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June 5, 2008
 Medicare & Medicaid Programs: Hospice Conditions of Participation;
Final Rule
On June 3, 2008, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
(CMS) released final rules on the rights of Medicare hospice patients.
Hospice providers will have 180 days before the rule becomes effective.
The final rule includes the following changes:
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Assessments Initial patient assessments must
take place within 48 hours of choosing hospice. A comprehensive
assessment must occur within five days of electing hospice. Updated
assessments must take place at least every 15 days.
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Medication profile Profiles must examine
effectiveness of current drug therapies, potential interactions, and side
effects. The treatment team must consult with a qualified individual such
as a pharmacist to complete the profile.
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Permission granted for hospice providers to
contract with another Medicare-certified hospice for nursing, medical
social services, and counseling services under extraordinary or other
non-routine circumstances, including travel of a patient outside of the
hospices service area.
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