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This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 5160-44 | Home and Community-Based Care

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 5160-44-01 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: home and community-based settings.
 

(A) Individuals receiving home and community-based services (HCBS) through either an Ohio department of medicaid (ODM) or Ohio department of aging (ODA) -administered waiver program authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act (as in effect on January 1, 2023) or the Ohio medicaid state plan authorized under section 1915(i) of the Social Security Act (as in effect on January 1, 2023) have to reside in and/or receive HCBS in a private residence or another setting that meets the home and community-based setting requirements set forth in this rule.

(1) A private residence is presumed to be a home and community-based setting provided it meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (B) of this rule. For the purposes of this rule, provider owned or controlled settings are not private residences.

(2) Home and community-based settings do not include any of the following:

(a) A nursing facility;

(b) An institution for mental diseases;

(c) An intermediate care facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities;

(d) A hospital;

(e) A psychiatric residential treatment facility; or

(f) Any other locations as determined by the ODM or its designee.

(B) Home and community-based settings will have all of the following characteristics, and such other characteristics as the secretary of the U.S. department of health and human services determines to be appropriate, based on the needs of the individual as indicated in their person-centered services plan:

(1) The setting is integrated in and supports full access of individuals receiving medicaid HCBS to the greater community, including opportunities to seek employment and work in competitive integrated settings, engage in community life, control personal resources and receive services in the community, to the same degree of access as individuals not receiving services through the ODM or ODA-administered waiver programs authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act (as in effect on January 1, 2023) or Ohio medicaid state plan authorized under section 1915(i) of the Social Security Act (as in effect on January 1, 2023).

(2) The setting is selected by the individual from among setting options, including non-disability specific settings and an option for a private unit in a residential setting.

(a) The setting options are identified and documented in the person-centered services plan and are based on the individual's needs, preferences, and for residential settings, resources available for room and board.

(b) For the purposes of this rule, non-disability specific setting means a home and community-based setting that is not limited to same or similar types of disabilities, or any disabilities at all.

(3) The setting ensures an individual's rights of privacy, dignity and respect, and freedom from coercion and restraint.

(4) The setting optimizes, but does not regiment, individual initiative, autonomy and independence in making life choices, including but not limited to, daily activities, physical environment and with whom to interact.

(5) The setting facilitates individual choice regarding services and supports, and who provides them.

(C) In addition to the characteristics set forth in paragraph (B) of this rule, in a provider-owned or controlled residential setting, the following additional conditions will be met, consistent with the individual's person-centered services plan.

(1) The individual's unit or dwelling is a specific physical place that can be rented or occupied under either:

(a) A legally enforceable agreement between the individual receiving services, and the owner of the dwelling pursuant to Chapter 5321. of the Revised Code.

(b) For settings in which Chapter 5321. of the Revised Code does not apply, a lease, residency agreement or other legally enforceable agreement in effect for the individual which provides protections that address eviction processes and appeals comparable to those provided under Chapter 5321. and Chapter 1923. of the Revised Code. The agreement will:

(i) Specify the responsibilities of the individual and the home and community-based setting;

(ii) Specify the circumstances under which the individual would be required to relocate, resulting in the termination of the agreement;

(iii) Address the steps an individual will follow in order to request a review and/or appeal of the transfer or discharge from the setting that results in termination of the agreement; and

(iv) Permit the additional conditions set forth in paragraphs (C)(2) to (C)(5) of this rule unless modified in the individual's person-centered services plan.

(2) The individual has privacy in their sleeping or living unit including all of the following:

(a) The unit has entrance doors lockable by the individual, with only appropriate staff having keys; and

(b) An individual sharing a unit has a choice of roommates in that setting.

(3) The individual has the freedom to furnish and decorate their sleeping or living unit within the lease or legally enforceable agreement.

(4) The individual has the freedom and support to control their own schedule and activities, and has access to food at any time.

(5) The individual is able to have visitors of their choosing at any time.

(6) The setting is physically accessible to the individual.

(D) Any modification of the additional conditions set forth in paragraphs (C)(1) to (C)(6) of this rule will be supported by a specific assessed need and justified in the individual's person-centered services plan in accordance with rule 5160-44-02 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:31 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5166.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 10/17/2020
Rule 5160-44-02 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: person-centered planning.
 

(A) Person-centered planning process.

Individuals receiving home and community-based services (HCBS) through either an Ohio department of medicaid (ODM) or Ohio department of aging (ODA) -administered waiver program authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act (as in effect on January 1, 2021) or the Ohio medicaid state plan authorized under section 1915(i) of the Social Security Act (as in effect on January 1, 2021) will lead the person-centered planning process where possible. The individual's authorized representative should have a participatory role, as needed, and as defined by the individual, unless Ohio law confers decision-making authority to the legal representative. All references to individuals include the role of the individual's authorized representative. In addition to being led by the individual receiving services and supports, the person-centered planning process shall:

(1) Include a team of people chosen by the individual.

(2) Provide necessary information and support to ensure that the individual directs the process to the maximum extent possible, and is enabled to make informed choices and decisions.

(3) Be timely and occur at times and locations of convenience to the individual.

(4) Reflect cultural considerations of the individual. The process shall be conducted by providing information in plain language and in a manner that is accessible to persons with disabilities and persons who are limited English proficient, consistent with 42 CFR 435.905(b) (as in effect October 1, 2021).

(5) Include strategies for solving conflict or disagreement within the process.

(6) Ensure that providers of HCBS for the individual, or those who have an interest in or are employed by a provider of HCBS for the individual must not provide case management, provider oversight, or develop the person-centered services plan.

(7) Offer informed choices to the individual regarding the services and supports he or she receives and from whom.

(8) Include a method for the individual to request updates to the plan as needed. The individual may request a person-centered services plan review at any time.

(B) Person-centered services plan.

(1) The person-centered services plan describes the person-centered goals, objectives and interventions selected by the individual and team to support him or her in his or her community of choice. The plan addresses the assessed needs of the individual by identifying medically-necessary services and supports provided by natural supports, medical and professional staff and community resources. The plan must:

(a) Identify the setting in which the individual resides is chosen by the individual and record the alternative home and community-based settings that were considered by the individual.

(b) Reflect the individual's strengths.

(c) Reflect the individual's preferences.

(d) Reflect clinical and support needs as identified through the assessment process.

(e) Include the individual's identified goals and desired outcomes.

(f) Identify the services and supports (paid and unpaid) that will assist the individual to achieve identified goals, and the providers of those services and supports, including natural supports and those services the individual elects to self-direct.

(g) Address any risk factors and measures in place to minimize them, when needed.

(h) Include back-up plans that meet the needs of the individual.

(i) Reflect that the setting chosen by the individual is integrated in, and supports the full access of individuals receiving medicaid HCBS to the greater community, including opportunities to seek employment and work in competitive integrated settings, engage in community life, control personal resources and receive services in the community to the same degree of access as people not receiving medicaid HCBS.

(2) The person-centered services plan contains documentation that any modification of the additional conditions for provider-owned or controlled residential settings set forth in rule 5160-44-01 of the Administrative Code must be supported by a specific assessed need and justified in the person-centered services plan. The following requirements must be documented in the person-centered services plan:

(a) Identify a specific and individualized assessed need;

(b) Document the positive interventions and supports used prior to any modifications to the person-centered services plan;

(c) Document less intrusive methods of meeting the need that have been tried but did not work;

(d) Include a clear description of the condition that is directly proportionate to the specific assessed need;

(e) Include a regular collection and review of data to measure the ongoing effectiveness of the modification;

(f) Include established time limits for periodic reviews to determine if the modification is still necessary or can be terminated;

(g) Include informed consent of the individual; and

(h) Include an assurance that interventions and supports will not cause any harm to the individual.

(3) The person-centered services plan must:

(a) Be understandable to the individual receiving services and supports, and the people important in supporting him or her. At a minimum, it must be written in plain language and in a manner that is accessible to persons with disabilities and persons who are limited english proficient, consistent with 42 CFR 435.905(b) (as in effect on October 1, 2021).

(b) Identify the person and/or entity responsible for monitoring the plan.

(c) Be finalized and agreed to, with the informed consent of the individual in writing, and signed by all people and providers responsible for its implementation. Acceptable signatures include, but are not limited to a handwritten signature, initials, a stamp or mark, or an electronic signature. Any accommodations to the individual's or authorized representative's signature shall be documented on the plan.

(d) Be distributed to the individual and other people involved in the plan.

(e) Prevent the provision of unnecessary or inappropriate services and supports.

(f) Be reviewed, and revised upon reassessment of functional need as required by 42 CFR 441.365(e) (as in effect on October 1, 2021), at least every twelve months, when the individual experiences a significant change, or at the request of the individual.

Last updated March 11, 2024 at 10:54 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5166.02
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/2016
Rule 5160-44-05 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services (HCBS) programs, medicaid managed care organizations, the OhioRISE program, and specialized recovery services (SRS) program: incident management.
 

This rule sets the standards and procedures for managing incidents that may have a negative impact on individuals. The purpose is to establish the procedures for reporting and addressing critical incidents and reportable incidents, and to implement a continuous quality improvement process to prevent and reduce the risk of harm to individuals. This rule applies to the Ohio department of aging (ODA), the Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), their designees, and to individuals as defined in this rule. This rule also applies to providers of waiver services, providers of OhioRISE services, providers of services provided through a medicaid managed care organization (MCO), and providers of services under the specialized recovery services (SRS) program. ODA and ODM may designate other entities to perform one or more of the incident management functions set forth in this rule.

(A) For the purpose of this rule, the following definitions apply:

(1) "Care management entity" means an entity delegated or contracted by ODA or ODM to perform care management activities and related functions for individuals enrolled on a waiver, or enrolled concurrently on the MyCare Ohio managed care program and the SRS program.

(2) "Critical incident" means incidents identified in paragraph (C) of this rule.

(3) "Health and safety action plan" means a document developed by the care management entity or recovery management entity that identifies situations, circumstances, and behaviors that without intervention may jeopardize the individual's health and welfare and potentially risk his or her program enrollment. It sets forth the interventions to remedy risks to the health and welfare of an individual and to ensure the individual's needs are met.

(4) "Incident" means an alleged, suspected or actual event that is not consistent with the routine care of, or service delivery to an individual that may have a negative impact on the health and welfare of the individual.

(5) "Incident management system" means the system in which reported incidents are entered, including, as applicable, investigative and review notes, findings and results, prevention plans, and any other applicable information. For the pre-admission screening system providing options and resources today (PASSPORT) waiver, and assisted living waiver, the incident management system is the system established by ODA. For the Ohio home care waiver, MyCare Ohio waiver, SRS program, OhioRISE program, and individuals enrolled in a MCO, the incident management system is the system established by ODM.

(6) "Individual" means a person enrolled as a waiver recipient, or in the specialized recovery services (SRS) program, or in the OhioRISE program, or in a MCO.

(7) "Investigative entity" means ODM, ODA, and their designee.

(8) "Managed Care Organization" means a health insuring corporation (HIC) licensed in the state of Ohio that enters into a managed care provider agreement with the state of Ohio. As used in this rule, managed care organizations do not include managed care plans defined in rule 5160-58-01 of the Administrative Code which administer the MyCare Ohio managed care program.

(9) "MyCare Ohio managed care program" means the integrated care delivery system program described in Chapter 5160-58 of the Administrative Code.

(10) "OhioRISE Plan" means the prepaid inpatient health plan as defined in Chapter 5160-59 of the Administrative Code that is under contract with ODM to manage the OhioRISE program benefits. The OhioRISE plan contracts with local entities to provide care management functions for those individuals enrolled in the OhioRISE program.

(11) "OhioRISE program" means the Ohio resilience through integrated system and excellence program as described in Chapter 5160-59 of the Administrative Code.

(12) "Recovery management entity" means an entity delegated or contracted by ODM to perform case management activities via the recovery manager and related functions for individuals enrolled in the SRS program.

(13) "Reportable incident" means an incident identified in paragraph (D) of this rule.

(14) "Specialized recovery services program" means Ohio's home and community based services (HCBS) state plan program set forth in Chapter 5160-43 of the Administrative Code.

(15) "Substantiated" means, there is a preponderance of evidence to indicate the reported incident is more likely to have occurred than not to have occurred.

(16) "Waiver" means an Ohio medicaid nursing facility-based level of care HCBS waiver program which includes the assisted living waiver set forth in Chapter 173-38 of the Administrative Code, the PASSPORT waiver set forth in Chapter 173-42 of the Administrative Code, the Ohio home care waiver set forth in Chapter 5160-46 of the Administrative Code, and the MyCare Ohio waiver set forth in Chapter 5160-58 of the Administrative Code. This rule does not apply to developmental disabilities level of care waivers set forth in Chapter 5123-9 of the Administrative Code, the state-funded PASSPORT program set forth in Chapter 173-40 of the Administrative Code, or the state-funded assisted living program set forth in rule 173-51 of the Administrative Code.

(B) Uniformity.

(1) ODM and ODA may establish a single incident management system, a single investigative entity, and a single process for reporting, responding to, investigating, and remediating incidents.

(2) Unless ODM and ODA establish a single incident management system, ODA and ODM will establish their own incident management systems, designated single investigative entity, and designated processes for reporting, responding to, investigating, and remediating incidents.

