Contracting for Core Services

40.4.1 - Contracting for Core Services (Rev. 141, Issued: 03-02-11, Effective: 01-01-11: Implementation: 03-23-11) A hospice may use contracted staff, if necessary, to supplement hospice employees in order to meet the needs of patients under extraordinary or other non-routine circumstances. Arrangements made by a hospice to furnish items or services must be such that receipt of payment by the hospice for the services relieves the beneficiary of liability or any other persons to pay for the services. Whether the services and items are furnished by the hospice itself or by another organization under arrangements made by the hospice, both must agree not to charge the patient for covered services and items and must agree to return money incorrectly collected. A hospice that has a written agreement with another agency, individual, or organization to furnish any services under arrangement must retain administrative and financial management, and oversight of staff and services for all arranged services, to ensure the provision of quality care. Arranged services must be supported by written agreements that require that all services be-- (1) Authorized by the hospice; (2) Furnished in a safe and effective manner by qualified personnel; and (3) Delivered in accordance with the patient's plan of care.