Are you ready for the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM)?
This new model bases payment on a patient’s medical complexity and clinical outcomes, rather than the previous model based on therapy minutes.
This change affects skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).
Speech-language pathology services have in important role in determining payment. Under PDPM, combinations of patient characteristics produce 12 SLP case-mix groups that lead to additional payments.
Dispelling the myths and getting to know the facts is key to helping SLPs adjust to the new payment system.
Myth: PDPM changes patients’ access to care and care needs.
Fact: The coverage criteria and regulations for accessing skilled care stay the same under PDPM.
Myth: Minimum Data Set (MDS) coding is solely the job of the MDS coordinator.
Fact: Several MDS sections will directly affect reimbursement for speech-language services. SLPs should ensure accurate coding for patients needing their care through collaborative communication with the interprofessional team at their senior care community.
Myth: PDPM will result in reduced volume of speech-language services.
Fact: PDPM should not change clinical practice. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will monitor and audit provider practice during PDPM implementation.
Myth: SLPs have to research and learn about changes independently.
Fact: Infinity Rehab is supporting their customers and employees with the PDPM transition. Our approach is to provide confidence to be prepared, develop an individualized strategy to meet your market, and identity clinical and operational opportunities for your business to thrive during this industry change.
We are helping our teams and customers prepare for this change through in-person trainings and online resources, including an upcoming video series.
You can also find other resources from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and CMS.
Find out more at ASHA Connect
Find out more about PDPM and how it affects SLPs in a panel discussion with leadership across four rehabilitation companies at ASHA Health Care Connect.
Our very own Stacey Turner, Vice President of Operations for Infinity Rehab, will participate on one of the panels: Speak Up! Changing the Conversation of the Value of SLP Services in the Post-Acute Care Spectrum. This panel takes place July 20 at 2 p.m.
Join us July 19-21 in Chicago, Illinois.
REGISTER TODAY
Final thoughts
PDPM is a major payment change, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.