New Hospice CoPs Delayed

Providers will be frustrated that the long-anticipated updated Hospice Conditions of Participation have been delayed.  Today, CMS extended the publication date for the new CoPs until May 27, 2009.  May 27, 2008 was the original deadline for their publication.  However, CMS noted that more time was needed due to the complexity of the regulations and the fact that they are an overhaul of outdated regulations which were originally established in 1983. Nonetheless, providers have a general idea of what the final rule will say, and it is still expected to be released soon.  Let's hope so, as many of us are already registered for national seminars in the next few months to familiarize ourselves with the new regulations!