Twogether Updates

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 on our mailing list for this free publication, please...

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...

July 4th, 2021 Hurricane and Flooding Readiness Webinars for LTC Providers Home & Community-based Services: Wednesday, July 21 2 -3:30 p.m. Register for the webinar. Intermediate Care Facilities: Wednesday, July 21 10 -11:30 a.m. Register for the webinar. July 2021 LTCR Provider Training Opportunities Long-Term Care Regulatory providers are invited to attend the following trainings hosted in July.  Visit the Joint Training Opportunities page to register and learn more about each of these...

COVID-19 Resources July 18th, 2021 August 2 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...

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...

July 4th,  2021 Hello Friends, June has been a tough month for some of our team, including myself.  Several of us have had to devote more time to some of our family members in their time of need this past month, due primarily to medical issues.  While we are glad to do so, if meant we had to put off some training in early July and work we wanted to do for our providers. We are now back to work as usual starting around July 14th, 2021. We wanted to thank you all for your patience and...

Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC   July 17th, 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 providers...

July 17th, 2021 On Tuesday (July 13, 2021), the HHSC IDD Coordination Workgroup met.  The workgroup is comprised of HHSC staff and representatives from IDD stakeholders and advocacy organizations.  Here is the discussion that followed, regarding the CARE Migration to TMHP project. Summary of the discussion below, You may also click on this attached presentation HHSC reviewed with the workgroup. The initial effective date of the migration (August 2, 2021) has been postponed. At this time HHSC...

Rising To The Challenge! PPAT Fall Conference DoubleTree Hotel Austin, Tx 78752 More information and registration PDF of the registration form 25th Annual Fall Conference -If you want to be a Sponsor, Vendor, Register for the Conference or Provide some of the items needed for Silent Auction & Goody Bags, please see the registration form above.  You may also contact the office at 512-452-8188. PPAT also needs small items for the goody bags such as pens, pencils, notepads, etc. Goody bags...

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 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...

July 4th, 2021 HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-30) HHSC has published a revision to IL 2021-30 In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (PDF) which replaces IL 2021-26. 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...

July 3rd, 2021 Update COVID-19 Policy Extended for Service Providers of Respite and CFC PAS/HAB HHSC has extended the lifted 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. Due to guidelines a person’s spouse or a minor child’s parent still cannot be a paid service provider 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)...

-Mention Us and Get Your Promotions for Becoming A New ADP Clients:               - 2 months free for all PTA partners               - 5 months free for the next 2 weeks!   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 or greater..  Some of you may already be working with him. Katie DeMayo works with our providers who need Payroll and HR services for under 50 employees Our newest...

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...

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.

May 23rd, 2021 June Infection Control Basics for HCS and TxHmL Providers Webinars This webinar will review basic infection control concepts such as hand hygiene, standard and transmission-based precautions, and steps to prevent the spread of infectious disease. Registration for each class is limited to 50 participants. June 3 10 - 11:30 a.m. Register for the June 3 webinar. June 10 10 - 11:30 am Register for the June 10 webinar. June 17 10 - 11:30 a.m. Register for the June 17 webinar. June 24...

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...

May 3rd, 2021 HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-20) 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 2021-20 In-Home Day...

May 3rd, 2021 May 2021 HCS/TxHmL Provider Certification Principle Webinars The following webinars are part of the ongoing HCS and TxHmL Certification Principles training series. This webinar will give an overview of Texas Administrative Code §9.174 relating to service delivery requirements for HCS program providers. Certification Principle 9.174-Service Delivery May 11, 2021 10 - 11:30 a.m. Register for the HCS provider webinar. Email your questions to Shelley Gusky. February 2021 HCS/TxHmL...

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 Adopts New HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rule!!! HHSC has adopted new Home and Community-based Services...

            HHSC's WS&C Portal April 26th, 2021 Additional changes are coming to address Surveys and violations received from surveyors.  These include contacting WSC staff concerning violations and submitting EOC's and POC's to WSC through the WSC Portal! On April 27th and 29th 2021:  HHSC hosted a webinar on WSC Portal Training for HCS/TxHmL providers. A recorded session of The WSC portal training...

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...

HHSC Publishes HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rules Update:   April 17th, 2021 Original Published:  March 25th, 2021 3.0 HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rule To read more, please click on the link below:  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:a7d8cd88-7334-4f8b-89b3-5876693ceb1a *** Please Don't Forget To Update Your Policies & Procedures Based On The Changes.  Feel Free To Contact Twogether Consulting For Assistance!  Info@twogetherconsulting.com ...

March 24th, 2021 HHSC Adopts New Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rules for ICF Providers!!! HHSC has adopted new Expansion of Reopening Visitation (PDF) emergency rules that establish criteria for expanded indoor and outdoor visitation as well as essential caregiver visits. These rules are effective March 24, 2021. HHSC Publishes COVID-19 Response – Expansion of Reopening Visitation for ICF Providers (PL 2021-10) HHSC has published Provider Letter 2021-10, COVID-19 Response –...

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...

  February 23rd, 2021 IDD Vaccine Plan Approved (HCS/TxHmL/ICF) Good News! The plan for Tarrytown Expocare to provide the COVID vaccine to persons receiving services through the ICF/IID, HCS and TxHmL programs has been approved. This includes staff and paid caregivers. The plan applies to those who have yet to receive the vaccine through either the federal pharmacy partnership program or other sources. The three IDD associations will meet to discuss logistics.  I believe this is set to be...

  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...

Feb 9th, 2021 HCS/TxHmL-Provider Applicant Training (PAT) and Provider Applicant Test (Update)   "My application was accepted to become an HCS &/or TxHmL Waiver Provider, now what do I do?"   Online Training FAQ's How can I access the HHS Learning Portal? Once your Contract Manager has informed you via email of your approved application, you will receive an email approving your application with a link to the HHS Portal, and the Program Manager will have to create an account to...

  See link to February 2021 edition below: https://www.tmhp.com/sites/default/files/file-library/ltc/bulletins/February%202021%20LTC%20Bulletin%20No.%2085_Final%20for%20Web.pdf See link to November 2020 edition below: https://www.tmhp.com/sites/default/files/file-library/ltc/November%202020%20Long-Term%20Care%20Provider%20Bulletin%20No.%2084.pdf

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...

HCS/TxHmL IDR Process Coming Soon!   Currently, the IR process is still in place, but the new IDR process for HCS/TxHmL should be in place sometime in February 2021.  We will keep you posted. If you would like to appeal a citation/violation currently, continue to use the IR process until the time IDR Process is rolled out! FYI-With the IR process, this may be requested immediately after receiving draft report from the survey visit at exit.  The IDR process works a bit differently, the provider...

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: ...

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 our first guest presenters for  January 2021! Free Webinars!!   Guest presenters: Brittany Brown/Insurance Broker Date:January 12th, 2021 Time:  Noon-1pm (Central Time) Cost:  Free!!! Where:  Webinar To register for the session: Please register for Free Webinar: Presented By AssuredPartners...

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:...

    An ICF resident, as well as an individual living in an HCS group home, may have up to 2 Essential caregivers, as defined in the emergency rules, and they must have a negative COVID-19 test result from a test performed no more than 14 days before the first essential caregiver visit unless the facility chooses to perform a rapid test prior to entry into the facility.  Providers are still seeking clarification for some of the new COVID-19 emergency mitigation rules (including...

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...

Emergency Rule Adoption for TxHmL and COVID-19 Mitigation See new rule at link below: https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/provider-portal/long-term-care/txhml-covid-19-emergency-rules.pdf

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...