May 23, 2022

Very Important!

Please see information from TMHP below:

May 19th, 2022

HCS/TxHmL providers:

Please be aware of the following for claims being paid from March 1st, 2022-August 31st, 2022 in TMHP:  There are new Procedure/Billing Codes in TMHP that reflect the ARPA short-term funding as retention payments you may be receiving for these claims billed during this time period.  If you are seeing new or different codes than you are used to, listed when you pull up “paid” claims, then you are receiving ARPA Retention payments and will be responsible for documenting how these funds were used and reporting this by July of 2022, or you are subject to recoupment from the MCO’s.  (Example: M0115, M0116, M0117…)

See rates and new codes listed in link below:

https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:cca5939a-6173-346e-9fc2-3409490a5447

Personally, I was under the assumption that providers would have to request this assistance if they wanted it, meaning they would choose whether they utilized this funding or not.  Apparently not necessarily as some providers have noted this is showing up on their payments.  From everything I am reading, the provider letters from HHSC do seem to indicate every provider will receive the funding.

Meaning additional (ARPA) monies that the provider is receiving in claim payments for that time period, will need to be accounted for, and reporting on how funds were utilized will need to happen and be sent into HHSC. Some providers are noticing a difference in the regular rates they submitted claims for when they look at their “paid claims”.  If the provider uses the ARPA intended, attestation and reporting to HHSC must occur.

If the HCS/TxHmL provider chooses not to utilize the added-on payments to the normal rates, I believe they will need to hold back/save these additional amounts for each claim paid from March to August of 2022, in order to pay them back at a later date.  If these ARPA funds are utilized, then the HCS/TxHmL Provider will need to complete a report by July of 2022. I believe, to HHSC by the provider, or they will have to keep it in an account and saved for repayment/recoupment when requested by the MCO’s if I understand correctly.  I will keep you posted!  Also, please look for the additional FAQ’s to be published on May 23rd, 2022 for hopefully important answers to the TMHP questions and issues many providers have expressed with entering IPCs in particular (especially revisions) entering billing claims, and only getting paid for part of billing claims submitted.

Here Are Just Some Of The FAQ’s HHSC Recently Published May 5th, 2022 (specifically related to this issue I have noted above)

Q: What are the ARPA HCBS Provider Retention Payments?

A: HHSC’s ARPA HCBS spending plan included recruitment and retention payments for providers delivering attendant and direct care HCBS for retention bonuses or other activities. HHSC’s spending plan requires providers to use at least 90 percent of HCBS ARPA funds for one-time financial compensation for their direct care workforce, including, but not limited to, lump-sum bonuses, retention bonuses, and paid time off to receive a COVID-19 vaccination or to isolate after receiving a positive COVID-19 test.

Q: What Services are eligible for Provider Retention Payments?

A: HCBS ARPA temporary rate add-on will be applied to HCBS personal attendant and nursing services as defined in 1 TAC 355.207.  A list of eligible services is defined in Section 355.207(b)(1). An updated service list and fee schedule is available on the Provider Finance Homepage.

Q: What identifying information do I need to include with my attestation and required reports?

COVID-19 in Healthcare Relief Grants

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

HHSC has published new information regarding the COVID-19 in Healthcare Relief Grants for the competitive award processes (“TIER 2”) here. HHSC encourages prospective Request for Application (RFA) applicants to review this information outlining general eligibility criteria, RFA application requirements, and anticipated solicitation posting dates for each of the respective RFAs.

Eligible applicants should rely on the final information published in each RFA Solicitation. Each RFA may have additional or different information than what is provided on the website.

More Help Available For Persons Entering IPC’s Into TMHP!

More information about submitting and revising Individual Plans of Care is available in the Long-Term Care Online Portal User Guides for Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Waiver Programs. These user guides are available for the following programs that submit IPC forms 3608 and 8582 in the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership LTC Online Portal:

• HCS and TxHmL providers.
• Local intellectual and development disability authorities.
• Financial management services agencies billing on behalf of Consumer Directed Services employers.

Read the full alert here.

For Previously Recorded Webinars & FAQ’s

https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/long-term-care-providers/resources/hcs-txhml-webinars-faqs

May 5th, 2022

HCS and TxHmL FAQ Updates Available May 9 and May 23

The Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Waiver Programs Frequently Asked Questions document has been updated.

HCS-TxHmL-FAQ-TMHP-TexasMedConnect

Read the full alert here.

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 HHSC organizational changes, introduce LTCR survey operations leadership, and answer questions about the Waiver Survey and Certification unit’s transition into LTCR survey operations.

A recording of August 10, 2021, HCS and TxHmL Transformation Webinar with HHSC Long-Term Care Regulation is available for those who could not attend.

Read the HCS and TxHmL Transformation Webinar (PDF).

Listen to the webinar recording 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
10 – 11:30 a.m.
Register for the June 24 webinar.

.March 16th, 2021 Updated

Updated COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions for HCS and TxHmL Providers

HHSC has published an updated Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 for Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living providers.

Read the Updated COVID-19 FAQs for HCS and TxHmL Providers (PDF).

March 19 Recording of Clarification of Administrative Penalties and Related Processes Webinar Available

A recording of the March 19, 2021 Clarification of Administrative Penalties and Related Processes for HCS and TxHmL Providers webinar is available for those unable to attend.

Listen to the webinar recording here.

March 4 Recording of Writing Acceptable Plans of Correction Webinar Available

A recording of the March 4, 2021 Writing Acceptable Plans of Correction webinar for HCS and TxHmL program providers is available for those unable to attend.

Listen to the webinar recording here.

Feb 25. HCS & TxHmL Provider Responsibilities: Death Notifications & Investigation Reports Webinar

This webinar will provide information about program provider responsibilities for reporting abuse, neglect and exploitation and providing notifications of death.

Feb. 25
1-3 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Jan. 5 Recording Webinar Available – HCS and TxHmL Changes to Survey Process and Hold Harmless Period Overview

A recording of the Jan. 5, 2021, HCS and TxHmL Changes to Survey Process and Hold Harmless Period Overview webinar is available for those unable to attend.

Listen to the webinar recording here.

Jan. 7 Recording of HCS and TxHmL Administrative Penalties and Amelioration Available

A recording of the Jan. 7, 2021 HCS and TxHmL Administrative Penalties and Amelioration webinar is available for those unable to attend.

Listen to the webinar recording here.

DSHS Video on Long-term Care Facilities COVID-19 Infection Prevention and Control Now Available

The Department of State Health Services has published a recorded training for long-term care providers on COVID-19 precautions to take and how to accomplish them.

View the video training

May 15th, 2022

2022 Hurricane Season Emergency Preparedness with COVID-19

Long-term care providers in Texas are reminded to review their emergency preparedness and response plans before Atlantic hurricane season begins, which runs June 1–Nov. 30. LTC providers should make updates, if necessary.

Providers should factor in COVID-19 contingencies when reviewing their preparedness plans. For example, as applicable:

• Are your receiving facilities and transportation contracts still viable?
• If your provider type is allowed to evacuate to a hotel and that is in your plan, are hotels open in your destination?
• How will you maintain infection control measures during evacuation or sheltering-in-place?
• If you have COVID-19 positive persons in your facility, how will that affect evacuation or sheltering-in-place?
• How will you make sure personal protective equipment is available in addition to food and medicine?

Providers affected by an adverse event, such as severe weather, or expects it will need to temporarily exceed capacity due to a disaster, should contact their HHSC LTC Regulatory regional office.

Please refer to your program’s rules for more important information regarding emergency preparedness.

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 23
1:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

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 events.

Emergency Preparedness in Long-Term Care Facilities

July 21
1:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

July 28
1:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

July 3rd, 2021

CMS Provides Guidance on Full-Scale Emergency Preparedness Exercises

ICF Providers, please make sure you see this.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued Quality Safety & Oversight Memo QSO-20-41-ALL Revised (PDF). The memo gives more guidance to providers on full-scale exercise requirements that are part of CMS regulations for emergency preparedness.
The following provider types are exempted from completing a required full-scale exercise for the 2021 cycle based on a provider’s activation of their emergency plan.

• Nursing facilities
• ICFs-IID
• Home health agencies
• Inpatient hospice providers

This exemption does not apply to the exercise of choice.
Providers should still follow all other emergency preparedness guidance in the March 26, 2021 State Operations Manual, Appendix Z (PDF).

May 8th, 2022

HHSC Publishes Revision 22-1 of the HCS and TxHmL Program Billing Requirements, CFC Billing Requirements

Revision 22-1 is effective May 2. All revisions are outlined in the Revision 22-1 Section of each document.

The Billing Requirements are located on the Long-term Care Providers webpage and Handbooks webpage and are outlined below:

• Home and Community-based Services Program Billing Requirements (PDF)
• Texas Home Living Program Billing Requirements (PDF)
• Community First Choice Billing Requirements for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers (PDF)

Email questions to TxHmL Policy.

May 8th, 2022

 HCS and TxHmL Must Submit Claims and Forms to TMHP Beginning May 2, 2022

April 28th, 2022

Claims Submission

Reminder: HCS and TxHmL Must Submit Claims and Forms to TMHP Beginning May 2, 2022

Reminder: HCS and TxHmL Programs can Submit 837P Professional and 837D Dental Claims Using EDI or TexMedConnect

For additional questions, providers can refer to the HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), send an email to hcs_txhml@tmhp.com, or contact the TMHP EDI Help Desk at 888-863-3638.

COVID-19 Resources

May 8th, 2022

May 5, 2022 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session

Thank you for your interest in listening to the May 5 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information Session.

The audio from this session can be found here.

• Email us for transcript

The presentation can be found here.

Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly.

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us.

April 10th, 2022

April 7, 2022 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session

Thank you for your interest in listening to the April 7 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information Session.

The audio from this session can be found here.

• Email us for transcript

The presentation can be found here.

Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly.

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us.

January 9th, 2022

January 6, 2022 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session

The audio from this session can be found here.

• Email us for transcript

The presentation can be found here.

Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly.

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us.

December 30, 2021

COVID-19 Cases Rise – Guidance for LTC Providers

COVID-19 cases are increasing across Texas. HHSC reminds providers to follow the guidelines listed below and ensure their emergency plan is up-to-date. Staff must be aware of what to do in the event of any sort of emergency, including an outbreak of flu or COVID-19.

Please review the following guidelines and rules:

• COVID-19 mitigation and visitation rules
• Any applicable COVID-19 response plans for your provider type
• Your provider’s own infection prevention and control policies

Find COVID-19 resources on:

• Your provider portal under the COVID-19 Resources section
• The HHSC COVID-19 Provider Information page

Your vigilance following infection control requirements can make a difference in protecting vulnerable Texans.

LTC providers are always required to provide services to residents or clients before, during and after an emergency. The emergency plan or policy must include:

• Planning for staff shortages.
• A backup plan to ensure operations and care of residents or clients continue.

Read program-specific rules related to staffing, emergency preparedness, and infection control.

• Intermediate Care Facilities
• Home and Community-based Services
• Texas Home Living

A checklist (PDF) is available to assist you with creating a plan for dealing with an outbreak of flu or COVID-19.

If you need help with updating your COVID Mitigation Plans within Infection Control Policies or Emergency Evacuation Plans with these new updates to Mitigation of COVID-19, please contact us.  We may be able to help you.  Contact us at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com 

December 30th, 2021

Dec. 13 ICF COVID-19 Webinar Recording Available

A recording of the Dec. 13, 2021, ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

Listen to the webinar recording here.

Email LTCR Policy for the transcript.

December 29th, 2021

COVID RESOURCES FOR HCS/TXHML

Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL)

• HCS Visitation Comparison Table (PDF)
• HCS COVID-19 Expanded Visitation Rules (PDF)
• TxHmL COVID-19 Updated Emergency Rules (PDF)
• COVID-19 Response for Home and Community-based Services Residential Providers (PDF)
• Updated COVID-19 FAQs for HCS and TxHmL Providers (PDF)

Additional Guidance and Resources

• Guidance for LTC Facilities Experiencing Staffing Shortages Due to COVID-19 (PDF)
• National Healthcare Safety Network Long Term Care Facility COVID-19 Module Enrollment (PDF)
• Long-term Care COVID-19 Vaccination Options (PDF)
• Attestation for Free COVID-19 Testing Kits for ALF, HCSSA, ICF/IID and NF Providers (PDF)
• Questions and Answers from Long-term Care Facebook Live Discussions Hosted by Sen. Zaffirini (PDF)
• Expanded Visitation in Texas Long-term Care Facilities (PDF)
• HHSC Reminds Long-term Care Providers to Check for Updated COVID-19 Guidance (PDF)
• COVID-19 Vaccination-Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care (PDF)
• COVID-19: Questions and Answers Regarding Facemasks and Respirators (PDF)

Shelter-in-Place and Stay-at-Home Orders for HHSC Providers, Vendors and Contractors 

HHSC Provider, Vendor and Provider Contractor Guidance for Shelter-in-Place and Stay-at-Home Orders

All mission-essential workers for HHSC, providers, vendors and contractors whose work cannot be performed through teleworking must continue to report to their work or duty stations, including in areas where local government authorities have issued shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders. It is critical that workers for HHSC providers, vendors and contractors continue to provide the life-sustaining and lifesaving care and benefits our clients need. It is equally critical that HHSC providers, vendors and contractors provide their workers with a safe and healthy environment in which to work. To protect those workers reporting to HHSC offices and facilities, the agency is requiring additional efforts to sanitize workspaces, implement CDC social distancing measures, and limit face-to-face interaction with clients and patients as much as possible through temporary measures, such as waiving certain interview processes and prohibiting visitors to HHSC-operated and licensed facilities.

For more specific guidance, please contact the particular HHSC program or department your services involve.

Resources

• Strategies to Mitigate Healthcare Personnel Staffing Shortages
• Infection Control Basics: Personal Protective Equipment Webinar
  • Infection Control Basics Webinar Slides (PDF)
• Provider and Information Letters
• Proper N95 Respirator Use for Respiratory Protection Preparedness
• Helping Residents with Dementia Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 in LTC Communities (PDF)
• Helping Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Related Conditions Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 (PDF)

November 5th, 2021

Beginning May 6, 2021, HHSC has been posting pre-recorded sessions monthly. These sessions will continue to share information with stakeholders about the implementation of various Medicaid/CHIP flexibilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. HHSC may return to weekly sessions as needed if there are changes to the public health emergency.

Please click on the link below to hear recorded session from NOV 4 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information Session Webinar

The audio from this session can be found here.

If you need a copy of the transcript or want to download a handout of the presentation, click links below:

• Email us for transcript

The presentation can be found here.

Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly.

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us.

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 Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. Please try another browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

October 4, 2021
11 a.m. – noon
Register for the COVID-19 Webinar.

September 15th, 2021

Sept. 13 ICF COVID-19 Webinar Recording Available

A recording of September 13, 2021, ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

Listen to the webinar recording here(link is external).

August 30th, 2021

LTC Providers May Request COVID-19 Emergency Support

For Emergency Staffing Support:

The Office of the Governor directed DSHS to use staffing agencies to provide medical personnel from out-of-state to Texas health care facilities to assist in COVID-19 operations.

This support will be available to residential long-term care providers.

-Providers must demonstrate that they have exhausted all other options.

-Also that they have urgent need for assistance before requesting emergency staffing support.

The State is asking that jurisdictions and health care entities be judicious with requests for staffing, as the State will not be able to address all staffing needs, especially as the need for emergency staffing ramps up across the state.

LTC providers are always required to provide services to residents or clients before, during and after an emergency.

The emergency plan must include:

• Planning for staff shortages
• A back-up plan to ensure operations and care of residents continues

For COVID-19 Vaccination, Testing Kits, PPE, Disinfection, and HAI/EPI Support:

Long-term care providers can request:

• COVID-19 mobile vaccine clinics for residents and staff
• BinaxNow testing kits. Read PL 2020-49 for details.
• PPE (providers should exhaust all other options before request)
• Facility cleaning and disinfection
• Healthcare-associated infection and epidemiological support

To Request Support:

To initiate a request for COVID-19 support described above, contact the HHSC LTCR Regional Director in the region where the facility is located.

HHSC LTCR staff are responsible for initiating a State of Texas Assistance Request on behalf of the long-term care provider.

HHSC LTCR staff may request supporting documentation to verify need.

