The Center for Medicare Advocacy has changed its policy for homebound patients. As of November 19, 2013, however, CMS will require Medicare beneficiaries to meet two sets of criteria before their home health agency even considers whether they have an ordinary inability to leave home. Medicare only covers home healthcare if, among other requirements, the beneficiary is homebound. The new policy states the patient must meet two criteria with subfield stipulations:
1. The patient must either:
- Due to illness or injury, need the aid of supportive devices such as crutches, canes, wheelchairs, and walkers; the use of special transportation; or the assistance of another person in order to leave their place of residence
- Have a condition such that leaving his or her home is medically contraindicated.
2. The patient must meet one of these criteria and also meet both of the following:
-There must exist a normal inability to leave home;
-Leaving home must require a considerable and taxing effort.
For more information about this new policy please reference the CMS website: http://naela.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNjIxNzY1JnA9MSZ1PTEwMjQyMTAzMjYmbGk9MTk5MjMxMDQ/index.html