Medicare reimbursement in home care

Denials for Medicare coverage are costly both to the HHA and the patient's rehabilitation. To decrease the number of denials and increase reimbursement from intermediaries and overall agency income, staff members as well as agency administration must have a solid understanding of the Medicare guidelines for reimbursement. In addition, general writing skills must be fine-tuned to accentuate adherence to the guidelines. It is the responsibility of the HHA and the individual therapist to provide a clear picture of the services provided to each patient to those who review documentation of care. This clear picture of necessary skilled service will improve use of occupational therapy services.