News: CMS invites comments on CC/MCC severity level designations

CMS plans to hold a call to discuss the MS-DRG CC/MCC comprehensive analysis discussed in the fiscal year (FY) 2020 inpatient prospective payment system (IPPS) proposed and final rules on Tuesday, October 8, 2-3 p.m. eastern.

The call will include a review of the method used to determine severity levels and give the public an opportunity to provide feedback on the analysis process and ask any lingering questions. The aim of this call is to help the public formulate written comments on the current severity designations under consideration for FY 2021 rulemaking (as outlined in the FY 2020 final rule), according to CMS.

Written comments for 2021 rulemaking should be submitted by November 1, 2019, to MSDRGclassificationchange@cms.hhs.gov. Comments made during Tuesday’s call do not substitute for formal comments.

ACDIS encourages its members to dial into the call and offer CMS constructive, thoughtful commentary on suggestions for improving the MS-DRG system. ACDIS membership participation in the process is critical to ensure that the healthcare organizations CDI specialists serve receive proper reimbursement for treatment of their patients.

Those interested in joining the call should dial in 15 minutes early using the following dial in instructions:

• Number: 1-888-455-1397
• Passcode: 4676500

Editor’s note: To subscribe to future updates and invitations to CMS Open Door Forum calls, click here. To read about the FY 2020 IPPS proposed rule, click here; to read about the final rule, click here.