August 15th, 2021

LTC Provider COVID-19 Resource Contacts Have Changed

Federal COVID-19 Local Fiscal Recovery Funds are being distributed to cities and counties throughout Texas. HHSC urges long-term care providers in need of COVID-19 resources to use the following resources:

• Contact your city, county or regional advisory council to find out if resources or funds will be available for health care staffing support, testing services, resident or site assessment, and disinfecting services as these resources are no longer available through HHSC.
• For mobile COVID-19 vaccination needs, call 888-90-TEXAS to ask for a Mobile Vaccination Team to come out to your facility.
• Contact DSHS:
  • To become a COVID-19 vaccinator.
  • To ask for COVID-19 vaccine.
• Reach out to the HHSC Long-Term Care Regulation Regional Director in your region to ask for:
  • BinaxNow testing kits. Review PL 2020-49 (PDF) for details.
  • Health care-associated infection and epidemiological support.
  • COVID-19 vaccine. Providers should go through all other options before this one.

LTC providers can now order COVID-19 therapeutics directly.

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 Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. Please try another browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

ICF Provider Webinar
August 2, 2021
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Register for the COVID-19 Webinar.

July 16th, 2021

July 6 ICF COVID-19 Webinar Recording Available

A recording of the June 14, 2021, ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

Listen to the webinar recording here(link is external).

May 12th, 2021

Quality In LTC Conference Online

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Health and Human Services made the decision to move forward with an online Quality in Long-Term Care conference. The conference presentations are available on the HHS Learning Portal, and can be accessed through August 2021. To obtain a certificate of completion, participants must view the selected presentation(s), and complete the associated learning quizzes and course evaluations. The certificate, noting any continuing education hours awarded, can be downloaded from the HHS Learning Portal.

Questions can be emailed to QMP@hhs.texas.gov

From HHSC May Newsletter

COVID-19 updated resources, see link below:

https://www.tmhp.com/sites/default/files/file-library/ltc/bulletins/May%202021%20LTC%20Bulletin%20No%2086.pdf

May 6th, 2021

APR 29 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Update

The audio from this session can be found here.

• Email us for transcript

The presentation can be found here.

Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly.

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

April 17th, 2021

March 18, 2021 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session

Thank you for your interest in listening to the March 18 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information Session.

The audio from this session can be found here.

• Email us for transcript

The presentation can be found here.

Future meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites, so please check back regularly.

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

For additional questions, please write to Medicaid_COVID_Questions@hhsc.state.tx.us.

April 17th, 2021

Reminder: Providers Can Request Free COVID-19 Testing Kits

ALF, HCS, HCSSA, ICF/IID and NF providers in counties where the COVID-19 positivity rate is more than 10 percent can request free COVID-19 testing kits.

The test kits are only to test essential caregivers or HCSSA staff going into an NF or ALF who have direct contact with people receiving hospice services. Providers can request the free BinaxNOW point-of-care antigen COVID-19 test kits by filling out the attestation form (PDF). The attestation form includes instructions for requesting the free COVID-19 testing kits for each eligible provider type.

March 28th, 2021

Free BinaxNOW COVID-19 POC Tests Available for LTC Providers

HHSC, along with the Texas Department of Emergency Management, is expanding the criteria for requesting free BinaxNOW COVID-19 point of care test kits to all the following.

• Nursing facilities
• Assisted living facilities
• Intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disability or related conditions
• Home and community-based services providers
• Home and community support services agencies

Use these free BinaxNOW COVID-19 POC test kits to test anyone including residents, staff and visitors.

Providers must attest to adhere to certain training and reporting requirements and have one of the following.

• Current Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment Certificate of Waiver
• Current CLIA laboratory certificate

Providers must complete and submit an attestation form for free BinaxNOW point-of-care antigen COVID-19 test kits (PDF) to request free BinaxNOW COVID-19 point of care test kits. See revised PL 2020-49 (PDF) for more information. Tests are available while supplies last.

March 22 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 bi-weekly COVID-19 webinars with LTCR and DSHS.

Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. Please try another browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

ICF Provider Webinar

March 22, 2021
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Register for the COVID-19 Webinar.

Helpful Vaccination Information

Moderna EUA Storage and Handling Instructions (PDF) includes the following:

• Moderna EUA Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccination Providers)
• Moderna EUA Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers

v-safe After Vaccination Health Checker Instructions (PDF)
Moderna EUA “What to Expect” Card for Healthcare Professionals (PDF)
Moderna EUA “What to Expect” Card for Vaccine Recipients (PDF)

CDC’s Moderna Clinical website is live: Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Information. This website includes the following documents:

• Storage and Handling Summary
• BUD Guidance and Labels
• Storage and Handling Labels
• Vaccine Expiration Date Tracking Tool
• Freezer Storage Loggers (F) and (C)
• Prep and Administration Summary
• Standing Orders Template

CDC   Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Resources For Posters For The Facility For Staff & Individuals

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-resources.html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc&Search=stop%20the%20spread%20of%20germs

AADMD Webinar Series to Return in January 2021

https://open.texas.gov/

HHSC COVID-19 Provider Information

https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-covid-19-provider-information

Webinar – NHSN November 2020 Updates to LTCF COVID-19 Module Pathways

The National Healthcare Safety Network had updated the Long-term Care Facility COVID-19 Module pathways, specifically the Resident Impact and Facility Capacity and Staff and Personnel Impact. Revised forms, form instructions, and CSV templates are now available on the LTCF COVID-19 Module website.

The webinar will review the November 2020 updates.

Long-term Care Facility Webinar

November 24, 2020

10:00 – 10:45 a.m. CST

See Recording below

Register for the Webinar.

DSHS Video on Long-term Care Facilities COVID-19 Infection Prevention and Control Now Available

The Department of State Health Services has published a recorded training for long-term care providers on COVID-19 precautions to take and how to accomplish them.

View the video training.

https://www.txdisabilities.org/news-events/coronavirus-information-resources

ANCOR’s COVID-19 Resource Center

https://www.ancor.org/covid-19

CDC information for persons with IDD

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-disabilities.html

Resources from HRS

“As the situation with Coronavirus (COVID-19) develops, HRS is committed to providing those who work in the field of IDD supports with practical, sensible, and usable health information regarding identifying those at most risk and steps that can be taken to reduce the severity of the impact of this disease.”

Below are links to free helpful resources from HRS  (Training Videos, Webinars, and Bulletins)

https://hrstonline.com/covid-19-resources/

December 22, 2020

Risk/Benefit Return to Activity Form (Free from our friends at HRS) 

This could be very helpful for considerations for returning to work, Day Hab, Volunteer Jobs, etc…

https://hrstonline.com/download/risk-benefit-return-to-activity-form/?wpdmdl=3104&refresh=5fc779cf9f80e1606908367

Risk/Benefit Return to Activity Form

May 8th, 2022

EVV Portal and Training Updates

Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership updated the Electronic Visit Verification Portal and related training materials on April 29.

Refer to the EVV Portal and Training Updates notice on TMHP’s EVV webpage for more information.

Email TMHP EVV Operations with questions

March 7th, 2022

EVV Notice for HCS/TxHmL Program Providers

The migration of Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) forms and claims entry to Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) has been moved from March 1, 2022, to May 1, 2022. The postponement allows more time for program providers to set up the necessary TMHP accounts and take relevant training courses. HCS and TxHmL program providers must continue to use the Client Assignment and Registration (CARE) system to submit claims using existing billing code combinations for service groups 12 and 15 for dates of service prior to May 1, 2022.

HHSC is aware that some program providers updated authorizations in the EVV systems to reflect the new billing code combinations for service groups 21 and 22 that were scheduled to take effect March 1. To avoid the re-entry of authorizations, HHSC and TMHP will take the following actions:

• By March 4, the EVV Aggregator will accept billing code combinations for service groups 12, 15, 21 and 22 on EVV visits for dates of service through April 30, 2022, to prevent visit rejections.
  • For dates of service on or after May 1, 2022, the EVV Aggregator will only accept billing code combinations for service groups 21 and 22.
• Turn on the EVV07 claims matching bypass for all HCS and TxHmL billing code combinations to avoid claim denials through May 31, 2022.
  • Claims matching for all HCS and TxHmL billing code combinations will resume June 1, 2022.
• Publish an updated EVV Service Bill Codes Table to reflect these changes.

HCS and TxHmL claims will not be denied for an EVV mismatch. HCS and TxHmL claims during this period are still subject to HHSC provider fiscal compliance reviews conducted by HHSC Provider Fiscal Compliance.

**For visits that have been rejected by the aggregator due to incorrect billing code combinations, program providers must re-export the visit and ensure it is accepted in the EVV aggregator prior to submitting claims.

Please refer to HHSC’s ‘Continue Submitting Claims and Forms Using CARE System Until May 1, 2022’ notice for more information.

For technical questions related to the EVV Aggregator, contact TMHP. For other general EVV inquiries, contact HHSC EVV Operations.

March 3rd, 2022

EVV Policy Handbook Revisions Now Available

HHSC revised sections and appendices of the Electronic Visit Verification Policy Handbook.

The handbook includes EVV standards and policy requirements for:

• Program providers.
• Financial Management Services Agencies.
• Consumer Directed Services employers.
• Payers, such as HHSC and managed care organizations.

The revisions are effective March 1 and are briefly described in the 22-2 notice. For more information about the policy changes, refer to the new revision log (PDF) located on the EVV webpage.

Email HHSC EVV Operations with questions.

February 28th, 2022

EVV Portal and Training Updates

Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership updated the Electronic Visit Verification Portal and related training materials on Feb. 28.

For more information, refer to the EVV Portal and Training Updates article on TMHP’s EVV webpage.

For questions, email TMHP EVV Operations.

January 8th, 2022

EVV Policy Handbook Revisions – Jan. 7th, 2022

HHSC revised parts of the Electronic Visit Verification Policy Handbook. These revisions are effective Jan. 7 and are listed in Revision Notice 22-1.

The handbook’s policies include EVV standards and policy requirements for:

• Program providers.
• Financial Management Services Agencies.
• Consumer Directed Services employers.
• Payers, such as HHSC and managed care organizations.

For questions, email HHSC EVV Operations.

November 21st, 2021

EVV Portal and Training Updates for November 2021

Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership made improvements to the EVV Portal and related training materials on Nov. 11.

For more information, access the November 2021 EVV Portal and Training Updates article on TMHP’s EVV webpage.

FYI- When you click on the link above for updates from HHSC, please be sure to scroll to the bottom and click on “accept” as this is a disclaimer page.  You must do this 1st.   I have received some comments that some providers get confused when they see this page on the EVV website first pop up and they think they are on the wrong page, or there is a problem with the website page, etc…

Email TMHP with questions about these updates.

November 18th, 2021

Revised EVV Policy Handbook Now Available

The Electronic Visit Verification Policy Handbook was revised.

The handbook’s policies are effective Nov. 1, 2021 and include EVV standards and policy requirements for:

• Program providers
• Financial Management Services Agencies
• Consumer Directed Services employers
• Payers such as HHSC and managed care organizations

The handbook replaces policies previously on the HHSC EVV webpage.  See EVV Policy Handbook Revisions – November 2021 (PDF) for differences between previously published policies and the revised handbook.

The following computer-based training courses on the EVV Training page of the HHS Learning Portal now reflects the revised EVV Policy Handbook:

• Initial EVV Policy Training for CDS Employers
• EVV Policy Training for Program Providers and FMSAs

Use the applicable checklist within EVV Training Requirements Checklist (PDF) for EVV training requirements and completion options.

Email questions to HHSC EVV Operations.

November 17th, 2021

EVV Visit Maintenance Unlock Request Updates

HHSC published EVV Visit Maintenance Unlock Request spreadsheet updates.

These updates let the user request corrections to data element(s) on an EVV visit transaction(s) after the visit maintenance time frame has expired.

Program providers, Financial Management Services Agencies and Consumer Directed Services employers must use the request spreadsheets found on the EVV webpage.

The updates to the program provider and FMSA Request (Excel) include:

• New fields
• Added drop-down lists to applicable fields
• Updated and simplified field headers
• Revised instructions to:
  • Reflect EVV policy updates
  • List detailed steps and notes to complete the Request

The new Request for Consumer Directed Services employers (Excel) include:

• A new request spreadsheet for CDS employers who selected Option 1 on Form 1722, Employer’s Selection for EVV Responsibilities, to complete visit maintenance. This includes:
  • Drop-down lists for applicable fields
  • Sections for CDS employers and payers to complete
• Instructions reflect:
  • EVV policy updates
  • Detailed steps and notes to complete the request

  Review the instructions on the spreadsheets for more information.

  Email questions to your payer, either HHSC or a managed care organization

  ---

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 Unlock Request Policy.
• Includes the new visit maintenance time frame of 95 calendar days. (previously 60 calendar days) from the date of service delivery.

Email questions to HHSC EVV Operations at EVV@hhs.texas.gov.

July 4th, 2021

HHSC EVV Webpage Updates Now Available

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission updated and archived web sections and content, updated and added additional information related to the 21st Century Cures Act (Section 12006) and added new resources for the following Electronic Visit Verification webpages:

• EVV Home page,
• EVV Consumer Directed Services Option,
• EVV Cures Act,
• EVV Training and
• EVV Proprietary Systems.

Email questions to HHSC EVV Operations at EVV@hhs.texas.gov.

July 3rd, 2021

Revised EVV Visit Transaction Rejection Guide Now Available

The Electronic Visit Verification Visit Transaction Rejection Guide (PDF) was revised and is now available.

The guide provides step-by-step instructions for program providers and Financial Management Services Agencies to identify and correct issues that result in transaction rejections in the EVV system.

The guide is published on TMHP’s EVV Training webpage.

Email TMHP with questions.

April 17th, 2021

EVV Policy Training for CDS Employers Now Available in Spanish

The computer-based training course, Initial EVV Policy Training for CDS Employers, is available in Spanish on the HHS Learning Portal.

To translate the HHS Learning Portal to Spanish, select Español from the drop-down menu in the upper left-hand corner of the webpage.

The policy training is tailored to the selection on Form 1722, Employer Selection for Electronic Visit Verification Responsibilities.

Registrants are not required to complete the Form 1722 Pre-Course Survey.

Follow the instructions throughout the course to complete and receive certification.

Email the HHSC EVV Mailbox for questions about EVV policy training.

March 16th, 2021

HHSC Publishes EVV Requirements of Signatures on Enrollment Documentation           (IL 2021-13)

HHSC has published IL 2021-13, EVV Notification Requirement (PDF), replacing IL 2020-01.

The letter addresses revisions on instructing LIDDAs on the requirements of signatures on enrollment documentation.

It also addresses new activity requirements for HCS, TxHmL, CDS program providers and LIDDA service coordinators.

For questions, email HCS Policy or CDS.

March 10th, 2021

Temporary EVV Policies for the Feb. 2021 Severe Winter Weather

In response to the recent severe winter weather, HHSC issued Temporary EVV Policies for Severe Winter Weather (PDF).

The flexibilities are for dates of service from Feb. 10, 2021 through Feb. 24, 2021.

The flexibilities are for program providers, financial management services agencies and consumer directed services employers required to use EVV.

Email questions to the HHSC EVV Mailbox.

February 7th, 2021

EVV Refresher Training on Feb. 19

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission and Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership are hosting an Electronic Visit Verification webinar.

This training is a refresher and covers topics for Home and Community-based Services program providers, Texas Home Living program providers and financial management services agencies who submit EVV claims for HCS and TxHmL EVV-required services.

The training is not required and is not a substitute for annual EVV training requirements.

Certificates of completion will not be issued.

Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions throughout the training.

Both HHSC and TMHP will conduct a live question and answer session.

The registration link is below and provides details, such as agenda topics.

HCS/TxHmL EVV Refresher Training – Claims Submission/Claims Matching Policies & Best Practices to Avoid EVV Claim Mismatches
Friday Feb. 19
10 a.m. – Noon
Register for the webinar.

Email HHSC EVV for questions.

Reminder:  Entering Schedules for EVV-Required Services

The Electronic Visit Verification system allows Home and Community-based Services, Texas Home Living program providers, CDS Employers and Financial Management Services Agencies to enter schedules for EVV-required services. This is not an HHSC requirement. Program Providers, FMSAs and CDS employers can choose to enter a schedule into the EVV system.

EVV is only required for the following services:

• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation
• In-Home Day Habilitation in own home or family home settings
• In-Home Respite in own home or family home settings

Email hcspolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us or txhml@hhsc.state.tx.us with questions.

January 24th, 2021

EVV Portal and Training Updates for January

On Jan. 14, Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership made improvements to the Electronic Visit Verification Portal by updating the EVV Reason Code Usage and Free Text Report and updated the related training materials.

Read the TMHP article EVV Portal Improvements and Training Updates for details.

Email TMHP with questions about these updates.

January 24th, 2021

HCS & TxHmL Best Practices to Avoid EVV Claim Mismatches for CFC PAS/HAB Services

HHSC has published Best Practices to Avoid Electronic Visit Verification Claim Mismatches for Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living (PDF) program providers and financial management services agencies.

