Branch Identification Numbers

2182.5 - Branch Identification Numbers (Rev 125, Issued: 10-31-14, Effective: 10-31-14, Implementation: 10-31-14) CMS assigns an identification number to every Medicare approved HHA branch (of either a parent or subunit). The identification system uniquely identifies every branch of every HHA certified to participate in the Medicare home health program. It also links the parent or subunit to the branch. Having a system to identify branches gives CMS the capability of associating quality outcome results with individual HHA branches. Also, submission of branch identification numbers on Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) assessments provides the capability of developing outcome reports that will help HHAs differentiate and monitor the quality of care delivered by their agencies down to the branch level. ROs are responsible for assigning branch identification numbers according to the RO’s existing policies and HHAs and their respective branches are informed of their assigned branch identification number(s). A sample letter is available at Exhibit 290. HHAs will need to enter this branch identification number on OASIS item M0016 (Branch ID). Detailed instructions for completion of M0016 by parent HHAs, subunits, branches, and HHAs and subunits without branches are included in M0016 Branch ID in Chapter 3 of the OASIS Guidance Manual. Each branch is numbered with the same Federally assigned CCN as the parent or subunit with two modifications. There is a “Q” between the state code and four-digit provider designation plus three more digits for a 10-character branch identifier. Branch identification numbers are to be used only once. In the event that an HHA branch closes, its unique branch identification number is terminated and not re-used to identify another branch of that HHA or subunit. EXAMPLE: ABC Home Health Agency in Alabama has three branches. ABC Home Health Agency in Alabama = CCN number 017001. ABC’s branches would be assigned the branch identification numbers 01Q7001001, 01Q7001002, and 01Q7001003. Collection Of Branch Information During Survey The Form CMS-1572, the Home Health Agency Survey and Deficiencies Report, captures survey and deficiency information and requests branch information at field G17 that includes the HHA’s total number of branches and name and address of each branch location. This information should be entered into ASPEN after every survey as part of the survey kit. As surveys are conducted, SAs should verify that the information they have on branch locations is current and accurate. Branch Identification Numbers and MACs The RO notifies the MACs of the branch identification information when it is assigned. This communication may occur electronically or through a written letter to the provider.