Archive for July 2021
CMS Proposes Permanently Covering Audio-Only Telehealth for Mental Health Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released its proposed 2022 Physician Fee Schedule, which includes payment rates for Medicare next year, as well as several other policy proposals that might impact physicians. Among them, CMS wants to make permanent Medicare coverage of audio-only mental health services via telehealth. Many patients until now…
Read MoreDME Owners Face Stiff Prison Sentence in Kickback Case
The owners and operators of two Dallas, Texas-based durable medical equipment companies recently were convicted of one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive healthcare kickbacks and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. They now face up to 25 years behind bars. Leah and Michael Hagen, owners…
Read MoreAs Telehealth Waivers Expire, Now What?
Telehealth waivers issued during the COVID-19 pandemic that loosened government regulations and reimbursement requirements have or will be coming to an end in many states. In Florida, Gov. Ron Desantis’ executive order declaring a public health emergency expired on June 26. Waivers allowed for the use of non-compliant platforms such a FaceTime. The Florida waiver…
Read MoreAre You Complying with Information Blocking Rules?
Healthcare providers who fail to give patients access to their electronic health records without charge and without delay may be running afoul of a provision in the 21st Century Cures Act. These so-called “information blocking rules†went into effect April 5, 2021. The Cures Act was signed into law in December 2016 and is designed…
Read More