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CMS-1403-FC
there exists a vast array of differing levels of physician
involvement in the certification and recertification of
home health POCs. We continue to believe that the active
involvement of the physician (to include “in-person”
contact with the patient) in the certification,
recertification, and review of the home health POC is
essential for delivery of high quality home health services
to Medicare beneficiaries.
To that end, we offered different policy options and
solicited the public for comment on those options in an
effort to gather more information on this issue, and any
other possible underlying issues that may exist.
response.
The following is a summary of the comments and our
Comment: Most commenters suggested that we leave our
current policies and payment to physicians unchanged, at
least until the further analysis is completed. To that
end, it was suggested by commenters that we continue to
study the role of the physician in home care and determine
which factors enhance a physician’s ability to conduct
oversight activities, ensure appropriateness of care, and
work collaboratively with home health agencies without
further burdening Medicare beneficiaries. Commenters urged
CMS to engage with industry organizations that represent
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