(C) Critical incidents. The following alleged or suspected incidents will be reported and investigated or reviewed as described in paragraph (E) or (F) of this rule.

(1) Abuse: the injury, confinement, control, intimidation, or punishment of an individual that has resulted in physical harm, pain, fear, or mental anguish. Abuse includes, but is not limited to physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual abuse, or the use of restraint, seclusion, or the use of restrictive intervention implemented without authorization from the waiver case management agency, or the OhioRISE plan or its designee.

(2) Neglect: when there is a duty to do so, failing to provide an individual with any treatment, care, goods, or services necessary to maintain the health or welfare of the individual.

(3) Exploitation: the unlawful or improper act of using an individual or an individual's resources through the use of manipulation, intimidation, threats, deceptions, or coercion for monetary or personal benefit, profit, or gain.

(4) Misappropriation: the act of depriving, defrauding, or otherwise obtaining the money, real or personal property (including prescribed medication) of an individual by any means prohibited by law that could potentially impact the health and welfare of the individual.

(5) Unnatural or accidental death: death that could not have reasonably been expected, or the cause of death is not related to any known medical condition of the individual, including inadequate oversight of prescribed medication or misuse of prescribed medication.

(6) Self-harm or suicide attempt: Self-harm or suicide attempt that includes a physical attempt by an individual to harm themselves that results in emergency room treatment, in-patient observation, or hospital admission.

(7) The health and welfare of the individual is at risk due to the individual being lost or missing.

(8) Any of the following prescribed medication issues:

(a) Provider error;

(b) Prescribed medication issue resulting in emergency medical services (EMS) response, emergency room visit, or hospitalization.

(D) Reportable incidents. The following reportable incidents will be addressed and remediated as determined appropriate by the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity as described in paragraphs (E) and (F) of this rule.

(1) Natural deaths that are not due to events such as accidents, injuries, homicide, suicide, and overdoses.

(2) Individual or family member behavior, action, or inaction resulting in the creation of, or adjustment to, a health and safety action plan.

(3) The health and welfare of the individual is at risk due to any of the following:

(a) Loss of the individual's paid or unpaid caregiver;

(b) Prescribed medication issue not resulting in EMS response, emergency room visit, or hospitalizations; or

(c) Eviction or housing crisis.

(4) Suicide attempt that does not result in emergency room treatment, in-patient observation, or hospital admission.

(E) Process for individuals enrolled on a waiver or SRS program.

(1) Upon an individual's enrollment on a waiver, and at the time of each annual reassessment, the waiver case management agency will obtain written confirmation that the individual received information about how to report abuse, neglect, exploitation, and other incidents as defined in this rule. The written confirmation will be documented and maintained in the individual's case record.

(2) Incident reporter responsibilities:

(a) ODM, ODA, and their designees, and all service providers of waiver services, OhioRISE services, services provided through a MCO, or services under the SRS program are required to report all incidents as defined in paragraphs (E) and (F) of this rule, and will do all of the following upon discovering an incident:

(i) Take immediate action to ensure the health and welfare of the individual.

(ii) For the Ohio home care, MyCare Ohio waivers, and SRS program, report the incident to the waiver case management entity or SRS program recovery manager immediately upon discovery of the incident, but no later than twenty-four hours after discovering the incident, unless bound by federal, state, or local law, or professional licensure or certification requirements to report sooner.

(iii) For the PASSPORT and assisted living waivers, report the incident to the waiver case management entity immediately upon discovery of the incident, but no later than within one business day after discovering the incident, unless bound by federal, state, or local law, or professional licensure or certification requirements to report sooner.

(iv) If the incident reporter is a waiver provider who has a supervisor, he or she will immediately notify his or her supervisor.

(b) When the SRS program recovery manager becomes aware of any incident set forth in paragraph (C) or (D) of this rule, and the individual is enrolled in the MyCare Ohio managed care program, the recovery manager must report the incident to the MyCare Ohio case manager within one business day.

(c) At a minimum, all incident reports will include the following information when available:

(i) The facts relevant to the incident, such as a description of what happened;

(ii) The incident type;

(iii) The date of the incident;

(iv) The location of the incident;

(v) The names and contact information of all persons involved; and

(vi) Any actions taken to ensure the health and welfare of the individual.

(3) Waiver case management agency or recovery management entity responsibilities.

(a) The waiver case management agency, or the recovery management entity for SRS program recipients who are not also enrolled in the MyCare Ohio managed care program, will do the following upon discovering an incident as deemed appropriate by ODA or ODM:

(i) Ensure immediate action was taken, as applicable to the nature of the incident, to protect the health and welfare of the individual. If such action was not taken, the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity, will take the action immediately, but no later than twenty-four hours after discovering the incident.

(ii) As applicable to the nature of the incident, notify any of the appropriate entities with investigative or protective authority, and the appropriate additional regulatory, oversight, or advocacy agencies including as applicable but not limited to:

(a) Local law enforcement if the incident involves suspected criminal conduct;

(b) The local coroner's office when the death of an individual is reportable in accordance with section 313.12 of the Revised Code;

(c) The local county board of developmental disabilities;

(d) The local public children services agency (PCSA);

(e) The local adult protective services agency;

(f) The state long-term care ombudsman;

(g) The alcohol, drug addiction and mental health services board;

(h) The Ohio department of health (ODH), or other licensure or certification board or accreditation body if the incident involves a provider regulated by that entity;

(i) The Ohio attorney general if the incident may involve medicaid fraud;

(j) The local probate court if the incident may involve the legal guardian;

(k) The individual's primary provider (primary physician or primary advance practice registered nurse, as applicable);

(l) Referral to ODM for a hospital review to assess alleged issues of improper conduct.

(iii) For waivers administered by ODA, the waiver case management agency will notify ODA within one business day of their discovery of any of the following:

(a) A public media story about an event directly impacting the health, safety, or welfare of the individual on the waiver; or

(b) An employee of the waiver case management agency, recovery management entity, or the investigative entity is the alleged violator.

(iv) Enter any critical incident identified in paragraph (C) of this rule into the incident management system within one business day of discovering the incident.

(v) Enter any reportable incidents identified in paragraph (D) of this rule into the incident management system within three business days of discovering the incident.

(4) Investigating critical incidents. The investigative entity will, as deemed appropriate by ODA or ODM, investigate all critical incidents identified in paragraph (C) of this rule, and do the following upon receipt of a reported incident:

(a) Within one business day of the date the investigative entity becomes aware of the incident, review the reported incident, and verify the following:

(i) Immediate action was taken, as applicable to the nature of the incident, to protect the health and welfare of the individual and any other individuals who may be at-risk. If such action was not taken, the investigative entity will do so immediately, but no later than twenty-four hours after discovering the need for such action.

(ii) The appropriate entities have been notified, as applicable to the nature of the incident, with investigative or protective authority, the appropriate additional regulatory, oversight, or advocacy agencies. If such action was not taken, the investigative entity will do so.

(b) Within two business days of receiving the reported incident, initiate an investigation.

(c) When an investigation is being conducted by a third-party entity with authority to do so, the investigative entity may pend its investigation until after receipt of the third party's investigation results if results are available. If the investigation was pended, upon receipt of the results of the investigation, the investigative entity will determine whether or not further investigation is necessary and either conduct its investigation or close the case.

(d) Conduct a review of all relevant documents as appropriate to the reported incident, which may include, person-centered care plans, service plans, assessments, clinical notes, communication notes, when available results from an investigation conducted by a third-party entity, provider documentation, provider billing records, medical reports, police and fire department reports, and emergency response system reports.

(e) Conduct and document interviews, as appropriate to the reported incident, with anyone who may have information relevant to the incident which may include, but is not limited to, the reporter, individuals, authorized representatives and legal guardians, and providers.

(f) Identify, to the extent possible, any causes and contributing factors.

(g) Determine whether the reported incident is substantiated.

(h) Document all investigative activities in the incident management system.

(i) Unless a longer timeframe has been prior-approved by ODM or ODA the investigative entity will conclude its incident investigation no later than forty-five days after the investigative entity's initial receipt of the incident report.

(j) At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigative entity will provide to the waiver case management agency or the recovery management entity, a summary of the investigative findings, and whether or not the incident was substantiated.

(5) Follow up and close-out responsibilities of the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity.

(a) Upon receipt of the findings for a substantiated incident, the waiver case management agency, or recovery management entity for SRS program recipients who are not also enrolled in the MyCare Ohio managed care program, will review the investigation results and include the information when developing a person-centered prevention plan or updating the care plan to assure the health and safety of the individual. A summary of the investigative findings will be communicated with the individual and their authorized representative or legal guardian as applicable to the incident using trauma informed care, unless such action could jeopardize the health and welfare of the individual.

(b) The summary will be provided through verbal communication, unless the individual or their authorized representative or legal guardian requests it in writing. Documentation that the summary was provided will be retained by the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity.

(c) For each substantiated critical incident, the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity will enter a prevention plan into the incident management system no later than seven business days after being notified that the incident was substantiated.

(d) For each reportable incident, the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity will address and remediate the incident as determined appropriate by the waiver case management agency or recovery management entity and close the incident in the incident management system no later than thirty business days after submission of the incident into the incident management system.

(F) Process for individuals enrolled on the OhioRISE program, or enrolled in a MCO.

(1) Incident reporter responsibilities:

(a) ODM, its designee, the OhioRISE plan, and entities under contract with the OhioRISE plan to provide care management for the OhioRISE program, as well as all service providers that serve individuals enrolled in the OhioRISE program or that furnish services under contract with an MCO, will report incidents.

(b) The incidents that the entities in paragraph (F)(1)(a) of this rule are required to report include those defined in paragraph (E)(3)(a)(ii), of this rule, except that misappropriations are only required to be reported if the estimated value is over five hundred dollars. In addition, all deaths of individuals enrolled on the OhioRISE program will be reported, regardless of whether or not the incident meets the definition of an unnatural or accidental death.

(c) Upon discovering an incident, the responsible person or entity which discovered it will do all the following:

(i) Take immediate action to ensure the health and welfare of the individual.

(ii) Report the incident to the OhioRISE plan or its designee, or the MCO immediately upon discovery of the incident, but no later than twenty-four hours after discovering the incident, unless bound by federal, state, or local law, or professional licensure or certification requirements to report sooner.

(2) OhioRISE plan or its designee, or MCO or its designee responsibilities: Upon discovering, or receipt of a reported incident, the OhioRISE plan or its designee, or MCO or its designee will do all the following:

(a) Ensure immediate action was taken, as applicable to the nature of the incident, to protect the health and welfare of the individual. If such action was not taken, the OhioRISE plan or MCO, will take the action immediately, but no later than twenty-four hours after discovering the incident;

(b) As applicable to the nature of the incident, notify any appropriate entities with investigative, protective, or regulatory authority, such as the examples described in paragraph (E)(3)(a)(ii) of this rule;

(c) Enter any incident identified in paragraphs (C)(1) to (C)(6) of this rule into the incident management system within one business day of discovering the incident.

(3) The OhioRISE plan and the MCO will:

(a) Work collaboratively with investigative entities as needed to identify potential root causes of the incident, contributing factors, and remediation strategies, enter review notes and results, and develop a prevention plan;

(b) Unless a longer timeframe has been prior-approved by ODM, conclude the incident review and enter all relevant information into the incident management system no later than forty-five calendar days after their initial receipt of the incident report.

(4) Follow up and close-out responsibilities: Except in the case of death, the OhioRISE plan or its designee, or MCO or its designee will enter a prevention plan into the incident management system and close the case no later than seven business days after the conclusion of the review.

(G) ODA and ODM may request further review of any incident, conduct a separate independent review or investigation of any incident, determine necessary additional action, and assume responsibility for conducting an investigation or review.

Last updated March 22, 2024 at 10:33 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5164.02, 5164.91, 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5164.91, 5166.02, 5166.11, 5167.02
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2027
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/2004, 8/1/2016
Rule 5160-44-11 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: home delivered meals.
 

(A) The following definitions are applicable to this rule:

(1) "Dietitian" and "licensed dietitian" mean a person with a current, valid license to practice dietetics under section 4759.06 of the Revised Code.

(2) "Home delivered meals" is a meal delivery service based on an individual's need for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and/or instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) in order to safely prepare meals, or ensure meals are prepared to meet the individual's dietary needs or specialized nutritional needs, including kosher meals. The type of home delivered meals are the following

(a) Standard meal means a meal that adheres to the version of the "Dietary Guidelines for Americans" in effect on the delivery day and at least thirty-three per cent of the individual's dietary reference intakes. A standard meal may include, but is not limited to, a reduced calorie meal, reduced sodium meal, reduced sugar meal, a gluten-free meal, or vegetarian meal, if the individual chooses the meal by personal preference.

(b) Kosher meal is a meal that complies with the kosher practices for meal preparation and dietary restrictions and certified as kosher by a recognized kosher certification or a kosher establishment under orthodox rabbinic supervision.

(c) Therapeutic meal means a meal provided in accordance to an order by a licensed healthcare professional whose scope of practice includes ordering therapeutic diets:

(i) For management of a disease or clinical condition;

(ii) To modify, eliminate, decrease or increase certain substances in the diet; or

(iii) To provide mechanically altered food when indicated.

