In light of recent developments regarding the CMS Medicaid proposal and its potential impact on in-home care providers, Optonome reaffirms its commitment to addressing the challenges faced by home and community health agencies.
The proposed CMS rule, often referred to as the 80/20 rule, aims to establish national maximum standards for certain appointment wait times, conduct independent secret shopper surveys, and improve the HCBS Quality Measure Set. Additionally, it mandates that at least 80% of Medicaid payments for personal care and home health aide services be spent on compensation for direct care workers.
While the intentions behind this proposal are commendable, some industry experts, including Dave Totaro, Chief Government Affairs Officer at Bayada Home Health Care, have raised concerns about its potential unintended consequences.
According to Totaro, the non-uniformity of state program requirements and reimbursement rates could pose challenges. Several industry leaders expressed similar concerns in over 2,100 comments during the public comment window.
As the rule’s finalization approaches, home and community-based care providers must adapt to potential changes in the industry landscape. Tim Hanold, CEO of Care Advantage, emphasized the need for scalability, consistent reimbursement, and operational efficiency to navigate these shifts effectively.
Optonome recognizes the industry’s need for solutions that empower both clinicians and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). With its technology-driven approach, the company streamlines administrative processes, reduces overhead costs, and ensures that DSPs receive the compensation they deserve.
Unlike many agencies driven solely by profit, Optonome is dedicated to supporting DSPs, allowing funds to flow directly to caregivers. By providing mentorship and a community of peers, Optonome helps clinicians become successful agency owners while maintaining high care standards.
In response to regulatory changes, Optonome offers training and guidance to ensure agencies remain compliant with evolving healthcare laws and standards.
In a recent statement, Optonome highlighted its commitment to addressing industry challenges, stating, “We believe in the potential of clinicians and care providers to make a difference in their communities. Our mission is to empower them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in an evolving healthcare landscape.”
As the healthcare industry faces ongoing changes, Optonome remains at the forefront, providing innovative solutions and support to home and community health agencies.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact:
Optonome Team: team@optonome.com
Website: [www.optonome.com]
