Twogether Updates

May 15th, 2023 Recording Available of Webinar For LTC Provider Webinar on the End of Continuous Medicaid Coverage! HHSC hosted additional live webinars in March and April of 2023, to inform providers about the end of continuous Medicaid coverage. The webinar provided information about how long-term care providers (including nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, home and community support services agencies, Medicaid waiver providers, and intermediate care facilities for individuals...

May 14th, 2023  Guidance Related to Cooperation with HHSC Provider Investigations (PL 2023-11) HHSC has published PL 2023-11 Cooperation with HHSC Provider Investigations (PDF). The letter reminds providers that they must cooperate with Health and Human Services Commission Provider Investigators who are conducting investigations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

May 14th, 2023 Reminder Last updated on 12/7/2022 Since May 2, 2022, Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) program providers, local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs) and financial management services agencies (FMSAs) billing on behalf of consumer-directed services (CDS) have been submitting forms and claims to the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP). In response to questions and concerns related to the processing of...

May 14th, 2023 On a quarterly basis, TMHP will calculate all services that have been paid through Client Assignment and Registration System (CARE) and TMHP and will recoup services that exceed the authorized IPC amount. (From May 1st, 2023 forward) View the full alert here.

May 13th, 2023 Community Attendants & Direct Care/Support Workers: Direct care/support workers & community attendants are a huge part of the Medicaid long-term services and supports system. Without these persons working with our individuals, HCS, TxHmL, CLASS, ICF and other programs would not be able to provide services. The long-term services and supports system in Texas would simply not exist without a workforce of direct care/support workers. The Texas House and Senate have passed...

May 13th, 2023 May 2023 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session Thank you for your interest in listening to the May 2023 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. This is the last scheduled stakeholder recording for COVID-19 updates. For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us. January 12th, 2023  January 12 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19...

May 12th, 2023 Important Reminder:  Denial of Medicaid Eligibility HHSC has published IL2023-16 Termination of Waiver Services Due to Denial of Medicaid Eligibility. On Dec. 29, 2022, Congress passed the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, which separated continuous Medicaid coverage requirement from the Public Health Emergency declaration. The requirement for states to maintain continuous Medicaid coverage ended as of March 31, 2023. States may begin disenrolling members effective Apr. 1,...

May 2nd, 2023 Infection Control Resources from HHSC Infection Prevention and Control Measures for Common Infections in LTC Facilities (PDF) Infection Control Basics & PPE Training for Essential Caregivers (PDF) Helping Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Related Conditions Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 (PDF) Long-term Care COVID-19 Vaccination Options (PDF) Resources Created by HHSC Evidence-Based Best Practices: Infection Control is a guide for developing a facility-wide...

April 27th, 2023 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation will be providing recurring one-hour webinars for Individualized Skills and Socialization providers. These webinars will cover the basics of a license application, and an overview of the survey process. Additional topics will include reporting abuse, neglect, exploitation or incidents to HHSC. All sessions are duplicates and offer multiple opportunities to facilitate provider attendance. Friday, April 28 3–4 p.m. Click here to register. Monday,...

April 14th, 2023 April 12, 2023 town hall meeting April topics included: Using the Provider Location Update (PLU) Form for moves/updates Entering Individualized Skills and Socialization in TMHP Highlighting Individualized Skills and Socialization Available Resources Questions and Answers – HCS/TxHmL Providers and FMSAs will have the opportunity to ask questions* regarding the LTC Online Portal for HCS and TxHmL. You can register for the recorded session at:...

April 11th, 2023 **Please also check the HCS/TxHmL joint training website from HHSC, for periodic related webinars.  Training Resources (Videos, FAQ's, Quick Check Guides, CBT training) It is highly recommended that program providers, LIDDAs, and FMSAs create a TMHP Learning Management System (LMS) account at learn.tmhp.com to access current training related to the LTC Online Portal and claims submissions. New TMHP LMS users can access the Learning Management System (LMS) Registration and...