(3) "Meals" are single portions that are ready to eat, frozen, vacuum-packed, modified-atmosphere-packed, or shelf-stable. Meals have all the following characteristics:

(a) It includes instructions on how to safely maintain, heat, reheat and/or assemble the meal, in a manner understandable to the individual and/or their caregiver.

(b) It adheres to the individual's medical restrictions as set forth in their person-centered services plan.

(B) Meal specifications.

(1) Meal menus will be approved in writing by a dietitian who is currently registered with the commission on dietetic registration, and who is also a licensed dietitian in the state in which the dietitian is located if that state licenses dietitians.

(a) Providers will furnish each individual with home delivered meals that accommodate the individual's religious, cultural, ethnic, and dietary preferences.

(b) Providers shall publish their current menu and ingredient information on their websites and offer written menus and ingredient information to individuals.

(2) An individual's person-centered services plan establishes meal delivery parameters which include all the following:

(a) Up to two meals per day. The maximum number of meals delivered will not exceed fourteen meals at one time.

(b) The type of meal.

(c) The frequency of delivery.

(d) The delivery-verification method which will include:

(i) Signature upon delivery by the individual or the individual's designee; or

(ii) The delivery driver's confirmation that delivery occurred. The provider may use an electronic system to verify.

(a) If a provider uses a common carrier to deliver meals, the provider will verify the success of the delivery by using the method in paragraph (B)(2)(d) of this rule; or

(b) By retaining the common carrier's tracking statement or other evidence showing successful delivery.

(e) A provider may deliver specifically identified items that are packaged in larger than single servings.

(3) Additional back up meals may be authorized at the discretion of the Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), the Ohio department of aging (ODA), or their designee.

(C) Meals will not be:

(1) Processed, pre-packed and commercially available to the general public for purchase; or

(2) Provided in order to supplant or replace the purchase of food or groceries for others.

(D) Provider qualifications.

(1) A provider of home delivered meals will maintain evidence of:

(a) A current, valid food operations or other applicable license or certificate as required by licensing or regulatory agencies where the meal is produced.

(b) Good standing with all applicable federal, state and local regulatory agencies; and

(c) Meeting applicable licensing requirements for safety, storage, sanitation and other applicable provisions for food service.

(2) The provider will develop, implement and maintain evidence of a training plan that includes orientation and annual continuing education.

(a) The provider will ensure anyone who participates in meal preparation, handling or delivery receives orientation on topics relevant to the person's job duties before they perform those duties.

(b) The provider will ensure anyone who participates in meal preparation, handling or delivery completes continuing education annually on topics relevant to the person's job duties.

(E) Delivery requirements.

(1) Delivery will be based on a routine delivery date and range of time.

(2) The provider will notify the individual if meal delivery will be delayed or will not occur as planned.

(3) The provider will ensure that delivery provided by commercial or common carrier meets applicable federal, state and local food safety, storage and sanitation requirements.

(F) The provider will maintain the following documentation:

(1) Initial and subsequent person-centered services plans for each individual;

(2) All diet orders;

(3) Documentation of meal delivery, including:

(a) The individual's name;

(b) The date, time and number of meals in the delivery;

(c) Verification of delivery in accordance with the individual's person-centered services plan;

(d) Verification that the individual was notified if service delivery was not provided within the established delivery date or time; and

(e) Verification that the individual has been furnished clear instructions about how to safely heat, reheat and assemble each meal.

(4) A written record, including date and topics covered, during the completion of orientation and continuing education sessions;

(5) All licensure or certification documents required by this rule;

(6) All local licensing or regulatory agency inspection reports and documented findings, any resulting plans of correction and any follow up reports; and

(7) All United States department of agriculture inspection reports and documented findings, any resulting plans of correction and any follow-up reports.

(G) The provider will replace any item lost or stolen between the time of delivery and non-receipt by the individual at no cost to the individual, ODM, ODA, or their designee.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:31 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5166.02, 5164.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/1990, 7/30/1993, 9/1/1993, 7/1/2006, 7/1/2015
Rule 5160-44-12 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: home maintenance and choreservices.
 

(A) "Home maintenance and chore" means a service that maintains a clean and safe living environment through the performance of tasks in the individual's home that are beyond the individual's capability. Home maintenance and chore services shall not exceed a total of ten thousand dollars in a calendar year per individual. Covered home maintenance and chore activities include:

(1) Minor home maintenance and repair including inspecting, maintaining, and repairing furnaces, including pilot lights and filters; inspecting, maintaining, and repairing water faucets, drains, heaters, and pumps; replacing or installing electrical fuses; plumbing and electrical repairs; repair or replacement of screens or window panes; fixing floor surfaces posing a threat to the individual's health, safety, and welfare; and moving heavy items to provide safe ingress and egress.

(2) Heavy household cleaning, including washing walls and ceilings; washing the outside of windows; non-routine washing of windows; removing, cleaning and rehanging curtains or drapery; and shampooing carpets or furniture.

(3) Removal of environmental hazards posing a threat to the individual's health, safety, and welfare such as:

(a) Non-routine disposal of garbage or other accumulated items in an individuals residence;

(b) Non-routine yard maintenance including snow removal;

(c) Pest control and related tasks to prevent, suppress, eradicate, or remove pests; and

(d) Mold eradication.

(4) Upkeep and maintenance of a home modification or adaptive/assistive devices, such as:

(a) Routine maintenance plan;

(b) Extended warranty; and

(c) Service call, labor and parts for a modification or device that ceases to function as intended.

(B) Home maintenance and chore do not include:

(1) Tasks of general utility (including routine yardwork), and not of direct medical or remedial benefit to the individual.

(2) Jobs that add to the total square footage of the home.

(3) Jobs that can be accomplished through existing informal or formal supports.

(4) Jobs that are the legal or contractual responsibility of someone other than the individual (e.g., the landlord, etc.).

(5) Jobs involving the removal of home modifications and returning of property to its prior condition when the individual vacates the premises.

(6) Replacement or repair of a previously approved home modification or home maintenance and chore job that has been damaged as a result of apparent misuse, abuse, or negligence.

(C) Home maintenance and chore that are necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the individual and will exceed the ten-thousand-dollar calendar year threshold may be considered for approval by the Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), Ohio department of aging (ODA) or their designee.

(D) Authorization process.

(1) ODM, ODA, or their designee may require the completion of an in-home evaluation by an appropriately qualified professional to determine the suitability of the immediate environment where the service will be performed and the viability of the completion of the service to improve independence and/or facilitate a healthy and safe environment.

(2) In consultation with the individual and/or caregiver(s), ODM, ODA, or their designee, and if necessary, the qualified professional, will develop a referral that addresses the individual's home maintenance and chore needs.

(3) Home maintenance and chore providers will submit a fixed cost proposal for the services described under the referral which will be good for the term of the proposal.

(a) At a minimum, the proposal will include all of the following:

(i) A breakdown of all the needed materials;

(ii) A breakdown of the costs of all the needed materials;

(iii) A breakdown of the labor costs;

(iv) A list of any permits that must be obtained;

(v) An estimate of the time needed to complete the service;

(vi) A written statement of all warranties provided, including a warranty lasting at least one year from the date of final acceptance of work against defective workmanship, as applicable; and

(vii) A written guarantee that all materials, products, and installed or furnished appliances perform their advertised function.

(b) A fixed cost proposal may be adjusted for good cause only if the proposal is adjusted in writing, and the adjustment is approved by ODM, ODA, or their designee.

(4) ODM, ODA, or their designee will review all submitted proposals with the individual and will approve the proposal with the lowest cost alternative that meets the individual's assessed needs and ensures the health, safety and welfare of the individual.

(5) The provider will be reimbursed for the actual cost of material and/or labor as identified in the proposal.

(E) Provider requirements.

The provider will:

(1) Know and understand the individual's person-centered services plan related to home maintenance and chore, and personal preferences regarding the specific services to be performed.

(2) Before performing a service, inform the individual and ODM, ODA, or their designee of any potential health or welfare risk, and coordinate times and dates of service to ensure minimal risk to the individual.

(3) Comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, and the individual's homeowners' association (HOA) requirements, as applicable.

(4) Obtain the property owner's written consent prior to performing the service. This written consent will reflect that the property owner has agreed to the maintenance, repair or other service.

(5) Furnish to the individual, ODM, ODA, or their designee a warranty that covers the workmanship and materials involved in performing the service, as applicable.

(6) Provide documentation to ODM, ODA, or their designee that the service was completed in accordance with the agreed upon specifications using the materials and equipment cited in the proposal.

(7) Provide documentation to ODM, ODA, or their designee that the service was tested, is in proper working order, and is usable by the individual, if applicable.

(8) Repair any damage incidental to the service at no additional cost.

(F) Home maintenance and chore may only be provided by an agency or non-agency provider approved by ODM or certified by ODA as a medicaid waiver provider of home maintenance and chore.

(G) Service verification: The provider will obtain the individual's or authorized representative's signature and date of completion of the service to verify service delivery, verify the provider left the individual's home in satisfactory condition, and verify repair of any damages incidental to the service.

(H) Provider record retention. For each service furnished, the provider will retain a record of compliance with all requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code, or with the requirements set forth in Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code for the pre-admission screening system providing options and resources today (PASSPORT) program. The record will include:

(1) Individual's name.

(2) Date of service delivery.

(3) A copy of the fixed cost proposal described in paragraph (D)(3) of this rule, including any approved adjustments.

(4) Service description, including a comparison between the fixed cost proposal and the actual services provided.

(5) Name of each provider staff person in contact with the individual.

(6) List of chemicals and substances used.

(7) Proof of appropriate qualifications to perform services requiring specialized skills such as electrical, heating/ventilation, and plumbing work.

(8) Proof of licensure, insurance, and bonding for services from applicable jurisdictions.

(9) Proof of all necessary post-inspections and post-inspection reports required by law, a HOA, or both to verify whether each episode of service meets federal, state, and local laws or HOA requirements. Proof will be obtained prior to billing,

(10) All of the documents required in paragraphs (E), (F), and (G) of this rule.

(I) The authorization of home maintenance and chore may be combined with other waiver services to meet the assessed needs of the individuals. In such instances, individual waiver service limits as described in paragraph (C) of this rule still apply.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:31 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5166.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 12/10/2020
Rule 5160-44-13 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: home modification.
 

(A) "Home modifications" are environmental adaptations to the private home(s) of the individual authorized by the individual's person-centered services plan, that are necessary to ensure the health, welfare and safety of the individual or that enable the individual to function with greater independence in the home. Such adaptations include, but are not limited to, the installation of ramps and grab-bars, widening of doorways, modification of bathroom or kitchen facilities, or the installation of specialized electric and plumbing systems that are necessary to accommodate the medical equipment and supplies that are necessary for the welfare of the individual. Home modifications also include replacement of previous home modifications when it is determined the modification cannot be repaired through another resource. Home modifications shall not exceed a total of ten thousand dollars in a calendar year per individual. The Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), Ohio department of aging (ODA) or their designee will approve the lowest cost alternative that meets the individual's assessed needs.

(B) Home modifications do not include:

(1) Adaptations or improvements to the home that are of general utility, and are not of direct medical or remedial benefit to the individual including, but not limited to, carpeting, roof repair and central air conditioning.

(2) Adaptations that add to the total square footage of the home, except when necessary to complete an adaptation (e.g., in order to improve entrance/egress to a home or to configure a bathroom to accommodate a wheelchair).

(3) New, replacement home modifications or repair of previously approved home modifications that have been damaged as a result of apparent misuse, abuse, or negligence.

(4) Removing modifications and returning the property to its prior condition when an individual vacates the premises.

(C) Home modifications may be authorized up to one hundred and eighty consecutive days prior to an individual's transition from an institutional setting into the community.

(1) The modification is not considered complete until the individual leaves the institutional setting.

(2) The date of service for purposes of reimbursement will be the date on which the individual leaves the institutional setting. If an individual fails to transition into the community, the modification is still reimbursable.

(D) Authorization process.

(1) ODM, ODA, or their designee may require the completion of an in-home evaluation by an occupational therapist (OT) or physical therapist (PT) licensed pursuant to Chapter 4755. of the Revised Code or other appropriately qualified professional. The qualified professional conducting the evaluation will:

(a) Determine the individual's capacity to utilize the requested home modification.

(b) Determine the suitability of the immediate environment where the modification will be installed.

(c) Determine the viability of the completion of the modification to improve independence.

(d) In consultation with the individual and/or caregiver(s), develop a recommendation for a home modification to address the individuals environmental accessibility needs.

(e) Provide ODM, ODA, or their designee with a written home modification referral that addresses the individual's environmental accessibility needs.

(2) Home modification providers will submit a fixed cost proposal for the services submitted under the home modification referral which will be good for the term of the work agreement.

(a) At a minimum, the proposal will include all of the following:

(i) A drawing or diagram of the home modification, as appropriate;

(ii) A breakdown of all of the needed materials;

(iii) A breakdown of the costs of the needed materials;

(iv) A breakdown of the labor costs;

(v) A list of all building permits that must be obtained;

(vi) An estimate of the time needed to complete the home modification;

(vii) A written statement of all warranties provided, including a warranty lasting at least one year from the date of final acceptance of work against defective workmanship; and

(viii) A written guarantee that all materials, products, and installed or furnished appliances perform their advertised function.

