On Tuesday, May 5, 2020 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, the Department of Health Office of Health Insurance Programs will host a webinar to review Comprehensive Guidance Regarding Use of Telehealth including Telephonic Services During the COVID-19 State of Emergency. You can  register for the webinar here .

This webinar will provide an overview of the guidance and cover frequently asked questions. Additional questions will be addressed by webinar participants, as time permits. A recording of the webinar will be also made available on the Department's website.

Billing for Services Delivered 

As we reported to the Executive Directors, the 80% Phase II retainer payment rate is delayed. In the meantime, Chapters should continue to bill for actual services  provided, such as Day Habilitaion  in IRAs for individuals enrolled in the Chapter's Day Habilitation program. Billing and documentation should be conducted in accordance with the Day Habilitation billing guidance. Do not wait to bill for these services, as this will be a critical source of cash flow until retainer payments for the period beginning April 16 can be developed and approved.

Other services being provided, such as services to individuals living at home with family, should also be billed and documented in accordance with the applicable billing guidance for Community Habilitation or Prevocational Services. Once retainer payments are approved, it is possible that combined revenue might actually exceed 100 percent, which would need to be addressed. However, cash flow is critical, and we advise not to wait to bill for actual services being provided and documented.  If you have questions, please contact John Kemmer. 

NYDA Federal Funding Call to Action and COVID-19 Proposals

New York Disability Advocates (NYDA) released a change.org petition calling on the Federal Government to deliver additional funding to the State of New York to offset the revenue shortfalls caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can read the request and add your name to the call here. NYDA has also developed a 

proposal 

for a comprehensive COVID-19 Infection Prevention Program for I/DD Service Providers, as well as proposed COVID-19 emergency room discharge protocols and hospitalization discharge protocols for people who live in residential programs certified by the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). 

COVID-19 Cyber Threat Resources

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) published several cyber threat resources for healthcare providers. A summary with links to the available resources can be found here. Please share this with you Chapter IT staff and those involved in HIPAA and HITECH security.