The best practices help HCS and TxHmL providers avoid claim denials related to EVV.

The best practices are linked above and on the HHS EVV Training webpage in the Best Practices section.

Email questions about EVV policy to HHSC EVV.

January 18th, 2021

EVV Compliance Oversight Reviews Delayed for EVV Usage and Misuse of EVV Reason Codes

HHSC told managed care organizations to delay compliance oversight reviews for EVV Usage and Misuse of EVV Reason Codes. Evaluation of visit data collected during the grace period ensures the compliance measures continue to align with current EVV policy.

EVV Usage and Misuse of EVV Reason Codes reviews for the compliance grace period ended on Aug. 31, 2020 for:

• EVV visits with Sept. 1, 2019 to Aug. 31, 2020 dates of service.
• Program providers required to use EVV by state law before the Cures Act Implementation identified on pages 3 and 4 of the Programs and Services Required to Use EVV (PDF) document.

Next Steps

• HHSC will notify program providers 90 calendar days before reviews begin for EVV Usage and Misuse of EVV Reason Codes for EVV visits with dates of service on and after Sept. 1, 2020.
• HHSC and MCOs will continue reviews for EVV Landline Phone Verification and Required Free Text.
• Program providers can use the EVV Usage Report, and EVV Reason Code Usage and Free Text Report in the EVV Portal to track these compliance measures.

Program providers can contact their payer or email HHSC EVV with their questions or concerns.

January 10th, 2021

EVV Notification Requirement for HCS/TxHmL Program Providers 

HHSC has published IL 2021-01 Electronic Visit Verification Notification Requirement (PDF).

The letter informs HCS and TxHmL program providers they are now required to use the EVV system for CFC PAS/HAB, in-home respite, and day habilitation provided in the home of an individual who has a residential location of “own/family home.”

Texas Government Code, §531.024172(c), requires that HHSC inform an individual who receives a service requiring the use of EVV that the individual is required to comply with the EVV system. HHSC has developed a form for providers to comply with this statute.

The Electronic Visit Verification Responsibilities and Additional Information form is included with the IL 2021-01 (PDF).

January 4th, 2021

 EVV for HCS and TxHmL providers has gone live since January 1, 2021 (includes CDS and FMSA’s)

Resources for providers, including escalation processes, regarding EVV questions & concerns:

December 20th, 2020

Cures Act EVV:

Preparing for Jan. 1, 2021 Implementation

HHSC will require Electronic Visit Verification for all Medicaid personal care services beginning on Jan. 1, 2021. This requirement is mandated by the federal 21st Century Cures Act. If HHSC does not comply, Texas will lose federal funding for Medicaid services.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2021:

• Document all delivery visits for an EVV-required service in the EVV system. EVV-required services on the Programs, Services, and Service Delivery Options Required to Use EVV (PDF) document.
• An EVV-required service claim will be paid only if:
  1. The EVV visit transaction that supports the claim is accepted into the EVV Portal before claim submission.
  2. The claim receives an “EVV01 – EVV Match” result code in the EVV Portal after the claims matching process is performed.

Program providers and financial management services agencies must complete the following before Jan. 1, 2021, to avoid impacts to EVV claims payment:

• EVV system onboarding. This includes system setup and training.
  • If an EVV vendor system is selected from the state vendor pool, the EVV vendor provides the training. Refer to the TMHP EVV Vendors webpage for more information about EVV vendors and their contact information.
  • If an EVV proprietary system is selected, the program provider or FMSA handles system training.
• EVV training requirements outlined in the Cures Act EVV: Training Requirements Checklists (PDF).
• Document all visits for EVV-required services in the EVV system.

CDS employers must complete the following before Jan. 1, 2021, to avoid delays in payment to their CDS employees:

• Form 1722, Employers Selection for Electronic Visit Verification Responsibilities. Submit the signed form to their FMSA, which is the company that helps with CDS employee payroll.
• EVV system onboarding. CDS employers can contact their FMSA to complete onboarding and schedule training.
• EVV training requirements outlined in the Cures Act EVV: Training Requirements Checklists (PDF).
• Employees must start documenting all visits for EVV-required services in the EVV system.

HHSC is providing the following support to program providers, FMSAs, and CDS employers. This is to reduce impacts to claims payment and payment to CDS employees as they adjust to the new EVV requirements.

• If a visit is not captured through an electronic verification method, enter the visit manually into the EVV system and confirm acceptance into the EVV Portal to avoid claim denials. Instructions for manually entering a visit are posted in the following locations:
  • DataLogic/Vesta EVV system.
  • First Data/AuthentiCare EVV system in the “Custom Links” section.
• HHSC has published Best Practices to Avoid EVV Claim Mismatches (PDF) to help program providers and FMSAs ensure a claim is not denied for reasons related to EVV.
• HHSC has issued the 90 Day Visit Maintenance Temporary Policy (PDF). extending the time to complete visit maintenance for dates of service between Jan. 1, 2021 and March 31, 2021.
• An EVV compliance grace period will be applied for one year to all Cures Act EVV Expansion services with dates of service between Jan. 1, 2021 and Dec. 31, 2021 for the compliance measures listed in EVV Compliance Oversight Reviews Policy (PDF).

The EVV Contact Information Guides provide points of contact for EVV-related questions and issues:

• CDS Employer EVV Contact Information Guide (PDF)
• Program Provider and FMSA Contact Information Guide (PDF)

Visit the HHS EVV website for more information.

November 28, 2020

HCS and TxHmL CARE Service Authorization instructions for EVV

HCS and TxHmL are required to manually enter each individual’s service authorization in the EVV Vendor System.

Providers can find instructions here on how to find their service authorizations in CARE.

If additional assistance is needed after the service authorization is obtained, program providers can contact their EVV vendor for further instructions.

Existing EVV Users: Temporary EVV Policies for COVID-19 to End Dec. 31

HHSC is extending the Temporary EVV Policies for COVID-19 (PDF) through Dec. 31, 2020 for program providers currently required to use Electronic Visit Verification. HHSC will end the temporary policies after Dec. 31, 2020.

Program providers submitting EVV claims for dates of service on and after Jan. 1, 2021:

• Must ensure a matching EVV visit transaction is accepted in the EVV Portal before billing the claim, or the claim will be denied.
• Will no longer receive an EVV07 match code in the EVV Portal.
• Will no longer have 180 days to complete visit maintenance.

Reminder: HHSC extended the practice period for the Cures Act Expansion. Claims for EVV services included in the Cures Act Expansion, will be denied without a matching EVV visit transaction for dates of service on and after Jan. 1, 2021.

Best Practices for Temporary EVV Policies for COVID-19

Program providers should continue to follow the Best Practices for Temporary EVV Policies for COVID-19 (PDF) to avoid recoupments for claims submitted between March 21, 2020 and Dec. 31, 2020.

Contact your payer for questions or email HHSC EVV.

Visit the HHS EVV webpage.

HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Required to Select an EVV Vendor

11/18/2020

HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Required to Select an EVV Vendor Effective Jan. 1, HHSC will require HCS and TxHmL program providers to use EVV for the following services: Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation In-Home Respite In-Home Day Habilitation (Own Home or Family Home only) HCS and TxHmL program providers are required to select an EVV vendor and complete EVV training to meet the Jan.1 deadlines. The requirement to select an EVV vendor and complete training applies to all contracted HCS and TxHmL program providers. Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, service claims for CFC PAS/HAB will be denied by the claims adjudication system and not paid by HHSC if the program provider has not onboarded with an EVV vendor. Read IL 20-07 (PDF) for more information about selecting an EVV vendor and completing training to be EVV-compliant by the Jan. 1 deadline.

Deadline Approaching Soon!!

Remember everyone:  Effective Dec. 1, HHSC will require HCS and TxHmL program providers to use EVV for the following services:

• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation (CFC PAS/HAB)
• In-Home Respite
• In-Home Day Habilitation (Own Home or Family Home only)

HCS and TxHmL program providers are required to select an EVV vendor and complete EVV training to meet the Dec.1 deadlines. The requirement to select an EVV vendor and complete training applies to all contracted HCS and TxHmL program providers.

Beginning Dec. 1, 2020, service claims for CFC PAS/HAB will be denied by the claims adjudication system and not paid by HHSC if the program provider has not onboarded with an EVV vendor.

Click here to read IL 20-07 (PDF) for more information about selecting an EVV vendor and completing training to be EVV-compliant by the Dec. 1 deadline.

Contact EVV if you have questions about EVV requirements.

Oct. 11th, 2020

EVV Revised Policies Effective Oct. 1

HHSC has revised the following electronic visit verification policies, effective Oct. 1. The information is for program providers and financial management services agencies. It is on the Policy section of the HHS EVV webpage.

Claims Matching Policy (PDF)

The policy:

• Includes additional EVV claims match result codes
• Identifies exceptions to the claims matching process

Claims Submission Policy (PDF)

• The policy includes detailed information about the requirement to submit claims for EVV-required services to the appropriate HHSC claims management system.
• The EVV Billing Policy has been incorporated into the policy.

Email HHSC EVV with your questions.

Oct. 11th, 2020

Updated EVV Service Bill Codes Table Effective Oct. 1

The EVV Service Bill Codes Table is updated effective Oct. 1. The table is on the HHS EVV webpage in the Service Bill Codes Table section. See:

• Below for the major updates
• The Revision History in the table for a complete list of the changes

Program providers and FMSAs can refer to the table for the list of EVV-relevant services and bill code information to avoid EVV visit transaction rejections and EVV claim mismatches.

Units Matching

The updated table shows that during the EVV claims matching process for dates of service on and after Oct. 1, billable units on the EVV visit transaction will be matched to billed units on the claim for:

• EVV-relevant services delivered through the service responsibility option in Managed Care and fee-for-service Long-Term Care programs.
• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation in the Community Living Assistance and Support Services program (Service Group 2, Service Code 10CFC T2026).

Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Programs

• The table clarifies the EVV Requirements for In-Home Day Habilitation in the HCS Program when In-Home Day Habilitation and In-Home Respite services are provided in a member’s own home or family home setting.
• The “Claims Place of Service” column in the “CARE LTC FFS” tab only includes place of service code 12 (Home Location) because EVV is only required to capture services that need an in-home visit.

Email HHSC EVV for questions.

HHSC is issuing this guidance from CMS to Home and Community-based Services program providers. It clarifies electronic visit verification requirements for in-home day habilitation.

All service events occurring on or after Dec. 1, 2020, for an EVV-required service, must be captured in the EVV system and accepted into the EVV Aggregator.

EVV is not required for In-Home Day Habilitation provided to someone in a:

• Three or four-person home
• Host home
• Companion care residential setting

EVV is only required for the following services:

• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation
• In-Home Day Habilitation in own home or family home settings
• In-Home Respite in own home or family home settings

See IL 20-07 Electronic Visit Verification in the HCS and TxHmL Program (PDF) for information about EVV requirements.

Additional Guidance on Day Habilitation Services

Program providers billing claims for In-Home Day Habilitation services requiring EVV will continue to use the current claims procedure code, T2020. The EVV Service Bill Codes Table lists this code on the HHS EVV website.

HHSC is developing separate bill codes for Out-of-Home Day Habilitation and will provide guidance before implementing the new codes.

Email hcspolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us with questions.

No EVV For In-Home DH: 3 & 4-bed Homes or Host Homes

August 20th, 2020

HHSC just informed the three IDD associations that it received clarification from CMS that EVV will not be required for in-home day habilitation delivered in a three- or four-bed home or host home. HHSC will send notice regarding this to all affected stakeholders.   This does however mean that In-Home DH provided in an individual’s “Own Family Home” will still require staff to utilize EVV.

CURES Act EVV Training is Underway for HCS/TxHmL Providers

Program providers and FMSAs affected by the Cures Act EVV expansion must complete EVV policy and EVV Portal training before Dec. 1, 2020, and then annually. See the EVV Required Training Checklist (PDF) for more information.

To meet the training requirement, program providers and FMSAs attending these webinars must:

1. Register for Session 1.
2. Register for Session 2.
3. Attend both sessions from start to finish.

To register, click the links below:

FMSAs

• Session 1 – June 2, 2020 – 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Session 2 – June 3, 2020 – 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

HCS/TxHmL

• Session 1 – June 9, 2020 – 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
• Session 2 – June 10, 2020 – 8:30 am to 12:30 pm

Additional Training Opportunities

Program providers and FMSAs can also meet training requirements by completing computer-based training online in the HHSC Learning Portal and TMHP Learning Management System. HHSC and TMHP are planning additional live training events this fall and will provide more information when available.

Email TMHP for questions about registration or the EVV Portal.

Email questions about EVV training requirements.

 For more Cures Act information, visit the HHS EVV Cures Act webpage.

If you miss the EVV training dates, you may take them on the HHSC learning portal:

https://learningportal.dfps.state.tx.us/

Please go to HHSC’s page on Electronic Visit Verification for the latest information/ updates to EVV.  Please see Training & Joint Training pages from HHSC as well!

https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/long-term-care-providers/resources/electronic-visit-verification

Updated Timeline for Cures Act EVV Expansion     

The updated timeline for expanding the Cures Act EVV requirement to all Medicaid personal care services is now available on the HHS Cures Act EVV website.

The timeline includes new information and resources about the EVV Practice Period beginning July 1, completing training requirements, and more.

This information is for Cures Act program providers and FMSAs (PDF) required to use Electronic Visit Verification by Jan. 1, 2021.

For questions, contact EVV.

• •  

     EVV Proprietary System page 

    http://www.tmhp.com/Pages/EVV/EVV-Proprietary.aspx

    Providers currently required to use EVV must continue to use EVV under state law and HHSC policy. See the Programs and Services Currently Required to Use Electronic Visit Verification (PDF) 

    For questions about EVV vendors, email evv@TMHP.com

New EVV Proprietary System Onboarding Documents Available

TMHP has posted new information about the EVV proprietary system onboarding process on the TMHP EVV Proprietary Systems webpage.

The documents located in the Onboarding section provide an overview of the approval process that a program provider or FMSA must complete before using their own EVV proprietary system. For more information, refer to the article on the TMHP EVV website (PDF).

Resources

• Contact: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us
• Website: HHSC EVV Cures Act

Trainings Available:

• HHSC EVV Training webpage

EVV Policy Training (Provided by your payer)

• The HHSC EVV Policy computer-based training (CBT).
• The MCO Policy training. Contact your MCO for EVV Policy training opportunities.

EVV Aggregator and EVV Portal Training (Provided by TMHP)

• TMHP EVV CBT modules 1-6.
• TMHP EVV Webinar training.

There will also be instructor-led trainings (EVV Roadshow) in October. Find the schedule and register on the HHS Learning Portal.

Additional training resources are available on the HHSC EVV website and the TMHP EVV Provider Training webpage.

For questions about this alert, email Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us.

May 7th, 2022

HHSC Updates HCS/TxHmL COVID-19 Response Plan, FAQ Documents

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ documents on May 5. The updates remove instructions on how to ask for emergency staffing from HHSC.

Read the revised COVID-19 Response for HCS Providers (PDF).

Read the revised Updated COVID-19 FAQs for HCS and TxHmL Providers (PDF).

February 20th, 2022

HHSC Updates the HCS COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ Documents – Feb. 18

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the HCS COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ documents.

Read the revised COVID-19 Response for HCS Providers (PDF).

Read the revised Updated COVID-19 FAQs for HCS and TxHmL Providers (PDF).

Updated COVID-19 Provider Response and Visitation Emergency Rules for HCS Providers – Feb. 17

HHSC Long-Term Care Regulation published revised HCS COVID-19 Provider Response to COVID-19 and Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rules (PDF). HCS providers must now screen individuals and staff per HHSC guidance.

HHSC Long-Term Care Regulation published revised COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rules. They are for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions program providers. HHSC removed the following language:

“If an executive order or other direction is issued by the Governor of Texas, the President of the United States, or another applicable authority, that is more restrictive than this rule or any minimum standard relating to a facility, the facility must comply with the executive order or other direction.”

The rules became effective Feb. 17, 2022.

January 7th, 2022

HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Response Plan Updated – Jan. 7th, 2022

HHSC has revised the HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Response Plan in response to the most recent CDC guidance.

September 23rd, 2022

HCS COVID-19 Mitigation & Expansion of Visitation Rules: 

Revision Response Plan

COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF) in response to the revised HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 Mitigation and Visitation rules

Update:   April 17th, 2021

HHSC Publishes HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rules

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 

The new expanded visitation rules do not apply to host home/companion care providers unless otherwise specified in rule. See the HCS Provider Response to COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rule at 40 TAC 9.199 for the complete list of requirements.