(b) A fixed cost proposal may be adjusted for good cause only if the job specifications are modified in writing, and the adjustment is approved by ODM, ODA or their designee.

(3) ODM, ODA or their designee will review all submitted proposals with the individual and will award the home modification service to the provider that proposes the lowest cost alternative that meets the individual's assessed need.

(E) Limitations.

(1) ODM, ODA, or their designee will ensure safeguards are in place to minimize any potential conflicts of interest between the person(s) conducting any evaluations required pursuant to paragraph (D) of this rule and the home modification provider.

(2) The provider shall be reimbursed for the actual cost of material and labor for the home modification as identified in the home modification proposal. Reimbursement may be adjusted only if the job specifications are modified pursuant to the requirements in paragraph (D) of this rule.

(3) The provider will not be the owner of the individual's home where the modification is being performed.

(F) Provider requirements.

(1) The provider will:

(a) Know and understand information contained in the individual's person-centered services plan related to the modification and personal preferences about the home modification services to be furnished.

(b) Obtain final written approval from the individual and ODM, ODA or their designee after completion of the home modification.

(2) The provider record will include evidence the provider obtained and maintained:

(a) The written consent of the property owner to modify the property, including acknowledgment that the owner understands that the waiver is not responsible for returning the property to its prior condition.

(b) All permits required by law, including building permits, prior to commencing work on each job order.

(c) Any necessary inspections and inspection reports required by federal, state and local laws upon completion of each job to verify that the repair, modification or installation was completed. The provider will obtain these inspections, inspection reports, and permits prior to billing for the completed job.

(d) Documentation that the home modification was completed in accordance with the agreed upon specifications.

(e) Documentation that the home modification was tested, is in proper working order and is functional for use by the individual.

(f) Documentation that the home modification meets all applicable federal, state and local building codes and accessibility codes.

(g) Appropriate qualifications to perform jobs requiring specialized skills such as electrical work, heating/ventilation and plumbing to ODM, ODA or their designee upon request.

(h) Licensure, insurance, and bonding for general contracting services of applicable jurisdictions to ODM, ODA or their designee upon request.

(i) All permits and pre-job inspections required by law, home owners' association, or both.

(j) All necessary post-inspections and post-inspection reports required by law, a HOA, or both to verify whether each episode of service meets federal, state, and local laws or HOA requirements. Proof will be obtained prior to billing,

(G) The authorization of home modification services may be bundled with other waiver services to meet the assessed needs of the individuals. In such instances, individual waiver service limits as described in paragraph (A) of this rule still apply.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:32 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5166.02, 5164.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/29/1990, 10/30/1992, 9/1/1993, 1/1/1996, 7/1/2015
Rule 5160-44-14 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: community integration services.
 

(A) "Community integration" means independent living assistance and community support coaching activities that are necessary to enable an individual to live independently and have access to, choice of, and an opportunity to participate in, a full range of community activities.

(B) "Independent living assistance" means help for individuals to manage their households and personal affairs, self-administer medications, and retain their community living arrangements. Independent living assistance can be furnished through telephone support, in-person support or travel attendant activities, as applicable to the tasks performed. Activities may include:

(1) Reminding an individual to take their medications;

(2) Contacting individuals at times no other in-home services are being provided to confirm the individual is functioning safely in their home;

(3) Assisting with banking;

(4) Organizing and coordinating health records;

(5) Assisting with applications for public programs including homestead exemption, the home energy assistance program, and subsidized housing;

(6) Monitoring and replenishing needed groceries (does not include cost of groceries);

(7) Assisting with business and personal correspondence;

(8) Accompanying an individual to their medical and other appointments; and

(9) Accompanying an individual on their errands and to other activities in the community.

(C) "Community support coaching" includes providing information and training to an individual so the individual can achieve the community integration goals identified in his or her person-centered services plan. Skills training topics include:

(1) How to manage finances;

(2) How to manage an individual's own health and wellness;

(3) How to identify and access community and legal resources, and leisure, educational, and recreational activities;

(4) How to find a job;

(5) How to manage an individual's own home;

(6) How to navigate community-based transportation systems; and

(7) How to build interpersonal, social, and communication skills.

(D) Community integration provider requirements.

(1) Community integration will be furnished by Ohio department of medicaid (ODM) -approved agencies or Ohio department of aging (ODA) -certified agencies.

(2) The provider will comply with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code for an ODM-administered waiver program, or Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code for the pre-admission screening system providing options and resources today (PASSPORT) waiver program.

(3) The provider will develop, implement, and maintain evidence of a training plan that includes initial orientation and annual continuing education.

(a) The provider will ensure anyone who furnishes community integration receives orientation on topics relevant to the person's job duties before they perform those duties.

(b) The provider will ensure anyone who furnishes community integration completes a minimum of twelve hours of continuing education annually on topics relevant to the person's job duties.

(4) Community integration staff will have:

(a) A high school diploma, general education diploma (GED), or a minimum of one year of relevant, supervised work experience with a public health, human services, or other community service agency.

(b) The ability to understand written activity plans (description of interventions and the dates/times the provider will provide the interventions), execute instructions, document activities provided, and the ability to perform basic mathematical operations.

(c) Experience advocating on behalf of individuals with chronic illnesses, behavioral health conditions, physical disabilities, or developmental disabilities.

(5) Supervisors of community integration staff will possess at least one of the following:

(a) A current and valid license to practice in the state of Ohio as a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), licensed social worker (LSW), or licensed independent social worker (LISW);

(b) A bachelor's degree or an associate's degree in human ecology, dietetics, counseling, gerontology, social work, nursing, public health, health education, or another related field; or

(c) At least two years of employment experience providing community-based social services or job coaching.

(6) Supervisory responsibilities include:

(a) Collaborating with the individual to identify, develop and document a specific activities plan, including the type of intervention(s) provided, prior to initiation of services that is consistent with the individual's approved person-centered services plan.

(b) Conducting evaluations of community integration staff every ninety days to ensure staff compliance with the activities plan, and the individual's satisfaction.

(E) All providers will maintain a record at their place of business for each individual served in accordance with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code for an ODM-administered waiver program, or with the requirements set forth in Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code for the PASSPORT program. The record will include:

(1) The individual's name;

(2) A copy of the individual's initial, and all subsequent person-centered services plans;

(3) A copy of the individual's approved activity plan;

(4) Date(s) of service;

(5) A detailed description of each task or activity performed and the staff person who performed it; and

(6) The individual's signature to verify receipt of the service.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:32 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5166.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/12/2020 (Emer.)
Rule 5160-44-16 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: personal emergency response systems.
 

(A) "Personal emergency response systems" (PERS) is a service with a monitoring, reminder and/or reporting component available to support individuals' independence in the community. PERS include telecommunications equipment, a central monitoring station (station), and a medium for two-way, hands-free communication between the individual and the station. Personnel at the station respond to an individual's alarm signal via the individual's PERS equipment.

(B) "PERS equipment" means equipment that is appropriate to meet the assessed needs of the individual as authorized on the individual's person-centered services plan and that meets all of the following characteristics:

(1) Includes an activation device that is wearable and water-resistant according to a generally-accepted industry standard for water resistance to a level matching the individual's assessed needs and preferences.

(2) Has an internal battery providing at least twenty-four hours of power without recharging.

(3) Accommodates the individual's needs and preferences.

(C) "PERS" does not include:

(1) Remote video monitoring of the individual in his or her home.

(2) Systems that connect the individual to only emergency service personnel.

(D) PERS provider requirements. The provider will:

(1) Ensure and maintain a record of the successful completion of training on how to respond to alarm signals by each staff member whose job duties include responding to alarm signals at the station.

(2) Ensure each individual is able to choose the PERS device that meets his or her assessed needs and preferences as authorized by the individual's person-centered services plan.

(3) Install and activate the individual's PERS equipment no later than seven days after the date PERS has been authorized on the individual's person-centered services plan by the Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), the Ohio department of aging (ODA) or their designee.

(4) Train each individual receiving PERS with the following:

(a) An initial demonstration on how to use their PERS equipment. The demonstration can be conducted by telephone or electronically, unless the individual's needs necessitate an in-person visit.

(b) A successful return demonstration by the individual of all components of the PERS equipment and monthly testing.

(5) Ensure the availability of language assistance in the event the individual has limited English language proficiency.

(6) Consult with the individual and case manager before activating PERS equipment to develop an initial written response plan regarding how to proceed when an alarm is signaled within the following parameters.

(a) The written response plan includes a summary of the individual's information regarding medical diagnosis, treatment and preferences, as well as the contact information for the individual's designated responder.

(i) For the purpose of this rule, a designated responder is a person or organization identified in an individual's written response plan who the station contacts if the individual signals an alarm and requires assistance from the designated responder.

(ii) The provider identifies emergency service personnel on the written response plan only if the individual does not designate a responder or only designates one responder.

(b) The provider notifies each person the individual designated when activating the individual's PERS equipment and on an annual basis thereafter as part of the monthly service that, at a minimum, the individual designated the person as a responder and to provide instructions on how to respond when an alarm is signaled.

(c) The provider consults with the individual and ODM, ODA or their designee to identify a new designated responder in the written response plan whenever the person the individual chooses to be a designated responder refuses to participate or stops participating.

(7) Replace any malfunctioning PERS equipment at no additional cost to the individual, ODM, ODA, or their designee no later than twenty-four hours after it is notified of the malfunction, or no later than twenty-four hours after the malfunction is detected through the monthly testing of equipment, unless the malfunction is due to the individual's apparent misuse, abuse, or negligence of the equipment.

(8) Provide ongoing customer support to the individual, designated responder, ODM, ODA and its designee upon request of one or more of those parties as part of the monthly service.

(9) The provider will notify ODM, ODA, or their designee, in writing, if at any time, the provider determines inability to meet the individuals assessed needs, as identified through the individuals person-centered services plan.

(10) Employ staff to comprise a central monitoring station located in the United States or may subcontract with another company to use a station located in the United States to provide the station component of the PERS.

(11) Maintain a primary system to receive and respond to alarm signals from individuals twenty-four hours a day, every day of the year;

(12) Maintain a secondary system to respond to all incoming alarm signals in case the primary system is unable to respond to alarm signals;

(13) Respond to each alarm signal no more than sixty seconds after it receives the alarm signal;

(14) Notify ODM, ODA or their designee of any emergency involving an individual no more than twenty-four hours after the individual sends the alarm signal;

(15) Notify ODM, ODA or their designee when a pattern of frequent false alarms has been established for an individual;

(16) Contact emergency service personnel in the event a provider receives an alarm signal, but the station cannot reach a designated responder; and

(17) Remain in communication with the individual in the event of a personal emergency through the two-way communication feature of the PERS equipment until a designated responder or emergency service personnel arrives in the individual's home, the personal emergency subsides, or after it is determined there is no personal emergency (e.g. false alarm).

(E) PERS providers will maintain the following documentation for each individual receiving PERS:

(1) Date and time of equipment delivery and installation;

(2) A copy of the individual's initial and all subsequent written response plans;

(3) Date the individual and designated responder received initial and annual notification from the PERS provider as required by paragraph (D)(6)(b) of this rule;

(4) Date, time and results of monthly testing; and

(5) Date, time and summary of actions taken regarding service-related contacts.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:33 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5166.02, 5164.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 7/31/1992 (Emer.), 9/1/1993, 7/1/2006
Rule 5160-44-17 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: out-of-home respite services.
 

(A) "Out-of-home respite" are services delivered to an individual in an out-of-home setting to allow a period of rest or relief for caregivers normally providing care. The service will include an overnight stay.

(1) An out-of-home respite provider will make available the following:

(a) Waiver nursing services as set forth in rule 5160-44-22 of the Administrative Code;

(b) Personal care services as set forth in rule 5160-46-04 of the Administrative Code if the individual is enrolled on an Ohio department of medicaid (ODM) -administered waiver, or rule 173-39-02.11 of the Administrative Code if the individual is enrolled in the PASSPORT program administered by the Ohio department of aging (ODA); and

(c) Three meals per day that meet the individual's dietary requirements.

(2) All services set forth in paragraph (A)(1) of this rule delivered during the provision of out-of-home respite will not be reimbursed as separate services.

(B) To qualify for submitting claims, providers of out-of-home respite will:

(1) Comply with all applicable rules set forth in Chapter 5160-44 of the Administrative Code, and:

(a) Chapters 5160-45, and as appropriate, either 5160-46 or 5160-58 of the Administrative Code, if the individual is enrolled on an ODM-administered waiver program; or

(b) Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code, if the individual is enrolled in the PASSPORT program.

(2) Be either:

(a) An intermediate care facility for individuals with an intellectual disability (ICF-IID) that has an active medicaid provider agreement in accordance with sections 5124.06 and 5124.07 of the Revised Code; or

(b) A nursing facility (NF) certified in accordance with rule 5160-3-02.3 of the Administrative Code; or

(c) Another licensed setting approved by ODM or certified by ODA.

(C) All providers of out-of-home respite will:

(1) Provide for coverage of an individual's loss due to theft, property damage and/or personal injury; and maintain a written procedure identifying the steps an individual takes to file a liability claim. Upon request, the provider will verify their coverage with ODM, ODA or their designee.