April 1th, 2023 Link to HCS/TxHmL TMHP Youtube Video Playlist

April 4th, 2023   New HCBS Rules (HCS and TxHmL) These new HCS rules have been added as TAC Title 26, Part 1, Chapter 263. Texas Home Living HCBS regulations for compliance requirements is the following TAC title 26 part I Chapter 262  

March 30th, 2023 I wanted to share the website for one of the ISS providers in the San Antonio area as they do also offer competitive employment for individuals and have employment assistance (EA) and supported employment (SE). Hope this is a good resource from some HCS/TxHmL providers in their area. https://www.texasfoundationofhope.org/    2845 Thousand Oaks Dr. San Antonio, TX 78232 (210) 265-3351 txfoundationofhope@gmail.com Office Hours: Monday – Friday  9:00 AM to 5:00...

March 30th, 2023 Review of this important section in 9.174 Service Delivery 9.174  (23)  (concerning HH/CC, RSS, SL on-site expectations including locks on bedrooms and hot water temps in the home) (23) ensure that, for an individual receiving host home/companion care, residential support, or supervised living:   (A) the individual lives in a home that is a typical residence within the community;   (B) the residence, neighborhood, and community meet the needs and choices of the...

March 30th, 2023 Service Delivery Logs for Individualized Skills and Socialization As of March 14th, 2023, information from the HHSC ISS SDL website page: ISS SDL Logs Form 8615, On-site and Off-site Individualized Skills and Socialization Service Delivery Log, and Form 8616, In-Home Individualized Skills and Socialization Service Delivery Log, are no longer mandatory to document a service claim of on-site, off-site, or in-home individualized skills and socialization. A program provider may...

March 30th, 2023 Update HHSC's Response to Some Of The Questions Concerning Cost Reports for 2022:  The HCS/TxHmL Units of Service Look-up tool was created at the providers’ request to assist them in completing the 2022 cost report.  Providers have questioned whether it captures all that is needed for the cost report and if HHSC is responsible for ensuring there is an appropriate report page for providers to collect this information in TMHP and/or Texas Med Connect. HHSC has stated that...

March 29th, 2023  Heightened Scrutiny Process For ISS (Individualized Skills and Socialization) Individualized skills and socialization has replaced day habilitation in these programs: HCS, TxHmL & DBMD. Individualized skills and socialization will include an on-site component and an off-site component. The heightened scrutiny process will be required if a setting in which on-site individualized skills and socialization is provided: (1) is located in a building in which a state supported...

March 26th, 2023 HHSC published PL 2023-06 Compliance with New HCBS Settings Rules HHSC Long-term Care Regulation published Provider Letter 2023-06 regarding Compliance with New HCBS Settings Rules on March 24, 2023. This letter explains how LTCR surveyors will assess HCS providers for compliance with the new HCBS settings requirements. March 15th, 2023 The Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS) is sharing this toolkit with State Medicaid Agencies, Operating Agencies, and other...

March 20th, 2023 ​88th Legislative Session in Texas! Here Are A Few House Bills Submitted That May Affect Long-Term Care & Other Services For Persons With Disabilities HB 54: Personal needs allowance for certain Medicaid recipients who are residents of long-term care facilities. HB 144: Possible Exemption from ad valorem taxation of the total appraised value of the residence homestead of an unpaid caregiver of an individual. HB 166: The appointment of an educational representative for...

March 19th, 2023 Individualized Skills and Socialization Joint Training Opportunities For:  Applicants For ISS Licensure and New ISS Providers HHSC Joint Provider Trainings will host a 1-day live training (Austin, Tx) that will cover the licensing process for the Individualized Skills and Socialization Program, as well as an overview of the rules, survey process, and reporting requirements for allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Introduction to Individualized Skills and...

March 5th, 2023 Thanks to our friends at ARC for posting this in one of their recent newsletters 1915(c) Waiver Interest Lists by Legislative District Find below maps produced by The Arc of Texas showing how many Texans on Medicaid waiver interest lists live within each State House, State Senate, and Congressional district. The Medicaid waivers being tracked are all CLASS, DBMD, HVC, MDCP, STAR+ PLUS, and TXHML. The darker the hue of the district, the more people there are on any interest list...

February 27th, 2023 Letter IL 2023-09 discusses that Sections 263.502 and 263.503 (a)(1)(A) and (b) through (m) of the new Chapter 263 CMS rules do not apply to HH/CC providers in which the HH/CC provider is an immediate family member of the person receiving HH services.  See page 1, 2nd paragraph of the IL for the definition of an immediate family member.  Sections 263.502 and 23.503 (a)(1)(A) and (b) through (m) will however, apply if a HH/CC provider does not meet the definition of an...