The new visitation rules provide flexibility for HCS program providers that have offered a complete series of a one- or two-dose COVID-19 vaccine to individuals and staff and documented each individual’s choice to vaccinate or not vaccinate, including:

• Essential caregiver and end-of-life visits are permitted for all individuals with any COVID-19 status.
• The definition of an end-of-life visit has been expanded to include for more flexibility on when an individual is considered at end-of-life so an individual’s family and loved ones have more opportunity to visit.
• Indoor visitation no longer requires the use of a plexiglass barrier.
• A program provider may not require a visitor to provide documentation of a COVID-19 negative test or COVID-19 vaccination status as a condition of visitation or to enter the residence.
• Provider staff no longer have to escort or monitor visitors once they have passed screening and entered the facility.
• Program providers are no longer required to submit an attestation form to facilitate visitation.
• Visitation is required and a program provider must facilitate indoor and outdoor visitation without a reasonable clinical or safety cause.
The provider can continue to document the individual’s choice whether to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or not to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as applicable for new admissions or individuals who return to the residence from leave.

Visitor Limitations: (Indoor and Outdoor)

3.3 Indoor and Outdoor Visits
HCS program providers that have offered a complete series of a one- or two-dose COVID-19 vaccine to individuals and staff and documented each individual’s choice to vaccinate or not vaccinate, must allow indoor and outdoor visitation.
Program providers do not have to complete an attestation form or use plexiglass barriers to facilitate indoor or outdoor visitation. The program provider accommodates visitation based on the space available as necessary to ensure physical distancing between visitation groups and safe infection prevention and control measures.

3.3.1 Indoor Visitation

• The program provider must allow indoor visits for individuals who are COVID-19 negative, if there are no confirmed COVID-19
infections or suspected COVID-19 cases for at least 14 consecutive days among staff. • The provider must reasonably limit the number of simultaneous visitors per individual and limit the total number of visitors in the residence simultaneously, based on the size of the building and physical space and staffing capabilities.
• Plexiglass barriers are no longer required.

3.3.2 Outdoor Visitation

The program provider must allow outdoor visits for individuals who are COVID-19 negative and must:
• ensure a comfortable, accessible, and safe outdoor visiting area for outdoor visits, considering outside air temperatures and ventilation; and
• limit the duration, frequency, size, and number of visits as necessary to ensure physical distancing between visitation groups and safe infection prevention practices.

3.3.3 Limitations for Visitation

The following limitations apply to all visitation types, including essential caregiver visits, end-of-life visits, and indoor and outdoor visitation:
• Visits must be scheduled to allow time for cleaning and sanitization of the visitation area between visits.
• Indoor and outdoor visits are permitted for individuals with COVID-19 negative status only, except essential caregiver and end-of-life visits. Essential caregiver and end-of-life visits are permitted for an individual with any COVID-19 status.
• The visitor and individual they are visiting do not have to physically distance from each other but must distance from other persons in the residence.
• The visitor must wear a face mask or face covering. For individuals who rely on lip reading or facial cues for communication needs, the visitor may use face masks with a clear screen over the mouth.
• The provider must encourage the individual to wear a face mask, if tolerated, throughout the visit.
• When visitors come to the home, staff members no longer need to escort the visitor or monitor the visit, regardless of the visitation type.
• Both the individual and visitor(s), must perform hand hygiene (i.e., use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wash hands with soap and water) before the visit. The program provider must make hand hygiene supplies available.

Limited Visitation Designation and Attestation

4.0 Limited Visitation Designation and Attestation Requirements

If an HCS program provider has not offered at least one complete series of a one- or two-dose COVID-19 vaccine to individuals and staff, the program provider may allow limited personal visitation.

4.1 Essential Caregiver Visits

An essential caregiver visit is defined as a personal visit between an individual and a designated essential caregiver, permitted for all individuals with any COVID-19 status, including:
• COVID-19 negative;
• unknown COVID-19 status; or
• COVID-19 positive.
A program provider cannot require an essential caregiver visitor to provide documentation of a negative test result prior to visitation. The following requirements apply to essential caregiver visits:
• There may be up to two permanently designated essential caregivers per individual.
• Only one essential caregiver visitor at a time may visit an individual.
• The visit may occur outdoors, in the individual’s bedroom, or in another area in the home that limits the essential caregiver visitor’s movement through the residence and interaction with other individuals and staff.
• Essential caregiver visitors do not have to maintain physical distancing between themselves and the individual they are visiting but must maintain physical distancing between themselves and all other persons in the residence.
• The individual must wear a face mask or face covering over both the mouth and nose (if tolerated) throughout the visit.
• The program provider must develop and enforce essential caregiver visitation policies and procedures, which include:
o a written agreement that the essential caregiver visitor understands and agrees to follow the applicable policies, procedures, and requirement;
o training each essential caregiver visitor on proper personal protective equipment (PPE) usage and infection control measures, hand hygiene, and cough and sneeze etiquette; and
o a requirement that the essential caregiver visitor must wear a face mask and any other PPE in accordance with CDC guidance and the program provider’s policy while in the residence.
The program provider must:
• inform the essential caregiver visitor of applicable policies, procedures, and requirements;
• approve the essential caregiver visitor’s face mask and any other PPE in accordance with CDC guidance and the program provider’s policy, or provide an approved face mask and other PPE;
• maintain documentation of the essential caregiver visitor’s agreement to follow the applicable policies, procedures, and requirements;
• maintain documentation of the essential caregiver visitor’s training;
• maintain documentation of the identity of each essential caregiver visitor in the individual’s records and verify the identity of the essential caregiver visitor at the time of each visit;
• maintain a record of each essential caregiver visit, including:
o the date and time of the arrival and departure of the essential caregiver visitor;
o the name of the essential caregiver visitor;
o the name of the individual being visited; and
o attestation that the identity of the essential caregiver visitor was verified; and
• prevent visitation by the essential caregiver visitor if the essential caregiver has signs and symptoms of COVID-19, or an active COVID-19 infection.
The program provider can ask the essential caregiver to leave the residence if the essential caregiver visitor fails to comply with the program provider’s policy regarding essential caregiver visits or applicable requirements.

4.2 Limited Visitation without Attestation Form

All HCS residences can allow the following visits without completing the HCS Expanded Visitation Attestation:
• Visits by persons with legal authority to enter
• Visits by providers of essential services
• Visits by essential caregivers
• End-of-life visits
• Closed window visits
The visitors listed above must be screened prior to entry to the residence and cannot be allowed inside the residence if they fail screening.

Definitions and Attestation Form Update:  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:a7d8cd88-7334-4f8b-89b3-5876693ceb1a

HHSC Publishes HCS Expanded Visitor Attestation Rules & Guidance Letter

September 25th, 2020

HHSC Visitor Expansion Rule.  See the following rules in PDF updated on 9/25/20.  https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/providers/long-term-care/hcs/hcs-covid-19-updated-emergency-rules.pdf

PL-20-40 is the letter providing guidance for the new rules  The new attestation form is at the bottom of this alert letter from HHSC.  See the following PDF of PL-20-40:  https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/communications/2020/letters/PL2020-40.pdf

HCS Emergency COVID-19 Mitigation Rules 

Click on link below to see new rules that were adopted!

hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/providers/long-term-care/hcs/hcs-covid-19-emergency-rules.pdf

May 5th, 2022

Please see the link below for updated Service Delivery Logs for 05/2022 in Billing Requirements Handbook on page 185.

Billing & Payment Billing Requirements For HCBS Waiver

For questions about HCBS Program Billing Requirements, please email:   hcspolicy@hhs.texas.gov

April 29th, 2022

ICF Visitation Rules Update

An alert went out to remind providers that all visitation must be allowed. Essential caregiver and end-of-life visits must be allowed for all individuals with any COVID-19 status. A facility may be cited if visitation is not allowed.

Review ICF/IID visitation rules from April 4th, 2022, for additional information.

April 10th, 2022

COVID-19 ICF Mitigation, Response Rule Revised Effective April 6

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published a revised Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions COVID-19 Mitigation and Response Emergency Rule. It is effective April 6, 2022.

The revised rule:

• Removes the requirements to have plans for obtaining and maintaining a two-week supply of full PPE.
• Clarifies that a facility does not have to provide the name of the person who tested positive for COVID-19 when reporting to CII.

April 10th, 2022

HHSC Publishes Description of Key Changes to 26 TAC 551, ICF/IID (PL 2022-07)

HHSC has published Provider Letter 2022-07, Description of Key Changes to 26 TAC 551, Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions, for ICF/IID providers. This letter describes the key changes to Title 26 of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 551, that were effective on Feb. 24.

Throughout the rule, HHSC updated citations, agency names, and terminology; corrected minor grammatical and punctuation errors; and revised sentence structures to make the chapter easier to read.  In addition, the following items are addressed in this letter:

– New Requirements for Infection Prevention and Control Policies and Procedures

-HHSC included a state rule that refers to each Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Condition of Participation (CoP). Additions to 26 TAC 551 include • Governing Body • Client Protections • Facility Staffing • Active Treatment • Client Behavior and Facility Practices • Health Care Services • Physical Environment • Emergency Preparedness • Dietetic Services.

– transition from paper applications to the use of the online licensure portal, called the Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP)  (Disclose information when applying for “relocation” and application information must be submitted through portal in “TULIP” system)

-Now require evaluation of the emergency preparedness and response plan at least every two years, instead of annually.

-ANE & Incident definitions

-Administrative penalties for each visit are limited to the cap amount, regardless of the number or duration of violations as of Sept. 1st, 2021

****If you have any questions about this letter, please contact the Policy and Rules Section by email at LTCRPolicy@hhs.texas.gov or call (512) 438-3161

April 6th, 2022

COVID Screening in ICF’s

ICF COVID-19 Mitigation and Provider Response emergency rules require an intermediate care facility must screen individuals according to HHSC guidance

.ICFs must screen individuals:

•upon admission or readmission to the facility; and

•at least once a day.

ICFs must screen each employee or contractor for the following criteria (listed below) before entering the facility at the start of their shift.

•Staff screenings must be documented in a log kept at the facility entrance and must include the name of each person screened, the date and time of the evaluation, and the results of the evaluation.

**Staff who meet any of the criteria must not be permitted to enter the facility.

As per ICF/IID Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency rules, ICFs are required to screen all visitors for signs or symptoms of COVID-19.

*Visitor screenings must be documented in a log kept at the entrance to the facility, which must include the name of each person screened, the date and time of the screening, and the results of the screening. The visitor screening log may contain protected health information and must be protected in accordance with applicable state and federal law .

*A visitor may not participate in a visit if the visitor has signs and symptoms of COVID-19 or active COVID-19 infection.

Screening Criteria:

•fever, defined as a temperature of 100.4 Fahrenheit and above, or

signs or symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as cough, shortness of breath, or sore throat;

•other signs or symptoms of COVID-19, including

-chills,

-new or worsening cough,

-shortness of breath or difficulty breathing,

-fatigue,

-muscle or body aches,

-headache,

-new loss of taste or smell,

-sore throat,

-congestion or runny nose,

-nausea or vomiting,

-or diarrhea;

•any other signs and symptoms as outlined by the CDC in Symptoms or Coronavirus at cdc.gov;

•contact in the last 14 days with someone who has a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, is under investigation for COVID-19, or is ill with a respiratory illness, regardless of whether the person is fully vaccinated, unless the person is entering the facility to provide critical assistance; or

•testing positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days.

April 6th, 2022

Reporting Confirmed Case of  COVID-19 in ICF/IID

A facility must notify the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Complaint and Incident Intake of COVID-19 activity as described below.

(1) A facility must notify HHSC of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in staff or individuals, and the first confirmed case of COVID-19 after a facility has been without cases for 14 days or more, at HHSC Complaint and Incident Intake (CII) through TULIP, or by calling 1-800-458-9858, within 24 hours of the positive confirmation.

(2) A facility must submit a Form 3613-A Provider Investigation Report, minus the name of the person who tested positive for COVID-19, to HHSC Complaint and Incident Intake, through TULIP, by email at ciiprovider@hhs.texas.gov, or by fax at 877-438-5827, within five working days from the day a confirmed case is reported to CII.

April 6th, 2022

COVID-19 Mitigation and Response Emergency Rule Updated

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published a revised Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions COVID-19 Mitigation and Response Emergency Rule.

It became effective April 6, 2022.

The revised rule:

•Points to guidance from the Texas Department of State Health Services and HHSC rather than the CDC.

•Removes the requirements to have plans for obtaining and maintaining a two-week supply of full PPE.

•Removes the requirement to have spaces to don and doff PPE

•Clarifies that a facility does not have to provide the name of the person who tested positive for COVID-19 when reporting to CII.

February 27th, 2022

HHSC Adopts Revised ICF/IID Rules – Effective Feb. 24th, 2022

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has adopted updates to the Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability (ICF/IID) or Related Conditions program rules. The revised rules are in the Texas Administrative Code Title 26, Chapter 551. They are effective Feb. 24, 2022.

Key changes to the rule are to:

• Implement House Bill 1848 from the 86th Legislature, Regular Session, 2019 which requires new infection control policies and procedures in long-term living facilities.
• Implement House Bill 3720 from the 87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021 which limits the total amount of an administrative penalty assessed against an ICF/IID.
• Reintegrate the conditions of participation from the Code of Federal Regulations.
• Corrects legacy agency terms, update rule citations, and edit for clarity and consistency.

COVID-19 ICF/IID Webinar Recording from Feb. 14 Available

A recording of the Feb. 14 Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC Long-term Care Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

There have been changes made to the PowerPoint based on the information provided by DSHS during the webinar.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

Listen to the webinar recording.

Email LTCR Policy for the transcript.

February. 20th, 2022

Mar. 07 ICF COVID-19 Webinar with HHSC LTCR

Long-term Care Regulation and the Department of State Health Services will provide the latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic and take live questions from participants in this intermediate care facilities provider webinar.

Provider attendance is critical to staying current with COVID-19 requirements and guidance. ICF/IID providers are strongly encouraged to attend all COVID-19 webinars with LTCR and DSHS.

Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. If so, try using another browser, such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

March 7, 2022
11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Register for the COVID-19 Webinar.

February 13th, 2022

HHSC is not currently assessing compliance with CMS’s Omnibus COVID-19 Health Care Staff Vaccination rules, published in the Federal Register on November 5, 2021.

ICF COVID-19 Vaccination Data Reporting and Emergency Communication System – Feb 7

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published a revised ICF/IID Provider COVID-19 Vaccination Data Reporting Rule (PDF). It became effective February 7, 2022 and includes Emergency Communication System Enrollment for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions providers.

The rule requires ICF/IIDs to:

• Report COVID-19 vaccine data within 24 hours
• Enroll in an emergency communication system

January 7th, 2022

ICF COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ Updated – Jan. 7

Document   Version    Date    Change    Comments

Version 3.5                1/5/2022     Changes to pages 6, 31, 38, 39, 40, 51, 72 71, and Changes made to reflect the most updated CDC guidance.

Version 3.4               12/07/2021  Changes to pages 15, 16, 25, 26, 31, 35 Edited to include revised ICF COVID-19 Provider Response Mitigation Rules for ICFs/IID

For changes made previous to 12/07/2021,  please read the Table of Changes starting with page 7 of 19 of the Response Plan.

Update your Infection Control Policies and other related policies accordingly. 

HHSC has revised the ICF COVID-19 Response Plan and Frequently Asked Questions document in response to the most recent CDC guidance.

November 21st, 2021

HHSC Publishes PL 2021-38 Medicaid Bed Reallocation

HHSC published Provider Letter 2021-38 Medicaid Bed Reallocation which explains the process to request reallocated ICF/IID Medicaid beds from HHSC. This letter replaces Provider Letter 2019-21.

November 4th, 2021

Updated ICF/IID COVID-19 FAQ and COVID-19 Response Plan Revised

HHSC has revised the Frequently Asked Questions for ICF/IIDs about COVID-19 (PDF) and the ICF/IID COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF) in response to the revised COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation for ICF Providers rules.

October 24th, 2021

New PL 2021-21 COVID-19 – Expansion of Reopening Visitation for ICF Providers

Super important!!!!

HHSC has published Provider Letter 2021-21, COVID-19 Response – Expansion of Reopening Visitation (PDF) for ICF/IID providers. This letter replaces Provider Letter 2021-10. This letter describes the criteria for expanded visitation as well as address changes in response to Executive Order No. GA-38(link is external) and updated CDC guidance.

Updated COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rules for ICF Providers

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published revised COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rules for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICFs/IID) or Related Conditions (PDF). The rules address changes in response to Executive Order No. GA-38 (PDF)(link is external) and updated CDC guidance.The rules became effective on October 20, 2021.

