CMS Grants Hospice Providers Grace Period for New Compliance Requirement
CMS Grants Hospice Providers Grace Period for New Compliance Requirement
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced a grace period through December 31, 2026, for hospice providers adjusting to new election statement addendum requirements.
Effective October 1, hospices must provide all new patients with an addendum outlining services, medications, and items not covered under the Medicare Hospice Benefit. During the grace period, claims will not be denied solely because the addendum is missing or incomplete.
“During this time, Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) will not deny claims solely because the addendum is missing or incomplete,” CMS stated.
For hospice administrators, this grace period provides an opportunity to update documentation procedures, train staff, and ensure compliance before stricter enforcement begins in January 2027.
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