February 25th, 2023 Please click on links below to find the referenced rules which were published as adopted on February 24th, 2023, with an effective date of March 1, 2023. HCS Rules TxHmL Rules Please be aware of the following: Only the rule provisions to which changes were made are included in the links above.  I believe HHSC will post the complete set soon. You are urged to read the preamble to the rules, in particular HHSC's responses to comments received from stakeholders, before reading...

February 22nd, 2023 I know providers have really been concerned about the period of time between March 1st and May 11th while the PHE has been extended, as to whether or not this will include ISS services for In-Home ISS. HHSC stated it would release a notice soon stating that beginning March 1, 2023 in-home ISS can be done without the justification (medical or behavioral justification or anyone 55 years of age and older should they request such) for such that will be required in the rules,...

February 22nd, 2023  In-Home ISS in HH/CC Settings:  If persons receiving HH/CC services receive in-home ISS only, the provider does not have to be licensed.  If the person receiving HH/CC services engages in community activities (known as off-site ISS), then the provider of the off-site ISS must be a licensed ISS provider.  Note:  EVV is NOT required for in-home DH or in-home ISS in a HH Setting - EVV is only required in own home/family home settings.  Also, the requirement for EVV matching...

February 21st, 2023 Update on Who Qualifies To Assess The Need For A Modification According to HHSC (and the proposed rules that will now be under Chapter 263) modifications to the door lock requirement must be based on a documented, assessed need and brought to the SPT for review and documentation in one's PDP As to whom determines the assessed need, HHSC stated at recent training sessions in Lake Jackson and Austin I believe, that a licensed professional, defining such as a doctor, RN,...

February 14th, 2023   Repeal of HCS Rules under Title 40, Chapter 9 / Movement to Title 26, Chapter 565 Attached please find the proposed changes to the HCS certification principles. The proposed changes repeal rules under Chapter 9, Subchapter D and move to Chapter 565.  Remember that in addition to moving the rules to Chapter 565, several new rules are mentioned to be put in place as well as changes to existing rules for purposes of either updating, streamlining or providing clarity in...

February 10th, 2023 From HHSC's PAT  FAQ's as of Jan. 1st, 2023 "Frequently Asked Questions for Providers Applicant Training (PAT) for HCS/TXHML" -When is the Provider Applicant Training (PAT) Online available? This training is now available online. The PAT training is the first step for applicants to obtain a contract with HHSC. Please do not submit your application without the PAT certificate that reflects a passing score of 85% or above. -Who can take the training? Applicants listed on Form...

March 2nd, 2023 Unwinding of Continuous Medicaid Coverage:  HHSC will stagger Medicaid Eligibility Determinations, separating into 3 groups.  IDD will be in the last group, meaning that packets will be sent in June with persons having 30 days to reply.  More information can be found at:  https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-covid-19-provider-information/end-continuous-medicaid-coverage-ambassador-toolkit February 9th, 2023 The Biden administration plans to...

February 9th, 2023 Where can you find helpful Training Videos on the PEMS process? Check out the TMHP page with their Youtube videos for PEMS. In addition, you will find information on removing TPI's and a Video series on running and utilizing your R&S Reports 1915 (c) waiver page at TMHP For YouTube Training Videos Specific link to R&S Report Video Series Specific link to Removal of TPI From Forms Video

February 5th, 2023 Proposed HCS and TxHmL Billing Requirements Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living stakeholders can now comment on the proposed revisions to the HCS and TxHmL Billing Requirements by Feb. 14. The proposed billing requirement revisions and a summary of changes are located on the Long-term Care Providers webpage and are outlined below: HCS HCS Billing Requirements Draft Revision 23-2 (MS Word) HCS Billing Requirements Draft Revision 23-2 Summary of Changes...

January 5th, 2023 IMT and IPC Form Enhancements and IBI Guide Updates Now Available Last updated on 1/27/2023 From HHSC: "On January 13, 2023, a text box replaced the location code drop-down box on the following Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Individual Movement (IMT) and Individual Plan of Care (IPC) form fields: IPC transfers (3608/8582) field 39a: Receiving Program Provider Location Code IMT (all-purpose codes) field 18: Location Code IMT Individual...

