Rising To The Challenge!

PPAT Fall Conference

We are sorry to report that the conference has been canceled at this time. 

I believe they plan to reschedule for the Spring of 2022!

We should have more information in the near future about the cancelation, and when there is a confirmation of when the conference will be rescheduled.

If you signed up as a Sponsor, Vendor, or Registered for the Conference please contact PPAT for more information and reimbursements. You may contact the office at 512-452-8188.

October 18th, 2021

• Pages 3-24 contain the committee report in bill language.  To view bill language related to the one-time direct care recruitment and retention payments, see Section 33, pages 22-24.
• Pages 25 – 75 reflect the conference committee decisions.  To view decisions specific to retention and recruitment payments, see Section 15, beginning at the bottom of page 45.  The first column reflects the Senate’s version of SB 8; the middle column the House’s version; the last column the conference committee decisions
• Pages 76-77 provide the bill’s fiscal note.

Based on the many phone calls, emails and contacts through our social media pages concerning Job Positions Desired and Job Openings with HCS providers, I have decided to use our “Updates” page to provide a place where both those persons desiring a position with an HCS Provider and those Posting a Job Position can find each other!

We will not neccesarily be posting the job description or information on this page directly.  If you contact Meghan Jones at meghanjones.tx@gmail.com and let her know where you are posting a position and who to contact, we can put a link and the contact person’s name, # and/or email.  For example, you are posting on Indeed, Linkedin, BenefitMall, Facebook, PACSTX job postings, an online newspaper, etc…

We will also continue to repost openings when we can on our Linkedin page as well as our Facebook and Instagram pages for Twogether Consulting.

There is no charge, we just ask you all to keep referring us to others who don’t know about us for their HCS business needs and of course we hope you will continue to use our services to assist you with your training needs, on-site and off-site assistance. 

Julie Blacklock/ Owner

Current Job Postings (See below)

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.

You will receive a confirmation once your report has been fully completed and submitted.

A pdf version of the report is available here (.pdf) for review prior to submitting the report.

If you are unable to meet the reporting deadline please contact the Provider Finance Department at HHSC_RAD_Survey@hhs.texas.gov for assistance.

Failure to submit:

Failure to complete and/or submit the required monthly report(s) on time will result in:

1. A report to the Department of State Health Services or HHSC Regulatory Services and potential adverse actions on your licensure and/or
2. HHSC may initiate payment holds for providers who fail to submit the required monthly reports.

HHSC is granting a “grace period” to help providers 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 any of the actions listed above against a provider as long as the provider submits all the required reports due between October 1, 2021, and November 31, 2021. The grace period ends December 1, 2021.

List of Some Of The Providers Required to Complete Reports: 

Here are some of the following entities that are required to complete the report:

• Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID);
• Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) or Case Management Agency (CMA) Providers;
• Deaf-Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD) Providers;
• Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) Providers;
• Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Providers;

Please email the HHSC Provider Finance Survey for assistance at HHSC_RAD_Survey@hhs.texas.gov.

September 18, 2021

As required by Senate Bill (SB) 809 and Rider 143 of the 87^th Legislature (regular session)(copied below), HHSC will begin collecting information on the total value and uses of COVID-19 related Federal funds through monthly reports. The first report is due October 1, 2021. Reminder of Publication of Proposed Rules

HHSC published proposed rules related to SB809 and Rider 143 in the Texas Register on August 13, 2021, pages 4928-4931. The comment period ends September 3, 2021.

Rider 143

Reporting Requirement: COVID-19 Funding to Nursing Facilities and Hospitals. Out of funds appropriated above in Strategy B.1.1, Medicaid Contracts and Administration, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) shall develop a report detailing the total value and uses of COVID-19-related Federal Funds, including Provider Relief Funds, provided directly to nursing facilities and hospitals contracting with HHSC since the beginning of the public health emergency. The report should include any temporary rate increases provided to nursing facilities related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Any facilities that do not provide information requested by the commission necessary to complete the report shall be identified in the report. The first submission of the report shall also include a description of any requirements implemented for nursing facilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost to nursing facilities to implement the requirements, and recommendations on whether or not the requirements should be continued after the end of the public health emergency. HHSC shall submit the report to the Governor, Legislative Budget Board, and any appropriate standing committee in the Legislature on December 1st and June 1st of each fiscal year. The format and content of the report shall be specified by the Legislative Budget Board and posted on the HHSC website. Appropriations in Strategy A.2.4, Nursing Facility Payments, for fiscal year 2023 are contingent on the submission of the reports due December 1, 2021 and June 1, 2022.

Please look for forthcoming announcements from HHSC regarding these important reporting requirements. For more information, please contact HHSC Provider Finance.

October 3rd, 2021

HHSC Announces HCS and TxHmL Interpretive Guidance Page

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation created the HCS and TxHmL Interpretive Guidance page. This page connects program providers with relevant tools for rule interpretation. It includes the Interpretative Guidance booklet and Certification Principle training.

October 3rd, 2021

Twogether Consulting highly recommends you read through the HCS/TxHmL Interpretive Guidance Booklet and keep this PDF downloaded on your desktop for reference in preparation for survey and for addressing Plans of Corrections after your survey.  This guidance is meant to give you information on what surveyors expect to see when coming to your facility as well as examples of critical vs. non-critical scenarios to help you identify the type of Administrative (monetary) penalties you may incur due to violations (previously citations) made concerning the HCS/TxHmL TAC rules and regs. It is extremely helpful (especially concerning nursing requirements and expectations).

October 3rd, 2021

COVID-19 Update to Temporary Change for Service Providers of Respite and CFC PAS/HAB

HHSC has lifted the ban on service providers of respite and CFC PAS/HAB from living in the same home as the person receiving Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living program services. This gives access to needed services for people living in their own or family’s home. A person’s spouse or a minor child’s parent still cannot be a paid service provider of these services due to guidelines found 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 Oct. 31, 2021 unless the public health emergency ends sooner. HHSC will update if there are any 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,§9.177 (n) and (o), and §9.579 (r) and (s)
• HCS and TxHmL Billing Guidelines Section 3400 for service provider qualifications

Email the HCS program policy or the TxHmL program policy with questions.

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.

HCS and TxHmL Annual Vendor Submission Timeframe

The timeframe to submit for annual vendor approval is Nov.1, 2021 through Jan. 31, 2022. Required documentation for annual vendor requests are in the HCS and TxHmL Billing Guidelines, Section 6160(b)(2), Approval of Annual Vendor. Email packet submissions to Billing and Payment with the subject line: Annual Vendor Approval. Submissions sent to any other email addresses may not be received.

If you are unable to meet the deadline to submit, please request an extension by emailing Kaliope Schmidt, the Billing and Payment manager. Email Billing and Payment or call at 512-438-5359  with your questions.

September 30th, 2021

CAP Update: Administrative Penalties for ICFs (PL 21-34)

HHSC published Provider Letter 21-34 Amended Statutory Cap Regarding Administrative Penalties for Intermediate Care Facilities. PL 21-34 notifies providers of changes to how HHSC determines and imposes administrative penalties based on changes made by House Bill 3720 (87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021).

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.

September 21st,2021

HCS COVID-19 Mitigation & Expansion of Visitation Rules: 

Revision Response Plan

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

Update:   April 17th, 2021

HHSC Publishes HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rules

Original Published:  March 25th, 2021

3.0 HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rule

To read more, please click on the link below: 

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

For Previously Recorded Webinars & FAQ’s

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

September 21st, 2021

Updated HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 FAQ 

HHSC has revised the Updated HCS and TxHmL COVID-19 FAQ (PDF)

August 15th, 2021

 HCS and TxHmL Webinar Recording Available

” WSC Transition into HHSC LTCR”

(From August 10th, 2021)

Long-term Care Regulation hosted a webinar for HCS and TxHmL program providers to discuss upcoming 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

September 21st, 2021

Updated CDC Guidance for LTC Facilities on Accessing COVID-19 Vaccine – Sept. 2021

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recently updated resources for long-term care facilities on how to help residents and staff access COVID-19 vaccines:

• Vaccine Access in Long-term Care Settings
• Care Administrators and Managers: Options for Coordinating Access to COVID-19 Vaccines
• Jurisdictions Can Ensure COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Staff and Residents in Long-term Care Settings

September 21st, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine Status Not a Requirement for Services

In accordance with Governor Abbott’s Executive Order No. GA-39, providers must not require clients to provide documentation of their COVID-19 vaccine status as a condition to receive any Texas Medicaid service.

September 15th, 2021

Update: Getting COVID-19 Vaccines-ICF/IID

Nursing, assisted living, and intermediate care facility staff and residents who want to receive the first, second or third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine may use the options below.

Contact the HHSC LTCR Regional Director in the region where the facility is located. Request a mobile vaccination clinic at your facility. The mobile vaccination clinic can administer first, second, or third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to residents and staff. Facilities may need to make alternate arrangements for staff and residents to receive any more doses after the vaccination clinic.

Enroll as a DSHS COVID-19 Vaccine Provider. Once registration is complete, vaccine providers can request vaccines. Email COVID-19 Vaccination Enrollment or call the DSHS COVID-19 Vaccine Provider hotline at 877-835-7750 with questions. Read the DSHS Vaccine FAQs for more information.

Contact the pharmacy or vaccine supplier. Coordinate directly with your COVID-19 vaccine supplier to schedule vaccine administration for those who want the vaccine.

Use the following to locate vaccines:

• COVID-19 local health entities or DSHS region
• DSHS COVID-19 Vaccine Home page

CMS Adds COVID-19 Vaccination to ICF Rules (QSO-21-21-ICFIID)

August 27th, 2021

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued Quality Safety & Oversight Memo QSO-21-21-ICFIID (PDF). The memo announces the addition of COVID-19 vaccine immunization-related requirements. This includes:

• New requirements for educating a person or their representatives as well as staff on the benefits and potential side effects with the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Offering the vaccine.

From DSHS website July 19th, 2021

How to Become a COVID‑19 Vaccinator

. Any facility, organization, or healthcare provider licensed to possess or administer vaccines or provide vaccination services is eligible to enroll through DSHS.

The first step to becoming a COVID‑19 vaccine provider is registering through EnrollTexasIZ.dshs.texas.gov.

Only providers registered through this site can receive and administer COVID‑19 vaccine in Texas.

For questions about registration, please call the DSHS COVID‑19 Vaccine Provider hotline at (877) 835-7750, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or email COVID19VacEnroll@dshs.texas.gov.