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 Facilities (PL 2021-33)

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published Provider Letter 2021-33, Authority to Enter Long-term Care Facilities (PDF), for ALF, HCS, ICF/IID and NF providers. This letter reminds providers that they must allow persons providing critical assistance and providers of essential services to enter the facility if they pass the facility’s COVID-19 screening.

September 5th, 2021

ICF/IID Leave During COVID-19 Rule Reinstated

HHSC has published IL 2021-42 ICF/IID Services During COVID-19 (PDF), which replaces IL 2020-43.

A resident must be discharged from the Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions, with or without a contract to hold the resident’s placement in accordance with 26 TAC Section 261.227(j), if the resident is absent from the ICF/IID for one full day or more and the absence is not during leave described in 26 TAC Section 261.226.

August 1st, 2021

HHSC Publishes Updated COVID-19 Response Plan and Frequently Asked Questions for ICF Providers

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the ICF COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ document on July 29, 2021.

Read the updated ICF COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF).

Read the updated ICF FAQs (PDF).

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 – Expansion of Reopening Visitation (PDF) for ICF/IID providers. This letter replaces Provider Letter 2020-43. This letter describes the criteria for expanded indoor and outdoor visitation as well as essential caregiver visits.

March 22nd, 2021

ICF COVID-19 March 22 Webinar Recording Available

A recording of the March 22, 2021, ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

Listen to the COVID-19 Q&A recording.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

March 11th, 2021

Recording of ICF COVID-19 March 8 Provider Webinar Available

A recording of the March 8, 2021 ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

Listen to the COVID-19 Q&A recording.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

February 8th, 2021

Draft ICF/IID Rule Changes

• Draft ICF/IID Rule Changes- See link:    https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:cf5ea154-04b4-4c75-8aec-7e230c3cfda0
• High Level Summary of Proposed Changes See link:  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:2aa689d6-3018-4ab9-8d75-04578f4c922d

February 7th, 2021

Feb. 8- ICF/IID Provider Bed Hold Payments Webinar &

Reminder to Provide Letter to Families

IL 2020-43, ICF/IID Services During COVID-19 directed program providers to give a copy of the letter attached to that IL to each resident who was:

• Absent from an ICF/IID
• Not on leave
• Was not discharged from the ICF/IID

If you have not provided the letter to residents who meet that criteria, do so immediately. It was to be complete by Oct. 5, 2020.  You must assist residents in deciding to do only one of the following:

• Return to the facility.
• Continue to be absent from the facility, be discharged, but enter into an agreement with the ICF/IID to hold your place at the facility.
• Continue to be absent from the facility and be discharged.

HHSC Medicaid and CHIP Services will issue instructions to providers about entering COVID-19 therapeutic leave for days a resident was away from an ICF/IID to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Register for the following webinar to review the emergency rules authorizing this leave and the instructions for entering it.

ICF/IID Provider Bed Hold Payments Webinar
Friday, Feb. 5
9:30-11 a.m.
Register for the Bed Hold Payment Webinar.

The emergency rule authorizing payment for COVID-19 therapeutic leave (PDF) is effective Jan. 29, 2021.

January 19th, 2021

HHSC Updates the ICF COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ Document

Please be sure to update your infection control and other related policies based on the updated Response Plan!!! 

Let us know if we can help.  We will be working on some of these addendums in the next few weeks. 

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the ICF COVID-19 Response Plan and FAQ document on Jan. 12, 2021.

Read the updated ICF COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF).

Read the updated ICF FAQs (PDF).

Jan. 25 ICF Provider COVID-19 Webinar with HHSC LTC Regulation

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 biweekly COVID-19 webinars with LTCR and DSHS.

Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. Please try another browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

ICF Provider Webinar
Jan. 25, 2021
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Register for the COVID-19 Webinar.

Recording of ICF COVID-19 Jan. 11 Provider Webinar Available

A recording of the January 11, 2021 ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

Listen to the COVID-19 Q&A recording.

Read the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

January 10th, 2021

Informal Comments on Draft Rules for ICF/IID or Related Conditions

HHSC is accepting informal comments from stakeholders on the following draft rules, which are now posted on the HHS Rulemaking page. The comment period ends Jan. 19, 2021.

This project implements two bills from the 86th Legislature, Regular Session, 2019. House Bill (H.B.) 1848 contains required elements for infection prevention and control. H.B. 3803 limits the daily amount of an administrative penalty assessed against an ICF/IID. The project will also update rule references and agency names, amend rules to align with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services conditions of participation in the ICF/IID program, and edit the rules for clarity and consistency.

HHSC Publishes Revised Reporting Guidance for Long-Term Care Providers

(PL 20-37)

HHSC has published a revised version of Provider Letter 20-37, Reporting Guidance for Long-Term Care Providers (PDF). The revision includes information for ALF and ICF providers offering point-of-care testing for COVID-19 and clarifies reporting requirements for NF providers.

November 22nd, 2020

November 30 ICF Provider COVID-19 Webinar with HHSC LTC Regulation

LTCR and DSHS 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 biweekly COVID-19 webinars with HHSC Long-term Care Regulation and the Department of State Health Services.

Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. Please try another browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

ICF Provider Webinar

November 30, 2020

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Register for the COVID-19 webinar.

Recording of November 16 ICF COVID-19 Q&A Provider Webinar Available

A recording of the November 16, 2020 ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

View the COVID-19 Q&A recording.

View the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

10/16/20

Important Information!

LTCR FORM 2195: Expansion of Reopening Visitation Status Attestation and Letter PL 20-43 (for ICF Only)

Note: to receive an approved general visitation designation, a small ICF/IID that cannot provide separate areas, units, wings, halls, or buildings for individuals who are COVID-19 positive, COVID-19 negative or unknown COVID-19 status, based on the status of the entire facility, must:

• have no facility-acquired COVID-19 cases in individuals for at least 14 consecutive days; and
• have no COVID-19 cases in staff.

An ICF/IID must provide instructional signage throughout the facility and proper visitor education regarding

• signs and symptoms of COVID-19;

• infection control precautions; and
• other applicable facility practices (e.g., the use of facemasks or other appropriate PPE, specified entries and exits, routes to designated visitation areas, and hand hygiene).

An ICF/IID that does not meet the criteria for a visitation designation must permit closed window visits and end-of-life visits for individuals regardless of their COVID-19 status, as well as essential caregiver visits for individuals with COVID-19 negative or unknown COVID-19 status.

Such an ICF/IID must also develop and implement a plan to meet the visitation criteria and submit the plan to the regional director in the Long-term Care Regulation (LTCR) region where the ICF/IID is located within five days of submitting the new 2195 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Status Attestation Form,

or

within five days of receiving notification from HHSC that the ICF/IID was not approved for general visitation designation. 

LTCR Form 2195

Each ICF/IID must submit LTCR Form 2195 to the Regional Director in the LTCR region where the facility is located and must provide information about whether the ICF/IID meets or does not meet the criteria for expanded general visitation.

Each ICF/IID must submit a completed form 2195 to the Regional Director no later than October 31, 2020.

An ICF/IID that does not meet the visitation designation criteria must attest that it:

• is permitting closed window visits, end of life visits, and essential caregiver visits;
• will develop and implement a plan to meet the visitation designation criteria as defined in 26 TAC §551.47; and
• has included the plan with the form or will submit the plan within five business days of submitting the form.

To seek a designation for general visitation, an ICF/IID must complete LTCR Form 2195, Expansion of Reopening Visitation Status Attestation, to notify LTCR that the ICF/IID seeks a designation as a visitation facility.

The form must be emailed to the LTCR regional director in the LTCR region where the facility is located. Any applicable pictures and facility maps must also be included with LTCR Form 2195.

The LTCR regional director or designee will review the form within three working days of submission and notify the ICF/IID whether it has received been approved for a visitation designation.

An ICF/IID with previous approval for visitation does not have to submit LTCR Form 2195 or other documentation unless the previous visitation approval has been withdrawn, rescinded, or canceled, or was for only indoor or outdoor visitation instead of both indoor and outdoor visitation.

If approved, the ICF/IID must allow outdoor visits, indoor plexiglass visits, open window visits, and vehicle parades in accordance with the applicable emergency rule. HHSC LTCR can conduct an on-site visit to confirm an ICF/IID’s compliance with the requirements. If HHSC determines that the ICF/IID does not meet the requirements for the designation as a visitation facility, the ICF/IID must immediately stop all visitation except a closed window visit, end-of-life visit, and visits by persons providing critical assistance, including designated essential caregivers.

If, at any time after a visitation designation is approved by HHSC, the ICF/IID experiences an outbreak of COVID-19, the ICF/IID must notify the Regional Director in the LTCR Region where it is located that the ICF/IID no longer meets visitation criteria, and the ICF/IID must immediately stop all visitation, except a closed window visit, end-of-life visit, or visits by persons providing critical assistance, including essential caregivers.

The ICF/IID can submit a new request for designation when it meets all visitation criteria.

Under Section 37.10 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits a criminal offense if he or she makes a false entry in a governmental record; makes, presents, or uses any record or document with knowledge of its falsity and intent that it be taken as a genuine governmental record; or makes, presents, or uses a governmental record with knowledge of its falsity. In addition, making a false statement on the attestation form can result in the imposition of an administrative penalty as described in Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 252, section 252.065(a)

Contact Information for Submitting LTCR Form 2195 to the LTCR Regional Director: https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/find-us/long-term-care-regulatory-regional-contact-numbers

If you have any questions about this letter, please contact the Policy, Rules and Training Section by email at PolicyRulesTraining@hhsc.state.tx.us or call (512) 438-3161.

10/05/20

Deadline for Decision To Return to Facility/Payment to Hold Bed/Discharge Option  

Information Letter No. 20-43 ICF/IID Services During COVID-19

10/03/20

Quick TIPS on New Changes for Expansion of Facility Visitation Rules & Other Policies Concerning COVID-19

Essential Caregiver Visits and Salon Services Visitor   (Visitor types above and beyond normal designated visiting facility type)

Essential Caregivers are allowed even if the facility does not have designated visitation.  They must be at least 18 years of age.  Can be family, friend, guardian.

• 1.They must wear a facemask. 2. They must have evidence of negative COVID-19 test in the past 14 days and must be screened by facility staff prior to the visit.  (Pay attention to the new additional symptoms and discontinuation of asking about international travel). 3. There is a 2- hr limit unless the facility allows a longer period of time. 4.They can have physical contact with their individual (and only their individual)  5.They must be limited to access to their person.  6.An assigned person must escort them to and from the location they are going to meet with the individual- room, outside…  7. The facility must approve the face mask they are going to wear or provide an appropriate mask.  8.If they do not have an appropriate face mask or the facility can’t provide one, they will need to reschedule the visit. 9. The facility must create an identifying badge for the essential caregiver or any salon service visitors. 10. The facility must have attestation stating the essential caregiver has visited and when they left (include time arrived, when they left, who they visited).  11. Essential caregivers must be trained on PPE and how to wear PPE, handwashing, and other infection control practices and there must be proof of this training that the facility maintains.   12..The individual must be COVID-19 negative to have an Essential caregiver visit or Salon Service Visitor.
• ***(If client status is unknown, the essential visitor would have to wear a face mask (not N-95, save that for your staff who need to work with COVID-19 + individuals), gown, gloves, goggles or face shield, so the facility might need to provide these other items)

Phase I Visitation Rules, no longer in effect!

Expanded Visitation Rules now in effect:  The facility must apply with form 2194  for the Designated Visitation Facility, do not require all these same requirements an essential visitor (or Salon Service Visitors)- Designated visits include: open window visits, closed window visits, parade visits (open window or closed) outside visits, (and in plexiglass separate areas).   Must use physical distance, visitor screening, individual will wear face mask or face covering if tolerated and the same for the visitor -they must wear a face mask or face covering.  Provider Letter 20-38 has the link with form 2194 at the end of it.  We encourage you to email the form.  Most staff at HHSC are not in the office  Visitation Designation department has 3 days to approve or deny the 2194 form request.  Only the administrator or director can fill out form 2194!!

Previous Level 1 Attestation Approval: If you previously submitted the 2192 and received approval, you do not need to request a new one with form 2194, if your status is the same.  If you want to change the visitation type, then you will need a new form. ( i.e. you did not want plexiglass partition previously and now you do.)

Small facilities must request visitation designation for the whole facility (unless you have a way to separate all cohort areas completely.) Do not fill out section #3.  That is only for NF’s. 

The provider must develop and must enforce policies and procedures including testing strategies for Essential Visitors, in addition to the testing that must occur at least 14 days prior to 1st visit and all other polices related, such as essential visitor requirements discussed above.  Remember your testing strategies  are required  to provide expectations for the essential visitor for how often they will be required to test and when, for any visits they are making, after the initial “essential caregiver visit”.

For vehicle parades, the individual needs to remain 10 ft or more from the vehicle for safety.

Plexiglass booths on the inside must be approved by a life safety person for your region.  Send in pictures.  Does have to be a plexiglass barrier, does not have to be 2 and 3 sided.

**Closed window and End of Life visits are the only visits an individual may have if they are COVID-19 + (positive)

Remember staff should be assigned to an appropriate cohort (COVID-19 +, COVID-19 Negative or Unknown) then they should stay with that Cohort.  In addition, there should be a policy at the facility for limiting the sharing of staff.  If you need help with your policy concerning “COHORTS” and ” Mitigation of COVID-19 by Limiting Sharing of Staff”, please contact us.  I do have some policies you can purchase if needed.  Please contact me at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com

FAQ’s (June 2020)

Survey Operations Resume as of June 15th, 2020

Providers Must Log Residents’ Leave

All community-based ICF/IID program providers must submit an absence request in the TMHP ICF/IID Online Portal for a resident away from the facility for one or more full days. See the TMHP ICF/IID Online Portal User Guide (PDF) starting on page 52 for more information. The program provider must submit a return request within three days after a resident returns to the facility. See page 58 of the Online Portal User Guide for an explanation.

Please ensure that information entered in the portal for absences is current. HHSC uses the information to determine how many residents are absent from their facilities and the length of those absences.

Provider Joint Training Opportunities

Check out Joint Provider Trainings link from HHSC, for more info:
https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/training/jointtraining.cfm#course_112

Survey Process for ICF Has Changed: Please Be Aware

You may check your SOMA (Surveyor’s Operational Manual for ICF in Appendix J) for these changes.

https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Manuals/downloads/som107ap_j_intermcare.pdf 

http://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2018Downloads/R178SOMA.pdf

Appendix Q of SOMA (Immediate Jeopardy) Changes

http://www.tmhp.com/News_Items/2019/04-Apr/CMS%20Releases%20Revision%20to%20Appendix%20Q%20Immediate%20Jeopardy%20Guidelines.pdf

CMS clarifications letter

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Downloads/QSO19-09-ALL.pdf

SOMA appendix Q Section  Immediate Jeopardy 

https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Manuals/downloads/som107ap_q_immedjeopardy.pdf

 HCS and ICF/IID providers who attended the webinar from HHSC on 1/19/22.

• Recently HHSC re-issued and, in some cases, issued updated policies and guidance for all IDD COVID-related documents.(1/5/22 and 1/7/22 for HCS concerning guidance booklet updates).
• HHSC is working to reorganize the COVID-related information, including COVID flexibilities and Appendix K waivers, on the ICF/IID and HCS home webpages to facilitate ease in access. 
• HHSC did communicate the above and other changes and policy clarifications with providers via a webinar on January 19th, 2022, however many questions were still unanswered and attendees were told that questions that were not answered should be addressed in an FAQ from HHSC within 2 weeks of the webinar.

April 28th, 2022

Very Important!

Recorded Webinar For Claims Submission in TMHP

Below is the link to the recording of the claims submission webinar TMHP conducted.   Additional information about the migration will be sent under separate cover.

Note:  HHSC will not conduct another webinar on claims submission!

 https://tmhp.exceedlms.com/student/enrollments/create_enrollment_from_token/fEmzWuXLDuXzfc3jncsErHWU

April 28th, 2022

• Attached are handouts from the November, 2021 and February, 2022 joint meeting of the IDD SRAC and STAR+PLUS Pilot Program Workgroup related to the pilot and decisions (including eligibility) made thus far.
  • See pages 52 – 102 of the February, 2022 document for information about the pilot.
• HHSC has created a webpage on the Pilot Program.
  • The link to this webpage is:  https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-members/starplus-pilot-program-sp3

April 28th, 2022

April 28th, 2022

Details On Hearing

• Date, Time & Location:  Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 10:00 a.m., Capitol Extension, E2.030
• Purpose:  To receive invited testimony on several of its interim charges:  #1 related to Healthy Families, Healthy Texas Initiative,  #8 related to the 1115 Waiver, and, the one of importance to PPAT members, #4 related to implementation of SB1, Rider 30 (HHSC) and recommendations for reducing the interest list for waiver services for Individuals with IDD and reducing associated staffing shortages. See end of this message for text of Rider 30.
• Organizations Invited to Testify: Though not inclusive, organizations invited to provide testimony include PPAT, the Texas Council of Community Centers, the Arc, Disability Rights Texas and PACSTX.  HHSC will also provide testimony.

