As stated in previous posts, I'm new to home health, work for a new agency that's owned by a friend and in the process of getting ready for its first state & medicare survey. So, if some of my questions seems fundamental, please exercise some patience.
I have a patient who has not been seen for the past 2 weeks. Every attempt at visits is unsuccessful because the patient is not home. I've left several messages and finally spoke with the patient yesterday, she says she is visiting her daughter and will not be home for the next 6 weeks.
Have you experience a situation like this in the past? If so, how was it handle?
Does CMS address this issue in their rules/regulations? if so, where can I find the information.
Additionally, is it appropriate to discharge this pt and readmit upon her return? If so, what would be the reason or justification.
