Public Health Emergency Ends
While the PHE officially expired on May 11, 2023, the expiration date for many of its created flexibilities has been extended. Extending some concessions is helpful but leaves practices with yet another ‘expiration date’ to prepare for.
The rapid adoption of telehealth services during the pandemic has revolutionized healthcare delivery. While telehealth was initially embraced out of necessity, it has proven an effective and convenient means of providing care. Medical practices continue integrating telehealth into their services, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up visits. This shift has enhanced access to care for patients and reduced the burden on in-person visits, leading to improved efficiency and reduced wait times.
The expiration date for many of the flexibilities allowed by the PHE has been extended to December 31, 2024, including:
- Originating site and geographic restrictions to allow patients to receive telehealth services throughout the U.S., including in their homes.
- Expanded telehealth-eligible licensed providers.
- Audio-only visits covered by CMS in a similar manner as office visits.
- Expansion in the ability of FQHCs and RHCs to furnish telehealth.
- Behavioral and mental health in-person requirements waived.
The expiration date for two significant flexibilities has been extended, but not for nearly as long.
- Per CMS, payment rates for telehealth services provided in an office setting will still be paid at the higher non-facility rate through December 31, 2023.
- HIPAA penalties for the technology used to furnish telehealth services have been waived, but this concession will end on August 9, 2023.
State Specific Impacts
Each state’s licensure requirements to furnish telehealth services have either already been tightened or tied to the end of the PHE. It is essential to understand how your state is handling this individually. We’ve provided links below, which review state-specific guidance.
- Washington: https://doh.wa.gov/public-health-healthcare-providers/telehealth/telehealth-washington-state
- California: https://www.mbc.ca.gov/Resources/Medical-Resources/telehealth.aspx
- For a comprehensive listing of requirements by state, visit:https://www.fsmb.org/siteassets/advocacy/pdf/states-waiving-licensure-requirements-for-telehealth-in-response-to-covid-19.pdf
*For comprehensive telehealth laws and reimbursement information visit The Center for Connected Health Policy. https://www.cchpca.org/resources/state-telehealth-laws-and-reimbursement-policies-report-spring-2023/ |
Revolutionize your organization!
Create your Performance Advantage℠
Innovation is the hot topic and all eyes are on how to use process automation and AI to support your practice operations. Have you considered the terms "Revolutionary Refinement"? This phrase captures the essence of both innovation and optimization, emphasizing the groundbreaking nature of the improvements while acknowledging the meticulous attention to detail in refining existing processes or products. As we near the halfway mark of the year and continue to hear the compelling arguments for adopting technology, specifically AI based tools, you should stop and ask yourself this question.
As you look to take your medical practice to new heights of success, consider conducting a workflow optimization effort as the stepping stone to truly creating practice transformation. By streamlining processes, embracing technology, and prioritizing patient care, workflow optimization can revolutionize your practice's operations and skyrocket your revenue.Creating an environment where every minute is utilized efficiently, eliminating wasted effort/process and implementing standardized procedures is the true gateway to Patient, Provider, and Staff satisfaction and retention. Financial benefits are a natural outcome of conducting a thorough workflow optimization effort. In our experience, our clients who have completed a practice assessment with the goal of optimized workflows typically realized a return on their investment of between 4 to 7 times the initial outlay, sometimes significantly more when compounding results over future years.
Workflow optimization also provides safeguards for your patients and providers through the use of standardized protocols and improved communication channels. Thus minimizing legal risks and liabilities that are perhaps not yet incurred by the practice.
Don't simply refine your workflows, revolutionize your organization. Let us help you to embrace workflow optimization and witness the incredible benefits it brings – operational excellence, improved patient care, and financial prosperity. Join the ranks of highly successful practices and unlock the true potential of your business. Contact us today to start your journey to greater success!
V2V is here to help
Lets Connect:
Irv Barnett, Founder: [email protected] 208-717-3941
Michelle Wier, Founder: [email protected] 208-717-3943
Disclaimer: V2V Management Solutions is a healthcare consulting firm. We are not licensed attorneys or certified public accountants. This guide is not intended to replace legal or financial advice from your trusted resources. Before acting on any information provided, check with the appropriate legal or financial team. Healthcare is a constantly evolving landscape; be sure to research for the most current information. The provided content consists of key takeaways on information published in the above referenced articles, facts sheets, and our personal/professional experiences in healthcare management.
