Under the
COVID-19 AHCCCS FAQ
listed on the AHCCCS website, under
H
EALTH PLANS & AHCCCS FEE FOR SERVICE PROGRAMS (AIHP, TRBHAs and TRIBAL ALTCS) GENERAL GUIDANCE,
it states:
Question 7: Will AHCCCS release rules that allow SNF-based dialysis instead of only free standing dialysis centers?
Answer:
AHCCCS is adopting CMS guidance for dialysis treatment for the duration of the COVID emergency. CMS is waiving the requirement that dialysis facilities have to provide services directly on its main premises or on other premises that are contiguous with the main premises. Dialysis facilities may enter nursing home/skilled nursing home facilities to provide dialysis service to its patients in those settings in order to limit community exposure. CMS continues to require that services provided to these nursing home residents are under the direction of the same governing body and professional staff as the resident’s usual Medicare-certified dialysis facility. Further, in order to ensure that care is safe, effective and is provided by trained and qualified personnel, CMS requires that the dialysis facility staff: furnish all dialysis care and services, provide all equipment and supplies necessary, maintain equipment and supplies in the nursing home, and complete all equipment maintenance, cleaning and disinfection using appropriate infection control procedures and manufacturer’s instructions for use. Dialysis services delivered in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility should continue to be billed to Medicare as appropriate for dual eligible members. (This question was added on 4/17/2020 under the AHCCCS FAQ.)
Mercy Care follows both the CMS and AHCCCS guidelines regarding this.
Thanks for all you do!