January 31st, 2023   Advocacy Toolkit from our friends at the ARC of Texas https://www.thearcoftexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Advocacy-Toolkit.pdf

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.     February 2023   Common Nursing Violations:  Prevention & Correction  February 23rd, 2023 10 AM-12:00 PM (ICF/IID)     The HCS/TxHmL...

January 27th, 2023 As of 1/27/23, there have been no new alert letters concerning the extension of temporarily waiving certain requirements for In-Home DH  due to the Public Health Emergency, past  January 31st, 2023. This was the date we were given in Letter No. 2022-55. My understanding is providers would receive notice at least 30 days prior to ending the PHE.  I am assuming at this time that the PHE will extend through Feb. 28th, 2023.  In-Home DH billing will discontinue in TMHP as of...

January 27th, 2023 HHSC Form Required for Fire Drills for ISS Providers Click on link below Form 4719 * Some providers have noted that this form seems a bit inappropriate for ISS providers as the form has locations that seem more appropriate for a "home" setting, as opposed to maybe a "building" used by a licensed ISS provider, but it does have a box for "other" locations.

January 16th, 2023 Statewide Transition Plan CMS requires states to submit a transition plan describing the state’s planned initiatives and activities for achieving compliance with the federal HCBS Settings Rule. HHSC has received initial approval of its transition plan and has updated the plan to include additional information required for CMS to grant final approval. This version of the STP includes new information about site-specific assessments, ongoing monitoring and oversight,...

January 16th, 2023 Adoption Date of HCS Rules and Status of Statewide Transition Plan (STP):  gave HHSC preliminary approval of its STP on 12/21/2022.  The STP will be posted for public comment this Friday (Jan. 20th, 2023). It is unclear when the HCS rules will be adopted. See graph of draft rules below (pages 12-17 for HCS).  Includes CLASS, TxHML, MDCP, and DMDB programs as well. Appendix A: Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Settings Statewide Transition Plan  ...

January 15th, 2023 TMHP Recoupment Letters Recoupment Letters:   Upon request, TMHP will send a list of affected/over-paid claims to providers. Providers who experience any issues receiving the list should contact Marie Redman at HHSC (marie.redman@hhs.texas.gov). HHSC urges providers to keep their ticket numbers.  Why? Because the calls are recorded, and if there's an issue, the ticket number allows HHSC to listen to the call associated with the ticket number.  This is just one of the...

January 15th, 2023 Help With The New Residential Agreements Concerning the on-site assessments, HHSC plans to help providers with the soon-to-be required residential agreements. According to HHSC, the assistance is to ensure providers' agreements meet the minimum requirements of the rule.  There was no elaboration of the type help to be offered other than HHSC will reach out to each provider. HHSC further stated that an Information Letter would soon be posted directing providers to initiate...

January 14th, 2023 Have You Signed Up For CIMS (Critical Incident Management System)Yet?  There are still quite a few providers who have not done so.  HCS & TxHmL providers please do so right away. 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...

January 12th, 2022 From our good friends at the Texas Chapter of AAIDD, some important info about the Texas 88th Legislative Session See actual TAAIDD link   Dion White, Center for Life Resources AAIDD Texas Chapter Board Member "Texas is home to more than 500,000 adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This legislative session will be very important to address specific changes happening within the IDD systems of care across the State. ​ Our system of care...

Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC   January 12th, 2022 Please see notice below from Monty Chamberlain, HHSC. "HHSC is pleased to announce the delivery of in-person Employment First / Employment Services training for the first time since 2019.  This free one-day training opportunity has proven to be a very valuable opportunity to various levels of staff involved in the support of individuals who set the goal of competitive and integrated employment...

January 11th, 2023   RENEWAL OF DETERMINATION THAT A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY EXISTS   "As a result of the continued consequences of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)  pandemic, on this date and after consultation with public health officials as necessary, I, Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Health and Human Services, pursuant to the authority vested in me under section 319 of the Public Health Service Act, do hereby renew, effective January 11, 2023, the January 31, 2020,...

January 11th, 2023  Revised Information Letter (IL) 2023-01 related to ISS Payment Rates (replaces IL 2022-56):   HHSC has published Revised Information Letter (IL) 2023-01, which replaces 2022-56 related to payment rates for Individualized Skills and Socialization Services, effective January 1, 2023. HHSC has also approved payment rates for the Individualized Skills and Socialization in the Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities waiver (DBMD), Home and Community-based Services waiver (HCS),...

