HHA Change of Address

2185 – HHA Change of Address (Rev. 146, Issued: 09-04-15, Effective: 09-04-15, Implementation: 09-04-15) It is inherent in the provider certification process that a provider notifies CMS of its intent to change the location or site from which it provides services. Absent such notification, CMS has no way of carrying out its statutorily mandated obligation of determining whether the provider is complying with applicable participation requirements at the new site or location. It is longstanding CMS policy that there is no basis for a provider to bill Medicare for services provided from a site or location that has not been determined to meet applicable requirements of participation. This guidance is contained in §3224. When an existing HHA intends to move from its surveyed and certified location to a new site or location that is within the current approved geographic area, it notifies its MAC within 90 days of the move, and submits all required documentation including an amended Form CMS -855A. The RHHI reviews the form and makes a recommendation to the RO. The RO then makes the final decision to approve the change of location. The provider notifies CMS either directly or through the SA, and, if it is a provider deemed to meet the requirements, it notifies its AO, in writing of the change of location. Upon receipt of the MAC’s approval notice, the RO will carefully evaluate the information, together with any supporting documentation from the provider and any other relevant information known to the RO in making its decision. If a decision can be made on the written application and supporting documentation, CMS may grant or deny an approval without requiring an onsite survey. See §2702B regarding when a resurvey is necessary based on change of a provider’s size or location. CMS generally will not approve a change of location of an HHA with one or more previously approved branches if the new location increases the distance between the parent HHA and its previously approved branch(es) to a point that prevents the HHA from exerting the supervision and control necessary to assure the provision of quality care for the patients served by the branch. If the location change is not approved, the provider may consider applying for a new provider number at the new location. CMS will consider the information contained in section 2182.4B in its assessment of the parent’s ability to supervise the branch before approving or denying the request.