HHS released three provider letters in July, 2019. The are as follows:
On July 3, 2019 HHS released PL 19-16 regarding Responsibility for Records after a Management Change. The letter applies to Assisted Living Facility (ALF), Day Activity and Health
Services (DAHS) Facility, Home and Community Support Services Agency, (HCSSA), Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID), Nursing Facility (NF), and Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Center (PPECC). The purpose is to address the fact that LTC surveyors are frequently learning that required records are missing or not accessible after a change in management company. Providers should have a process for such changes to avoid citation when a new company takes over management.
On July 10, 2019, HHS released PL 19-17 replacing 17-18 entitled Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation, Misappropriation of Resident Property and Other Incidents that a Nursing Facility (NF) Must Report to the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). It applies to Nursing Facilities. It updates F-tag numbers and incorporates new federal requirements with definitions and guidance regarding reportable incidents. It also adds 2 attachments.
Finally, HHS released PL 19-18 entitled Status of an Active License During a Renewal Process. It applies to Assisted Living Facility (ALF), Day Activity and Health
Services (DAHS) Facility, Home and Community Support Services Agency, (HCSSA), Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID), Nursing Facility (NF), and Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Center (PPECC). It provides clarification of the ” circumstances of an active license that extends beyond the expiration date printed on the license for ALF, DAHS, HCSSA, ICF/IID, NF and PPECC providers undergoing a license renewal or an enforcement action at the time of a license renewal.”