January 10th, 2023 Below are just some of the trainings offered by HHSC on their "Trainings Initiative" page. Some live and some via webinar. For more information, please go to: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/provider-training/training-initiatives SSI/SSDI Benefits Overview The SSI/SSDI Benefits Overview web-based training provides a basic foundation for understanding Supplemental Security Income and Supplemental Security Disability Insurance and provides contact information for people...

Status of HCS Rates as of Jan. 1st, 2023 (includes new ISS rates) HCS Rates Jan. 1st, 2023 including ISS services 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...

Free Webinars!! Our free webinar session recordings previously recorded are currently posted on our "Gotostage" page. https://www.gotostage.com/channel/3b0bd3b1a47c4e80be974f4bcfa54d7b January 2023 Webinars   Core-VA Solutions "Virtual Healthcare Assistants For LTC Programs" Virtual Healthcare Assistants Services and Training for Long-Term Care Programs, including HCS, TxHmL, and ICF Free Webinar Series Hosted By: Twogether Consulting (1/10/22 from noon-1pm)   Pre-Registration is...

January 2nd, 2023 Effective January 2023, the open enrollment application process to get a provisional contract to provide Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) services will change. You must be enrolled as a Texas Medicaid provider through the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) Provider Enrollment System (PEMS) before applying. 2. To apply, you must complete the Provider Applicant Training (PAT). The PAT is now available on the HHS Learning...

January 2nd, 2023 HHSC published an alert on Dec. 21, 2022, informing long-term care providers that expedited delivery is available for a limited time for personal protective equipment through the Texas Division of Emergency Management. This resource is available to all long-term care providers, including: Nursing Facilities Assisted Living Facilities Intermediate Care Facilities Home and Community-based Services Home and Community Support Services Agencies, including Community Living...

January 1st, 2023 LTC Winter and Extreme Freezing Weather Preparedness HHSC encourages long-term care facilities and agencies to review and update emergency plans for freezing temperatures and snow. Emergency plans for extreme weather should include the provider’s plan to address: Power loss Water and food needs Communication to families and staff Staffing shortages Sheltering in place and evacuation as applicable Providers must follow emergency preparedness rules and their own internal...

Out-of-Hospital Do-Not-Resuscitate Order Out-of-Hospital Do-Not-Resuscitate (OOH DNR) order. Both the English and Spanish versions can be downloaded on the EMS and Trauma Systems website, along with “Frequently Asked Questions About OOH DNR,” also in both languages. For questions related to OOH DNR orders, email EMSInfo@dshs.texas.gov.

“Moving Forward Together” 2022 Conference for ICF Surveyors and Providers- Dec. 1st, 2022 Dec. 1 ICF Conference Recordings Available The “Moving Forward Together” Intermediate Care Facilities Conference session recordings from Dec. 1 are available for viewing. Note that a certificate of completion will be generated upon completion, but no professional CE awards are available. Listen to the ICF session recordings. Email questions to LTCR Joint Training.

December 18th, 2022  HHSC Long-term Care (LTC) Regulation has retired the COVID-19 Response for ICF for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions Response Plan and the ICF Frequently Asked Questions documents, effective Dec. 13, 2022. Facilities can obtain guidance along with resources for infection prevention, control measures, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) through the Infection Prevention and Control Measures for Common Infections in LTC Facilities...

December 11th, 2022 The provider self-reporting voicemail option will be transitioned out of service on Dec. 31, 2022. Effective Jan. 1, 2023, provider self-reported incidents must be submitted using one of the methods indicated below: This does not apply to HCS or TxHmL, only ICF and other LTC programs such as ALF's, SNF's, DAH's... Online via Tulip Email ciicomplaints@hhs.texas.gov Call 800-458-9858 (available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.) Please ensure that all initial self-reported...

December 11th, 2022 The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) created the Regulatory Services Division in 2017 as regulatory functions consolidated from the Department of Family and Protective Services, the Department of Aging and Disability Services and the Department of State Health Services. As part of this consolidation effort, effective Jan. 30, 2023, HHSC will retire the Provider Investigation policy mailbox at PIPolicy@hhs.texas.gov. For questions about investigations, please use...

December 10th, 2022 Know that effective December 22, 2022, all HCS/TxHmL providers will need to have migrated to Palo Alto VPN for billing claims!