Watch a joint video message from TMA President Dr. Fite and DSHS Commissioner Dr. Hellerstedt on COVID‑19 vaccine provider enrollment.

Registration Process 

Each facility or location, including those that are part of a hospital system or clinic network, must register at EnrollTexasIZ.dshs.texas.gov, complete the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID‑19 Vaccination Program Provider Agreement and list the healthcare providers at that location that would be responsible for vaccination.

It is recommended to use the Google Chrome internet browser to complete the COVID‑19 Provider Agreement.

For example, each hospital in a hospital system must complete a registration separately and list vaccine providers there.

More information on the CDC requirements is below.

• COVID‑19 Vaccine Provider Frequently Asked Questions
• Patient Population Adjustment Form
• Texas DSHS Immunization Portal Registration Guide
• Tips and Tricks for Enrolling for COVID‑19 Vaccine Program
• Best Practices for Data Loggers
• COVID‑19 Vaccine Management Resources

After Registration

After completing enrollment, you will receive an email confirming your registration. Once approved, you will receive another email confirming your status as a COVID‑19 vaccine provider.

August 15th, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccination Data Reporting Rule:  ICF

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published a revised version of the COVID-19 Vaccination Data Reporting Rule (PDF). The rule now includes Emergency Communication System Enrollment for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions.

The rule requires facilities to report COVID-19 vaccination data within 24 hours and enroll in an emergency communication system. HHSC will inform facilities when they can begin enrollment.

The rule became effective Aug. 11.

February 23rd, 2021

IDD Vaccine Plan Approved (HCS/TxHmL/ICF)

February 12th, 2021

HCS/TxHmL:  

Today DSHS reported it has finalized its presentation of the Tarrytown Expocare vaccine plan that the three IDD associations, Tarrytown and DSHS have been working on for many weeks.  DSHS says the plan will be presented to DSHS Vaccine Leadership and the Commissioner today and also the Expert Vaccine Allocation Panel (EVAP) at its next meeting Monday morning.  They expect to present this plan to the Governor’s Office Monday evening at which point DSHS feels it will have a final answer as to whether the plan is approved. Currently, we are not sure when it will be approved.

**This plan was developed using data the three IDD associations obtained from their respective members which include number of vaccines needed in both ICF/IID and HCS/TxHmL programs.  Thank you for all the work our IDD associations do for providers and individuals in the program!)

• HHSC has not made a decision whether this same reporting requirements ICF requires, will be established for the HCS/TxHmL program.

February 12th, 2021                                                                 

ICF/IID:

HHSC will soon release emergency rules and a Provider Letter related to the process it will use to identify which facilities (staff and residents) have already received the vaccine.

A stand-alone webinar on the requirement will also be held.  Here is the link to draft Provider Letter and draft emergency rules 

(So remember to update your policies and procedures for COVID-19 /infection control policies and procedures!!!)

ICF/IID providers will be required to complete a survey indicating how many residents and staff have received the vaccine (1st, 2nd, or both doses).  The survey will be open for at least the duration of the emergency rule, requiring providers to add any new information about the status of the vaccines given  This will allow providers to report 2nd doses given if such was not reflected in a provider’s first data entry (that is provided the individual received a 2-dose vaccine.  Some vaccines will only have 1 dose- i.e. Astrozenica), or to report receipt of newly first-doses given.

After this three week period, HHSC will reconcile the data to identify where gaps exist. This process will include contacting providers as needed to confirm the information reported through the survey.  HHSC anticipates the reconciliation process taking 2 or 3 days.

The data will then be sent to DSHS to be used to link providers still in need of the vaccine (whether 1st or 2nd dose) for the individuals they serve and their staff.  This process will take about 2 weeks.  The full process should take 5 weeks total, assuming HHSC completes its reconciliation process in a timely manner and DSHS is able to link providers to a vaccine entity in a speedy and efficient manner.

• Providers will not be cited on the rule, but it is possible to receive a citation from a desk audit (HHSC did not elaborate on this).
• The survey does not capture (and is not intended to capture) data on individuals who have opted not to receive the vaccine.
• Recognizing that not all providers are aware of or are tracking the vaccination status of their staff, providers only need only to report the number of staff of which they are aware have received the vaccine.

.

September 21st,2021

COVID-19 Response Plan Revised

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

March 29th, 2021

Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion for HCS (Replaces PLs 2020-22 and 2020-40)

The HCS/TxHmL provider letter 21-09 below spells out guidance to HCS/TxHmL providers that was adopted in COVID-19 Emergency Rules and Expansion of Visitation Emergency Rules.

PL 2021-09

March 25th, 2021

HHSC Adopts New HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rule!!!

HHSC has adopted new Home and Community-based Services (HCS) Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rule that establish criteria for expanded indoor and outdoor visitation as well as essential caregiver visits. These rules are effective March 23, 2021.

Read the HCS COVID-19 Response Emergency Rules and Expansion of Reopening Visitation Emergency Rule (PDF).

Updated TxHmL Provider Response to COVID-19 – Mitigation Emergency Rules!!!

HHSC has issued updated COVID-19 emergency rules. The rules, in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, require actions by Texas Home Living (TxHmL) providers. The new screening criteria reflects current CDC recommendations and the definition of “providers of essential service” was expanded. These rules are effective March. 23, 2021.

Read the TxHmL COVID-19 Response Emergency Rules (PDF).

March 16th, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine

Phase 1C

April 29th, 2021 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session

Thank you for your interest in listening to the April 29 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.

March 11, 2021 MCS COVID-19 Stakeholder Information Session

Thank you for your interest in listening to the March 11 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.

February 22nd, 2021

COVID-19 FAQ’s From HHSC for HCS/TxHML

https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/provider-portal/long-term-care/hcs-txhml-general-covid-faq.pdf

January 24th, 2021

COVID-19 Emergency Rules for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Extended!

Emergency rules related to COVID-19 mitigation and response for HCS/TxHmL providers that were scheduled to expire on January 22, 2021, have been extended. The extension took effect on January 22 and will expire on March 22, 2021.

The following rules are extended:

• Home and Community-based Services rule 40 TAC §9.198 and 9.199 (PDF)
• Texas Home Living rule 40 TAC §9.597 (PDF)

Email PolicyRulesTraining@hhsc.state.tx.us or call 512-483-3161 for questions about these rules.

January 10th, 2021

Federal Pharmacy Partnership Program:

Contact Information for COVID-19 Vaccines

Long-term care providers with questions about CVS or Walgreens COVID-19 vaccinations administered through the Federal Pharmacy Partnership program should contact the following:

CVS:
833-968-1756
Email COVID Vaccine Clinics LTCV.

Walgreens:
Email Immunize ILTC.

January 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

December 22, 2020

DSHS Issues Guidance About Moderna Vaccination Readiness for Vaccine Administrators

A recording of the DSHS Vaccination Readiness for the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine webinar held on Dec. 20 and Dec. 21, 2020 is available for vaccinators who could not attend.

Register for and view the Dec. 21 webinar recording here.
View the Dec. 21 webinar slide presentation (PDF)

Register for and view the Dec. 20 webinar recording here.
View the Dec. 20 webinar slide presentation (PDF)

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

December 2, 2020

HHSC Publishes Revised Guidance for Requesting Free COVID-19 Point of Care Antigen Test Kits (PL 20-49)

HHSC has published a revised version of PL 20-49, Process to Request Free COVID-19 Point of Care Antigen Test Kits (PDF), for NF, ALF, ICF/IID, HCS and HCSSA providers. The letter has been revised to update the link for the BinaxNOW training for staff who will be administering COVID-19 tests using the BinaxNOW Ag card.

Survey – DSHS Bamlanivimab Allocations in Texas Long-term Care Facilities

The Texas Department of State Health Services wants to ensure that all nursing facilities and other long-term care facilities have the chance to be included in future allocations of the novel monoclonal antibody bamlanivimab and possibly other novel therapeutics.

This month, the U.S. Health and Human Services announced its plan to ship bamlanivimab — the Eli Lilly monoclonal antibody treatment issued emergency use authorization by the FDA Monday, November 9 — to states as provided by the federal government. The federal government initially directed that the product be distributed only to hospitals or hospital-affiliated facilities; however, U.S. HHS is planning to change their initial policy and allow product to be distributed to other types of facilities as early as this week. These facilities may include nursing facilities and infusion centers, among others.

Because bamlanivimab is authorized for use in outpatients, DSHS would like to have a better understanding of outpatient settings that would be willing to act as a provider of this novel therapeutic. A survey of healthcare facilities is provided at the end of this alert that will allow facilities to report their interest in becoming a provider of this scarce resource.

Bamlanivimab is still a scarce resource with an extremely limited supply coming to Texas, and those supplies are being directed to regions with the greatest burden of COVID-19. Because of this, many healthcare facilities will not receive an allocation of bamlanivimab. However, nursing facilities and other long-term care facilities could be important partners in maximizing the potential of this therapeutic and DSHS would like to know which facilities would be willing to provide it to their residents.

DSHS would like to ensure that there are providers across the state that are able to provide this therapeutic to higher risk individuals.

Some of the information for which you will be asked in the survey includes your facility’s point of contact, address, phone number, email address, and pharmacy license number. Please read the bamlanivimab EUA and healthcare provider fact sheet prior to completing the survey to ensure that your facility and patient population will meet product use requirements.

If your facility has interest in becoming a provider of bamlanivimab, please respond to this survey.

DSHS and HHSC Long-term Care Regulation appreciate everything that you and your facility is doing to keep Texans healthy and safe. Thank you for your consideration of becoming a provider of this novel therapeutic.

December 2, 2020

Reminder: Requirements and Protocol for COVID-19 Emergency Staffing Requests

HHSC LTCR offers emergency staff for facilities facing severe critical shortages. Emergency staffing is only approved for facilities that can’t provide necessary care to residents due to staffing shortages. Emergency staffing is temporary while facilities get alternative staffing resources.

Facilities must have staffing contingency plans in place to address potential staffing shortages due to COVID-19. (42 CFR §483.73(b)(6)).

Facilities are required to have separate staff assigned to each COVID-19 cohort and not share staff between cohorts unless necessary to maintain adequate staffing (40 TAC §19.2802(i)).

Facilities may only request emergency staffing from HHSC if all the following contingency strategies have been exhausted.

