Twogether Updates

October 20th, 2021 Update From Twogether Consulting! We are sad to say that our main RN Consultant (Gina Peterson), who has been with Twogether Consulting for the past 10 years will no longer be working with us. We appreciate all the assistance she has given providers over the years and all the wonderful training she has provided nurses in HCS/TxHmL and ICF. Please contact us directly for your nursing needs at info@twogetherconsulting.com or you may contact our assistant Meghan Jones...

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...

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...

October 3rd, 2021 Don't Forget, The 1st  Monthly Ongoing Provider Report is Due October 15th, 2021! The ongoing SB 809 and Rider 143 report and further information—including a PDF version of the report questions—are available on the HHSC Provider Finance Department website, and may be accessed on the main webpages for Acute Care Services, Hospitals and Clinic Services, and Long Term Services and Supports. Please note that this Microsoft Form link is separate from the initial report that...

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...

October 3rd, 2021 HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-45) 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 provide access to needed day habilitation services. HHSC has published a revision to this guidance in IL 2021-45 In-Home Day Habilitation...

October 3rd, 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...

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 deadline to submit, please...

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).

Our free webinar session recordings previously recorded are currently posted on our "Gotostage" page. https://www.gotostage.com/channel/3b0bd3b1a47c4e80be974f4bcfa54d7b  We are pleased to announce guest presenters for October 2021 Free Webinars!! September 13th, 2021 “Bipolar Depression and Quality of Life: Treatment Goals and Challenges in ICF/GH Settings” Twogether Consulting is happy to have Sunovion Pharmaceuticals as a guest presenter in our free webinar series this month.  Keith James...

September 21st,2021 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 Original Published:  March 25th, 2021 3.0 HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rule To read more, please click on the link below: ...

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 21st,2021 COVID-19 Response Plan Revised   COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF) in response to the revised HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Mitigation and Visitation rules March 29th, 2021 Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion for HCS (Replaces PLs 2020-22 and 2020-40) The HCS/TxHmL provider letter 21-09 below spells out guidance to HCS/TxHmL providers that was adopted in COVID-19 Emergency Rules and Expansion of Visitation Emergency Rules. PL 2021-09 March 25th, 2021...

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...

September 15th, 2021 HHSC Publishes Amended Statutory Cap Regarding 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). September 5th, 2021 Guidance for Providers Regarding Entry into LTC...

COVID-19 Resources September 15th, 2021 Oct. 4 ICF COVID-19 Webinar with HHSC LTCR Long-term Care Regulation and the Department of State Health Services provide the latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic and take live questions from participants in this ICF provider webinar. Provider attendance is critical to staying current with COVID-19 requirements and guidance. ICF/IID providers are strongly encouraged to attend this and all COVID-19 webinars with LTCR and DSHS. Those using Internet...

September 13th, 2021 The Delta variant is the most common variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, spreading in the United States. The Delta variant spreads more easily than prior variants. The COVID-19 vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection and severe disease among long-term care residents and staff. The CDC recommends urgent action: Get vaccinated as soon as possible. Residents, LTC facility staff, and visitors should be fully vaccinated to prevent the...

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 13th, 2021 New TMHP Account Setup Quick Reference Guide for HCS and TxHmL Providers and FMSAs The following providers must submit claims and forms to Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership beginning March 1, 2022. Home and Community-based Services Texas Home Living Financial Management Services Agencies billing on behalf of Consumer Directed Services To submit claims and forms, HCS and TxHmL providers and FMSAs must set up TMHP accounts. The new TMHP Account Setup for HCS and...

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 newsletter links below: April 18th, 2021 April 18th, 2021 PDF Version     If you would like to be...

September 5th, 2021 “Study & Prep Session For HCS Provider Applicant Test”  November 3rd, 2021 (We will be reviewing some TxHmL information as well) Cost:  $150/person To register, please go to:   Topics:       Description of HCS & TxHmL Waivers and Basic Terminology Needed Tips for Preparing For The HCS Provider Certification Test.   Important Sections of the HCS & TxHmL Handbook and Interpretive Guidance Booklet, Frequently Asked Questions found on the HHSC HCS/TxHmL home...

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...

-Mention Us and Get Your Promotions for Becoming A New ADP Clients:  - 2 to 3 months free for all PTA partners  - Other Discounts Available!   You all may be familiar with our other contact, Mitchell Deter.  He will still be assisting providers that work with HCS/TxHmL/and ICF with 50 employees plus. Some of you may already be working with him. Yusuf Sterling is our newest contact from ADP, who will be assisting our IDD providers that may need Payroll and HR services for under 50...

