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Resources and Important Updates
CARES ACT Provider Relief Fund to infuse $30 billion into healthcare system.
All facilities and providers that received Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) reimbursements in 2019 are eligible for this initial rapid distribution. These are payments, not loans, to healthcare providers, and will not need to be repaid. The payments should be arriving via direct deposit beginning April 10, 2020.
Fiscal Year 2021 Proposed Medicare Payment and Policy Changes
CMS projects aggregate payments to SNFs will increase by $784 million, or 2.3 percent, for FY 2021 compared to FY 2020.
Kentucky and Ohio Part A News from CGS
CGS is aware that certain eligible provider types may not have received the maximum eligible amount for their accelerated payment. We are identifying providers impacted by the 3-6 month max issue and determining a resolution. Please continue to monitor the CPIL for updates.
Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services Update on Cost Report Extensions
CMS has directed MAC's to further extend the cost reporting deadlines for the following cost reporting fiscal year ends (FYE) for all provider types:
Cost Reporting Period Ending -- Extended Due Date
10/31/2019 -- 06/30/2020
11/30/2019 -- 06/30/2020
12/31/2019 -- 08/31/2020*
01/31/2020 -- 08/31/2020*
02/29/2020 -- 09/30/2020*
*Please note, these are new extensions.
While we have been told that CMS is considering the 03/31/2020 FYE providers that are currently due 08/31/2020, no extension has been posted at this time.
The Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage
The Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) Form CMS-R-131 is issued by providers to Original Medicare beneficiaries when Medicare payment is expected to be denied. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) issue the ABN to transfer potential financial liability for items/services expected to be denied under Medicare Part B only.
Form CMS-R-131, will expire 03/2020. The form is currently awaiting OMB approval for renewal. CMS will provide instructions when it does get approved. In the meantime, continue to use the current form until further instruction is provided.
CMS Flexibilities to Fight COVID-19
CMS is waiving 42 CFR 483.70(q) to provide relief to long term care facilities on the requirements for submitting staffing data through the Payroll-Based Journal system.
