CMS POSTS UPDATED PDPM INFORMATION

Last Friday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) posted the final version of the SNF-PDPM Grouper DLL with its source code located here.

Today’s posting comprises the software and source coding for the information technology (IT) vendors.   The Grouper noted is not (emphasis added) the GROUPER software needed by skilled nursing facilities.  The terminology in several emails about CMS’ posting has resulted in some confusion.

In regard to the IT-related postings, if you are in dialogue with your IT vendors or your members are in such dialogues, note that:

• DLL interface has NOT changed since the beta version posted in July; and
• CMS has not posted needed written guidance nor answers to an array of questions submitted by IT vendors.

CMS indicated that the narrative information noted, above, and test files will be provided in a separate posting at a later date – most likely next week.  Based on previously AHCA transmitted information (see email below), the IT narrative guidance and related Q&A also likely is stalled in Azar v. Allina review (see below) within DHHS along with the SNF Billing and Claims Manual Updates.

The SNF GROUPER and related PRICER are likely to be released in the near future.

The American Health Care Association (AHCA) has contacted CMS at an array of levels impressing upon officials the need for the SNF materials to be released as soon as possible.  Updates will be provided as we learn more from CMS and our sister associations.  Please contact us at pdpm@ahca.org with questions or you may contact CMS directly at pdpm@cms.hhs.org.