Pre-recorded sessions are available for purchase!

To Purchase these Pre-Recorded Trainings:

Go to www.twogetherconsulting.com

Or

Contact us at info@twogetherconsulting.com at Meghanjones.tx@gmail.com

Currently, we have the following pre-recorded sessions:

HCSTxHmL Pre-Recorded Webinar Sessions

Expectations of The Nurse: HCS/TxHmL

(includes: Delegation, CNA Training, Billable Services & Documentation as well) (4 Part Series)

Care Coordination (5 Part Series)

CARE COORDINATION  (5 Part Series)

Part I  

“Roles & Responsibilities: The LIDDA Vs. The Provider (For HCS/TxHmL providers)

Contact us at info@twogetherconsulting.com to purchase this training and the handouts.

Part II   Pre-recorded sessions available for purchase!

“Important Parts of The TAC In Relation To The HCS Handbook”  (For HCS/TxHmL providers)

Part III   Pre-recorded sessions available for purchase!

For HCS & TxHML Providers

“Developing The IP Using Person-Centered Practices” This is part 3 of 5 of our Care Coordination series.

Part IV   Pre-recorded sessions are available for purchase!

“ICAP/IDRC/LON” Webinar  This is part 3 of 5 of our Care Coordination series.

Part V  Pre-recorded sessions are available for purchase!

(Billable Services- HCS)    This session is split up into 2 parts!  Each section is 2 to 2.5 hrs long

General Billable Services (Day 1) & then Adaptive Aids/Minor Home Mods/Dental (Day 2)

Contact us at info@twogetherconsulting.com to purchase this training and the handouts.

April 20th, 2022

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

April 16th, 2022

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

April 13th, 2022

Texas Providers have been reminded that they can be surveyed at any time by a CMS/Federal Surveyor and will need to be in compliance if this occurs.

In short, at this time, HHSC Regulatory will not survey for compliance with the federal mandate.

The federal mandate and HHSC position apply to certified-only HCSSAs, Hospice, Nursing Homes and ICFs/IID. 

April 12th, 2022

• The program rules will go to MCAC on August 11, 2022. 
• The regulatory or license rules will go to the HHSC Executive Council but no date set yet.
• The program and regulatory rules will be published in the Texas Register for formal comment in late July, and HHSC will hold a public hearing on the rules.
• HHSC has decided to eliminate the on-site ratios.
• Though the off-site ratios have not been eliminated, HHSC is considering revisions to them and open to suggestions and ongoing dialogue.
• The current draft rules do not require any benchmark regarding time persons must engage in off-site activities, and at this time, there is no consideration to establish benchmarks.  According to HHSC, this is in great part due to the limited amount of appropriations received to implement the new service.
• No changes expected, at least for now, to the proposed rates.
• At this time, no changes to the DH rates for persons enrolled in an ICF/IID, yet who will attend an ISS facility are anticipated to occur.
• Based on comments received through the informal comment period, HHSC is restructuring and revising the draft regulatory/license rules.  Details were not provided.
• Stakeholders requested consideration of a separate meeting to discuss the draft rules.  No confirmation received as to whether HHSC will schedule a meeting.
• HHSC has created a webpage related to ISS.  To access, go to: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/long-term-care-providers/long-term-care-provider-resources/individualized-skills-socialization

April 10th, 2022

Individualized Skills and Socialization

April 12th, 2022

• Revised IL 2022-23:   https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/il2022-23.pdf
• CIMS Part II Webinar on April 26th:  https://www.hhs.texas.gov/provider-news/2022/04/04/register-now-april-26-webinar-hhscs-new-cims-part-ii
• Due date for Correcting/Updating Contact Information extended to April 15th:

April 10th, 2022

Register Now for the April 26 Webinar on HHSC’s New CIMS Part II

HHSC is offering CLASS CMAs, CLASS DSAs, DBMD, HCS and TxHmL providers more information on the new Critical Incident Management System
debuting this summer. The webinar will be held:

Tuesday, April 26, 2022
2:30 – 4 p.m.

Register here to attend the New Critical Incident Management System Webinar.

Click here to run a test of your computer’s connectivity if you have never attended a webinar from your computer. You can run this test at any time before the date of the training and advise this be done early in case of a problem that only your IT technician can fix.

From HHSC I-2022-23 revised letter: 

The system is targeted to go live July 25, 2022. Prior to the go-live date, HHSC and FEI Systems will provide training on the new system for waiver provider staff who will use the CIMS to report critical incidents. There will be training provided by FEI Systems using webinar formats; however, there will be limited capacity and these trainings will be focused on staff using the CIMS to report incidents. Virtual training resources will be available and accessible to waiver provider staff in addition to the information provided during training webinars. The goal is to support waiver provider staff with virtual training available for reference at any time to support using the system.

April 10th, 2022

HHSC has Published Critical Incident Management System (CIMS) 1915(c) Medicaid Waiver Program Providers (Revised) IL-2022-23

IL-2022-23 is posted to the HHS site CLASS, LIDDA, DBMD, HCS, and TxHmL

This letter replaces Information Letter 2022-14 and is a status update on the CIMS implementation which impacts fee-for-service 1915(c) waiver program providers, CLASS Case Management Agencies and LIDDAs.

Submit questions to LTSS_Policy@hhs.texas.gov

February 27th, 2022

HHSC Publishes New Reporting System for Critical Incidents Management

 (CIMS) See Letter (IL 2022-14)

(As if providers don’t have enough new things to learn, lol)

Sorry to say, we are gearing up for a new critical incident reporting system, and I know providers have so many other new things to learn between Migrating from CARE to TMHP,  Utilizing the E-learning portal, EVV, etc.., but, HHSC has approved IL-2022-14 CIMS for CLASS, LIDDA, DBMD, HCS and TxHmL Providers.

The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will implement a new statewide critical incident management system (CIMS) for reporting critical incidents. The new system will be in compliance with guidance issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on March 12, 2014.  There will be training sessions leading up to the implementation date of June 1st, 2022.

Questions about this project can be submitted to the following email address:  LTSS_Policy@hhs.texas.gov

HCS and TxHmL Webinar Slated for March 10th, 2022

Program providers and other interested stakeholders can now register for the upcoming HCS and TxHmL webinar.

• Webinar topics include:

  • HCS & TxHmL Forms and Claims Migration Project
  • Critical Incident Management System

  HCS and TxHmL Webinar
  March 10, 2022
  3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
  Register for the webinar

  Email questions about the webinar to your program policy mailbox:

  • HCS Policy
  • TxHmL Policy

IDD Systems Redesign Committee (SRAC) Agenda from January 27th, 2022

See link below or read the section below.  The webcast recording is available below:

Subscribe To The Twogether Consulting Mailing List!

April 9th, 2022

Change is inevitable, as we all know well in this line of work.  Our editor for the newsletter (James) has been with us for almost 8 years now and we will miss him, but his schedule has gotten super busy and he will not have as much time available. Meghan Jones will be transitioning as the new editor.  Many of you know Meghan as she is our administrative assistant and you have probably contacted her for registrations and such in the past.  Due to this change as well as the upcoming Easter and Passover Holidays, we have decided to not put out a mid-month edition for April.  Our next newsletter will go out on May 1st, 2022.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.

April 6th, 2022

March 20th, 2022

March 1st, 2022

February 20th, 2022

February 2nd, 2022

January 17th, 2022

January 2nd, 2022

December 18th, 2021

December 2nd, 2021

November 17th, 2021

November 1st, 2021

October 22nd, 2021 (late mid-month edition)

October 3rd, 2021 

September 16th, 2021

September 2nd, 2021

August 15th, 2021

August 2nd, 2021

July 18th, 2021

July 5th, 2021

June 15th, 2021

June 1st, 2021

May 15th, 2021

May 2nd, 2021

Newsletter Library

Starting this month, we are going to post copies of our bi-monthly e-mail newsletters on this “Newsletter Library” page.  We use a “Mailchimp” platform

Here is our most recent bi-monthly newsletter sent out to providers.  See 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 subscribe on the following newsletter subscription page:  https://twogetherconsulting.com/newsletters/

Or you can subscribe directly to our Mailchimp account by clicking on the subscriber link at the bottom of this latest newsletter.

March 7th, 2022

 (See link below to FAQ’s)

Answers to Additional Questions related to the Migration

March 10, 2022

Draft of ISS Rules below:

• Texas Administrative Code, Title 26, Part 1, Chapter 559, Subchapters A and H, Individualized Skills and Socialization

Email comments before March 28th, 2022 to Long-term Care Regulation Policy and Rules.

March 9th, 2022

CARE Banner In CARE system for HCS/TxHmL providers:

March 7th, 2022

Public Comment Period for STP

HHSC will submit a Statewide Transition Plan to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This is required by the federal Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule. The STP describes HHSC’s plan to meet the requirements of the HCBS Settings Rule.

HHSC invites members of the public, including HCBS recipients and their families, providers, and other stakeholders, to submit comments on the STP.

Comments will be accepted until 11:59 pm on April 4, 2022. Access the STP and instructions for submitting public comments here.

March 4th, 2022

If you attended the 2/9/22 Plans of Correction (POC’s) training webinar for HCS & TxHmL, here are the answers to some of the follow-up questions asked during the session: 

Q: I have experienced that the POC has a date that is 8 days in the past but the postage stamp would be 2 days ago. This leaves me with 6 days to complete the POC. Do I use the date on the letter or the postage date for the 14-day time period?

A: §9.183(f) states the program provider must submit the POC within 14 calendar days of receiving the final report for each violation identified in the plan of correction. The start date of the 14 days is when the program provider receives the final survey report, not the date of the letter or the postage date. The final report can be emailed to the program provider if the email address is on file.

If you have specific questions about the due date for the POC, please contact your regional program manager.

Q: Can we sign the 3724 electronically?

A: If the program provider has the capability to electronically sign, this is acceptable.

Q: Isn’t HHSC supposed to send the provider a pdf or word version of the violations that the provider can actually edit on the right side to enter in their POC’s?  That seems to be an issue some providers have had.

A: Form 3724s are e-mailed to program providers PDF format. A program provider should be able to edit the PDF to enter their POCs on the right-hand side. Please see Instructions for Electronic 2567/3724 for how to do this. If you’re still having trouble, you can contact your regional program manager.

Q: If the 3724 is mailed to the provider in a protected PDF format, how can the provider type the corrections on the form if they do not wish to hand write them?

A: Please contact your regional program manager.

Q: Can a POC be completed in the HCS portal?

A: No, the POC cannot be completed in the provider portal. The POC information needs to be entered on the final 3724 report that is submitted to the program provider.

Q: Are those letters certified to verify when the letter was actually received by the provider?

A: No, the letters are not required to be certified.

Q: I was told there are no debriefings during the survey process. Has this changed?

A: The surveyor will review Form 3701-A, Statement of Preliminary Findings during the survey exit conference to review each of the areas of noncompliance that were identified during the course of the survey, including findings that may result in a critical violation. Per §9.171(j), if HHSC identifies a finding that may be a critical violation not discussed during an exit conference, a new exit conference with the program provider will be held to discuss those additional finding(s).

Q: Is this Form 3724 that is used in the ICF Program as the CAP replacing Form 8581 that was previously used in the HCS and TxHmL Program as the CAP?

A: Form 3724 should be used for Plans of Correction for the HCS program. Form 3724 is the state form from ASPEN for the Statement of Licensing Violations and Plan of Correction.

Form 8581, Corrective Action Plan has been retired and removed from the HHSC website.

Q: Will HHSC surveyors provide a separate form for administrative penalties for any violations not corrected?

A: All violations must be corrected before the imposition of penalties. If violations aren’t corrected the provider will be decertified. Decertification triggers contract termination. 

Enforcement notifies the provider through certified and first-class mail of the imposition of penalties.

Q: Is the IDT the same as the SPT (service planning team) for HCS and TxHmL?

A: The concept is similar. Per 40 TAC 9.153(106), the definition of a Service Planning Team is

“One of the following:

(A) for an applicant or individual other than one described in subparagraphs (B) or (C) of this paragraph, a planning team consisting of:

(i) an applicant or individual and LAR;

(ii) service coordinator; and

(iii) other persons chosen by the applicant or individual or LAR, for example, a staff member of the program provider, a family member, a friend, or a teacher;

(B) for an applicant 21 years of age or older who is residing in a nursing facility and enrolling in the HCS Program, a planning team consisting of:

(i) the applicant and LAR;

(ii) service coordinator;

(iii) a staff member of the program provider;

(iv) providers of specialized services;

(v) a nursing facility staff person who is familiar with the applicant’s needs;

(vi) other persons chosen by the applicant or LAR, for example, a family member, a friend, or a teacher; and

(vii) at the discretion of the LIDDA, other persons who are directly involved in the delivery of services to persons with an intellectual or developmental disability; or

(C) for an individual 21 years of age or older who has enrolled in the HCS Program from a nursing facility or has enrolled in the HCS Program as a diversion from admission to a nursing facility, for 365 calendar days after enrollment, a planning team consisting of:

(i) the individual and LAR;

(ii) service coordinator;

(iii) a staff member of the program provider;

(iv) other persons chosen by the individual or LAR, for example, a family member, a friend, or a teacher; and

(v) with the approval of the individual or LAR, other persons who are directly involved in the delivery of services to persons with an intellectual or developmental disability.

Q: What do we do if the 45-day PoC completion date has already passed by the time we get the final report?

A: If you receive the final report near or after the 45-day PoC completion date, please contact your regional program manager for assistance.

Instructions for Documenting Your POC’s On Electronic Form 2567/3724 Received From HHSC

Provider:

1. Open the 2567/3724 document
2. Go to “Insert” on the toolbar
3. Select “Text” Box
4. Insert the “Text” Box where you want to write the PoC
5. Insert a second “Text” Box where you put the PoC date.
6. Right-click on the text box’s border, and choose “copy”.  (For copy and pasting)

7. Scroll down to the second page of 2567, left-click anywhere on the page, then press “Ctrl-V” on the keyboard

                           ( or right-click with the mouse and choose “paste” ) – the text box will paste in nearly centered into the POC field

                            ( to center, press two cursors spaces to the left and two cursor spaces up ).

Repeat on the remaining pages

Save the document.

Send the document back to the region.

LTC Providers May Need to Update Fire Alarm System Cellular Communication Services

In 2022 cellular companies will retire their older 3G technology. These companies include T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and AT&T.

LTC providers with a fire alarm system supported by an older cellular communicator running on 3G signals should upgrade their fire alarm communication equipment.

Many fire alarm systems use cellular communication devices to send signals to a 24-hour central monitoring station. The central monitoring station contacts the local emergency response team to send help. If your cellular communication device uses 3G to relay signals, and your cellular provider no longer supports those signals, your fire alarm system will not be able to notify emergency services if there is a fire.

The major cellular companies gave the following dates for retiring their older networks:

• AT&T began retiring its 3G network on Feb. 22, 2022.
• Sprint will retire its 3G CDMA network on March 31, 2022.
• Sprint will retire its 3G LTE network on June 30, 2022.
• T-Mobile will retire its 3G UMTS network on July 1, 2022.
• Verizon will retire its 3G CDMA network on Dec. 31, 2022.
• T-Mobile has announced it will retire its 2G GSM network but has not set a date for that retirement.

After these dates fire alarm communication devices that connect to cellular communication systems using this older technology will not work.

LTC providers are responsible for ensuring their fire alarms systems function correctly. Providers with fire alarm systems monitored by a third-party monitoring company should contact their fire alarm service company. They need to find out if their fire alarm communication equipment needs upgrading.0

Email LTCR Policy or call 512-438-3161 with questions.

March 1st, 2022

HCS and TxHmL Form Submission on LTC Online Portal Unavailable Until May 1, 2022

Due to Postponement, submissions of Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living forms using the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership Long-Term Care Online Portal are unavailable until May 1st, 2022. Data migration to the TMHP LTC Online Portal took place prior to March 1st, 2022.

FYI-Any HCS and TxHmL form submitted to the LTC Online Portal before March 1 could be removed and require resubmission May 1st, 2022.

Beginning May 1, submit HCS and TxHmL forms using the TMHP LTC Online Portal. All user guides to aid form submissions are published to TMHP’s Learning Management System. All users must create an LMS account to access the materials. There is a sign-up link on the LMS homepage. Contact TMHP Training Support if you need help.