December 06th, 2022 Please see this alert that was just sent to the 3 IDD associations from HHSC  In an effort to identify potential IPC forms processing delays for Providers and LIDDAs, HHSC identified sixty-six (66)% of the form statuses on the portal are in a Pending DADS Review.  Forms in this status typically require action to be taken by the submitter of the form per the attached HHSC clarification.    Please share the attached alert document to your case managers, program managers, and...

Recording of Individualized Skills and Socialization- Provider Licensing Application Process Webinar December 06, 2022 If you were not able to listen to the November 30th webinar on navigating TULIP/applying for an ISS license, the recording of the webinar and the presentation are now posted.  See below for details.  Though assumed that persons who listen to the recording will also be able to download a certificate, HHSC has yet to confirm that Listen to the webinar recording. Read the...

December 1st, 2022 Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living waiver program providers that enrolled through the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership Provider Enrollment and Management System will be subject to a pre-enrollment site visit from TMHP. Read the full alert. Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) waiver program providers that enrolled through the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) Provider Enrollment and Management...

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) updated the following information regarding the Determination of Intellectual Disability (DID): DID Best Practice Guidelines website DID Best Practice Guidelines (PDF) Become a Certified Authorized Provider to Conduct a DID website For more information, email the IDD Services Team.

December 1st, 2022 Overview of Upcoming LTC Online Portal Enhancements for HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs On December 12, 2022, the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership will implement several enhancements to the TMHP Long-Term Care Online Portal. After the enhancements are implemented, existing information and training materials will be updated. Read full alert. -IPC Forms -Termination Forms -Pre-Enrollment Forms -Individual Movement (IMT) Local Authority (LA) Reassignment Forms -Provider...

November 14th, 2022 Don't forget: HHSC has extended the time for any providers eligible for these ARPA payments to complete the attestation, so that the initial and final reports are not due, until 30 calendar days after the end of the COVID Public Health Emergency (PHE).  Failure to submit the attestation and initial and final reports will result in recoupment of the funds. There appear to be quite a few members who have yet to submit the attestation or even the initial report.  Don't forget...

November 11th, 2022 TMHP Enhancements According to HHSC the enhancements (improvements) planned for release this month will most likely be posted later this week or early next week.  These posted enhancements will not be effective until Dec. 12, 2022. HHSC will go over these enhancements in depth at the December 8th, 2022 Migration Webinar September 23rd, 2022 There are 2 sets of HHSC and TMHP 'enhancements' (or 'fixes' or 'improvements' to the system) to be released in the near future.  HHSC...

November 11th, 2022 At this time, according to HHSC the PHE is set to end on January 11, 2023.  Currently, it is not known whether it will be extended beyond January 11th, 2022.  It is possible providers will be notified this week in some alerts if PHE will be extended beyond January 11, 2023. Why is this important? *This is important as COVID-19 flexibilities may end and Medicaid status may be lost for those individuals in our waiver  and ICF programs where provider has not responded to...

Previous Webinars Hosted ByTwogether Consulting:  Therap during our free resource webinar series below.  Just click on the links and register. October 2022 https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/2347988816141652494   August 2022 https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/1388286687336697103 If you need assistance with your current Therap services or with information on getting these services, please contact: Calvin Christensen(Business Development Consultant at Therap Services, LLC)...

October 31st, 2022 Previous Webinars Hosted ByTwogether Consulting:  TaskMaster Pro (TMP) during our free resource webinar series below.  Just click on the links and register. October 20th, 2022 https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/1488497278022599682 We couldn’t find an innovative IDD Practice Management software that focused on delivering better care, so we built one! Software features for Service Providers Our IDD software is designed by Service Providers and built for Service...

January 15th, 2023 Jan. 11th TMHP LTC Migration Webinar Monthly Webinars:  See January 11th migration webinar. I believe the next one will be February 6, 2022. If you missed the January 11th webinar, a recording will be posted soon.  The February webinar will focus on cost reports. R & S Reports and Other Notices:  Please see R & S Video Series for LTC Providers & FMSAs: There are 3 videos related to this topic:....

