migration Project Critical Incident Management System HCS and TxHmL Webinar March 10, 2022 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Register for the webinar Email questions about the webinar to your program policy mailbox: HCS Policy TxHmL...