• Share staff between unknown COVID-19 status and positive COVID-19 cohorts (see CDC guidance).
• Contact staffing agencies, nearby health care facilities, partners, or local colleges or health care centers to identify supplemental staff. (40 TAC §19.2802(j))
• Identify alternate facilities with adequate staffing to care for residents with COVID-19.
• Note: Nursing facilities must contact their LTCR Regional Director and local health department before using staff who are asymptomatic and have, or may have, COVID-19. This is generally only allowed in emergencies. Implement or attempt all other staffing contingency strategies listed above before this step.

If a facility has implemented or attempted each item listed above and still does not have adequate staff to meet critical staffing levels, the facility must contact the Regional Director for their LTCR Region to request emergency staffing.

If approved for emergency staffing, facilities must submit a transition plan for addressing shortages that includes the following.

• Forecasted timeline for when COVID-19 positive staff will return to work, using the CDC’s Return to Work criteria, and when emergency staff can be released.
• Acquiring temporary staff or recruiting new hires.
• All other strategies for ensuring critical staffing shortages are fulfilled as soon as possible.

December 2, 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

November 22, 2020

COVID-19 Guidance for Activities, Dining, and Volunteers for the Holidays (PL 20-53)

HHSC publishes Provider Letter 20-53 Guidance for Activities, Dining, and Volunteers (PDF). The letter outlines provider responsibilities for resident activities, including communal dining and holiday-related activities.

The letter also gives specific stipulations on the use of volunteers and guidance on the protocol for residents who leave a facility.

This guidance can be used as a general reference through the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

HHSC Issues Guidance to HCS/TxHmL Providers on Covid-19!!!!

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has updated the COVID-19 Response Plan for HCS residential providers (PDF). The document provides guidance on response actions in the event of a COVID-19 exposure.

Provider Letter 20-12, HHSC Guidance to HCBS and TxHmL Program Providers on Covid-19, is now available. HHSC encourages program providers to review this guidance. Remember, no non-essential visitors, see definition in the letter and providers must refrain from sending individuals to Day Habilitation and Community Events!  See link below.

https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/communications-events/news/2020/03/hhsc-issues-guidance-hcs-txhml-providers-covid-19

July 28th, 2020      COVID-19 Update For Group Homes- HCS/ICF

Reminder to LTC Facilities about Death Reporting Requirements

July 22, 2020

The following are HHSC’s requirements for care facilities to report resident/individuals’deaths to HHSC, including deaths from COVID-19.

• Intermediate care facilities must report all deaths to Complaint and Incident Intake within one hour. See:
  • PL 17-02 (licensed facilities)
  • PL 17-03 (non-licensed facilities).
• Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Program Providers must report all deaths of people receiving HCS or TxHmL services to HHSC by the end of the next business day following the death or the program provider’s learning of the death. See IL 12-28.

***Note: If the death may have been from abuse, neglect or exploitation, more reporting requirements may exist.

COVID-19 HCS Interest List Reduction and Promoting Independence Slot Releases 

Information letter (IL) 2020-27 was released to provide updated information on Home and Community-based Services and Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities. It replaces IL 20-15, COVID-19 HCS Interest List Reduction Slots, previously issued on April 9 and revised on April 23, 2020.

HHSC is resuming the release of HCS Interest List Reduction Slots starting June 1, 2020. HHSC is continuing releases of HCS Promoting Independence Slots. LIDDAs will request the following HCS Promoting Independence Slots:

• Crisis diversion
• Nursing facility diversion
• Young adults aging out of foster care
• Nursing facility transition
• Nursing facility transition for children
• SSLC transition

The weekly webinars for Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information have been canceled and instead, HHSC will be providing a post to a  pre-recorded session online for viewing at your convenience to reduce the potential for technical difficulties. These information sessions will continue to share information about the actions taken to implement various Medicaid/CHIP flexibilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. HHSC will continue to work on additional flexibilities across the programs and will update stakeholders each week on new implementations and issued guidance. Links to each week’s information session will be posted on the HHS COVID-19 Medicaid & CHIP webpage (https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/medicaid-chip-services-information-providers) by 1:00 p.m. CT on April 16, and each Thursday going forward.

LTC Providers Required to Report COVID-19 to HHSC

Effective immediately, a provider must report every confirmed case (only confirmed cases) of COVID-19 in staff and individuals receiving services from the provider as a self-reported incident. A presumptive or confirmed case is considered a critical incident.

Providers (other than HCS and TxHmL providers) must notify HHSC through TULIP or by calling Complaint and Incident Intake (CII) at         1-800-458-9858.

HCS and TxHmL providers must notify HHSC at waiversurvey.certification@hhsc.state.tx.us

FAQ’s For Covid-19

04/02/20

From Stakeholder’s Meetings March 16th-31st  (Draft)

Contact Information For Other Questions:

• 512-438.5359
  schmidt@hhsc.tx.us.state
• 
  Policy Specialist for HCS/TxHmL
• hcspolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us

New Guidance for LTCR Providers on Coronavirus

LTCR urges all providers to review the Centers for Disease Control’s new guidance on strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in long-term care facilities. To ensure you have the most current information on COVID-19, visit the CDC and DSHS websites. For questions or guidance, call one of the DSHS hotlines:

• 888-963-7111
• 877-570-9779

All providers must continue to follow all laws, regulations, guidance and their own internal policies and procedures related to infection control.

From The CDC website:

HHSC and Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant

Bringing webinar series to health care professionals.

It discusses the work of Dr. Montessori and the Montessori Method when working with older adults with dementia. Dr. Cameron Camp provides this series.

The series will also focus on understanding the application of Montessori principles to improving staff engagement. Discussions includes specific principles and techniques.

Montessori Inspired Lifestyle: Montessori Based Dementia Programming
Sept. 28, 2021
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. CST
Register for the Montessori Based Dementia Programming webinar.

Applying Montessori Principles for Home Care Workers
Oct. 5, 2021
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. CST
Register for the Applying Montessori Principles for Home Care Workers webinar.

Applying Montessori Principles for Leadership and Staff Engagement
Oct. 26, 2021
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. CST
Register for the Applying Montessori Principles for Leadership and Staff Engagement webinar.

Applying Montessori Principles for Families and Loved Ones of Persons with Dementia
Oct. 28, 2021
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. CST
Register for the Applying Montessori Principles for Families and Loved Ones of Persons with Dementia webinar.

This course is for everyone. The focus is on direct care professionals, certified nursing assistants, attendants, social workers, nurses, administrators and activity professionals, recreation therapists, rehabilitation staff and other health care professionals.

HHSC and CHIP Services plans to offer 1.5 continuing education credits to:

• Licensed social workers, marriage and family therapists, psychology professionals and professional counselors
• Certified nurse aides
• Long-term care ombudsmen guardianship
• Assisted living facility managers
• Occupational therapists and assistants
• Qualified intellectual and developmental disability professionals
• Day activity and health services managers and home health and hospice managers

Nurses can receive CEs. CEUS provided by CEU Network have an added fee paid to CEU Network. The information will be provided in class. Other credentialing bodies are still pending.

CMDCP Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional Certification:

Participants can apply for the Montessori certification, CMDCP Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional with ICCDP, after attending one of the above seminars. The discounted price for the CMDCP application is $35 versus $135. Applications must be completed online within 30 days of completing the seminar. Visit www.iccdp.net or contact the International Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners at iccdpcorporate@iccdp.net for information about CMDCP Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional certification. Obtain the handout as part of the webinar. It explains the steps to apply online and receive the discount.

Visit cen4ard.com for information about the courses.

HHSC Publishes Guidance for Ending of the Temporary Suspension of Certain LTCR Requirements During COVID-19 Outbreak (PL 2021-29)

Updated September 15th, 2021  (Originally posted on August 15th, 2021)

HHSC has published Provider Letter 2021-29 (replaces PL 2020-21 and 2020-26) – End of Temporary Suspension of Certain LTCR Requirements During COVID-19 Outbreak (PDF).

The letter describes the rule suspensions that ended, the rule suspensions that are still in place, and the rule suspensions that will be ended in the future.

See below specifics for HCS & ICF Only  (link above takes you to guidance for all LTC types of providers)

Suspension of Therapeutic Leave ends August 4th, 2021

• ICF/IID:
• Therapeutic Leave. (Rule: 26 TAC §261.226(a)-(f)); Statute: HSC §252.203(2))

The suspension of license application and renewal timeline requirements ends on October 3, 2021.

ICF/IID:
• Rules: 26 TAC §551.15(a), (d), and (e) and §551.21(a), (c), and (e)

The following rules will no longer be suspended effective November 2, 2021:-Fire Marshall Approval Documentation

ICF/IID: 26 TAC §551.12(a)

Suspensions Still in Place

• HCS:
• Updated September 15th– HHSC will now allow an HCS four-person residence to add an additional 2 individuals temporarily if the residence has the space to accommodate and has been approved as a four-person residence by HHSC. (Rule: 40 TAC §9.153(39)(B))

•The program provider must notify HCS Survey Operations of the additional individual(s) by emailing the following information to WaiverSurvey.Certification@hhsc.state.tx.us.

•Provider Name and Contract Number

•Name and CARE ID of the individual moving

•Location code and address of permanent residence•Location code and address of temporary residence

Other Suspensions for HCS In place.

• Suspension of the requirement for HCS providers to ensure at least one complete staff shift change per day for individuals receiving residential support. (Rule: §9.174(a)(38)(C))

• Suspension of the requirement for day habilitation to be provided in accordance with the individual’s person-directed plan, individual plan of care, implementation plan, and Appendix C of the HCS Program waiver application. (Rule: §9.174(a)(28))

Contact Information
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.

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

COVID-19 Resources

September 15th, 2021

Oct. 4 ICF COVID-19 Webinar with HHSC LTCR

Long-term Care Regulation and the Department of State Health Services provide the latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic and take live questions from participants in this ICF provider webinar. Provider attendance is critical to staying current with COVID-19 requirements and guidance. ICF/IID providers are strongly encouraged to attend this and all COVID-19 webinars with LTCR and DSHS.

Those using Internet 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.

HHSC & DSHS Publish LTC COVID-19 Vaccination Options

The Health and Human Services Commission and the Department of State Health Services have published Long-term Care COVID-19 Vaccination Options (PDF).

The resource document provides COVID-19 vaccination options to:

• Nursing Facilities
• Assisted-Living Facilities
• State Supported Living Centers
• Community-based intermediate care facilities for individuals with an intellectual disability or related condition regardless of size
• Small group home residence settings (three and four-person residences) that are owned and operated by certified Home and Community-based Services Medicaid Waiver Program providers.