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 12th, 2021 HCS/TxHmL Certification Principle Interpretive Guidance Series Starting August 12, 2021, the HCS/ TxHmL Joint Training Program is 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. Webinars will be presented every Tuesday and Thursday through September 16, 2021. Register for the HCS and TxHmL webinars here. Email Joint Training with questions about these...

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 The ARC of TEXAS, for more info, please click on this link to the "Disability Dispatch"    The Arc of Texas Provides Testimony Against SB 1 in 87th Texas Special Legislative Session Manager of Public Policy & Advocacy Alex Cogan provides in-person testimony on Saturday, July 10, opposing Texas Senate Bill 1, which would make it more difficult for Texans with disabilities to participate in the democratic process. Special session brings renewed efforts to restrict...

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....

July 4th, 2021 EVV Visit Maintenance Policy Now Available The Electronic Visit Verification Visit Maintenance Policy (PDF) is now available on the HHSC EVV webpage. The policy is effective July 1, 2021 and: Requires the program provider, Financial Management Services Agency or Consumer Directed Services employer to ensure each EVV visit transaction is complete, accurate and validated. Incorporates the Visit Maintenance: Last Visit Maintenance Date Policy. Incorporates the Visit Maintenance...

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,...

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. July Coming Soon!  Please Look For The Following Postings By July 5th, 2021! ICF Training For the QIDP   (2-day webinar) ICF Training For The Nurse  (2-day webinar)...

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.

Check Out These Resources For Persons With Disabilities From The              Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott   https://gov.texas.gov/organization/disabilities/coronavirus Texas COVID-19 Coronavirus Resources & Guidance for People with Disabilities The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities (GCPD) has created this page to act as a warehouse for information related to the novel coronavirus and emergency guidance related to people with disabilities. If you believe you or...

Twogether Consulting Social Media pages. Facebook page:   https://www.facebook.com/TwogetherConsultingIDDWaiverConsultants Instagram Page:   https://www.instagram.com/twogetherconsulting/    

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.

The HHS Learning Portal has MOVED and has a new look! 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 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...

March 26th, 2021 In collaboration with HHSC, DSHS and Texas Special Olympics, Tarrytown will be conducting additional vaccine clinics for persons with IDD, their families and paid caregivers.  See details below or go to:  https://tcdd.texas.gov/resources/covid-19-information/individuals-and-families/ Please note that persons MUST sign-up by 11:59 p.m., Monday, March 30, 2021.  Please feel free to share. Message from Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities  From: Texas Council for...

  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...

February 7th, 2021 Claims Submission Beginning August 2, 2021, Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) providers must submit claims for dates of service on or after August 1, 2021, using Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) online claim submission tools, TexMedConnect or the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). To become an EDI submitter, visit the TMHP EDI web page for more information. Providers should review the Portal Security Training Manual, and...

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

November 22nd, 2020 COVID-19 Guidance for Activities, Dining, and Volunteers for the Holidays (PL 20-53) HHSC publishes Provider Letter 20-53 Guidance for Activities, Dining, and Volunteers (PDF). The letter outlines provider responsibilities for resident activities, including communal dining and holiday-related activities. The letter also gives specific stipulations on the use of volunteers and guidance on the protocol for residents who leave a facility. This guidance can be used as a general...

College of Direct Support  http://www.directcourseonline.com/direct-support/about/ DirectCourse | "College of Direct Support brings training in line with the latest research and partners with other leaders in the field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities" Has a fantastic training curriculum for Direct Support Staff and their supervisors.  See a list of courses from the 2019 catalog in the link below:...

September 21st, 2021 Updated: COVID-19 Mitigation Rules for TxHmL Providers HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published revised COVID-19 mitigation rules (PDF) for TxHmL program providers. The rules address changes in response to Executive Order No. GA-38(link is external) regarding facemasks and updated CDC guidance. The rules became effective Sept 19, 2021.   Emergency Rule Adoption for TxHmL and COVID-19 Mitigation See new rule at link below:...

September 6, 2020 HCS Billing Guidelines Revised-Sept. 2020 Please pay special attention to the changes and clarifications for Nursing Services!  We will be reviewing these in our "Billable Services-HCS-2020" webinar on Sept. 21st, 2020.  For more information please contact Meghan Jones to register:  meghanjones.tx@gmail.com   If you attended the recent Billable Nursing Services training in August (Part I and II) we did add these to your handouts at the time of the training.  You have the...

