Attention All Billing Personnel:

In CY 2015, Medicare implemented transitional CBSA codes and rates for certain counties.  For episodes ending in 2015 or after, HAS began calculating the Rural Add On amount based on CBSAs starting with ‘999’ as well as ’50.’  It has recently come to light that a small number of ‘50’ CBSAs are designated as urban (not rural) and the Add On amount should not be included.  We have made a program change to address this issue and it will be included in the next release slated for release this week.  In the meantime, it is important that you check your CBSA code setup and confirm whether or not your agency qualifies for the rural add on (reference attachment ‘CY 2015 Final Wage Index.CSV’).

If you previously had a rural CBSA for 2014 (code starting with ‘999’), make sure your 2014 CBSA codes and rates are loaded and correct (reference attachment HH PPS Wage Index CY2014_2.CSV).

To view or update CBSA codes and rates in HAS:

Go to File > File Maintenance > Category.  Click ‘Change Type’ and set to County.  Select the county and click the ‘Rate’ tab.  Click the ‘+’ button to add a new rate or code, or edit the existing rate or code if they differ from the referenced spreadsheets.

It’s important to note that as long as you are submitting the correct CBSA CMS will pay you correctly. It’s just the A/R in HAS that will be off slightly and a payment adjustment will correct your receivable record.

As always, if you need assistance please don’t hesitate to contact HAS Support.



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