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The Hospice Final Rule 2026 - What Hospice Providers Need to Know
Manage episode 505629520 series 3401731
The FY2026 Hospice Final Rule brings positive changes with a 2.6% payment increase and significant regulatory clarifications that reduce administrative burden for providers nationwide. Jennifer Kennedy and Kim Skian discuss critical updates affecting hospice operations, with special focus on the imminent HOPE assessment implementation.
• 2.6% national payment increase for hospices with cap amount set at $34,465.34
• Regulatory clarification allowing any physician member of the IDG to complete certification of terminal illness
• Face-to-face attestation requirements simplified, eliminating need for separate documentation
• HOPE implementation confirmed for October 1st with data submission through iKeys system
• 90% compliance threshold remains in effect with potential 4% payment reduction for non-compliance
• Final date for HIS corrections is February 5, 2026
• CMS holding on decisions regarding interoperability and deregulation requests
Providers should evaluate the financial impact of wage index changes, update policies to align with regulatory modifications, and ensure readiness for HOPE implementation through comprehensive staff training.
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Chapters
1. The Hospice Final Rule 2026 - What Hospice Providers Need to Know (00:00:00)
2. Welcome and Introduction (00:00:15)
3. 2026 Payment Update for Hospice (00:02:12)
4. Regulatory Text Updates and Clarifications (00:04:23)
5. HOPE Assessment Implementation Timeline (00:09:38)
6. RFIs and Final Recommendations (00:14:26)
7. Provider Next Steps and Closing (00:19:31)
47 episodes
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