Special COVID-19 Webinar: The Impact of COVID-19 on HBPC Providers, Practices and Patients

Webinar Q and A
Pdf Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges for Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) providers, prompting a number of adaptations in patient care and management. Key points discussed during a recent webinar include the reconﬁguration of provider team relationships to support less experienced providers in handling complex medical decisions via telehealth. Effective communication, including good eye contact and allowing time for questions during telehealth sessions, is emphasized to maintain patient trust and understanding.<br /><br />Regarding auditing and billing, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has indicated it will not conduct audits for telehealth services provided during the Public Health Emergency. Additionally, providers are not required to be in an office to bill for telehealth services; they can work from home. Medical billing for telehealth can be based on time spent in counseling or care coordination, with documentation required to support the time and nature of the services provided.<br /><br />Providers have some discretion to waive copays and deductibles for telehealth services under the 1135 waiver during the emergency period. However, CMS has not included home visit codes in its list of telehealth services, which means that these services are not covered under the current Medicare waivers. Practices need to confirm with their local Medicare Administrator Contractors for clarity.<br /><br />The lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and implications for home visits are significant concerns, with recommendations to use telehealth whenever possible but acknowledging the need for face-to-face visits for certain conditions. Telehealth still mandates the use of video and audio for real-time communication. <br /><br />In response to supply shortages, providers are encouraged to contact local suppliers like Cardinal Health and McKesson Medical Supplies for essential items. The webinar also discusses guidelines for ordering home health services and the challenges faced, especially for practices with psych/medical management patients who cannot participate in telehealth.<br /><br />The Home Centered Care Institute (HCCI) provides resources, including webinars and virtual office hours, to support HBPC practices. They have also compiled medical supply tips and strategies for maintaining care continuity and communication with homebound patients, addressing their needs for medications, food, and general safety during the pandemic.
Keywords
COVID-19
Home-Based Primary Care
telehealth
CMS
medical billing
1135 waiver
PPE
home visits
HCCI
patient care