CMS Releases 2020 Home Health Final Rule

On October 31, 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued the final rule for Home Health Agencies for calendar year 2020. Highlights of the final rule include:

• CMS projects that aggregate Medicare payments to HHAs in CY 2020 will increase by 1.3 percent, or $250 million
• CMS will allow physical therapist assistants and occupational therapy assistants to provide maintenance therapy
• Home health episode of care will decrease for a 60-day episode to a 30-day episode
• Beginning in 2021, CMS will require HHAs to submit a notification to CMS within 5 calendar days from the start of care or face a financial penalty

To access the final rule, click HERE. To access the Fact Sheet on the final rule, click HERE.