Federal Pharmacy Partnership Program:

Contact Information for COVID-19 Vaccines

Long-term care providers with questions about CVS or Walgreens COVID-19 vaccinations administered through the Federal Pharmacy Partnership program should contact the following:

CVS:
833-968-1756
Email COVID Vaccine Clinics LTCV.

Walgreens:
Email Immunize ILTC.

COVID 19 CMS/CHIPS meeting notices and information will continue to be shared on these sites listed in links below, so please check back regularly. 

These webinar meetings are held every Thursday

COVID-19 Provider Information

COVID-19 Client Information

Thank you for your interest in listening to the January 21 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information Session.

The audio from this session can be found here.

• Email us for a transcript

The presentation can be found here.

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

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

September 13th, 2021

The Delta variant is the most common variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, spreading in the United States. The Delta variant spreads more easily than prior variants. The COVID-19 vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection and severe disease among long-term care residents and staff.

The CDC recommends urgent action:

• Get vaccinated as soon as possible. Residents, LTC facility staff, and visitors should be fully vaccinated to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• Wear a mask regardless of vaccination status:
  • LTC facility staff should continue to wear a facemask or personal protective equipment when around residents or in the facility.
  • LTC facility staff should wear full PPE such as gloves, gown, N95 respirator and eye protection when working with residents who are COVID-19 positive or of unknown COVID-19 status.
  • Fully vaccinated visitors should use a mask when in the public areas of the facility such as hallways and common areas for source control. It is also safest to use a mask when visiting privately with residents. Visitors who are not fully vaccinated should always use a mask.
  • Encourage residents to wear a mask when outside of their room, especially when unvaccinated or when in counties with high rates of COVID-19.
  • Stay home if you feel ill. Do not go to work or visit an LTC facility if you have symptoms of COVID-19.
• Get tested. Anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 or known exposure, regardless of vaccination status, should receive a viral test immediately.

Get answers to your vaccine questions at CDC’s Vaccinate with Confidence.

Very Important Updates on Emergency & Disaster Preparedness During the Pandemic

Resources Listed Are From CMS & HHSC 

See Info For ICF Facilities Below

Life Safety:  Updated Guidance for Emergency Preparedness-Appendix Z of the State Operations Manual (SOM)

Emergency Preparedness Participant Workbook

 Interim Guidance for Hurricane Evacuation Transport to General Population Shelters during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Interim Guidance for General Population Disaster Shelters During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Screening Tool For COVID-19 During Pandemic For Arrival At General Population Shelters

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.

*In addition don’t forget the primary study material is the:  HCS Handbook, the HCS TAC, and for TxHmL TAC for those also taking the TxHmL test.

Topics:      

Description of HCS & TxHmL Waivers and Basic Terminology Needed

Tips for Preparing For The HCS Provider Certification Test.  

Important Sections of the HCS & TxHmL Handbook,

Frequently Asked Questions found on the HHSC HCS/TxHmL home pages.  

Frequently Cited TAC Codes  (HCS & TxHmL)

How to Access  Important Information on the HHSC Website: Joint Training Opportunities, HCS/TxHmL Waiver Training, Resources, Contact Information, etc.. 

Information on Person-Centered Training Opportunities and The Importance of This Training

What Happens After I Pass My Test?

HCS Practice Test during the session, so that you may become comfortable with the type of questions that may be asked during the PAT testing session

HCS Provider Applicant- Provider Applicant Training (PAT) and Test

Start studying now, if you haven’t already!!

Remember to get prepared and please study. You may have been waiting a long time to test, but I know that applicants sometimes don’t study as much as they need to, to take the test.  If you have come this far, you do not want to fail the test and have to start all over again!  Please contact us if you need help in preparing for the test.  We do provide services such as study prep sessions, practice tests, etc… 

Be sure to study the HCS Handbook and the Texas Administrative Codes for HCS (& TxHmL if you applied for this certification as well).     See links below:

Go to this site.  These sections are the HCS Handbook and are a “non-legalize” explanation of the HCS Texas Administrative Code.  They also tell you who is responsible for what. LIDDA Vs. Provider.   But your specific questions for the test will most likely be coming from the HCS TAC code.  This is just a better explanation to make you understand those rules.

https://hhs.texas.gov/laws-regulations/handbooks/home-community-based-services-handbook

New Revised TAC (Texas Administrative Code) for HCS

(Home & Community Based Services) was put into effect in October 2019.

 Title 40 Part 1 Chapter 9 Subchapter D

https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=5&ti=40&pt=1&ch=9&sch=D&rl=Y

Section 9.151 through 9.192.

New Revised TAC (Texas Administrative Code) for TxHmL

(Texas Home Living Waiver was put into effect in October 2019.

https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=5&ti=40&pt=1&ch=9&sch=N&rl=Y

 Title 40 Part 1 Chapter 9 Subchapter N 

Section 9.551 through 9.587

September 5th, 2021

HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-39)

The Texas HHSC is temporarily waiving certain requirements in Section 3710, 4381.3, 4381.7(6) and 4381.7(7) of the Home and Community-based Services Billing Guidelines and the Texas Home Living Billing Guidelines.

This is in response to COVID-19 and to provide access to needed day habilitation services.

HHSC has published a revision to this guidance, IL 2021-39 In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (PDF), replacing IL 2021-33.

It extends the temporary guidance through September 30, 2021.

Email questions to HCSPolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us

May 3rd, 2021

HHSC Publishes In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (IL 2021-20)

The Texas HHSC is temporarily waiving certain requirements in Section 3710, 4381.3, 4381.7(6) and 4381.7(7) of the Home and Community-based Services Billing Guidelines and the Texas Home Living Billing Guidelines.

This is in response to COVID-19 and to provide access to needed day habilitation services.

HHSC has published a revision to this guidance IL 2021-20 In-Home Day Habilitation Information for Program Providers for COVID-19 (PDF) which replaces IL 2021-16. It extends the temporary guidance through
May 31, 2021.

Email questions to HCS Policy.

April 17th, 2021

Revisions to Guidance For Day Habilitation Providers Coming!

HHSC and DSHS are working on revisions to the DSHS Guidance for DHs.  Once revisions are finalized HHSC will notify providers.

March 25th, 2021

Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion-

Day Habilitation Off-Site

2.1.8 Day Habilitation and Outside Employment
Individuals receiving HCS or TxHmL services can choose to attend off-site day habilitation that is in compliance with DSHS Checklist for Day Habilitation Sites or outside employment with documented informed decision-making.
• The program provider’s infection control policy must include provisions specific to those attending off-site day habilitation, employment, or any other community activity to ensure the health and safety of individuals.
• The program provider must screen individuals for fever and other signs and symptoms of COVID-19 upon their return to the residence.
• If program provider staff does not provide transportation, the program provider should arrange for pick-up and drop-off to occur outside the residence when possible. If transportation staff must enter the residence to prepare individuals for transportation, they must be screened and wearing a face mask.
• Program providers must provide oversight of day habilitation settings to ensure compliance with their contract. They must request documentation (e.g., policies, plans, procedures) from the day habilitation site that demonstrates how it plans to comply with DSHS guidance. For outside employment, the program provider must request from the employer information on how the employer is responding to COVID-19 to protect its employees.
PL 21-09 March 25, 2021 Page 5 of 20

• The program provider must ensure individuals are supplied with masks or cloth face coverings and encourage their appropriate use, unless contraindicated. The provider cannot charge individuals for facemasks or face coverings.
Providers are responsible for ensuring the health and safety of the individuals in their care. In the context of deciding whether to attend outside day habilitation sites, the program provider fulfills this responsibility by participating in the informed decision-making process, which includes:
• Providing a full list of available options and alternatives, including in-home day habilitation, if available;
• Assessing the risks of attending day habilitation;
• Providing training on PPE, hygiene, and physical distancing;
• Except for individuals in host-home and own home/family home settings, ensuring that individuals have access to PPE.
For individuals in a host home and own home/family home settings, the program provider must encourage individuals to wear a facemask or face covering over the nose and mouth and use any other required PPE necessary to safely attend the day habilitation site.
The program provider must only contract with a day habilitation site that agrees to comply with DSHS guidance. As part of its contractual oversight of the day habilitation site, the HCS or TxHmL program provider should set up a system to monitor compliance with DSHS guidance.
In addition, the program provider must include in its contract a requirement for the day habilitation site to inform individuals, program providers, staff, and family when it is aware of probable or confirmed cases of COVID-19 among staff or the individuals it serves. However, a day habilitation site must not release personally-identifying information regarding confirmed or probable cases.

September 5th, 2021

Now Called Billing Requirements Not Billing Guidelines!!!!

HHSC Publishes Revision 21-3 of the HCS and TxHmL Program Billing Requirements and CFC Billing Requirements

HHSC Publishes Revision 21-3 of the HCS and TxHmL Program Billing Requirements and CFC Billing Requirements

This revision, effective Sept. 1, changes the name from Billing Guidelines to Billing Requirements, and all revisions are outlined in the 21-3 Revision Section of each document.

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

• HCS Billing Requirements (PDF)
• TxHmL Billing Requirements (PDF)
• CFC Billing Requirements for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers (PDF)

Email questions to TxHmL Policy.

September 5th, 2021

Very Important!!!  HHSC Releases Guidance Booklet for HCS/TxHmL Providers

Section 4 of House Bill 3720, 87th Legislature, Regular Session, 2021, requires HHSC to develop guidelines for regulatory staff and providers regarding the imposition of administrative penalties. To implement this provision, HHSC is offering training to regulatory staff and providers regarding the certification principles and the administrative penalty criteria and process. In conjunction with these training opportunities, HHSC has developed a comprehensive guidance booklet (PDF) that captures the training content in a user-friendly format. This booklet is available to training participants and on the HCS and TxHmL provider portals.  See the registration link below for training webinar presented on September 9th, 2021.

Register for HCS/TxHmL training here.

September 5th, 2021

HHSC Publishes Revised Informal Dispute Resolution (PL 2021-07)

HHSC published a revised version of Provider Letter 2021-07, Informal Dispute Resolution (PDF). A revision was made to update the contact phone number.