(2) Maintain evidence of non-licensed staff's completion of twelve hours of in-service training within a twelve-month period, excluding agency and program-specific orientation for every employee with in-person contact with individuals. In-service training will be initiated immediately after the non-licensed direct care staff's first anniversary of employment with the provider, and will be completed annually thereafter.

(3) Ensure any waiver nursing services provided are within the nurse's scope of practice as set forth in rule 5160-44-22 of the Administrative Code.

(4) Provide task-based instruction to direct care staff providing personal care services as defined in rule 5160-46-04 of the Administrative Code, or rule 173-39-02.11 of the Administrative Code, as applicable.

(D) Providers of out-of-home respite will maintain a clinical record at their place of business for each individual served in accordance with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code.

(1) Storage will protect the confidentiality of these records.

(2) Each clinical record will include the following:

(a) Identifying information, including but not limited to name, address, date of birth, gender/gender identify, race, significant phone numbers and health insurance identification numbers of the individual.

(b) Information regarding medical diagnosis (es), treatment(s) and preferences.

(c) The individual's medication profile and medication administration record, as applicable.

(d) The individual's treatment administration record, as applicable.

(e) The name and contact information for the individual's primary care physician(s).

(f) The name and current contact information for the individual's parent/guardian/authorized representative and/or emergency contact.

(g) All known drug and food interactions, allergies and dietary needs, preferences and/or restrictions.

(h) A copy of the initial and all subsequent person-centered services plans.

(i) A copy of any advance directives including, but not limited to, a do-not-resuscitate order, or medical power of attorney, if they are provided.

(j) Documentation verifying the date of out-of-home respite service delivery, including tasks performed or not performed.

(3) If the individual is receiving waiver nursing services pursuant to paragraph (A)(1)(a) of this rule, the clinical record will also include the following;

(a) A copy of the initial and all subsequent plans of care, specifying the type, frequency, scope and duration of the nursing services being provided. When services are provided by a licensed practical nurse (LPN) at the direction of a registered nurse (RN), the clinical records will include documentation that the RN has reviewed the plans of care with the LPN. The plan of care will be recertified by the primary care physician at least every sixty days, or more frequently if there is a significant change in the individual's condition.

(b) Documentation of any verbal orders given by the primary care physician to the nurse. The nurse shall document, in writing, the physician's orders, the date and time the orders were given, and sign the entry in the clinical record. The nurse shall subsequently secure documentation of the verbal orders, signed and dated by the primary care physician.

(c) All communications with the individual, case manager, RN supervisor (if one exists) primary care physician and other members of the individual's team.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:33 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5166.02, 5164.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 3/30/1990 (Emer.), 7/1/1990, 3/12/1992 (Emer.), 6/1/1992, 1/1/1996, 1/1/2019, 6/12/2020 (Emer.)
Rule 5160-44-22 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: waiver nursing services.
 

(A) "Waiver nursing services" are defined as nursing tasks and activities provided to individuals who require the skills of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) at the direction of an RN.

(1) All nurses providing waiver nursing services to individuals will:

(a) Possess a current, valid and unrestricted license with the Ohio board of nursing; and

(b) Possess an active medicaid provider agreement or be employed by an entity that has an active medicaid provider agreement; and

(c) Provide services within the nurse's scope of practice as set forth in Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code and agency 4723 of the Administrative Code rules adopted thereunder.

(2) Nursing tasks and activities that will only be performed by an RN include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Intravenous (IV) insertion, removal or discontinuation;

(b) IV medication administration;

(c) Programming of a pump to deliver medications including, but not limited to, epidural, subcutaneous and IV (except routine doses of insulin through a programmed pump);

(d) Insertion or initiation of infusion therapies;

(e) Central line dressing changes; and

(f) Blood product administration.

(B) Limitations.

(1) Waiver nursing will not be used in lieu of similar services available through third-party insurers, community supports and available resources, including Ohio medicaid state plan services when it has been determined an individual's needs can be met by those services.

(2) If the provider cannot assist an individual with an assessed need, the provider will notify ODM, ODA or their designee, in writing, of the service limitation(s) before the provider is included on the individual's person-centered services plan.

(3) Waiver nursing services do not include:

(a) Services delegated in accordance with Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code and rules adopted thereunder and to be performed by providers who are not licensed nurses in accordance with Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code;

(b) Services that require the skills of a nurse with a psychiatric mental health nursing specialty as set forth in rule 4723-8-04 of the Administrative Code;

(c) Visits performed for the sole purpose of meeting the supervisory requirements (including any visit) set forth in 42 CFR 484 (as in effect on October 1, 2023);

(d) Visits performed for the sole purpose of directing LPNs pursuant to section 4723.01 of the Revised Code; or

(e) Visits performed for the sole purpose of meeting the home care attendant service RN visit requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-27 of the Administrative Code.

(4) Waiver nursing services are reimbursable when sequentially, but not concurrently, performed with any other service during a visit in which the RN is furnishing billable home health, private duty nursing, RN assessment, RN consultation, and/or any other similar service that is reimbursable through the Ohio medicaid program.

(C) Waiver nursing will be delivered by one of the following:

(1) An employee or contractor of a medicare-certified or otherwise-accredited home health agency approved by ODM or certified by ODA who meets the provider requirements set forth in paragraph (D) of this rule. For the purposes of this rule, medicare-certified home health agencies and otherwise-accredited agencies will ensure they and the nurses they employ or contract with, are in compliance with 42 CFR 484. (as in effect on October 1, 2023).

(a) Parent of minor children, spouses, and relatives appointed legal decision-making authority may serve as direct care worker in accordance with rule 5160-44-32 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Maximum weekly direct care hours set forth in rule 5160-44-32 of the Administrative Code do not apply to the parent of a minor child.

(2) A non-agency RN waiver nursing provider approved by ODM who meets the provider requirements set forth in paragraph (D) of this rule.

(3) A non-agency LPN waiver nursing provider approved by ODM who meets the provider requirements set forth in paragraphs (D) and (E) of this rule.

(D) All waiver nursing providers will:

(1) Understand and comply with all applicable rules governing the home and community-based services (HCBS) waiver(s) for which they are providing services including, but not limited to those rules set forth in Chapters 5160-44, 5160-45, 5160-46, and/or 5160-58, of the Administrative Code, as applicable, for ODM-administered HCBS waiver programs, and Chapters 173-39, 5160-31, 5160-33, and/or 5160-58 of the Administrative Code, as applicable, for ODA-administered HCBS waiver programs.

(2) Provide the service to either one individual, or in a group setting as defined in rule 5160-46-06 of the Administrative Code during a face-to-face nursing visit in an ODM-administered HCBS waiver program, or in a group setting as defined in rule 5160-31-07 of the Administrative Code during a face-to-face nursing visit in an ODA-administered HCBS waiver program.

(3) Complete training about individual rights and responsibilities as set forth in rule 5160-45-03 of the Administrative Code for ODM-administered HCBS waiver programs.

(4) Not be the individual's legally responsible family member, as that term is defined in rule 5160-45-01 of the Administrative Code, unless the legally responsible family member is employed by a medicare-certified or otherwise-accredited home health agency and the individual is enrolled on an ODM-administered waiver.

(5) Not be the individual's legally responsible family member, as that term is defined in rule 173-39-02 of the Administrative Code, when the individual is enrolled on the ODA-administered waiver.

(6) Not be the foster caregiver of the individual.

(E) Non-agency LPNs, at the direction of an RN, will:

(1) Conduct a visit with the directing RN at least every sixty days after the initial visit to evaluate the provision of waiver nursing services and LPN performance, and to ensure that waiver nursing services are being provided in accordance with the approved plan of care and within the LPN's scope of practice. The visit may be conducted via telehealth.; and

(2) Conduct an in-person visit with the individual and the directing RN before initiating services and at least every one hundred and twenty days for the purpose of evaluating the provision of waiver nursing services, the individual's satisfaction with care delivery and LPN performance, and to ensure that waiver nursing services are being provided in accordance with the approved plan of care and within the LPN's scope of practice.

(3) When the RN performs an RN assessment visit, the RN will bill the state plan nursing assessment code set forth in appendix A to rule 5160-12-08 of the Administrative Code.

(F) All waiver nursing service providers will maintain a clinical record at their place of business for each individual served in accordance with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code.

(1) Storage will be in a manner that protects the confidentiality of these records.

(2) For the purposes of this rule, the place of business will be a location other than the individual's residence or primary location where the individual receives services.

(3) Each clinical record will include the following:

(a) Identifying information, including but not limited to, name, address, date of birth, gender, gender identity, race, phone numbers and health insurance identification numbers of the individual.

(b) Information regarding medical diagnoses, treatment and preferences.

(c) The individual's medication profile and medication administration record, as applicable.

(d) The individual's treatment administration record, as applicable.

(e) The name of and contact information for the individual's primary care physician(s).

(f) The name of and contact information for the individual's parent/guardian/authorized representative and/or emergency contact.

(g) All known drug and food interactions, allergies and dietary needs, preferences and/or restrictions.

(h) A copy of the initial and all subsequent person-centered services plans.

(i) Nurse assignments.

(j) A copy of any advance directives including, but not limited to, a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order and/or medical power of attorney, if they are provided by the individual.

(k) A copy of the initial and all subsequent plans of care, specifying the type, frequency, scope and duration of the nursing services being performed. When services are performed by an LPN at the direction of an RN, the clinical record will include documentation that the RN has reviewed the plans of care with the LPN. The plan of care will be recertified by the primary care physician at least every sixty days, or more frequently if there is a significant change in the individual's condition.

(l) Documentation of any verbal orders given by the primary care physician to the nurse. The nurse will document, in writing, the physician's orders, the date and time the orders were given, and sign the entry in the clinical record. The nurse will subsequently secure documentation of the verbal orders, signed and dated by the primary care physician.

(m) In all instances when a non-agency LPN is providing waiver nursing services, clinical notes, signed and dated by the LPN, documenting all consultations between the LPN and the directing RN, the face-to-face visits between the LPN and the directing RN, and the face-to-face visits between the LPN, the individual, and the directing RN.

(n) Clinical notes, signed and dated by the nurse, documenting the general condition of the individual, any unusual events occurring during the visit and the service tasks performed or not performed.

(o) All communications with the individual, case manager, RN supervisor if one exists, primary care physician and other members of the individual's team.

(G) All waiver nursing providers will also maintain a record at the individuals residence or primary service location in order to encourage sharing of information between caregivers and enhance person-centered care.

(1) Storage will be in a manner that protects the confidentiality of these records.

(2) The record may include a communication log, treatment record and/or medication administration record, if they exist.

(3) Documents in the record will reflect a minimum of at least the past sixty calendar days, with the individual's right to maintain more if he or she so chooses.

(4) The individual will identify the location in his or her residence or the primary service location where the record will be safely maintained.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:33 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5166.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/1/1992, 1/1/2019
Rule 5160-44-26 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: community transition services.
 

(A) "Community transition" pays for non-recurring start-up living expenses for individuals transitioning from an institutional setting to a home and community-based services (HCBS) setting that is compliant with rule 5160-44-01 of the Administrative Code. Community transition:

(1) Community transition includes the following:

(a) Expenses necessary to enable an individual to establish a basic household. Examples include:

(i) Security deposits and rental fees needed to obtain a lease on an apartment or home and rental expenses required to obtain a residential lease;

(ii) Essential household items such as furnishings and moving expenses required to occupy and use a community home, including furniture needed to occupy and maintain housing, including window coverings, food preparation items, and linens;

(iii) Set-up fees and deposits for utility and service access, including telephone/cellphone, electricity, gas, garbage, and water;

(iv) Services necessary for the individual's health and safety such as pest eradication and one-time cleaning prior to occupancy;

(v) Pre-transition transportation necessary to secure housing and benefits, etc.;

(vi) Initial cleaning and household supplies;

(vii) Activities to arrange for and to procure other non-recurring set-up expenses; and

(viii) Essential personal hygiene and clothing items needed to transition safely.

(b) The provider's administrative cost associated with providing community transition under this rule. Such fees will be included in the authorization described in paragraph (A)(2)(b) of this rule.

(2) Is payable only to the extent:

(a) They are determined reasonable and necessary through the person-centered services planning process described in rule 5160-44-02 of the Administrative Code and are clearly identified in an individual's person-centered services plan; and

(b) They are authorized by the Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), the Ohio department of aging (ODA) or their designee in an individual's person-centered services plan, which will only occur if no other person, including a landlord, has a legal or contractual responsibility to fund the expense, and if family, neighbors, friends, or community resources are unavailable to fund the expense.

(3) May be authorized up to one hundred eighty consecutive days before an individual's transition from an institutional setting into an HCBS setting. The date of service for purposes of payment is the date the individual leaves the institutional setting. If the individual fails to transition to an HCBS setting, the service is still payable if all other requirements are met.

(4) Is provided no later than thirty days after the date on which an individual enrolls on the waiver program.

(B) Community transition does not include:

(1) Room and board, ongoing monthly rental, or mortgage expenses;

(2) Grocery expenses;

(3) Ongoing utility or service expenses;

(4) Ongoing cable or internet expenses;

(5) Electronic and other household appliances and items intended to be used for entertainment or recreational purposes;

(6) Tobacco products or alcohol; and

(7) Furnishing living arrangements that are owned or leased by a waiver provider where the provision of these items and services are inherent to the service they are already providing.