Providers can refer to the article, “Reminder: Beginning March 1, 2022, HCS and TxHmL Programs to Submit Claims and Forms to TMHP” for more information about the transition to TMHP, which now applies to May 1st, 2022.

Email questions to TMHP.

February 28th, 2022

COVID-19: HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers (IL 2022-15)

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 provides access to needed day habilitation services.

HHSC has published a revision to this guidance in IL 2022-15 In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (PDF). This replaces IL 2022-09.

It extends the temporary guidance through March 31, 2022, unless the COVID public health emergency ends sooner. HHSC will provide guidance if there are any changes.

Email questions to HCS Policy

February 28th, 2022

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 Community First Choice PAS/HAB. They can now live 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, child or teenager’s parent still cannot be a paid service provider of these services due to guidelines in HCS, TxHmL and CFC handbooks located under Long-term Care Waiver Programs.

This is a temporary policy change. It is effective March 27, 2020 through March 31, 2022, unless the COVID public health emergency ends sooner. HHSC will provide guidance if anything changes.

Program providers must complete the required background checks for all service providers. They must follow:

• The Texas Administrative Code, Title 40, Part 1, Subchapter D and N
• HCS and TxHmL Rules, Section 9.177 (n) and (o), and Section 9.579 (r) and (s)
• HCS and TxHmL Billing Guidelines Section 3400 for service provider qualifications

FYI- Don’t forget that currently (Due to COVID-19) HHSC has said if you need to add on more CFC PAS/HAB units on the IPC,  you are not required to request SC to update the CFC PAS/HAB assessment.  The provider needs only complete an IPC revision and IP update.

February 27th, 2022

HCS and TxHmL Billing Changes In The Crosswalk for DH

HCS and TxHmL providers must use the HCS and TxHmL Bill Code Crosswalk starting March 1, 2022 to submit claims for all services. The bill code was updated Dec. 28, 2021.

The HCS and TxHmL Bill Code Crosswalk includes new bill codes for the services that require electronic visit verification.

For HCS program providers:

• Providing out of home day habilitation or in-home day habilitation in a host home or companion care setting, program providers must use the out-of-home day habilitation bill codes.
• Not participating in the COVID add-on program, in-home day habilitation provided in a three-person residence or four-person residence, program providers must use the out-of-home day habilitation bill codes.
• Participating in the COVID add-on program, in-home day habilitation provided in a three-person residence or four-person residence, the program provider must use the out-of-home bill codes below with the modifiers “KX” and “CR.”
  • For LON 1: M0944
  • For LON 5: M0945
  • For LON 8: M0947
  • For LON 6: M0946
  • For LON 9: M0948

Contact the HCS Policy Box with questions.

February 27th, 2022

HCS and TxHmL Webinar Slated for March 3 moved to March 10th, 2022

Program providers and other interested stakeholders can now register for the upcoming HCS and TxHmL webinar.

Webinar topics include:

• HCS & TxHmL Forms and Claims Migration Project
• Critical Incident Management System

HCS and TxHmL Webinar
March 10, 2022
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar

Email questions about the webinar to your program policy mailbox:

• • HCS Policy
  • TxHmL Policy

February 26th, 2022

If you missed part II of the LTC TMHP Migration HCS & TxHmL Waiver Webinar Training, you will have an additional chance on March 10th, 2022

10am-12:30pm Central

Please click here register here

The Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal Training for Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Waiver Programs is a two-part webinar for providers and Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities (LIDDAs).

Attendees can register for any of the first sessions, and any of the second sessions; but are strongly encouraged to complete the first session before attending the second session.

Part 2 of this webinar will cover the following topics:

• Purpose and Workflow of the 3608/8582 Individual Plan of Care (IPC) Form

• Purpose and Workflow of the Individual Movement (IMT) Form

• Purpose and Workflow of the 3615 Request to Continue Suspended Services Form

• Purpose and Workflow of the 3616 Request for Termination of Waiver Program Services Form

• Purpose and Workflow of the HCS Provider Location Update (PLU) Form

• Navigation of the LTC Online Portal • Available HHSC and TMHP resources for providers and LIDDAs This webinar will not provide billing training.

***For more information about billing with TMHP, refer to the Learning Management System (LMS) at learn.tmhp.com, and search for TexMedConnect or Claims in the keyword search feature.

February 26th, 2022

Additional Training Resources From TMHP

It is highly recommended that program providers, LIDDAs, and FMSAs create a TMHP Learning Management System (LMS) account at learn.tmhp.com before the webinar 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 Navigation Job Aid for Providers located on the LMS homepage or email TMHP Training Support for help creating an LMS account or navigating the LMS.

Suggested training resources include:

• HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs Frequently Asked Questions
• Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal Basics Computer-Based Training (CBT)
• TexMedConnect for Long-Term Care (LTC) Providers CBT
• Remittance and Status (R&S) Reports for LTC Providers Quick Reference Guide (QRG)
• Claim Appeals for Medicaid CBT
• TMHP Claims Video
• TMHP Account Setup for HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs QRG
• Long-Term Care (LTC) User Guide for Online Portal Basics, General Information, and Program Resources
• Long-Term Care (LTC) User Guide for TexMedConnect

For more information, contact tmhptrainingsupport@tmhp.com

February 8th, 2022

For those of you who missed today’s training (part I) or who did not download the documents, I have provided them on this “Updates” post from Twogether Consulting

Link to Resource Document from Webinar on 2/8/22 (TMHP Training Part I)

Webinar Handout Part I Training 

LTC TMHP Portal Provider User Guide

TMHP Migration (HCS & TxHmL) FAQ’s

This webinar will be repeated on March 8th, 2022

---

The Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal Training for Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Waiver Programs is a two-part webinar for providers and Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities (LIDDAs). Attendees can register for any of the first sessions, and any of the second sessions; but are strongly encouraged to complete the first session before attending the second session.

Part 1 of this webinar will cover the following topics:

• Management of waiver program assessments and forms in the LTC Online Portal

• Purpose and Workflow of the HCS/TxHmL Pre-enrollment Form

• Purpose and Workflow of the 8578 Intellectual Disability (ID)/Related Condition (RC) Assessment

• Purpose and Workflow of the 3608/8582 Individual Plan of Care (IPC) Form • Available HHSC and TMHP resources for providers and LIDDAs

February 13th, 2022

HCS/TxHmL Providers & LIDDA’s: Client Assessment, Review, and Evaluation (CARE) Report and Screen Crosswalks Now Available

The CARE report and screen crosswalks for HCS, TxHmL providers and LIDDAs are now available to assist with daily operations.

Click the following link to view the files:

Provider and LIDDA CARE Report Crosswalk

Provider and LIDDA CARE Screen Crosswalk

HCS and TxHmL providers will use these crosswalks to locate relevant individual and provider data needed for day-to-day operations beginning March 1, 2022.

If you have questions, contact the HHSC HCS TxHmL Form Migration mailbox at HCS_TxHmL_Form_Migration@hhs.texas.gov.

February 13th, 2022

HHSC Publishes Information on data migration from the CARE system to the to the TMHP LTC Online Portal (IL 2022-12)

HHSC has published IL 2022-12 that provides information to HCS and TxHmL Program Providers and FMSAs about the CARE screens that are unavailable from Feb. 9 (5:00pm) to March 1, as data is migrated from the CARE system to TMHP LTC online portal.

It also provides information about form submissions after Feb. 9, and HCS and TxHmL claims submission for services delivered prior to March 1, and on March 1, or later.

Submit question about HCS & TxHmL Forms and Claims Migration Project here.

February 13th, 2022

Inactive Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Provider Client Assignment and Registration (CARE) Screens

Due to the HCS and TxHmL migration to Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership (TMHP), the following CARE screens will be inactive beginning 9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 9, until Monday, Feb. 14.

L01 — CONSUMER ENROLLMENT
L02/C02 — INDIVIDUAL PLAN OF CARE
L03 — ENROLLMENT PACKET CHECKLIST
L05 — PROVIDER CHOICE
L06 — CONSUMER TRANSFER
L23/C23 — WAIVER ID/RC ASSESSMENT
L30 — MRA ASSIGNMENT NOTIFICATION
L31 — HCS IPC MRA REVIEW (HCS)
L32 — ID/RC ASSESS MRA REVIEW (HCS)
C18 — INDIVIDUAL DISCHARGE
C29 — MODIFY PROVIDER SERVICE AUTH

Below are screens that will be inactive and retired as of Feb. 10.

Note: Providers will not be able to submit entries until effective Feb. 16. Effective Feb. 16, Wait List and SLOT will be entered into SLOT and CSIL.

A20 — AUTHORIZE LOCATIONS
A29 — SLOT TYPES
A30 — SLOT ALLOCATION
A31 — SLOT STATUS UPDATE
A32 — SLOT ALLOCATION REMOVAL
A40 — RATE OPT OUT
A58 — WAIVER ID/RC ASSESSMENT(E)
A71 — WAIVER SLOT AVAILABILITY
A73 — SLOT TRACKING

L20 — GUARDIAN INFORMATION UPDATE
L26 — CLIENT ASSIGNMENTS
L61 — WAIVER SLOT COUNTS
L62 — WAIVER SLOT DETAIL
L64 — IPC EXPIRATION
L65 — ID/RC ASSESSMENT EXPIRATION

C20 — GUARDIAN INFORMATION UPDATE
C24 — LOCATION
C25 — LOCATION TYPE MODIFICATION
C26 — CLIENT ASSIGNMENTS
C64 — IPC EXPIRATION
C65 — ID/RC ASSESSMENT EXPIRATION
C75 — PRIOR APPROVAL
C88 — CONSUMER HOLDS
W21 — INTEREST LIST UPDATE
W27 — TRAVIS QUESTIONNAIRE ENTRY
W28 — TRAVIS QUESTIONNAIRE SEARCH

For questions or information, see:

• Portal Security Manual — Explains how to access TMHP systems (PDF)
• TMHP Learning Management System (LMS) — Register for an account
• TMHP Learning Management System (LMS) — Register for an account
• Computer Based Training for:
  • Portal Basics
  • TexMedConnect Claims Entry System
• Provider User Guide for the LTC Online Portal published on tmhp.com.
• Item-by-Item Guides for each HCS and TxHmL form published on tmhp.com.

February 8th, 2022

CBT (Computer Based Training) For TMHP Billing of Services/Entering Claims

https://tmhp.exceedlms.com/student/path/181116-texmedconnect-for-long-term-care-ltc-providers

I recently received this response from HHSC and thought it might be helpful to some providers who may have this concern:

There is no rule or regulation that prohibits an HCS Program Provider from providing services to their own child or family member.

The program provider’s operations must prevent conflict of interest as required by 40 TAC §9.177(f):

§9.177 Certification Principles: Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements

(f) The program provider’s operations must prevent:

  (1) conflicts of interest between the program provider, a staff member, or a service provider and an individual, such as the acceptance of payment for goods or services from which the program provider, staff member, or service provider could financially benefit, except payment for room and board;

  (2) financial impropriety toward an individual including:

    (A) unauthorized disclosure of information related to an individual’s finances; and

    (B) the purchase of goods that an individual cannot use with the individual’s funds;

  (3) abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an individual;

  (4) damage to or prevention of an individual’s access to the individual’s possessions; and

  (5) threats of the actions described in paragraphs (2) – (4) of this subsection.

And, the program provider must ensure they are not disqualified from being a service provider as described in Section 3420(b)-(d) of the HCS Billing Requirements:

3420 Service Provider Not Qualified

Revision 21-3; Effective September 1, 2021

(b) Spouse Not Qualified as Service Provider

A service provider is not qualified to provide a service component or subcomponent to the service provider’s spouse.

(c) Relative, Guardian or Managing Conservator Not Qualified as Service Provider for Certain Services

A service provider is not qualified to provide case management, residential support, supervised living, behavioral support services or social work services to an individual if the service provider is:

(1) a relative of the individual (Appendix II, Degree of Consanguinity or Affinity, explains who is considered a relative for purposes of these requirements);

(2) the individual’s guardian; or

(3) the individual’s managing conservator.

(d) Parent, Spouse of Parent or Contractor Not Qualified as Service Provider for Minor

A service provider is not qualified to provide a service component or subcomponent to a minor if the service provider is:

(1) the minor’s parent;

(2) the spouse of the minor’s parent; or

(3) a person contracting with DFPS to provide residential child care to the minor, or is an employee or contractor of such a person.

According to Section 3430 of the HCS Billing Requirements:

3430 Relative, Guardian or Managing Conservator Qualified as Service Provider

Revision 21-1; Effective January 1, 2021

If a relative, guardian or managing conservator is not otherwise disqualified to be a service provider as described in Section 3420, Service Provider Not Qualified, or in Section 4000, Specific Requirements for Service Components Based on Billable Activity, the relative, guardian or managing conservator may provide audiology services, dietary services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology services, day habilitation, in-home day habilitation, registered nursing, licensed vocational nursing, specialized registered nursing, specialized licensed vocational nursing, transportation as a supported home living activity, host home/companion care, respite, in-home respite, employment assistance or supported employment if the relative, guardian or managing conservator is a qualified service provider for the particular service component or subcomponent being provided.

February 1st, 2022

HCS/TxHmL Writing Acceptable Plans of Correction Webinar

“WHAT IS A POC? 42 CFR §488.401 defines a Plan of Correction to mean a plan developed by the facility and approved by CMS or the survey agency that describes the actions the facility will take to correct deficiencies and specifies the date by which those deficiencies will be corrected.Apr 19, 2021″

Program providers can register for the Writing Acceptable Plans of Correction for HCS and TxHmL webinar. This webinar covers the process for writing an acceptable plan of correction for HCS and TxHmL program providers. No CE is awarded for this webinar. However, a certificate of attendance will be provided.

This will be an ongoing offering posted on the HHCS HCS/TxHmL Joint Training website.

Wednesday, Feb. 9
1 – 4 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Email questions to Joint Training.

February 1st, 2022

HHSC Publishes Information on Delivery of PT, OT, and ST Services (IL 2022-08)

HHSC is issuing interim guidance allowing telehealth delivery of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services. Access Information Letter No. 2022-08, HB4: Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy Services Delivered by Synchronous Audio-Visual. The letter notes which therapies are not allowed to be delivered through telehealth modalities because the service requires in-person delivery.

This guidance applies to the following programs:

• Community Living Assistance and Support Services Providers
• Deaf-Blind with Multiple Disabilities Providers
• Home and Community-based Services Program Providers
• Texas Home Living Program Providers

Email the LTSS policy mailbox with questions about this alert.

February 1st, 2022

Guidance for LTC Providers

COVID-19 cases continue to increase across Texas. HHSC reminds providers to follow the guidelines listed below and ensure their emergency plan is up to date. Staff must be aware of what to do in the event of any sort of emergency, including an outbreak of flu or COVID-19.

Please review the following rules, guidelines, and policies:

• COVID-19 mitigation and visitation rules for your provider type
• Any applicable COVID-19 response plans for your provider type
• Your organization’s infection prevention and control policies

All provider types must continue to screen residents, clients, staff, and visitors for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.

Staff for all provider types must continue to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Where required by rules for your provider type, providers must continue effective cohorting of residents based on COVID-19 status.

Find COVID-19 resources for your provider type online:

• The COVID-19 Resources section of your provider portal
• The HHSC Coronavirus (COVID-19) Provider Information page

Your maintaining vigilance in following infection control requirements makes a difference in protecting vulnerable Texans.

LTC providers are always required to provide services to residents before, during, and after any emergency. Your organization’s emergency plan or policy must include:

• Planning for staff shortages
• Back-up plans to ensure operations and care of residents or clients continues

Read program-specific rules related to staffing, emergency preparedness, and infection control:

• Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions
• Home and Community-based Services
• Texas Home Living

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has developed a COVID-19 Healthcare Planning Checklist (PDF) that you can use to assist you in creating a plan for dealing with an outbreak of flu or COVID-19.

For questions, email LTCR Policy.

HHSC has published ICF and HCS Emergency Staffing Requests – Jan. 10

HHSC has published ICF and HCS Emergency Staffing Requests (Provider Letter 2022-02). This letter provides information for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability (ICFs) or Related Conditions and Home and Community-based Services (HCS) program providers facing staffing shortages related to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

January 14th, 2022

January 10th, 2022

When was Omicron Variant First Found in Texas and What is This Variant of COVID-19?  (Please see article below)

Texas Identifies Case of COVID-19 Omicron Variant

HHS  

Corona Virus Testing and Testing Information  (Includes videos and information about finding testing locations near you and home-testing as well)

Booster Shot Information 

DSHS

Below are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the variants of COVID-19, including the Delta and Omicron variants.

How can I tell if I have the Delta or Omicron variant? Do labs report that to the state?

