It’s been a busy month! We’ve been working hard to improve our online presence and accessibility so that we can keep you better informed about news and healthcare policy changes that impact you.
In this newsletter, we’d like to focus on some upcoming changes that will impact all FQHCs. Last month, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) tabled some proposed payment changes for 2018, which if finalized, will offer new revenue streams, and last week HRSA launched its new 340B information system.
Are you ready? This is the perfect time to review your existing revenue cycle management processes, 340B procedures and service offerings to ensure that you’re prepared, and able to take full advantage of any increased benefits as they become available.
Don’t have the time or resources? We can help! Contact us to find out how.
Last month, we updated you on our brand refresh activities and we’re excited to announce the launch of our new website!
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New 340B database is live!
Last week, HRSA launched the new 340B Office of Pharmacy Affairs Information System (OPAIS), which replaces its legacy 340B database. The integrated system includes both registration and pricing components, and provides enhanced security features, user defined access, and improved efficiency.
The registration system is available now, while the roll-out date for the pricing system has not yet been confirmed.
What does this mean for you? One major enhancement is that you can now manage your own 340B record. To do this, your Authorizing Official (AO) and Primary Contact (PC) will need to create a secure User Account and login to access the data.
To learn more about the new system, visit HRSA’s website.
Proposed 2018 CMS changes
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has proposed a rule for the 2018 Medicare physician fee schedule that will provide payment to FQHCs for both regular and complex chronic care management services, plus introduce payment for general behavioral health integration services and psychiatric collaborative care model services.
If finalized as proposed, two new billing codes will be created for FQHC payment, and will take effect from January 1, 2018. For more details, click here to read the CMS briefing.
The final rule is expected to be published around November 1st. If implemented, the rule will provide new revenue stream opportunities from January 2018. Are you ready to take advantage of these benefits??
