Case Management

Details on what CMS proposed discharge rule would require

Case Management Insider, December 1, 2015

We recently talked a little about a new proposed rule that CMS published in the November 3 Federal Register and the pressure it might place on staffing within your case management department.

Staffing increases would likely be needed to help your department keep up with new discharge requirements. CMS proposed expanding the population that must receive discharge plans to include all inpatients and certain outpatients, including those receiving observation services and those having same-day surgery or other procedures with anesthesia or moderate sedation.

The proposal would also require plans for select patients in the emergency room. CMS also proposed that hospital staff members include patients and their caregivers in the discharge planning process, taking into account their individual goals and preferences. Discharge planning would need to start within 24 hours of admission rather than 48, and providers would also have additional follow-up responsibilities.

Want more details? Check out the January 2016 issue of Case Management Monthly for a complete list of the changes and some advice on how to comply.

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