(C) Limitations.

(1) Community transition will only be used one time per individual per waiver enrollment.

(2) Community transition will not exceed two thousand dollars per individual per waiver program enrollment.

(D) Providers will:

(1) Be either:

(a) An ODM-approved or ODA-certified waiver agency provider;

(b) An ODM-approved or ODA-certified non-agency provider;

(c) A transition coordination service provider under contract with ODM that also meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (E)(1) of this rule; or

(d) An ODA-certified assisted living provider.

(2) Comply with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code for an ODM-administered waiver program, or Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code for the pre-admission screening system providing options and resources today (PASSPORT) or assisted living programs.

(3) The provider will involve the individual and/or caregiver(s) in the selection of items to be purchased on the individual's behalf.

(E) All providers will maintain a record at their place of business for each individual served in accordance with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code, or with the requirements set forth in Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code for the PASSPORT program. For each service provided, the record will include:

(1) The individual's name;

(2) Date of service;

(3) A detailed description of each expense;

(4) A receipt for each expense;

(5) Verification the individual was involved in the selection of all items; and

(6) The individual's signature to verify receipt of the service.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5166.02, 5164.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 2/1/2020, 12/10/2020
Rule 5160-44-27 | Nursing facility-based level of care home and community-based services programs: home care attendant services.
 

(A) The following definitions are applicable to this rule:

(1) "Adult" means an individual at least eighteen years of age.

(2) "Authorizing health care professional" means a health care professional who, pursuant to section 5166.307 of the Revised Code, authorizes a home care attendant to assist an individual enrolled on a nursing facility (NF)-based level of care waiver with self-administration of medication, nursing tasks, or both.

(3) "Controlled substance" has the same meaning as in section 3719.01 of the Revised Code.

(4) "Custodian" has the same meaning as in section 2151.011 of the Revised Code.

(5) "Gastrostomy tube" means a percutaneously inserted catheter that terminates in the stomach.

(6) "Group setting" means a situation in which a home care attendant service provider furnishes home care attendant services in accordance with this rule and as authorized by the Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), or certified by the Ohio department of aging (ODA), to two or three individuals who reside at the same address.

(7) "Guardian" has the same meaning as in section 2111.01 of the Revised Code.

(8) "Health care professional" means a physician or registered nurse who holds a current, valid unrestricted license.

(9) "Home care attendant" means a provider, holding a valid medicaid provider agreement in accordance with section 5166.301 of the Revised Code and paragraph (G) of this rule, who is authorized to provide home care attendant services to a specific individual enrolled on a NF-based level of care waiver.

(10) "Individual enrolled on a NF-based level of care waiver" and "individual" mean the same as "consumer" as defined in section 5166.30 of the Revised Code.

(11) "Jejunostomy tube" means a percutaneously inserted catheter that terminates in the jejunum.

(12) "Medication" means a drug as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code.

(13) "Minor" means an individual under eighteen years of age.

(14) "Nursing facility (NF) -based level of care waiver" and "waiver" mean the MyCare Ohio and Ohio home care waivers administered by ODM and the PASSPORT waiver administered by ODA.

(15) "Nursing tasks" means skilled tasks that would otherwise be performed by a registered nurse (RN), or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) at the direction of an RN.

(16) "Oral medication" means any medication that can be administered through the mouth, through a gastrostomy tube or jejunostomy tube if through a pre-programmed pump, or through a syringe. Oral medication may include medication administered through a metered dose inhaler.

(17) "Physician" means an individual authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery.

(18) "Practice of nursing as a registered nurse," "practice of nursing as a licensed practical nurse (LPN)", and "registered nurse (RN)" have the same meanings as in section 4723.01 of the Revised Code. "Registered nurse" includes an advance practice nurse as defined in section 4723.01 of the Revised Code.

(19) "RN home care attendant service visit" means the visit every ninety days between the RN and the individual receiving home care attendant services as required by paragraph (G)(8) of this rule. The visit may be conducted by via telehealth, unless the individual's needs necessitate in-person visit.

(20) "Schedule II, " "schedule III," "schedule IV" and "schedule V" have the same meaning as in section 3719.01 of the Revised Code.

(21) "Topical medication" means any medication applied to the outer skin, including transdermal medications and eye, ear and nose drops. Topical medication may also include vaginal or rectal suppositories.

(B) Home care attendant services are services provided to an individual enrolled on a waiver by an unlicensed non-agency provider in accordance with this rule. Home care attendant services are tasks that would otherwise be performed by an RN or an LPN at the direction of an RN. Home care attendant services include:

(1) Assistance with self-administration of medications as set forth in paragraph (E) of this rule.

(2) Assistance with the performance of nursing tasks as set forth in paragraph (F) of this rule.

(3) Tasks performed as part of personal care aide services as described in rule 5160-46-04 or 173-39-02.11 of the Administrative Code when performed during a home care attendant service visit. Personal care aide tasks are not reimbursable separately as personal care aide services when they are performed during a home care attendant service visit.

(C) Home care attendant services may be provided:

(1) In the individual's home or in the community; and

(2) To assist an individual to function in the workplace without duplicating workplace accommodations.

(D) If the individual has an authorized representative as 5166.3010 of the Revised Code, the authorized representative will be present and awake during the delivery of home care attendant services.

(E) Assistance with self-administration of medication.

(1) A home care attendant will only assist an individual enrolled on a waiver with the self-administration of the following medication:

(a) Oral medications;

(b) Topical medications;

(c) Subcutaneous injections only for routine doses of insulin;

(d) Programming of a pump only used to deliver a routine dose of insulin;

(e) Medication administered via stable, labeled gastrostomy or jejunostomy tubes using pre-programmed pumps; and

(f) Doses of schedule II, schedule III, schedule IV and schedule V drugs only when administered orally or topically.

(2) Medication will be maintained in its original container and the attached label will match the dosage and means of administration set forth on the ODM 02389 "Home Care Attendant Medication Authorization" form. The label on the container will display all of the following information for the individual enrolled on a waiver:

(a) The individual's full name;

(b) A dispensing date within the prior twelve months; and

(c) The exact dosage and means of administration.

(3) For schedule II, schedule III, schedule IV and schedule V drugs, all of the following apply:

(a) Medication(s) will have a warning label on the bottle;

(b) During the first visit, the home care attendant will count the medication(s) in the presence of the individual enrolled on a waiver or the authorized representative and will record the count on a log located in the individual's clinical record.

(c) The medication(s) will be recounted by the home care attendant in the presence of the individual enrolled on a waiver or the authorized representative at least monthly, and the count will be reconciled on a log located in the individual's clinical record. The home care attendant will notify the authorizing health care professional, in writing, within twenty-four hours if:

(i) Medication is missing; or

(ii) The count of medication(s) cannot be reconciled.

(d) The medication(s) will be stored separately from all other medications, and secured and locked at all times when not being administered in order to prevent access by unauthorized persons.

(F) Assistance with the performance of nursing tasks.

(1) A home care attendant may assist with the performance of nursing tasks not expressly excluded in accordance with paragraph (F)(2) of this rule.

(2) A home care attendant may not assist an individual who is receiving home care attendant services with the performance of any of the following nursing tasks:

(a) Intravenous (IV) insertion, removal or discontinuation;

(b) Intramuscular injections;

(c) IV medication administration;

(d) Subcutaneous injections, except for routine doses of insulin pursuant to paragraph (E)(1)(c) of this rule;

(e) Programming of a pump used to deliver medications (including, but not limited to epidural, subcutaneous and IV), except for routine doses of insulin pursuant to paragraph (E)(1)(d) of this rule;

(f) Insertion or initiation of infusion therapies; and

(g) Central line dressing changes.

(3) Performance of nursing tasks will be summarized and submitted on the ODM 02390 "Home Care Attendant Skilled Task Authorization" form.

(G) In order to provide services to an individual enrolled on a waiver and to submit a claim for reimbursement, home care attendants will meet all of the following requirements:

(1) As part of the medicaid provider agreement application process, provide ODM, ODA or their designee with evidence to its satisfaction of the following:

(a) Submission of the ODM 02389 "Home Care Attendant Medication Authorization" form and/or ODM 02390 "Home Care Attendant Skilled Task Authorization" form as prescribed by paragraph (H) of this rule.

(b) Successful completion of at least one of the following:

(i) A competency evaluation program or training and competency evaluation program approved or conducted by the director of health under section 3721.31 of the Revised Code, and registration as active or in good standing on the Ohio nurse aide registry maintained by the director of health under section 3721.32 of the Revised Code; or

(ii) A training program and competency evaluation program for home health aides as specified in 42 C.F.R. 484.4 and 484.36, if the person met those standards as they existed on or before January 12, 2018, or 42 C.F.R. 484.80 and 484.115, if the person met those standards since they were adopted on January 13, 2018. A person is not considered to have completed a training and competency evaluation program, or a competency evaluation program if, since the persons most recent completion of this program(s), there has been a continuous period of twenty-four consecutive months during none of which the person furnished services described in 42 C.F.R. 409.40 (as in effect on October 1, 2023); or

(iii) A certified vocational program in a health care field, and written testing and skills testing by return demonstration; or

(iv) A written attestation of training, instruction, and as appropriate, skills testing by return demonstration prior to initiation of service provision on:

(a) Appropriate and safe techniques in personal hygiene and grooming that include: bed, tub, shower and partial bath techniques, shampoo in sink, tub or bed, nail and skin care, oral hygiene, toileting and elimination, safe transfer and ambulation, normal range of motion and positioning, and adequate nutrition and fluid intake.

(b) The maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment, including but not limited to, house cleaning and laundry, dusting furniture, sweeping, vacuuming and washing floors, kitchen care (including dishes, appliances and counters), bathroom care, emptying and cleaning bedside commodes and urinary catheter bags, changing bed linens, washing inside windows within reach from the floor, removing trash and folding, ironing and putting away laundry.

(c) Meal preparation, including special diet preparation, grocery purchase, planning and shopping, and running errands.

(d) The physical, emotional and developmental needs of individuals, including the need for privacy and respect for individuals and their property.

(e) Universal precautions for the prevention of disease transmission, including hand-washing and proper disposal of bodily waste and medical instruments that are sharp or may produce sharp pieces if broken.

(f) Basic elements of body functioning and changes in body function that should be reported to a supervisor.

(g) Basic safety requirements and knowledge of emergency procedures.

(h) Reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.

(i) Observation, reporting and documentation of individual status and services provided.

(j) Communication skills, including the ability to read, write and make brief and accurate oral or written reports.

(c) Completion of training and instruction, prior to the provision of home care attendant services, regarding the delivery of the home care attendant services authorized by the individual's authorizing health care professional. The training will be specific to the individual enrolled on a waiver and may be provided by the individual's authorizing health care professional, the individual receiving services or the authorized representative in cooperation with the individual's health care professional as indicated on the ODM 02389 "Home Care Attendant Medication Authorization" form and/or ODM 02390 "Home Care Attendant Skilled Task Authorization" form, as appropriate.

(d) Performance of a successful return demonstration of the home care attendant service to be provided if requested by the individual enrolled on a waiver or the authorizing health care professional.

(e) Completion and maintenance of first aid certification from a class that is not solely internet-based and that includes hands-on training by a certified first aid instructor and a successful return demonstration of what was learned in the course, and certification that education was received from the authorizing health care professional about health and welfare considerations appropriate for an individual or group setting.

(f) Completion and maintenance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification from a class that is not solely internet-based and that includes hands-on training by a certified CPR instructor and a successful return demonstration of what was learned in the course. Current providers and those provider-applicants whose applications are pending as of the effective date of this rule shall have one hundred and eighty days from the effective date of this rule to meet this requirement.

(2) Be a non-agency provider who holds an active medicaid provider agreement as a home care attendant and who maintains compliance with sections 5166.30 to 5166.3010 of the Revised Code and applicable rules set forth in Chapters 173-39, 5160-44, 5160-45 and 5160-46 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Request reimbursement for the provision of home care attendant services in accordance with rule 5160-1-06.1 of the Administrative Code for Ohio department of aging certified providers or 5160-46-06.1 of the Administrative Code for providers of Ohio department of medicaid administrated waiver programs.

(4) Not be the authorizing health care professional of the individual receiving services.

(5) Not be an authorized representative of the individual receiving services.

(6) Not be the legally responsible family member as that term is defined in rule 5160-45-01 of the Administrative Code of the individual receiving services.

(7) Not be the legal guardian or foster caregiver of the individual receiving services.

(8) In collaboration with the individual receiving services, secure the services of an RN and participate in an in-person visit with the individual receiving services, the authorized representative, and the RN for the purpose of answering any questions the home care attendant and/or individual receiving services, or authorized representative have about meeting care needs, medications and other issues.

(a) At least twice per year, the RN will conduct RN home care attendant service visits in-person.

All other RN home care attendant service visits may be conducted via telehealth, unless the individual's needs necessitate an in-person visit.

(b) The RN performing an RN home care attendant service visit will:

(i) Possess a current, valid and unrestricted license with the Ohio board of nursing;

(ii) Possess an active Ohio medicaid provider agreement;

(iii) Comply with the conditions of participation as set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code.

(c) The RN will be present at the first visit between the home care attendant and individual upon the initiation of home care attendant services. ODM, ODA, or their designee will also be present at the first visit.