August 15th, 2021

HHSC Publishes Revised Guidance for HCS/TxHmL Providers Regarding:             How to File a Survey Complaint (PL 20-21)

HHSC has updated PL 2020-01, How to File a Complaint Regarding a Surveyor and Report Survey Inconsistencies (PDF).

The letter has been revised to include information for how HCS and TxHmL program providers can file a complaint regarding a surveyor, how to report survey inconsistencies related to the interpretation and application of regulations and rules, and to provide updated contact information for Long-term Care Regulatory HCS and TxHmL regional program staff.

April 26th, 2021

            HHSC’s WS&C Portal

Additional changes are coming to address Surveys and violations received from surveyors.  These include contacting WSC staff concerning violations and submitting EOC’s and POC’s to WSC through the WSC Portal!

On April 27th and 29th 2021:  HHSC hosted a webinar on WSC Portal Training for HCS/TxHmL providers.

• A recorded session of The WSC portal training
  • https://register.gotowebinar.com/recording/recordingView?webinarKey=3385319749029434640&registrantEmail=javasbja%40gmail.com

Here are the handouts:

• Basics of portal
  • Provider letter 2021-13
    • PL-2021-13
  • WSC Portal Training Handout
    • WSC Portal Training Handout with links

This portal will only be used to enter final PIR Reports, Submit EOC’s (Evidence of Correction), Submit POC’s (Plans of Correction) as well as communicate with WSC staff about POC’s/EOC’s, and Report a Death of an Individual in the program.

• Where do I find the page to create the portal?
  • Bookmark this link below, because that is where it will be and it will go live closer to the release of the portal.
  • https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/long-term-care-providers/resources/waiver-survey-certification-wsc-provider-portal

March 29th, 2021

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 28th, 2021

March 16 Recording of Clarification of Administrative Penalties and Related Processes Webinar Available

A recording of the March 16, 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.

January 10th, 2021

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.

December 28th, 2020

Letter: PL 20-55  Administrative Penalties HCS & TxHmL

https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/communications/2020/letters/IL2020-19.pdf

December 23rd, 2020

Upcoming HCS and TXHmL Webinars For:

“Hold Harmless” Period & Administrative Penalties & Amelioration

Hold Harmless Period Overview

This webinar will cover the “Hold Harmless” period for the new survey process for HCS and TxHmL.

Jan 5, 2021
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Here’s the link to record session:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/4225828217950682891

For a copy of the handouts, you can email: Shelley.Gusky01@hhs.texas.gov

Administrative Penalties and Amelioration

This webinar will review the new survey process for HCS and TxHmL which begins on March 1, 2021 and will include and overview of administrative penalties and amelioration.
Jan 7, 2021
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

For a link to the recording of this session and a copy of the handouts, you can email: Shelley.Gusky01@hhs.texas.gov

HHSC Publishes Administrative Penalty Process for HCS & TxHmL Program Providers (PL 20-55)

November 25, 2020

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has published PL 20-55 – Administrative Penalty Process for Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Program Providers (PDF). The PL provides guidance to providers on the rules regarding administrative penalties.

 Billing Guideline Changes

June 20, 2020

Survey Process:  Timelines

HHSC Provider User Guide (CARE)       

Please go to the following link:

https://hhsportal.hhs.state.tx.us/helpGuide/Content/16_CARE/WaiverPDF/HCS%20Provider%20User%20Guide.pdf

.

September 5th, 2021 

HHSC Publishes Revised Informal Dispute Resolution (PL 2021-07)

HHSC published a revised version of Provider Letter 2021-07, Informal Dispute Resolution (PDF). A revision was made to update the contact phone number.

.

The Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) process gives nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities, Home and Community-based Service and Texas Home Living waiver providers the opportunity to informally dispute regulatory survey findings. (Texas Government Code §531.058 and Human Resources Code §161.0892).

In accordance with Senate Bill 304, 84th Texas Legislature, 2015, and House Bill 2590, 85th Legislature, 2017, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission has contracted with Michigan Peer Review Organization (MPRO) to perform IDR reviews and make a recommendation of compliance or non-compliance.

To request an IDR, facilities must submit via email a fully executed IDR Request Form to the HHSC IDR Department within 10 calendar days of receiving the official Statement of Deficiencies (Forms 2567/3724) or Final Report. If a timely request is made for an IDR, HHSC will forward the request to MPRO. Facilities/providers are then required to submit a rebuttal letter and supporting documentation directly to MPRO within the required timeframes.

Request Forms

• IDR Request Form for NFs, ALFs, and ICFs (PDF)

Due Dates

Supporting documentation due dates are as follows:

• For NFs, ICF and the HCS/TxHML waiver providers the due date is the 5th calendar day after submitting the IDR Request form to HHSC on time.

Note: If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, the due date becomes the next business day.

Where to Submit Your Supporting Documentation

All rebuttal information may be submitted via MPROs IDR Secure Application. Find instructions and link at www.mpro.org/texas-idr, or by mail to the address below:

MPRO – IDR Department
22670 Haggerty Road, Suite 100
Farmington Hills, MI 48335
www.mpro.org/texas-idr

For questions or problems with submitting supporting documentation, contact MPRO:

Aris Rhodes-Bond, IDR Project Specialist
248-465-7405

Charlene Kawchak-Belitsky, IDR Senior Manager
248-465-1038

Email: iidrgroup@mpro.org

Texas Administrative Code rules for IDR

• SNFs/NFs and ICF/IIDs

For questions or problems with submitting the IDR Request Form, contact IDR:

HHSC IDR Department
IDR@hhsc.state.tx.us
512-706-7268

September 1st, 2021

The Health and Human Services Commission created the Regulatory Services Division (RSD) in 2017 as regulatory functions consolidated from the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). As part of this consolidation effort, new teams were developed while keeping the division’s core values of quality, consistency, efficiency, and accountability in mind. RSD LTCR continues to move forward with transformational activities and the next phase includes the integration of the Waiver Survey and Certification Unit into Survey Operations and regional structure. This transition occurred as of August 30, 2021.  Revisions have been made as part of this process to reflect changes on how to file a complaint regarding an HCS or TxHmL surveyor.

–Mention Us and Get Your Promotions for Becoming A New ADP Clients:

 – 2 to 3 months free for all PTA partners

 – Other Discounts Available!

You all may be familiar with our other contact, Mitchell Deter.  He will still be assisting providers that work with HCS/TxHmL/and ICF with 50 employees plus. Some of you may already be working with him.

Yusuf Sterling is our newest contact from ADP, who will be assisting our IDD providers that may need Payroll and HR services for under 50 employees

Yusuf is our newest HCS/TxHmL/ICF provider liason and he is an Associate District Manager for Central Texas for ADP.  Yusuf and Mitch are our personal resource team from ADP for those of you who are IDD Providers and also for many of you who also have Home Health Agencies, Hospice Programs, Behavioral Health Programs, and more.

Yusuf’s contact info: 919-308-7521 and his email is,Yusuf.Sterling@adp.com

Mitchell’s contact info:  803-730-78Yusuf.Sterling@adp.com61  and his email is mitchell.deter@adp.com 

Click here for ADP’s COVID-19 Resource Center

Attention:

As more people continue to return to the workplace, ADP is excited to share tools that are designed to help them, and their people transition back safer, easier, and more effectively. To ensure we are consulting our clients on the best solutions for their business, we are constantly evaluating our preferred vendors. As a result, Twogether Consulting has developed a relationship with ADP where our clients will receive preferred pricing. Our local point of contact, Katie DeMayo, consults with small businesses to streamline their payroll and HR processes, to help them improve their cash flow, retain high-quality employees, and keep businesses in compliance from an HR perspective.

Please check the following items that you would like information on:

• Payroll Processing
• Direct Deposit
• Medical and Dental Benefits                                                                                 
• Employee Background Checks
• Employee Handbook
• Workers Comp Insurance Pay as you go system: Helps you manage cash – you pay for what you owe per payroll with NO prepay in advance and no worry of the unknown audits
• Web-Based Time and Attendance system: Time clocks that interface directly into payroll (eliminate keying)
• 401k Plan/SEP/Simple IRA plans: We do plan documentation, investing and all necessary year-end reporting
• Section 125 Premium Only Plan: Pre-tax medical/dental
• Compliance Posters: Employer mandatory Federal, and State labor law posters

How is ADP addressing Covid-19 with their clients?  See links below:

Don’t forget if you are trying to develop training and policies around Covid-19, ADP can help!!

https://www.adp.com/about-adp/data-security/client-resources/adp-covid-19-preparedness.aspx

https://www.adp.com/spark/articles/2020/03/covid-19-protecting-your-employees-and-business.aspx

http://chrome-extension://oemmndcbldboiebfnladdacbdfmadadm/https://www.adp.com/-/media/who%20we%20are/pdf/business-resiliency-brochure.ashx?la=en&hash=0125A6ECCCF06EDBF9E503030B18EA7023358032

Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)

ADP is now partnering with TSheets for EVV services, which will be great for our HCS/TxHmL providers who use ADP or who want to use ADP for Payroll and HR support.

Even if you have ADP already and want to upgrade your package, call or email Yusuf Sterling or Mitchell Deter at ADP ( our contacts for Twogether Consulting) to assist our HCS/TxHmL and ICF providers. I hope this makes it easier for some of you who are concerned about having to get another separate service for Electronic Visit Verification.

Supercharge your ADP Time Cards with T-Sheets!

EVV (Electronic Visit Verification) Tracking

Manage Scheduling

Track Time By The Job

Easy Accurate Time Sheets

Mobile Time Tracking

Who’s Working Now and Where?

Alerts & Approvals

Reports

Please remember to mention how you found out about ADP through “Twogether Consulting/ Julie Blacklock”

To Get Discounted Rates or Offers  (i.e. 1st 3 months free)

For those of you looking for payroll and HR services for your HCS , TXHmL, and ICF Programs, especially in Central Texas- Austin and surrounding areas as well as Houston area, I urge you to contact ADP about these services and more.  These are our main contacts for HCS/TxHmL provider client base in Texas, but they can help providers from all over Texas and nationally if needed, for their specific needs.  They do work with providers in other parts of the state as well. They have now also added OIG and LEIE monthly checks to part of the HR services they can provide.  Woo hoo!

ADP can help you with everything from payroll, to employee handbooks for your company, to tracking items due for your HR files, etc… Whether you are new, small, or large business we could all use some help.  At a time when Providers really need to watch every penny, it is nice to also be informed or updated about changes coming!

