Article by:  Sheena Mattingly, HTS Clinical Specialist

Speech Therapy’s role is going to become exceedingly important under PDPM. This is due to the change in reimbursement which will be focused on patient characteristics rather than therapy minutes. Here are the top 5 things you need to know:

  1. Medical complexity and clinical outcomes are the basis for the new patient-driven payment model (PDPM). SLPs will play an important role in determining SNF payment which will require system optimization for timeliness in order to code the most accurate information.
  2. PDPM does not change coverage criteria for skilled care. SNF care is still only covered if all four of the following are met:
    • SNF or skilled rehab services are required to be performed by or under the supervision of professional or technical personnel and is ordered by a physician for the condition which the patient received inpatient hospital services.
    • Skilled services are required daily.
    • Daily skilled services can only be provided on an inpatient basis in a SNF.
    • Services delivered are consistent with the nature of the severity of the illness or injury, medical needs, and accepted standards of medical practice, and are reasonable in duration and quantity.
  3. Understanding the components related to the payment model will help with adjustment to the new system. The need for ST is related to the presence of a swallowing disorder, a mechanically altered diet, a ST comorbidity related, and/or cognitive impairment. Combinations of these characteristics produce 12 ST case-mix groups. Our data analytics have observed a trend in need for optimization especially in section K of the MDS. For this reason, we have created tools and resources to help your SLP, dietician, and nursing staff code section K. Please contact us today for more information!
  4. Sections B, C, K, and I are crucial for accurate coding for the ST reimbursement component. Check out our 5 Day Assessment Tool to optimize IDT communication to improve your coding.
  5. CMS will monitor provider practice during PDPM implementation to audit changes in volume and intensity of therapy services, compliance with group and concurrent therapy limit, and coding practices.

Registration NOW OPEN!

We are committed to supporting our partners by offering exclusive PDPM webinar and live trainings in critical areas to foster success as we “Power through PDPM.” Not a partner? Contact us to learn how we’re providing even more value to our partners

 

Supercharge Your MDS:  6-Part Webinar Series

June 14 — Determining Clinical Category & Care Planning for the Complex Resident
June 19 — PDPM: SLP Component & Accurate Reporting of SLP Comorbidities
June 26 — PDPM: NTA Component & Comorbidities
July 10 — PDPM: Section GG & Functional Scoring
July 17 — PDPM: Best Practices for 5-day & IPA Data
July 24 — Transitioning to PDPM & Ensuring Billing Accuracy

New!

July 31 — Supportive Documentation for SNF Level of Care Under PDPM

Physical activity is a vital component to maintaining overall health. According to the CDC, “Older adults can obtain significant health benefits with a moderate amount of daily physical activity. The loss of strength and stamina attributed to aging is in part caused by reduced physical activity.” Did you know walking is one of the very best exercises you can do? Walking is an activity that most everyone can take part in and can be done just about anywhere. For older adults, the World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly. Walking has many health benefits as it can help prevent coronary heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improve circulation! Below are recommendations that can assist you in developing your own walking program. Always make sure to consult with your physician before beginning any new exercise routine.

Getting Started:

  • Doctor’s permission
  • Good pair of walking shoes
  • Safe place to walk
  • Walking buddy
  • Water bottle

Warm up your muscles to avoid stiffness and to reduce the risk of injury. Try flexibility exercises such as heel and toe raises.

Walk at a speed in which you feel comfortable. Start slow and gradually increase as tolerated. Walking should be continuous
and rhythmic. Pay attention to your posture, hold your head up, eyes forward and walk tall!

Stay Hydrated! Drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise.

Cool down after walking to return your body to its “resting state” and reduce risk of muscle soreness. Try stretching exercises such as a seated arm reach and piriformis stretch.


If you are having trouble standing, walking or moving around, physical therapy can help. Physical therapy can improve mobility and strength, and manage or eliminate pain. Talk to your doctor about any challenges you’re having and if physical therapy can help your condition.