CMS continues to emphasize readmissions as a marker of quality.  CMS research shows that approximately 45% of hospital admissions among those receiving either Medicare skilled nursing services or Medicaid skilled nursing services could have been avoided.  Husch Blackwell attorneys Mark Chouteau and Michael Crowe recently authored an article in the October issue of AHLA Connections that reviewed CMS initiatives to promote coordination across the acute- and post-acute care spectrum.  The article discusses the following initiatives:

  • CMS’ Initiative to Reduce Avoidable Hospitalizations Among Nursing Facility Residents;
  • Transitional Care Management Codes; and
  • Accountable Care Organizations.

The article also addresses key legal issues that arise when providers collaborate such as HIPAA/HITECH Act and fraud and abuse laws.

To read the article, click here.