October 17th, 2022 From HHSC: LTC Providers Encouraged to Get Ready for Flu Season CDC recommends everyone be vaccinated against the flu by the end of October to avoid peak flu season. Long-term care providers should review their program requirements for guidance related to vaccination requirements and infection control. Some of the CDC’s recommendations for vaccinating patients in congregate healthcare settings are: The CDC recommends that LTC facilities offer the flu vaccine to all residents...

October 16th, 2022 Register for Texas Culture Change Coalition Conference The Texas Culture Change Coalition will host their in-person fall 2022 conference, “Texans Coming Together for Residents, for Staff, for All!” This year’s theme is “A Day Focused on Person-Centered Senior Care.” Nov. 3 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Commons Conference Center (J.J. Pickle Research Campus) 10100 Burnet Road, Bldg. 137 Austin, TX 78758 Continuing education credit for multiple disciplines will be provided for this event....

October 17th, 2022 HHSC HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 Emergency Rule Expired Oct. 14 The emergency rule for Home and Community-based Services waiver program providers that contain the HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 Emergency Rule expired Oct. 14. The following rule expired Oct. 14: 40 Texas Administrative Code Section 9.198 - Program Provider Response to COVID-19 Emergency Rule HCS program providers must continue to comply with visitation requirements for essential...

HCS/TxHmL proposed rules should align with the federal HCBS settings rule. These are currently in the formal comment phase.  These comments are due to HHSC on October 17, 2022.  To view the rules and instructions for submitting comments, go to the following link: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/regulations/policies-rules/health-human-services-rulemaking/comment-proposed-draft-rules

October 13th, 2022 Update on Some Migration Issues  Enhancements planned for release in November will now not be released until December; the 2nd set of enhancements will be released in June, 2023.  A notice about the enhancements will be posted in the next few weeks. HHSC will post recordings of their monthly TMHP Migration webinars, but not sure where they could be accessed. Sometimes the original registration links end up leading to the recordings, but we will keep you posted when there is...

October 10th, 2022 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 (CARE) Client Assignment and Registration System and TMHP and will recoup services that exceed the authorized IPC...

October 10th, 2022 As part of the on-going transformation efforts, HHSC will no longer use the following mailbox, effective Oct. 31, 2022: WaiverSurvey.Certification@hhsc.state.tx.us For a complete list of current contact information, program providers should refer to PL 2021-26 or e-mail Survey Operations at LTCRSurveyOperation@hhs.texas.gov. For policy questions related to HCS and TxHmL, providers should e-mail LTCRPolicy@hhs.texas.gov.

Timely Submission of IPC Renewals HHSC reminds HCS and TxHmL providers and local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs) to submit individual plan of care (IPC) renewals for individuals enrolled in the HCS and TxHmL waiver programs as early as program rules allow. For HCS, renewal IPCs must be submitted at least 30, but no more than 60, calendar days before the current IPC end date. TxHmL program providers and LIDDAs are encouraged to use the same timeframe for the...

October 3rd, 2022 HHSC has updated the Approved Diagnostic Codes for Persons with Related Conditions effective Oct. 1, 2022 to Sept. 30, 2023. The list of diagnostic codes has not changed for this year and can be viewed at HHSC Approved Diagnostic Codes for Persons with Related Conditions.

October 6th, 2022   In case you forgot, please register for this session. It is very important! HHSC will be hosting HCS & TxHmL Updates Provider Webinar on Oct. 13 For:  HCS/TxHmL program providers, LIDDA's, and other interested parties This webinar will provide information on the following: Substantial changes being made to the HCS and TxHmL Program rules. IL 2022-49, assessments of HCS three-person residences, four-person residences and host home/companion care settings for...

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...

October 5th, 2022 Updated 2022 IDEA Manual The updated 2022-2023 IDEA Manual is now available in both English and Spanish on the Disability Rights Texas website. Created in partnership with The Arc of Texas, this manual is designed to help you understand the requirements of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Texas law so you can act as an equal partner in planning your child’s education.   Learn more on our Resources for Families...

October 2nd, 2022 Texas HHSC has posted awarded levels for Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS) providers participating in the Attendant Compensation and Direct Care Staff enhancement programs for state fiscal year (FY) 2023 for the following programs: Attendant Compensation Rate Enhancement Program for: Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) – Direct Service Agency (DSA); Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS); Deaf-Blind with Multiple Disabilities Waiver (DBMD); Home and...

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 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...

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 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...

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:...

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...

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...