(d) The home care attendant and the RN will document the activities of each visit in the clinical record of the individual receiving services.

(e) The home care attendant will discuss the results of the RN visit with ODM, ODA or their designee, the individual receiving services and/or the authorized representative.

(f) When the RN performs an RN home care attendant service visit, the RN may bill the state plan nursing assessment code set forth in appendix A to rule 5160-12-08 of the Administrative Code.

(H) If authorized on the person-centered services plan, a home care attendant may provide services to two or three individuals enrolled on a waiver in a group setting.

(I) The ODM 02389 "Home Care Attendant Medication Authorization" form and/or the ODM 02390 "Home Care Attendant Skilled Task Authorization" form, as appropriate, will contain all of the following:

(1) Written consent from the individual enrolled on a waiver or the authorized representative, as applicable, allowing the home care attendant to provide home care attendant services, and assuming responsibility for directing the home care attendant.

(2) A written statement from the authorizing health care professional attesting that the individual enrolled on a waiver or the authorized representative has demonstrated the ability to direct the home care attendant. The written statement will also indicate whether the home care attendant has demonstrated the ability to furnish the home care attendant service to the individual enrolled on a waiver. The statement will include all of the following:

(a) The name and address of the individual receiving home care attendant services;

(b) A description of the specific nursing task or self-administration of medication that the home care attendant will assist with, including, in the case of assistance with self-administration of medication, the name, dosage, and route of administration of the medication;

(c) The times or intervals when the home care attendant is to assist the individual receiving services with the self-administration of each dosage of the medication or with the performance of nursing tasks;

(d) The dates on which the home care attendant is to begin and cease providing assistance;

(e) A list of severe adverse reactions that the home care attendant will report to the individual's health care professional should the individual experience one or more reactions;

(f) At least one telephone number at which the home care attendant can reach the individual's health care professional in an emergency for consultation after contacting emergency personnel;

(g) At least one contact number at which the home care attendant can reach the authorizing health care professional when the home care attendant observes that scheduled medication(s) is missing or cannot be reconciled; and

(h) Instructions the home care attendant will follow when assisting the individual receiving services with the performance of a nursing task or the self-administration of medications, including, instructions for maintaining sterile conditions and for the storage of task-related equipment and supplies.

(J) The individual enrolled on a waiver will participate with ODM, ODA, or their designee in the development and maintenance of a written back-up plan prior to initiation of services. The authorizing health care professional and/or the home care attendant may also participate in the development and maintenance of the back-up plan.

(1) The back-up plan will meet the needs of the individual enrolled on a waiver in the event:

(a) The regularly scheduled home care attendant cannot or does not meet his or her obligation to provide services to the individual receiving services; or

(b) The individual receiving services and/or the authorized representative is not able to direct home care attendant services.

(2) As authorized by ODM, ODA, or their designee,

(a) Waiver nursing as set forth in rule 5160-44-22 of the Administrative Code, and/or private duty nursing or home health nursing as set forth in Chapter 5160-12 of the Administrative Code, may be used as back-up to assist with self-administration of medications and the performance of nursing tasks;

(b) Personal care aide services as set forth in rule 5160-46-04 of the Administrative Code may be used as back-up for personal care aide tasks in an ODM-administered waiver;

(c) Personal care services as set forth in rule 173-39-02.11 of the Administrative Code may be used as back-up for personal care tasks in the PASSPORT waiver; and

(d) Back-up may include informal caregivers.

(K) All home care attendants service providers will maintain a clinical record for each individual served in accordance with the requirements set forth in rule 5160-44-31 of the Administrative Code.

(1) Storage of the clinical record will be in a manner that protects the confidentiality of these records and will be in a secure location that may be the individual's residence or primary location where the individual receives services.

(2) Each clinical record will include:

(a) Identifying information including name, address, date of birth, gender/gender identity, race, significant phone numbers and health identification numbers of the individual.

(b) Information regarding the individual's medical diagnoses, treatment and preferences.

(c) The individual's medication profile, as applicable.

(d) The individual's treatment administration record, as applicable.

(e) The name and contact information for all of the licensed health care professionals serving the individual.

(f) The name of and current contact information for the individual's parent/guardian/authorized representative and/or emergency contact.

(g) A copy of the initial and all subsequent person-centered services plans.

(h) All known drug and food interactions, allergies and dietary needs, preferences and/or restrictions.

(i) A copy of any advance directives including, but not limited to, a "do not resuscitate order" (DNR) or a "medical power of attorney," if they exist.

(j) The ODM 02389 "Home Care Attendant Medication Authorization" form and/or the ODM 02390 "Home Care Attendant Skilled Task Authorization" form, as appropriate. The ODM 02389 "Home Care Attendant Medication Authorization" form and/or the ODM 02390 "Home Care Attendant Skilled Task Authorization" form will be updated and reflected in the clinical record should any changes in home care attendant service provisions be needed.

(k) Documentation of home care attendant services performed or not performed, arrival and departure times, and the dated signature of the provider, and individual receiving services or the authorized representative, verifying the service delivery upon its completion and arrival and departure times. The signature method of choice for the individual receiving services or the authorized representative will be documented on the person-centered services plan, and will include, but not be limited to, any of the following: a handwritten signature, initials, a stamp or mark, or an electronic signature. If the individual is unable to provide the signature at the time of service, the individual is to submit an electronic signature or standard signature via regular mail, or otherwise provide a signature in no instance any later than within three business days of the completion of the service delivery that requires signature.

(l) A copy of the log detailing the count and reconciliation of schedule II, schedule III, schedule IV and schedule V drugs for which assistance with self-administration is provided.

(m) Service notes, signed and dated by the home care attendant, documenting all communications with ODM, ODA or their designee, health care professionals including the authorizing health care professional, and other members of the individual's team, and documenting the general condition of the individual, any unusual events occurring during the visit, and the service tasks performed.

(n) Documentation of the RN home care attendant service visits every ninety days between the home care attendant, individual enrolled on a waiver and RN, and of any resulting activities, in accordance with paragraph (G)(8) of this rule.

(L) Unless the clinical record described in paragraph (K) of this rule is maintained in the home of the individual and accessible to team members, the home care attendant will maintain another record which:

(1) Includes communication logs going back no less than sixty calendar days in a format agreed upon by the individual and provider for the purpose of promoting communication between team members.

(2) Any other documentation required by the individual.

(3) Is maintained in a place and manner that is accessible to the individual and other team members chosen by the individual at the individual's residence or primary service location.

(4) Is maintained in a manner that protects the confidentiality of the individual.

(M) If ODM, ODA, or their designee determines that the individual enrolled on a waiver cannot meet the requirements of this rule, or the health and welfare of the individual receiving home care attendant services cannot be ensured, then ODM, ODA, or their designee, at its discretion, may prohibit the individual from receiving home care attendant services. The individual will be afforded notice and hearing rights in accordance with division 5101:6 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02, 5166.30
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5164.02, 5166.30, 5166.301, 5166.302, 5166.303, 5166.304, 5166.305, 5166.306, 5166.307, 5166.308, 5166.309, 5166.3010
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/2010, 1/1/2019
Rule 5160-44-31 | Ohio department of medicaid (ODM)-administered waiver programs: provider conditions of participation.
 

(A) An ODM-administered waiver service provider will maintain a professional relationship with the individuals to whom they provide services. Providers will furnish services in a manner that is in accordance with the individual's approved person-centered services plan, is attentive to the individual's needs, and maximizes the individual's independence. A provider will refrain from any behavior that may detract from the goals, objectives and services outlined in the individual's approved person-centered services plan and/or that may jeopardize the individual's health and welfare.

(B) An ODM-administered waiver service provider will:

(1) Maintain an active, valid medicaid provider agreement as set forth in rule 5160-1-17.2 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Comply with all provider requirements set forth in Chapters 5160-44 and 5160-45 of the Administrative Code, and Chapter 5160-46 or 5160-58 of the Administrative Code, depending upon the waiver(s) for which the provider is rendering services. Provider requirements include:

(a) Provider enrollment as set forth in rule 5160-45-04 of the Administrative Code;

(b) Criminal record checks as set forth in rule 5160-45-07 or 5160-45-08, as applicable, and rule 5160-45-11 of the Administrative Code;

(c) Incident reporting as set forth in rule 5160-44-05 of the Administrative Code; and

(d) Provider monitoring, reviews and oversight as set forth in rules 5160-45-06 and 5160-45-09 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Be at least eighteen years of age, including the provider and its employees, if applicable.

(4) Be able to read, write, and understand English at a level that enables the provider to comply with all applicable program requirements.

(5) Be able to effectively communicate with the individual.

(6) Deliver services professionally, respectfully and legally.

(7) Ensure that individuals to whom the provider is rendering ODM-administered waiver services are protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation and other threats to their health, safety and well-being. Upon entering into a medicaid provider agreement, and annually thereafter, all providers including all employees who have direct contact with individuals enrolled on an ODM-administered waiver, must acknowledge in writing they have reviewed rule 5160-44-05 of the Administrative Code regarding incident management and related procedures.

(8) Work with the individual and case manager to coordinate service delivery, including:

(a) Agreeing to provide and providing services in the amount, scope, location and duration they have capacity to provide, and as specified on the individual's approved person-centered services plan.

(b) Participating in the development of a back-up plan in the event that providers are unable to furnish services on the appointed date and time.

(c) Contacting the individual and the case manager in the event the provider is unable to render services on the appointed date and time.

(i) In the case of an emergency or unplanned absence, the provider will immediately activate the back-up plan as set forth in the individual's approved person-centered services plan, verify with the individual and notify the case manager with information about the absence.

(ii) In the event of a planned absence, the provider will verify with the individual and notify the case manager no later than seventy-two hours prior to the absence with information about the absence.

(9) Upon request and within the timeframe prescribed in the request, provide information and documentation to ODM, its designee and/or the centers for medicare and medicaid services (CMS).

(10) Successfully complete ODM-mandated new provider training within ninety days after a new provider's medicaid enrollment date.

(11) Participate in all appropriate provider trainings mandated or sponsored by ODM or its designees, including but not limited to those set forth in Chapters 5160-44, 5160-45, 5160-46 and 5160-58 of the Administrative Code.

(12) Be knowledgeable about and comply with all applicable federal and state laws, including the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996" (HIPAA) regulations set forth in 45 C.F.R. parts 160 and 164 (as in effect on October 1, 2023), and the medicaid safeguarding information requirements set forth in 42 C.F.R. 431.300 to 431.306 (as in effect on October 1, 2023), along with sections 5160.45 to 5160.481 of the Revised Code.

(13) Ensure that the provider's contact information, including but not limited to address, telephone number, fax number and email address, is current. In the event of a change in contact information, the provider will notify ODM via the provider network management (PNM) portal and its designee, no later than seven calendar days after such changes have occurred.

(14) Maintain and retain all required documentation related to the services delivered during each visit, including but not limited to: an individual-specific description and details of the tasks performed or not performed in accordance with the approved person-centered services plan and when required, the individual's plan of care.

(a) Verification of service delivery will include, but not be limited to, the date and location of service delivery, service start and end times, and the signatures of the provider and the individual or authorized representative.

(b) Acceptable signatures include, but are not limited to a handwritten signature, initials, a stamp or mark, or an electronic signature. Any accommodations to the individual's or authorized representative's signature will be documented on the person-centered services plan.

(c) If the individual is unable to provide the signature required by this paragraph at the time of the service, the individual is to submit an electronic signature or standard signature via regular mail, or otherwise provide a signature in no instance any later than within three business days of the completion of the service delivery that requires signature.

(15) Retain all records of service delivery and billing for a period of six years after the date of receipt of the payment based upon those records, or until any initiated audit is completed, whichever is longer.

(16) Cooperate with ODM and its designee during all provider monitoring and oversight activities by being available to answer questions during reviews, and by assuring the availability and confidentiality of individual information and other documents that may be requested as part of provider monitoring activities.

(17) To the extent not otherwise required by rule 5160-44-05 of the Administrative Code, notify ODM or its designee within twenty-four hours when the provider is aware of issues that may affect the individual and/or provider's ability to render services as directed in the individual's person-centered services plan, including when:

(a) The individual consistently declines services;

(b) The individual plans to or has moved to another residential address;

(c) There are changes in the physical, mental and/or emotional status of the individual;

(d) There are changes in the individual's environmental conditions;

(e) The individual's caregiver status has changed;

(f) The individual no longer requires medically necessary services as defined in rule 5160-1-01 of the Administrative Code;

(g) The individual's actions toward the provider are threatening or the provider feels unsafe or threatened in the individual's environment;

(h) The individual is consistently noncompliant with physician orders, or is noncompliant with physician orders in a manner that may jeopardize his or her health and welfare;

(i) The individual's requests conflict with his or her person-centered services plan and/or may jeopardize his or her health and welfare; or

(j) Any other situation that affects the individual's health and welfare.

(18) Make arrangements to accept all correspondence sent by ODM or its designee, including but not limited to, certified mail.

