certifiation recerts

When I was the PPS MDS coordinator, it was MY job to make sure all the certs were signed. I had them in a binder separated by doctor on the sub acute unit. Any time a doc was in the building, I would be notified. I'd grab the binder, chase the doc down and get the certs signed.

We have a folder in place for each Dr. After several years, we finally have the Dr's trained to grab their folder and sign stuff during each visit.

It was also my job as MDS coordinator to ensure this was kept track of and signed as needed.

We also had a coorporate form that was attached "delayed Certification" where the Dr. was required to sign if the original certification was signed late.

pretty much if you miss a form at least in texas they will not pay you for that stay. I like the others as soon as we get a new medicare in I get the paper in a folder to the docs to sign (because our doctors hardly ever come to the facility) so crazy? huh...

I delegate to Medical Records. she gets the initial cert on admission, and brings me all the certs for the week on Monday. I check the dates and fill in the necessary info, and she gets them signed. Most companies I've worked for if you have a late cert, you just get it signed when you catch it. One doc signed a cert yesterday for a patient that was here over three months ago. He signed it with the date that he signed it. This is one situation where better late than never.

The fact is, it is different in every building. I have been in buildings where medical records was responsible. I am currently employed as a PPS Coorinator and it is my job. As far as them being late, there is a place on the certification to explain why it was late. Put your blurb in there. If there is no reason, no good reason anyhow, you cannot legally bill medicare.