Texas Medicaid Health Portal TMHP is announcing the launching of their newly redesigned website available on September 14, 2020! As TMHP.com receives approximately 2.5 million views per month, it important to have a website that is functional and easy to navigate.  Major improvements have been made to increase the website user experience for providers. Highlights of new improved features include: o   Simplified navigation with program information, topics, and resources are more easily...

Frequently Asked Questions: HCBS Settings Regulation Implementation and Heightened Scrutiny Reviews of Presumptively Institutional Settings: July 2020 Update 1.Question: What is the new deadline for states to assure that all settings are in compliance with the home and community-based services (HCBS) settings criteria? Answer: States have been granted an additional year to demonstrate compliance and should ensure all settings are in full compliance with the HCBS settings criteria by March 17,...

Currently, all "On-site Training" is on hold due to COVID-19.  If you require any of these trainings, please check our calendars on our website for current webinars or contact us at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com for some of our pre-recorded training options. Live Training On-Site (Please contact us if you want us to provide these trainings on-site for your program): HCS/TxHmL: Care Coordination in the HCS Program, Using Person-Centered Thinking To Develop The IP (Implementation Plan), Changes...

Tuesday, June 9, 2020 HHS Announces Enhanced Provider Portal, Relief Fund Payments for Safety Net Hospitals, Medicaid & CHIP Providers Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), is announcing additional distributions from the Provider Relief Fund to eligible Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) providers that participate in state Medicaid and CHIP programs. HHS expects to distribute...

Update on TWC services Provider Manual and Resources  The following revisions to the Vocational Rehabilitation Standards for Providers Manual (VR-SFP) are available for 30-day review on the Vocational Rehabilitation Providers' Resources page and will go into effect on June 29, 2020. Chapter 2: Obtaining a Contract for Goods and Services—updated Section 2.8.1 Adding Counties or Services, Goods, and/or Equipment to a Contract, to indicate that provider contracts awarded after January 2020 will...

Cost Report/Accountability Report has been extended to June 15, 2020 A notice has been posted to the LTSS web-page and the vendor will be updating the STAIRS system by Monday.  HHSC has stated they do not anticipate any additional extensions will be made at this point; however, if this occurs they will keep everyone updated. Notice: The new due date for submission of the 2019 Cost Report and/or 2019 Accountability Report has been extended to June 15, 2020. This new due date supersedes the...

Last Friday HHSC posted the following CARE banner:  Due to the 09/01/2019 HCS rate increase, service authorizations are being updated to ensure they are in line with their corresponding IPCs. This will not cause any payment changes. Upon inquiry as to what this meant, Holly Lindsey, UR, HHSC provided the explanation below.  Hopefully the explanation and guidance will be of assistance to you should an action (revision, renewal or transfer) be taken on an IPC which prompts a notice that the IPC...

Person-Centered Training Opportunities   HHSC Person Centered Planning/Practice Training Information What Training Is Required? Online Introductory Course The Texas Health and Human Services Online Introductory Course is appropriate for any member of the planning team, including: Legally authorized representatives Family members Friends Nurses (required in some instances) Behavior specialists (required in some instances) Employment specialists (required in some instances) Attendants...

  No other live training has been scheduled at this time, these sessions are suspended until we hear more about the Covid-19 virus to decide on whether or not these sessions would be advisable at this time.  We will continue with webinars and on-site training, until further notice.       

Status of HCS Rates as of Oct. 11th, 2019: As of October 11th, 2019, members of the HHSC Rate Workgroup were notified that the proposed rule amendments to implement the HCS rates that will be effective Jan. 1, 2020 thru August 31, 2021 have been sent to the Texas Register and will be published next Friday.  To view the HCS rates, go to:  https://rad.hhs.texas.gov/sites/rad/files/documents/long-term-svcs/2019/2019-09-hcs-rates.pdf . Any claims with DOS 11/10/19, and after will pay at the new...

Behavioral Support Services HCS and TxHmL Behavioral Support Services Provider Policy Training (Has been mandated for HCS & TxHmL providers to ensure their contracted Behavioral Support Services providers to take since March 2015) This course informs service providers of behavioral support services in the HCS and TxHmL programs related to the provision of behavioral support services in those programs.  All new behavior support service providers must complete the WBT before providing...

Discounted Rates Available for Small Providers (20 individuals or less) if you demo with Twogether Consulting to get signed up for TMP!  As you know, we often provide webinars for providers receiving TaskMaster Pro services and this year some exciting new changes are taking place.  We are having a webinar on January 28th to review some of the new changes added to the nursing component of TaskMaster Pro, which include Comprehensive Nursing Assessment addition.  For those of you who are not...