Some of The Helpful ADP Free Training Webinars & Recordings

Title: Cybersecurity for Employees Working from Home

Duration:  1 hour  (1 CEU for CPA’s available)

Live:  9/14/21

Time:  1 PM Central

https://www.cchcpelink.com/live-webinar/cybersecurity-for-employees-working-from-home/20614/

Title:Tax Updates for Individuals-2021

Duration:  1 hour  (1 CEU for CPA’s available)

Live:  11/30/21

Time:  10 AM Central

https://www.cchcpelink.com/live-webinar/tax-updates-for-individuals/20615/

Title:Tax Updates for Businesses-2021

Duration:  1 hour  (1 CEU for CPA’s available)

Live:  12/08/21

Time:  10 AM Central

https://www.cchcpelink.com/live-webinar/tax-updates-for-businesses/20619/

Title: Hybrid Work Arrangements Raise Compliance Concerns: When Home Offices Cross State Lines

Duration: 1 hour

Available On-Demand

https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/3261862/1051CF669E451CD5E8E3BE0E4F115282?partnerref=web

Title: Workplace Spotlight: COVID-19 Legislative Updates – How the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (PPPFA) Changed PPP Loan Forgiveness

Duration: 1 hour

Available On-Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2425491&sessionid=1&key=BA14109722A0F3C21600A063428446C4&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: How to Create Instant Cash-flow for Small Businesses Leveraging CARES Act and R&D Tax Credits

Duration: 1 hour, 3 minutes

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.adp.com%2Fresources%2Fevents.aspx&eventid=2386032&sessionid=1&key=A4098DF17F17CDBB4582C737C4113CA4&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: Workplace Spotlight: CARES Act & COVID-19: Understanding the Employee Retention Tax Credit and Other Tax Implications

Duration: 1 hour, 1 minute

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2281116&sessionid=1&key=811BF8DD403E27DEC8601E210E210CCD&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: SPECIAL EDITION: Protecting Your Workforce and Understanding Policies as Your Organization Responds to COVID-19- Part I

Duration: 35 minutes

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2218023&sessionid=1&key=B0D8739554A6735C19B30AA5ECDAE3FD&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: SPECIAL EDITION – PART 2: Protecting Your Workforce and Understanding Policies as Your Organization Responds to COVID-19

Duration: 1 hour, 2 minutes

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2225067&sessionid=1&key=1E14A512E04471768B1056BB7453393A&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title:  PEO 101: HOW HR OUTSOURCING CAN HELP YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS DURING UNCERTAIN TIMES

Register

Cost Free

CPE Credits1.0 hour

CE Credits0.0 hours

Course Description

During these uncertain times, it is even more important for businesses to have help navigating employee issues like workplace safety, compliance, HR, payroll and employee benefits.  Outsourcing HR through a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) solution is something accounting professionals and their clients can consider for that level of support. Join our panel of CPAs and industry experts as they discuss the most critical elements you need to know about PEOs, from how they work and their benefits to the role they can help play in a crisis so your firm and your clients can both continue moving your business forward.

https://www.adp.com/

Requests For Exceeding Licensed Capacity During Severe Gulf Coast Weather

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation is reminding providers to be ready to implement emergency preparedness plans. If your facility is impacted by severe weather such as wind or flooding, or is in an area under mandatory evacuation orders, contact the HHSC LTCR Regional Director in the region where the facility is located.

In addition to contacting the HHSC LTCR RD, all requests to exceed licensed capacity due to an emergency must be approved by the director of survey operations. If your facility is projected to exceed its licensed capacity because it is accepting residents who have been evacuated from another facility, email Renee Blanch-Haley and include State Capacity Increase Request in the subject line.

If you have any questions, contact your HHSC LTCR RD, email LTCR Policy and Rules or call 512-438-3161.

August 26, 2021

Assisted living facilities, nursing facilities, and intermediate care facilities for people with intellectual disabilities are only required to report COVID-19 cases in residents or staff to HHSC if:

1. It is the facility’s first ever COVID-19 case
2. It is the facility’s first case after having had no COVID-19 cases among staff or residents for 14 days or longer

Read Provider Letter 2021-04 (PDF).

Email questions to LTCR Policy for more information, including a decision tree on when to report.

August 25th, 2021

Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion for HCS

(PL 2021-30)

HHSC published Provider Letter 2021-30 Program Provider Response to COVID-19 and Visitation Expansion for HCS. This letter replaces PL 2021-09.  This letter describes the actions a program provider must take to mitigate COVID-19 according to Executive Order GA-38(link is external) and CDC guidance and the criteria for expanded indoor and outdoor visitation as well as essential caregiver visits.

As part of the continued reopening of the State of Texas, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has published new Home and Community-based Services (HCS) Program Provider Response to COVID-19 Emergency Rule1 and HCS Expansion of Reopening Visitation Rule2.

HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 Emergency Rule HHSC published new HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 – Mitigation Rules effective August 21, 2021. These new rules replace the previous COVID-19 mitigation rules. See the HCS Program Provider Response to COVID-19 Emergency Rule at 40 TAC 9.198 for the complete list of requirements. Notable updates include the following.

HHSC added the definition for a “fully vaccinated person,” which is a person who received the second dose in a two-dose series or a single dose of a one-dose COVID-19 vaccine and 14 days have passed since this dose was received

(PL 2021-09) on Visitation Expansion

(This letter was published March 25th, 2021)

(PL 2021-09) on Visitation Expansion is no longer in place as of August 2021.  It replaced the following Provider Letters:   PLs 2020-22 and 2020-40

September 21st, 2020

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

Expanded ReopeningVisitation:

Phase 1 requirements all remain in place (except for compassionate care visits, which are being replaced with less restrictive essential caregiver visits.)

All facilities without an active facility acquired outbreak can move to visitation as outlined in the emergency rules(including those with isolation wings), but visitation is only allowed for residents/individuals,  who are NOT COVID positive and in areas away from COVID positive isolation areas.

Essential caregivers will be trained by the facility on PPE use and infection control, and they must meet the testing requirement.

Reopening is optional for facilities; those that do not feel they have the resources to re-open safely will not be mandated to open or allow for essential caregivers.

See the link below for more information on Visitation Rules for LTC Facilities, including ICF and HCS

https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/reopening-visitation-ltc-facilities.pdf 

August 15th, 2021

HHSC Publishes HCS and TxHmL Survey Operations Transformation (PL 2021-26)

In advance of the HCS Waiver Survey and Certification unit’s transition to Long-term Care Survey Operations, HHSC has published PL 2021-26, HCS and TxHmL Survey Operations Transformation (PDF). The letter provides information about HHSC’s transformation efforts and what HCS and TxHmL program providers can expect on August 30, 2021.

August 15th, 2021

August and September 2021 LTCR Provider Training Opportunities

Long-Term Care Regulatory providers are invited to attend the following trainings hosted in August and September. Visit the Joint Training Opportunities page to register and learn more about each of these events.

Emergency Preparedness in Long-Term Care Facilities
August 18
1:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

August 25
1:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

September 13
1:30 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

September 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).

July 3rd, 2021

Joint Training Page Available for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers

The HCS and TxHmL programs now have a Joint Training Opportunities page where providers can register for upcoming classes. Class size will be limited to maximize participation, but classes will be offered regularly. Providers should check the page often for updates. There will be recordings of special presentations available for viewing on-demand later.

Access recordings of previous webinars here.

March 6th, 2021

Joint Training From HHSC For Providers (Online with CEU’s/CNE’s)

For registration for any of these dates and more information, please go to:   https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/training/jointtraining.cfm

August 12th, 2021

HCS/TxHmL Certification Principle Interpretive Guidance Series

Starting August 12, 2021, the HCS/ TxHmL Joint Training Program is presenting a series of nine webinars designed to provide interpretive guidance on the HCS and TxHmL Principles of Certification, as outlined in the Texas Administrative Code. Webinars will be presented every Tuesday and Thursday through September 16, 2021.

Register for the HCS and TxHmL webinars here.

Email Joint Training with questions about these webinars.

May 3rd, 2021

May 2021 HCS/TxHmL Provider Certification Principle Webinars

The following webinars are part of the ongoing HCS and TxHmL Certification Principles training series.

This webinar will give an overview of Texas Administrative Code §9.174 relating to service delivery requirements for HCS program providers.

Certification Principle 9.174-Service Delivery
May 11, 2021
10 – 11:30 a.m.

Register for the HCS provider webinar.

Email your questions to Shelley Gusky.

February 2021 HCS/TxHmL Provider Certification Principle Webinars

The following webinars are part of the ongoing HCS and TxHmL Certification Principles training series.

Certification Principle 9.177: Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements

This webinar will cover TAC §9.177 which outlines staff member and service provider requirements for HCS and TxHmL programs.

Feb. 2
2-5 p.m.
Listen to the webinar recording here.

Certification Principles 9.179 & 9.180: Restraints and Prohibitions

This webinar will cover TAC §9.179 and §9.180 relating to HCS and TxHmL provider responsibilities regarding restraints and prohibitions.

Feb. 4
2-5 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Certification Principle 9.178: Quality Assurance

This webinar will cover TAC §9.178 relating to quality assurance in the delivery of HCS and TxHmL program services.

Feb. 9
2-5 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Certification Principle 9.173: Rights of Individuals

This webinar will review TAC §9.173 relating to the rights of individuals receiving HCS and TxHmL program services.

Feb. 11
2-5 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Certification Principle 9.175/9.585: Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation

This webinar will cover HCS and TxHmL program provider responsibilities related to abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Feb. 16
2-5 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Certification Principle 9.174: Service Delivery

This webinar will review HCS program provider requirements related to delivery of HCS program services.

Feb. 18
2-5 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

January 2021 HCS Provider Certification Principle Webinars

The following webinars are a repeat of last year’s HCS and TxHmL Certification Principles series.

Each webinar will cover a certification principle or principles outlined in TAC Title 40 Chapter 9 and will include examples of program provider violations.

Certification Principle 9.172: Mission, Development and Philosophy of Program Operations/Top Ten Deficiencies for HCS and TxHmL

This webinar is part of the WSC Certification Principles training series. This presentation will cover the requirements detailed in TAC §9.172 and the top ten deficiencies for program providers.
Jan. 26
2-5 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

Comprehensive Nursing Assessment

This webinar is part of the WSC Certification Principles training series. This presentation will go over the requirements for the Comprehensive Nursing Assessment
Jan. 28
9-12 p.m.
Register for the webinar.

