January 12, 2021

DOH Monthly Briefing – January 2021

DOH held its Monthly Briefing earlier today. The following summarizes the topics discussed:  January 1, 2020 Rates (Revised) The revised 1/1/20 rates, which will contain the updated case mix reflecting the 7/31/19 census picture date, are moving through executive review. Once the 1/1/20 rates are approved, the 4/1/20 rates will automatically be updated as well as for case mix. July 1, 2020 Rates The 7/1/20 rates will be finalized now that the January 2020 MDS collection process has been completed. The goal is to release the 7/1/20 rates by the end of the state fiscal year (3/31/21). January 1, 2021 Rates  There were no updates regarding revisions to the initial 1/1/21 rates. DOH was uncertain when the July 2020 MDS submission process would begin, which would affect the case mix adjustment to the 1/1/21 rates. Since the above noted 7/1/20 rates will be the priority during first quarter 2021, the revised 1/1/21 rates most likely will be delayed until at least the second quarter 2021.  Additional 1% Restoration DOH is working to advance the State Plan Amendment for the additional 1% restoration. A financing package has been sent to DOB for their approval. Upon approval, funding would be via a lump-sum payment vs. rate adjustment. NYSHFA will provide further details once DOH finalizes the payment methodology. Advance Training Initiative (ATI) NYSHFA once again requested information with respect to future ATI funding opportunities. The ATI training initiative survey package is being finalized which will call for training proposals as in previous years. DOH is expected to release a DAL to providers that qualify for ATI funding within the next week or so, and indicated there will be a short turnaround time allowed for eligible providers to complete their training survey. NYSHFA has also requested a facility-specific data summary of eligible providers, which DOH agreed to provide. 2% Quality Penalty (QP) The 2% QP is moving through DOB, however, no timetable was given with respect to issuance. Once finalized, those providers affected will see an adjustment retroactive to their 1/1/20 rates. OMIG MDS Audits OMIG confirmed that the 2016 MDS audits are now complete. OMIG has a majority of 2017 MDS audits near completion (i.e., exit interview stage) as well as a number of facilities either under way or pending notification. NYSHFA/NYSCAL CONTACTS: Carl J. Pucci Chief Financial Officer 518-462-4800 x36  
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