That information may not be readily available. The viral tests that are used to determine if a person has COVID-19 are not designed to tell you what variant is causing the infection. Identifying COVID-19 variants requires a special type of testing called genomic sequencing. Due to the volume of COVID-19 cases, sequencing is not performed on all viral samples. However, because the Omicron variant now accounts for the majority of COVID-19 cases in the United States, there is a strong likelihood that a positive test result indicates infection with the Omicron variant.

Are the symptoms different for the Delta or Omicron variant? If so, what are they?

Because Delta and Omicron are variants of the same virus—SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID 19—the symptoms and the emergency warning signs are the same. However, some variants may spread more easily or may cause more severe symptoms and illness. Because of this, scientists are actively monitoring and studying new variants to learn more about how easily they spread, whether they make people more or less sick, and how well they respond to existing vaccines, treatments, and tests.

Is Texas tracking variants of COVID-19?

Yes. Public health officials at the federal, state, and local levels continue to study variants, monitor their spread, develop strategies to slow their spread, and test how variants may respond to existing therapies, vaccines, and testing. For information on variants of concern in Texas, see the Variants and Genomic Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 in Texas section of the DSHS website.

Who is most at risk of contracting a variant of COVID-19?

Unvaccinated people are most at risk of contracting COVID-19, including any of its variants. The Delta and Omicron variants are more aggressive than other known variants and spread most rapidly in communities with fewer fully vaccinated people.

The absolute best protection for yourself and those close to you is getting fully vaccinated. The vaccine is proven to safely protect you from COVID-19’s worst effects and lowers your chances of spreading the virus. Greatly increasing the number of fully vaccinated Texans is the only way to prevent a devastating rise in the spread of the pandemic virus.

Are the newer variants worse than the early COVID-19 strains? Will a variant make me sicker than previous strains?

Omicron appears to spread much more easily than other known variants, which means it’s more contagious than other variants. We are still learning whether Omicron may put infected people at higher or lower risk of hospitalization than other variants.

What’s the treatment for patients with the Delta or Omicron variant?

There are different treatment options available for all COVID-19 variants, but some treatments may be more effective for certain variants. In many cases, treatments are reserved for certain high-risk groups. If you or a loved one is sick, check with your healthcare provider about your specific case.

What is the current travel guidance?

Travel recommendations may vary depending on whether you are fully vaccinated or not. Some travel destinations may have different requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

Keep in mind that travel and other guidance may change as we learn more about the virus variants and breakthrough cases. Stay up to date with CDC travel recommendations by visiting the Travel page of the CDC website.

Are people of certain ages at higher risk for infection with the newer variants?

Yes. Anyone who is not fully vaccinated is at greater risk of getting COVID-19. Children up to 5 years old are not yet eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Anyone who is old enough and able to get the vaccine should do so to protect those who are unable to get it, as well as those for whom the vaccine is less protective. That includes children under age 5 and people with certain medical conditions. It’s also important for those people who qualify to get the booster dose, too.

How many known variants are there?

There are many. Because viruses constantly change through mutation, new variants occur all the time. Sometimes they disappear, and sometimes they persist. Variants are classified in four ways, from least to most severe: Variants Being Monitored, Variants of Interest, Variants of Concern, and Variants of High Consequence.

Public health officials are currently studying two that are classified as Variants of Concern: Delta and Omicron. These are variants that show evidence of an increase in transmissibility, more severe disease (increased hospitalizations or deaths), and/or reduced effectiveness of tests, treatments, or vaccines.

In the U.S., there are currently many Variants Being Monitored, but no Variants of Interest or Variants of High Consequence.

To learn more about variants in the U.S., visit the About Variants of the Virus, Variant Classification, and Variant Surveillance pages on the CDC website.

What are the differences between the variants?

Variants vary by their genetic markers. These differences in genetic markers may affect how easily the virus is spread, the severity of illness, how well existing tests can detect the virus, the effectiveness of treatments and vaccines, and more.

Each variant is slightly different. Think of variants like branches on a tree. Each branch is slightly different than others on the tree, but they have similarities, too. Scientists study the differences in COVID-19 variants, so they can label and track them according to those differences.

Do the vaccines protect against the Omicron variant?

Early data suggest that the available vaccines are effective against severe disease and hospitalization caused by the Omicron variant. The best protection against any COVID‑19 variant is getting fully vaccinated. And a booster dose of vaccine is a proven way to maximize the protection against infection and severe disease.

Which vaccine provides better protection against the virus?

In mid-December 2021, CDC updated their vaccine recommendations with a preference for mRNA vaccine (Pfizer and Moderna) over the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccine. However, public health experts continue to say that getting any vaccine is better than being unvaccinated. J&J vaccine will remain available for people who are unable or unwilling to get an mRNA vaccine.

Read CDC’s media statement to learn more about the updated vaccine recommendations.

Keep in mind that guidance may change as we learn more about the virus variants. DSHS will update information as it becomes available.

LTC Regulatory Services

Incident Reporting

HHS regulated providers can self-report incidents affecting resident health/safety, including issues related to COVID-19, online to the Health and Human Services Commission or by calling 1-800-458-9858.

• Incidents Submission Portal for Long-term Care providers
• Incidents Submission Portal for Health Care Quality providers

Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF/IID)

• ICF/IID Provider COVID-19 Vaccination Data Reporting Rule (PDF)
• ICF/IID COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rule (PDF)
• ICF/IID COVID-19 Response Emergency Rule (PDF)
• COVID-19 Response for ICF/IIDs (PDF)
• Frequently Asked Questions for ICF/IIDs (PDF)

Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL)

• HCS Visitation Comparison Table (PDF)
• HCS COVID-19 Expanded Visitation Rules (PDF)
• TxHmL COVID-19 Updated Emergency Rules (PDF)
• COVID-19 Response for Home and Community-based Services Residential Providers (PDF)
• Updated COVID-19 FAQs for HCS and TxHmL Providers (PDF)

Guest presenter:

Hillary Gaytan  (Business Development Representative)

From:  HRS

Improve The Quality of Life

• Balancing personal choice with personal responsibility by establishing and maintaining things that are important to the person with things that are important for the person
• Being integrated in one’s community so that the person is known and respected for her or his contributions.
• Being respectfully communicated with as a person, using language consistent with being a typical adult as opposed to using clinical or system language
• Receiving support that is consistent so that new staff and others know and respect the person’s values and choices, as well as how others can help the person.
• Being matches with staff, housemates, or others that the person making life more enjoyable.

Revised Guidance on Staff Work Restrictions and Return to Work

HHSC has issued revised guidance for long-term care providers experiencing staffing shortages due to COVID-19. The requirement to contact LTCR before implementing CDC guidance on staff work restrictions and return-to-work has been removed.

“Guidance and Protocol for Long-Term Care Facilities Experiencing Staffing Shortages due to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.

This checklist provides guidance for long-term care facilities and residential providers facing staffing shortages related to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

This checklist incorporates CDC guidance with state and federal staffing requirements.

Facilities facing staffing shortages must use this checklist before requesting emergency staffing resources. The CDC’s mitigation strategies are meant to be implemented sequentially (i.e., contingency strategies before crisis strategies). The conventional strategies must be followed when the facility has adequate staffing.

As a reminder, facilities are required to cohort residents based on their COVID-19 status: COVID-19 negative (COVID-negative), COVID-19 positive (COVID-positive), and unknown COVID-19 status (COVID-unknown).1 Healthcare personnel (HCP) are considered “boosted” if they have received all COVID-19 vaccine doses, including a booster dose, as recommended by CDC.”

For more….  Read the updated guidance.

January 9th, 2022

Register for HCS and TxHmL Webinars, Additional Training Resources

Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership is hosting Long-term Care Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Waiver Program webinars for program providers, Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities, and financial management services agencies that submit claims on behalf of Consumer Directed Services employers.

Each webinar is composed of two sessions. Attendees can register for any first session and any second session by clicking on the dates below but should complete the first session before attending the second session.

The two-session webinar will cover the LTC Online Portal, management of waiver program assessments and forms in the portal, purpose and workflow of various forms, and available resources for program providers, LIDDAs and FMSAs.

Participants can submit questions during the webinars that will be answered during the webinar’s Q&A session.

Session one webinars are scheduled from 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Feb. 8
• Feb. 15
• Feb. 22
• March 8

Session two webinars are scheduled from 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

• Feb. 10
• Feb. 17
• Feb. 24
• March 10

Additional Training Resources

Program providers, LIDDAs and FMSAs should create a TMHP Learning Management System account before the webinar to access the LTC Online Portal and claims submissions training. New TMHP LMS users can access the LMS Registration and Navigation Job Aid for Providers (PDF) located on the LMS homepage.

Suggested training resources include:

• HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• LTC Online Portal Basics Computer-Based Training
• TexMedConnect for LTC Providers CBT
• Remittance and Status Reports for LTC Providers Quick Reference Guide (PDF)
• Claim Appeals for Medicaid CBT
• TMHP Claims Video
• TMHP Account Setup for HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs QRG (PDF)
• LTC User Guide for Online Portal Basics, General Information and Program Resources
• LTC User Guide for TexMedConnect (PDF)

 For questions and help navigating the LMS, email TMHP Trainings Support.

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 complete the Electronic Data Interchange Agreement for Long-Term Care Providers.

Forms Submission
Beginning August 2, 2021, HCS and TxHmL providers and Local Intellectual or Development Disability Authorities (LIDDAs) must submit forms online through the TMHP Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal. These form submission updates will help improve accuracy and will allow for more timely processing and payments for providers.

The following forms will be available for submission on the TMHP LTC Online Portal on August 2, 2021:
• HCS or TxHmL Pre-enrollment
• 8578 Intellectual Disability/Related Condition Assessment
• 8582 TxHmL Individual Plan of Care
• 3608 HCS Individual Plan of Care
• HCS Provider Location Update (PLU)
• Individual Movement (IMT)
• Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA) Reassignments
• Request Individual Update
• Service Coordinator Update
• Initiate Individual Suspensions
• 3615 Request to Continue Suspension of Waiver Program Services
• 3616 Request for Termination of Services Provided by HCS/TxHmL Waiver Provider

Account Preparation and Additional Resources
To prepare for this transition to the TMHP LTC Online Portal, HCS and TxHmL providers that have never used the LTC Online Portal will need an administrator or user account. Providers can find directions for creating an account in the Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal Basics computer-based training (CBT) in the TMHP Learning Management System (LMS), and the Long-Term Care (LTC) User Guide for General Information, Online Portal Basics, and Program Resources on the TMHP website and in the TMHP LMS.

Note: To access the LMS, users will need to register for the LMS by clicking the Don’t Have an Account? Sign Up Here button beneath the login field.

HCS and TxHmL providers that use third-party software and third-party vendors to submit claims can register for the TMHP Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). Providers wanting to use EDI will need to complete software testing on the TMHP EDI Testing website.

Additionally, providers are encouraged to visit the TMHP Long-Term Care web page. In the left-hand menu of the LTC web page, providers can find Medicaid and LTC training materials and navigational videos.

Providers can find more information in  the “Recent News” section, of the LTC Bulletin in future articles and on the TMHP website. 

For any questions related to the HCS & TxHmL Forms and Claims Migration Project, email HCS_TxHmL_Form_Migration@hhs.texas.gov.
For EDI-related questions, call the EDI Help Desk at 888-863-3638.

April 15th, 2019

As of April 1, 2019, Long-term care intellectual and developmental disability providers and local IDD authorities can electronically submit and receive documents to and from HHS IDD Program Eligibility and Support and IDD Utilization Review.

Who Can Use the Portal?

If you contract with HHS to provide IDD services in the following programs, you can register and begin using the portal:

• Community First Choice
• Community Living Assistance and Support Services
• Deaf-Blind with Multiple Disabilities
• Home and Community-based Services
• Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
• Texas Home Living

What Are the Benefits?

To learn more, read the IDD Operations Portal Flyer (PDF).

Where Do I Register and Learn How to Use the Portal?

Complete the Initial Account Setup and register your business with the portal at txhhs.force.com. To learn more, read the IDD Operations Portal User Guide (PDF).

HHS will use email alerts, information letters, training webinars and in-person communications via existing stakeholder meetings to provide portal updates.

For technical issues, contact the IDD Operations Portal Team at IDD_Ops_Portal@hhsc.state.tx.us.

January 9th, 2022

Reminder: SB 809 / Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting

The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is posting the list of healthcare institutions, as identified by HHSC, who must submit reports in compliance with Senate Bill 809 or Rider 143. The list also identifies those providers who have not submitted a SB 809/Rider 143 Report. The list can be found on the Provider Finance website under SB 809/Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting Healthcare Institution List. Note: this list is for the reporting periods of January 2020 – August 2021, September 2021, and October 2021, which were all due 5:00 PM CST on December 1, 2021.

If you believe there is an error in the list, please email us with “SB 809/Rider 143 Reporting” in the subject line by 5:00 PM CST on January 5, 2022.

If all required reports by a provider have not been received by 5:00 PM CST on January 5, 2022, HHSC will begin immediate enforcement of disciplinary actions as authorized by Title 1 Texas Administrative Code Section 355.7201 (TAC) related to the penalties for failure to report. The health care institutions that have “not submitted” are deemed non-compliant at this time.

The initial report required from providers includes funding and cost data covering the period January 2020 through August 2021. The subsequent reports will be ongoing and will cover a single month; each monthly report will be due on the 1st of the second following month following the end of the month (for example, the report for November 2021 data will be due January 1, 2022).

December 30th, 2021

GovDelivery Update: SB 809 / Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting

This is a notification that HHSC has identified an error in the list of healthcare institutions that have submitted and have not submitted a SB 809 / Rider 143 report. HHSC has now resolved this matter.

HHSC has published a corrected list on the Provider Finance website under SB 809/Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting Healthcare Institution List.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this list, please email us with “SB 809/Rider 143 Reporting” in the subject line by 5:00 PM CST on January 5, 2022.

December 14th, 2021

Very Important News! The due dates for the SB 809 Monthly COVID-19 Reports have changed.

Previously the reports were due on the 15th of the month following the month which the report covered.  They are now due on the 1st of the second following month.  Example:  The report covering November is now due January 1, 2022 rather than December 15, 2021. See updated message on HHSC’s webpage below.

The initial report located here includes funding and cost data covering the period January 2020 through August 2021 and is due October 1, 2021. The subsequent reports (located here) will be ongoing and will cover a single month; each monthly report will be due on the 1st of the second following month following the end of the month (for example, the report for September 2021 data will be due November 1, 2021.)

November 30th, 2021

November 14th, 2021

PROVIDER REPORT GRACE PERIOD

HHSC is granting a “grace period” to allow providers time to come into compliance if they fail to meet any deadlines between October 1, 2021, and November 30, 2021. While the deadlines to report will not change, HHSC will not take any of the available actions against a provider as long as the provider submits all the required reports due between October 1, 2021, and November 30, 2021. The grace period ends December 1, 2021.

Because vendor hold can be imposed for lack of compliance and non-compliance will impact a provider’s eligibility to receive the state-controlled ARPA funds made available through SB 8 (Nelson, 3rd Special Session). Please share this information!

Information and FAQs Please visit the HHSC Provider Finance Department Communications web page for more information about the report.  Then click on “Monthly SB 809/Rider 143 COVID-19 Reporting.”

Read More….

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 covered the period of January 31, 2020 – August 31, 2021.

Grace Period

HHSC is granting a “grace period” to allow providers time to come into compliance if they fail to meet any deadlines between October 1, 2021, and November 30, 2021. While the deadlines to report will not change, HHSC will take no action against a provider as long as the provider submits all required reports due between October 1, 2021, and November 30, 2021, prior to the end of the grace period. The grace period ends December 1, 2021.

Sept. 18th, 2021

FAQ’s For Compliance With SB809 & Rider 143: Monthly Provider Reporting Requirements Concerning COVID-19 Funding

Introduction:

The 87th Texas Legislature directed the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to report federal COVID-19 funding from specific health care institutions, and certain costs those providers have spent related to COVID-19 public health emergency. HHSC has developed a monthly report to obtain the information required by Rider 143 (.pdf) (2022-23 General Appropriations Act, Senate Bill (S.B.) 1, 87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021 (Article II, HHSC, Rider 143) and S.B. 809 (.pdf) (87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

View the HHSC created list of “frequently asked questions ” (FAQ) (.pdf) with the answers to common questions to assist providers in completing the report.

Reporting: 

The initial report located here includes funding and cost data covering the period January 2020 through August 2021 and is due October 1, 2021. The subsequent reports will be ongoing and will cover a single month; each monthly report will be due on the 15th of the month following the end of the month (for example, the report for October 2021 data will be due November 15, 2021.