PREVIOUSLY RECORDED WEBINARS

Dec 3rd, 2020 Recording of Certification Principles:

Quality Assurance– Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the December 3, 2020, Certification Principles: Quality Assurance webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

Dec 10th, 2020 Recording of Certification Principles:

Rights Of The Individual– Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the December 10, 2020, Certification Principles: Rights of Individuals webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

Dec 15th, 2020 Recording of Certification Principles:

Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation– Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the December 15, 2020, Certification Principles: Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

Dec 17th, 2020 Recording of Certification Principles:

Service Delivery– Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the December 17, 2020, Certification Principles: Service Delivery webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

November 12th, 2020 Recording of Certification Principles:

Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the November 12, 2020, Certification Principles: Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

November 19th, 2020 Recording of Certification Principles:

Restraints and Prohibitions Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the November 19, 2020, Certification Principles: Restraints and Prohibitions webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

August 1st, 2021

Information Letter No. 21-32 –Requirements for IPC Submissions for Individuals Requesting Services Funded with General Revenue

This information letter describes the documentation that a CLASS case manager, DBMD program provider, HCS service coordinator, or HCS program provider must submit to HHSC to request the use of general revenue to pay for services above the individual cost limit of a waiver program.

To justify a request to use general revenue when an individual is enrolling in the CLASS, DBMD, or HCS Program or when an individual’s individual plan of care (IPC) is being revised or renewed:
● The individual’s IPC must be electronically transmitted to HHSC using the HHSC Data System.
● The following additional documentation must be submitted to HHSC through the HHSC portal, or by email or regular mail:

 An IPC that is identical to the electronically transmitted IPC and contains all required signatures of the service planning team
 For an individual in the HCS Program, the person-directed plan and implementation plans for all services included on the IPC
 For an individual in the CLASS or DBMD Program, the individual program plan

 A current comprehensive nursing assessment by a registered nurse who is employed by or contracts with the CLASS direct services agency, or the HCS or DBMD program provider
 Physician orders used by the registered nurse to develop the IPC
 If a home and community support services agency will provide the nursing on the IPC, CMS form 485, Home Health Certification and Plan of Care
 If a nurse employed by or contracting with an HCS program provider will provide the nursing on the IPC, documentation containing the same information as CMS form 485, signed by a physician
 Nursing notes from the two-week period immediately preceding submission of the documentation
 Medication administration record sheets from the two-month period immediately preceding submission of the documentation
 Records, notes, and orders of a primary care or specialty physician that are relevant to the services on the IPC, including office visit notes documenting the individual’s current medical conditions. Preprinted after-visit instructions and office notes from a nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant do not meet this requirement. Office visit notes must be dated within the 12-month period immediately preceding submission of the documentation.

The following additional documentation, if relevant, may be submitted to HHSC to justify a request to use general revenue when an individual is enrolling in the CLASS, DBMD, or HCS Program or when an individual’s IPC is being revised or renewed:
● Records related to an individual’s health, such as blood sugar levels, bowel movements, seizures, and suctioning
● Hospitalization paperwork and discharge notes from the one-year period immediately preceding the submission of documentation

● Documentation to support unusual or new diagnoses, such as a comatose or vegetative state
● Hospice assessment, if applicable
● Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation Assessment form
● Evidence of a determination of whether to delegate health maintenance activities, as defined in 22 TAC §225.4, and, if delegated, documentation of delegation monitoring, such as nursing notes describing monitoring or training of unlicensed staff

A CLASS case manager, DBMD program provider, HCS service coordinator, or HCS program provider must respond to a request from HHSC for additional information.
When an IPC is being renewed, the documentation described in this letter must be submitted 30-60 days before the effective date of the renewal IPC.
HHSC does not authorize an IPC for which general revenue is requested until a review of the documentation described in this letter is completed by HHSC.

If you have any questions about submitting a request to use general revenue to pay for services above the individual cost limit of a waiver program, please call Utilization Review at:   (512) 438-5055.

Update to COVID-19 Guidance for Service Coordinators

Fee-for-service Medicaid 1915(c) waiver case managers and service coordinators may use telehealth or the phone to conduct service coordination visits. This temporary policy change extends through Aug. 31, 2021.

SC’s are encouraged to complete visits by phone, telehealth or telemedicine.
Program providers must complete the required background checks for all service providers. They must follow:

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

Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC

August 1st, 2021

June 28th, 2021

There are two Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living trainings in this series:

• HCS and TxHmL Employment Assistance Training
• HCS and TxHmL Supported Employment Training

The web-based trainings cover employment services provided through HCS and TxHmL, information about the payer of first resort for employment assistance, and the basics of providing these services. They are designed to enhance staff knowledge about providing quality employment services to people enrolled in the waivers.

Each training has a corresponding quiz.

• HCS and TxHmL Employment Assistance Quiz
• HCS and TxHmL Supported Employment Quiz

The Direct Service Workers web-based training provides information about employment services and how direct service workers can support people achieve their employment goals. The training covers federal and state initiatives related to employment for people with disabilities and touches on issues related to people who work and receive SSI or SSDI benefits. The training has a corresponding quiz.

• Direct Service Workers Training
• Direct Service Workers Quiz

See link to August 2021 edition below:

The August 2021 Long-Term Care (LTC) Provider Bulletin has been published on the LTC homepage on TMHP.com.

Visit the TMHP LTC homepage regularly for news, reminders, training opportunities, and other important program updates.

For questions, see the Provider Resources section of the bulletin.

See link to February 2021 edition below:

https://www.tmhp.com/sites/default/files/file-library/ltc/bulletins/February%202021%20LTC%20Bulletin%20No.%2085_Final%20for%20Web.pdf

See link to November 2020 edition below:

https://www.tmhp.com/sites/default/files/file-library/ltc/November%202020%20Long-Term%20Care%20Provider%20Bulletin%20No.%2084.pdf

July 17th, 2021

Texas Medicaid 1115 Transformation Waiver Extension

HHSC announces its submission of an extension application to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the Texas Healthcare Transformation Quality Improvement Program (THTQIP) waiver under section 1115 of the Social Security Act.

The extension request is for approximately 10 years, which will provide the 1115 waiver authority through 2030. The extension reflects the same terms and conditions agreed to and approved by CMS on Jan. 15, 2021.

The requested extension will allow Texas continued flexibility to pursue the goals of the existing 1115 waiver:

• Expand risk-based managed care to new populations and services.
• Support the development and maintenance of a coordinated care delivery system.
• Improve outcomes while containing cost growth.
• Transition to quality-based payment systems for managed care and providers.

Stakeholders may take part in a meeting regarding the waiver application next Tuesday:

July 20, 2021

11 a.m. Central time

Register for the webinar.

Stakeholders may review the final application posted here.

From our friends at PACSTX!

For more information click on this link to the newsletter

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 was signed into law on March 11, 2021. Section 9817 of ARPA provides states with a temporary ten (10) percentage point increase to the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), if certain federal requirements are met. States must use funds equivalent to the amount of federal funds attributable to the increased FMAP to implement activities that enhance or strengthen Medicaid HCBS. The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) submitted an initial spending plan to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on July 12, 2021.

The plan Texas submitted is contingent upon federal clarification on outstanding questions.vTexas proposes to use state general revenue to fund projects to:

• Support providers of HCBS and community-based long-term services and supports (LTSS);
• Support recipients in HCBS programs; and
• Enhance and strengthen the HCBS infrastructure in Texas.

Please join HHSC on Thursday, July 15 at 10:00 a.m. for a webinar with stakeholders. HHSC staff will provide information about the contents of the plan, next steps, and answer stakeholder questions. Register here to join the webinar(link is external).

Read the ARPA HCS Funding Plan (PDF).

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.

Stakeholder Comments Requested for HCS, TxHmL Billing Guidelines, As Well As Proposed Billing Requirements, Provider Fiscal Compliance and TMHP Revisions

HCS and TxHmL Stakeholders can now comment to the HCS, TxHmL and CFC Billing Guidelines by July 18, 2021 about the proposed revisions:

• Proposed Billing Requirements
• Provider Fiscal Compliance
• TMHP revisions

The proposed billing guidelines revisions and a summary of changes were posted on June 18, 2021. They are located on the Long-term Care Providers page and are outlined below:

HCS

• Billing Guidelines (PDF)
• Summary of Billing Guidelines (PDF)

TxHmL

• Billing Guidelines (PDF)
• Summary of Billing Guidelines (PDF)

July 2nd, 2021

HHSC selected the Bexar service area as the primary service area in which to operate the STAR+PLUS Pilot Program

Yesterday members of the IDD SRAC and STAR+PLUS Pilot Program Workgroup were sent the notice below regarding selection of the STAR+PLUS Pilot site.   As the result of HB 4533 (Klick – 86th Session) Chapter 534, Government Code was amended and, among other changes, directs the pilot to assist in evaluating and developing a plan for the transition of all or some of the long term services and supports currently provided through the non-residential  services provided through the HCS, TxHmL, CLASS and DBMD waiver programs.  Chapter 534, Government Code calls for the pilot to start  9-1-2023 and conclude on 9-1-2025.

Notes:  i)  Prior to consideration of the transition of the residential services provided through the community-based ICF/IID program and the HCS and DBMD waivers, Chapter 534 calls for a separate pilot.  ii)  It is not known at this time how the STAR+PLUS procurement process will impact the number of and current MCOs in the Bexar STAR+PLUS service area.   The procurement is expected to be released in Q2 of FY 2022 with awards to be announced in Q3 of FY 2023 and an operational start date of Q1 of FY 2024.

Message to Members of the IDD SRAC and the STAR+PLUS Pilot program Workgroup:  Texas Government Code, Section 534.106(c) states the pilot program shall be conducted in a STAR+PLUS Medicaid managed care service area selected by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).

HHSC has also identified two backup service areas if unforeseen circumstances prevent operation in the Bexar service area that are prioritized in the following order:

1.   MRSA Northeast

2.   Tarrant.

This link shows the Medicaid managed care service areas.

July 3rd, 2021

Updates to HHSC EVV Mailboxes and Website

HHSC EVV Mailboxes

By June 28, HHSC EVV Operations will update their electronic mailboxes to the following email addresses:

• HHSC Electronic Visit Verification Mailbox: EVV@hhs.texas.gov
  • Previous email address: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us
• HHSC EVV Proprietary Systems Mailbox: EVVPSO@hhs.texas.gov
  • Previous email address: EVV_PSO@hhs.texas.gov

Additional Information

• Assess all personal materials, such as contact matrices, for any updates needed.
• Always refer to the HHSC EVV website for current information and resources.
• HHSC EVV Operations will continue receiving emails if a previous email address is used.

