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Update: Nursing Facility MDS Authorization Extensions Guidance to Nursing Facility Providers

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The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is informing nursing facilities that HHSC is extending nursing facility minimum data set (MDS) assessment authorizations expiring through December 31, 2020, for 90 days. This is an update from previous guidance informing nursing facilities of an extension through November 30, 2020.

Additional Information

Nursing facility eligibility, medical necessity, and the current Resource Utilization Groups (RUG) level will be extended for 90 days for those residents who would otherwise have an eligibility lapse, or until the MDS is completed, whichever is sooner. The daily Service Authorization System (SAS) files from HHSC will reflect this extension on a monthly basis. It is vitally important that each facility conduct MDS assessments as soon as feasible to receive payment per the assessed RUG level.

For more information, call the TMHP Long-Term Care Help Desk at 800-626-4117, Option 1.