Compliance: Hospice-SNF Relationships On OIG Radar For 2013

Why This Topic Matters

The article signals areas of federal review that may affect hospice compliance, referral relationships, documentation, and reimbursement practices. It helps providers and compliance teams understand where regulators are focusing attention in the hospice space.

Article Sections

1. Hospice relationships with nursing facilities

   Discusses OIG attention to hospice marketing practices and financial relationships involving nursing facilities. The section frames the compliance concerns that prompted review in this area.

2. General inpatient care review

   Summarizes the planned review of hospice general inpatient care claims and record review. It describes the broader oversight concern related to use of this hospice level of care.

3. Acute-care inpatient transfers to inpatient hospice care

   Covers the OIG’s interest in hospital discharge and transfer payment issues when patients move from acute care to hospice settings. The section notes possible policy implications for Medicare payment practices.

4. Medicaid hospice reimbursement compliance

   Introduces a Medicaid-focused hospice review tied to reimbursement requirements. The discussion points to compliance issues surrounding terminal illness criteria.