HHSC EVV Website

Throughout June and July, the HHSC EVV website and some of its webpages will have a new layout to reorganize resources and include updates related to the 21^st Century Cures Act, Section 12006.

Email the HHSC EVV Mailbox with any related inquiries.

February 7th, 2021

Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) Contact Information

For questions about Claims, providers should call the TMHP EDI Helpdesk at: 888-863-3638,
Option 4, including questions about:
•
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) – Submitting Claims for EVV.
•
Claim Rejections (excluding Long-Term Care [LTC] claim rejections with error code F, RJ, and/or AC).

For questions about EVV Claims Processing, contact the entity that pays or denies your claims

(i.e., the managed care organization [MCO]. There is a list of MCO phone numbers at the end of this post).

For questions about EVV Claims Processing that are specific to TMHP call:
•
LTC: 800-626-4117, Option 1, then Option 6.
•
Acute Care: 800-925-9126, Option 7.

For EVV general complaints questions, contact:
•
HHSC Program Providers email: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us.
•
MCO Program Providers at your MCO’s EVV mailbox (listed at end of this post)

For questions about MCO complaints, email: HHSC Managed Care Compliance and Operations at:
HPM_Complaints@hhsc.state.tx.us.

For questions about EVV Vendor complaints, email the TMHP EVV mailbox at: EVV@tmhp.com.

If you have questions about policy and compliance, contact:
email the HHSC EVV Operations mailbox at: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us.

Questions may include:
•
Rules.
•
Programs and Services Required to Use EVV.
•
The 21st Century Cures Act.

For general questions about EVV policy and compliance reviews, contact HHSC Program Providers at: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us

or

the MCO Program Providers at your MCO’s EVV mailbox (See page 18 for a list of email addresses).

Questions may include:
•
Allowable Phone Identification and Recoupment.
•
Compliance Oversight.
•
Reason Codes.
•
EVV Usage.
•
Policy and Requirements.
•
EVV Reports and Understanding EVV Reports.
•
Visit Maintenance and Unlock Request Policy.
•
Reason Codes.

For questions about the EVV Portal, email the TMHP EVV mailbox at
EVV@tmhp.com

or

contact the EVV Vendor (See EVV Vendor list at the end of this post).

Questions may include:
•
General Support.
•
EVV Provider Onboarding.
•
EVV Reports in the Vendor System.
•
EVV Visit Transactions – Includes Accepted and/or Rejected EVV Visit Transactions.

For questions about TexMedConnect and Electronic Data Interchange call the TMHP EDI Helpdesk at: 888-863-3638, Option 4.

Questions may include:
•
File Submission Errors.

•
Form Processing (i.e., EDI Agreement, TPA, and TPAEF).
•
PIMS Assistance.
•
Submitter IDs – Creation and Modification.
•
TexMedConnect and EDI – Account Setup, Submitting Claims for EVV.

For questions about training on the EVV Vendor System, contact the EVV Vendor (See EVV Vendor list at the end of this post).

Questions may include:
•
General questions.
•
Accessing Reports.
•
EVV Clock In and Clock Out Methods.
•
Making Corrections through Visit Maintenance.

For questions about TMHP Systems training, email questions to the TMHP EVV mailbox at:EVV@tmhp.com.
Note: For non-system-related EVV Policy questions email the HHSC Program Providers at:Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us

or

the MCO Program Providers at your MCO’s EVV mailbox (See below for a list of email addresses).

Questions may include:
•
EVV Portal and EVV Standard Reports.
•
Claims submission.

EVV Vendor list

DataLogic Software, Inc./Vesta:
Phone: 844-880-2400
Email: info@vestaevv.com

First Data Government Solutions/AuthentiCare:
Phone: 877-829-2002
Email: AuthenticareTXSupport@firstdata.com

MCO EVV Contact Information/Contact Information for MCOs

Aetna
844-787-5437
evvmailbox@aetna.com

Amerigroup
800-454-3730
TXEVVSupport@amerigroup.com

Blue Cross Blue Shield
877-784-6802
BCBSTX_EVV_Questions@bcbstx.com

Children’s Medical Center Health Plan
800-947-4969
cmchpevv@childrens.com

Cigna-Health Spring
877-653-0331
providerrelationscentral@healthspring.com

Community First Health
855-607-7827
cfhpevv@cfhp.com

Cook Children’s Health Plan
800-964-2247
CCHPEVV@cookchildrens.org

Driscoll Children’s Health Plan
877-324-7543
evvquestions@dchstx.org

Molina Healthcare of Texas
866-449-6849
mhtxevv@molinahealthcare.com

Superior Health Plan
877-391-5921
SHP.EVV@superiorhealthplan.com

Texas Children’s Health Plan
800-731-8527
EVVGroup@texaschildrens.org

United Health Group
888-887-9003
uhc_evv@uhc.com

Part I   Pre-recorded sessions available for purchase!

“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”, on June 8th, 2021! This is part 3 of 5 of our Care Coordination series.

Part IV   Pre-recorded sessions available for purchase!

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

Part V  Coming Soon!

(Billable Services- HCS)  Moved to August.  This will be split up into 2 days!  August 3rd and 5th.

General Billable Services (Day 1 from 10 am -Noon) & then Adaptive Aids/Minor Home Mods/Dental (Day 2  10am-Noon)  as a separate webinar.

Register at:  www.twogetherconsulting.com.  Click on appropriate calendar to find information and register.  You may also click on the payment tabs below.

Day 1 Registration

Day 2 Registration: 

Turn of Events:  Good News For Providers

• Calls for an ICF/IID representative on the HHSC LTC Facilities Council,
• Caps the amount/$ of administrative penalties which may be imposed per each ICF/IID on-site regulatory visit or complaint investigation,
• Requires HHSC not to enforce an administrative penalty in the HCS or TxHmL waiver programs until interpretive guidelines are developed and adopted, and
• Requires that rules to implement the changes required by HB 3240 be adopted not later than December 1, 2021.

May 25th, 2021

The Federal Communications Commission is offering an Emergency Broadband Benefit.

This new benefit will:

• Help families and households struggling to afford Internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Connect eligible households to jobs, critical health care services, virtual classrooms and more.

Read information about the benefit and eligibility requirements here.

Upcoming Webinar: How to Create a Culture of Data-Driven Decision Making!

“The Value of Data-Driven
Service Provision”

Date: June 11, 2021 

Time:  1:00 PM (EST)

Presenter: Jason Laws (Director of Quality & Data Initiatives)
jason.laws@therapservices.net

Are you looking to create a culture of data-driven decision-making at your organization?

Join us for an engaging webinar presentation to learn more about:

• Defining key metrics and indicators
• Identifying what data has meaning
• Tracking progress towards organizational goals

And More

To Register, please click on the link below.

REGISTRATION

If you need assistance with your current Therap services or with information on getting these services, please contact:

Stacy Wilson (Business Development Consultant at Therap Services, LLC)

 Here is her LinkedIn page

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stacydentonwilson_activity-6757331578927513600-Lz2d

Data-Driven:

Person-centered solutions your organization can use to support agency workflows, communication, compliance, organizational outcomes, and revenue management

---

The University of North Texas Workplace Inclusion & Sustainable Employment (UNTWISE) is offering a free on-demand, prerecorded webinar called Ethics of Informed Choice, which is available through April 22, 2022. This training outlines informed choice and helps contractors, vendors, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) staff understand its importance in the VR process. Information on the training can be found on the UNTWISE web page.

“This training will define Informed Choice and help contracted providers and VR staff understand its importance in the VR process.  Laws related to informed choice as well as results from the Rehabilitation Council of Texas annual report will be discussed.  Best Practices, Ethics of Informed Choice, and Case Studies will be used to outline the role of VR staff and providers.”

Presenter: Lucy Gafford

May 16th, 2021

For those of you wanting a separate copy of the ANE TAC principles that were put into the HCS TAC in October of 2019, I have attached links to a few pdf versions for you to use at your facility.  These particular set of HCS principles are important to keep handy, especially concerning follow-up timelines as well as who to contact, when to contact and report and what to report. after an allegation.  

40 Tex. Admin. Code § 9.175
Certification Principles: Requirements Related to the Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of an Individual

or

HCS ANE Principles

May 16th, 2021

When to Call the IDD Ombudsman

The IDD Ombudsman receives complaints from individuals, family members, and the general public about the care, treatment, or services provided to an individual. Individuals receiving services or family members of the individual may prefer to call the IDD Ombudsman to assist in resolving an issue rather than speaking with their LIDDA service coordinator (SC) or HCS provider.

(In addition, if you are not sure where to make a complaint or who to make a complaint to, as it may not apply specifically to a specific individual in your program, the IDD Ombudsman will generally help you find out who you need to talk to.)

A complaint may be reported to the IDD Ombudsman by anyone by calling 1-800-252-8154 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.                                                                       A complaint may also be emailed to OmbudsmanIDD@hhsc.state.tx.us.  (I highly recommend email if you want something in writing)

Written complaints may be mailed to:

Texas Health and Human Services Commission
IDD Ombudsman
P.O. Box 13247
Austin, TX 78711-3247

.

For Your Information:  Rights Booklet and Handbook For Individuals In The HCS Program

The rights booklet, described in 40 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §9.190(e)(2) and the rights handbook, described in 40 TAC §4.117(c) may be found on the HHSC website at https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/your-rights/office-ombudsman/hhs-ombudsman-publications.

The booklet and handbook may also be obtained from HHSC by sending an email to OmbudsmanIDD@hhsc.state.tx.us.

Or click on the links below to download a copy

Resources for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities:

• Your Rights in the Home and Community-based Services Program (PDF)
• Your Rights in the Texas Home Living Program (PDF)
• Your Rights in Local Authority Services (PDF)

Resources for anyone looking for help resolving a problem concerning HHSC services:

• Have a question or problem with Texas Health and Human Services Office of the Ombudsman brochure (PDF)
• Office of the Ombudsman Reference Guide (PDF)

Attention: HCS, TxHmL, CDS, CLASS, DBMD, ICF/IID, SNF’s, and other HHSC programs

Providers can sign up to receive Gov Delivery, an electronic mailer from HHSC that includes current news and topics of interest for LTC providers.