(19) Maintain a current e-mail address with ODM and its designee in order to receive electronic notification of any rule adoption, amendment or rescission, and any other communications from ODM or its designee

(20) Submit written notification to the individual and ODM or its designee at least thirty calendar days before the anticipated last date of service if the provider is terminating the provision of ODM-administered waiver services to the individual. Exceptions include:

(a) The provider will submit verbal and written notification to the individual and ODM or its designee at least ten days before the anticipated last date of service if the individual has been:

(i) Admitted to a hospital;

(ii) Placed in an institutional setting; or

(iii) Incarcerated.

(b) ODM may waive advance notification for a provider upon request and on a case-by-case basis.

(21) Be identified as the provider, and have specified on the individual's person-centered service plan that is prior approved by ODM or its designee, the amount of services the provider is authorized to furnish to the individual.

(22) Have a valid social security number and at least one of the following current, government-issued photographic identification cards:

(a) Driver license;

(b) State of Ohio identification card; or

(c) United States of America permanent residence card.

(C) A provider of nursing, personal care and home care attendant services under an ODM-administered waiver program will verify service delivery using an ODM-approved electronic visit verification (EVV) system in accordance with rule 5160-1-40 of the Administrative Code.

(D) At no time, will an ODM-administered waiver service provider:

(1) Engage in any behavior that causes or may cause physical, verbal, mental or emotional abuse or distress to the individual.

(2) Engage in any other behavior that may compromise the health and welfare of the individual.

(3) Engage in any activity or behavior that may take advantage of or manipulate the individual or his or her authorized representative, family or household members or which may result in a conflict of interest, exploitation, or any other advantage for personal gain, including:

(a) Misrepresentation;

(b) Accepting, obtaining, attempting to obtain, borrowing, or receiving money or anything of value including, but not limited to gifts, tips, credit cards or other items;

(c) Being designated on any financial account including, but not limited to bank accounts and credit cards;

(d) Using real or personal property of another;

(e) Using information of another;

(f) Lending or giving money or anything of value;

(g) Engaging in the sale or purchase of products, services or personal items; and

(h) Engaging in any activity that takes advantage of or manipulates ODM-administered waiver program rules.

(4) Falsify the individual's signature, including using copies of the signature.

(5) Make fraudulent, deceptive or misleading statements in the advertising, solicitation, administration or billing of services.

(6) Submit a claim for waiver services rendered while the individual is hospitalized, institutionalized or incarcerated. The only exception is when the individual is receiving out-of-home respite as set forth on his or her person-centered services plan.

(E) While rendering services, an ODM-administered waiver service provider will not:

(1) Take the individual to the provider's place of residence.

(2) Bring children, animals, friends, relatives, other individuals or anyone else to the individual's place of residence.

(3) Provide care to persons other than the individual.

(4) Smoke without the consent of the individual.

(5) Sleep.

(6) Engage in any activity that is not related to the provision of services to the extent the activity distracts from, or interferes with, service delivery. Such activities include, but are not limited to the following:

(a) Using electronic devices for personal or entertainment purposes including, but not limited to watching television, using the computer or playing games.

(b) Making or receiving personal communications.

(c) Engaging in socialization with persons other than the individual.

(7) Deliver services when the provider is medically, physically or emotionally unfit.

(8) Use or be under the influence of the following while providing services:

(a) Alcohol.

(b) Illegal drugs.

(c) Chemical substances.

(d) Controlled substances that may adversely affect the provider's ability to furnish services.

(9) Engage in any activity or conduct that may reasonably be interpreted as sexual in nature, regardless of whether or not it is consensual.

(10) Engage in any behavior that may reasonably be interpreted as inappropriate involvement in the individual's personal beliefs or relationships including, but not limited to discussing religion, politics or personal issues.

(11) Consume the individual's food and/or drink without his or her offer and consent.

(F) Parents of minor children, spouse, and other individual's designated legal decision-making authority:

(1) Unless otherwise permitted by rule 5160-44-32 of the Administrative Code, an ODM-administered waiver service provider will not be designated to serve or make decisions for the individual in any capacity involving a declaration for mental health treatment, general power of attorney, health care (medical) power of attorney, financial power of attorney, legal custody of a minor child, guardianship pursuant to court order, as an authorized representative, or as a representative payee.

(2) A provider may be designated as an authorized representative or pursuant to a declaration for mental health treatment, general power of attorney, health care (medical) power of attorney, financial power of attorney or guardianship for the individual if:

(a) The provider was serving in that capacity prior to September 1, 2005; and

(b) The provider was the individual's paid medical provider prior to September 1, 2005; and

(c) The designation is not otherwise prohibited by law.

(G) An agency provider will pay applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes in compliance with federal, state and local requirements. Federal employment taxes include medicare and social security.

(H) Non-agency providers will pay applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes in compliance with federal, state and local requirements. Federal employment taxes include medicare and social security. On an annual basis, non-agency providers will submit an ODM-approved affidavit stating that they paid their applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes.

(I) Failure to meet the requirements set forth in this rule may result in any of the actions set forth in rules 5160-44-05, 5160-45-06 and 5160-45-09 of the Administrative Code including termination of the medicaid provider agreement in accordance with rule 5160-1-17.6 of the Administrative Code. In the event ODM proposes termination of the medicaid provider agreement, the provider may be entitled to a hearing or review in accordance with Chapter 5160-70 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 8:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5166.02
Amplifies: 5162.03, 5166.02, 5164.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 2/1/2015, 1/1/2019
Rule 5160-44-32 | Home and community based medicaid waiver program provider and direct care worker relationships.
 

(A) This rule is applicable to the following waiver programs and services:

(1) Individual options services, as described in Chapter 5123-9 of the Administrative Code:

(a) Homemaker/personal care, participant-directed and provided through an agency; and

(b) Waiver nursing, provided through an agency.

(2) Level one homemaker/personal care services, participant-directed and provided through an agency, as described in Chapter 5123-9 of the Administrative Code.

(3) MyCare Ohio services, as described in Chapter 5160-58 of the Administrative Code:

(a) Choices home care attendant, participant-directed;

(b) Homemaker services provided through an agency;

(c) Personal care services provided through an agency and participant-directed; and

(d) Waiver nursing services provided through an agency.

(4) Ohio home care services, as described in Chapter 5160-46 of the Administrative Code:

(a) Personal care aide services provided through an agency; and

(b) Waiver nursing services provided through an agency.

(5) Pre-admission screening system providing options and resources today (PASSPORT) services, as described in Chapter 173-39 of the Administrative Code:

(a) Choices home care attendant, participant-directed;

(b) Homemaker services provided through an agency;

(c) Personal care services provided through an agency and participant-directed; and

(d) Waiver nursing services provided through an agency.

(6) Self-empowered life funding participant-directed homemaker/personal care services, as described in Chapter 5123-9 of the Administrative Code.

(B) For the purpose of this rule, the following definitions apply:

(1) "Agency" refers to the following:

(a) A home health agency provider of Ohio home care waiver services, as described in Chapter 5160-46 of the Administrative Code;

(b) An Ohio department of aging (ODA) agency provider certified under section 173.391 of the Revised Code; and

(c) A department of developmental disabilities (DODD) agency provider certified under section 5123.045 of the Revised Code.

(2) "Appendix K" refers to a standalone appendix that may be utilized by states during emergency situations to request amendment to approved 1915(c) waivers. It includes actions that states can take under the existing section 1915(c) home and community-based waiver authority in order to respond to an emergency.

(3) "Care management agency" and "service and support administration entity" refers to an agency or entity delegated or contracted by ODA, ODM, or DODD to perform care coordination activities and related functions for individuals enrolled on a fee for service or managed care waiver program.

(4) "Direct care worker" refers to the person providing hands on care to an individual receiving a medicaid 1915(c) waiver program service.

(5) "Extraordinary care" refers to hands-on assistance with activities of daily living, incidental activities of daily living, and supervisory monitoring care exceeding the range of activities a parent of a minor child would ordinarily perform in the household on behalf of an individual without a disability or chronic illness of the same age, or on behalf of a spouse without a disability or chronic illness.

(6) "Financial Management Service (FMS)" refers to the entity contracted with ODA, Ohio department of medicaid (ODM), DODD, or their designee to process payment of participant-directed waiver services.

(7) "Home and community-based services (HCBS)" refers to services available to individuals to help maintain their health and safety in a community setting in lieu of institutional care as described in 42 C.F.R. 440 subpart A (October 1, 2023). Programs which provide HCBS include the assisted living waiver, the individual options waiver, the level one waiver, the MyCare Ohio waiver, the Ohio home care waiver, pre-admission screening system providing options and resources today (PASSPORT), and the self-empowered life funding waiver.

(8) "Individual" refers to a medicaid recipient receiving services through an HCBS waiver program authorized under 1915(c) of the Social Security Act.

(9) "Legal representative" refers to a person or entity who has a legal standing to make decisions on behalf of another person (e.g., a guardian who has been appointed by the court or an individual who has power of attorney granted by the individual).

(10) "Non-agency provider" refers to the following:

(a) A non-agency provider of Ohio home care waiver services, as described in Chapter 5160-46 of the Administrative Code;

(b) An ODA certified non-agency provider, certified under section 173.391 of the Revised Code; and

(c) A DODD certified independent provider, certified under section 5123.045 of the Revised Code.

(11) "Parent" refers to an adoptive, biological, or step-parent of an individual.

(12) "Relative" refers to children, grandparents, grandchildren, great-grandparents, great grand-children, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and step-relations and parents of an individual above the age of seventeen.

(C) Unless otherwise permitted in this rule or other home and community based services (HCBS) waiver program rules or other ODM rules, a parent of a minor child, a spouse, and other legal representatives are not eligible to bill for medicaid reimbursable waiver services to an individual for whom they serve as legal representative.

(D) Unless otherwise permitted in other HCBS waiver program rules, an agency fully or partially owned by an individual's legal representative is not eligible to bill for medicaid reimbursable waiver services to an individual for whom they serve as legal representative.

(E) Parents of minor child and spouse of an individual:

(1) A parent of a minor child, or the spouse of an individual may only provide HCBS waiver services to an individual if both of the following conditions are met:

(a) There is no other willing and able provider or direct care worker available to provide the HCBS waiver services to the individual.

(b) ODM, ODA, DODD, or their designee has determined the health and safety needs of the individual can be ensured.

(2) When conditions set forth in paragraph (E)(1) of this rule are present, a parent of a minor child, or the spouse of an individual may serve as a direct care worker, within the following parameters:

(a) The parent of a minor child is employed through an agency provider or provides an eligible participant-directed service through an FMS.

(b) The spouse is employed through an agency provider or provides an eligible participant-directed service through an FMS.

(c) Unless otherwise permitted in HCBS waiver program rules, or determined by ODM, DODD or their designee, as necessary to ensure the health and safety of the individual and authorized on the PCSP, an individual who is a minor child may receive a maximum of forty hours per week of paid care from a parent or combination of parents and may not exceed the amount of service the individual is assessed to need. ODM, ODA, DODD or their designee may grant an exception to this limitation, in accordance with departmental program operational processes.

(d) Unless otherwise permitted in HCBS waiver program rules, or determined by ODM, ODA, DODD or their designee, as necessary to ensure the health and safety of the individual and authorized on the PCSP, an individual may receive a maximum of forty hours per week of paid care from their spouse and may not exceed the amount of service the individual is assessed to need. ODM, ODA, DODD or their designee may grant an exception to this limitation, in accordance with departmental program operational processes.

(e) HCBS waiver services provided by a parent of a minor child or by a spouse must meet extraordinary care requirements, as determined through prescribed form, ODM 10372 "Ohio Extraordinary Care Instrument";

(f) Services provided by a parent of a minor child or by a spouse may not be provided for respite purposes;

(g) Individuals agree to and cooperate with monthly care management agency or services and supports administrator contacts. Contacts may be a combination of telephonic and in-person visits, with no more than sixty calendar days between in-person visits.

(h) The parent of a minor child or spouse participates in contact and visit requirements described in the individual's person-centered services plan (PCSP).

(3) HCBS waiver services may not be provided to an individual by the foster parent of the individual or by an agency in which the foster parent of the individual has an ownership interest.

(4) A spouse appointed as a legal guardian of an individual must maintain evidence of the guardian's ability to be a direct care worker for the individual in accordance with Rule 66.04 of the Rules of Superintendence for the Courts of Ohio.

(F) Relatives of an individual above the age of seventeen years with a legal representative designation:

(1) A parent of an individual above the age of seventeen years may provide the services described in paragraph (A) of this rule while holding the designation of:

(a) Authorized representative,

(b) Declaration for mental health treatment,

(c) General power of attorney,

(d) Healthcare (medical) power of attorney,

(e) Representative payee, or

(f) Guardian appointed by the probate court who is authorized by the court to be a direct service provider for the individual under court order as permitted by Rule 66.04 of the Rules of Superintendence for the Courts of Ohio.

(2) Unless otherwise permitted in HCBS waiver program rules, adult children, grandparents, grandchildren, great-grandparents, great-grandchildren, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and step-relations may provide the services described in paragraph (A) of this rule while holding the designation of:

(a) Authorized representative,

(b) Declaration for mental health treatment,

(c) General power of attorney,

(d) Healthcare (medical) power of attorney, or

(e) Guardian appointed by the probate court who is authorized by the court to be a direct service provider for the individual under court order as permitted by Rule 66.04 of the Rules of Superintendence for the Courts of Ohio.

(3) Unless otherwise permitted in HCBS waiver program rules or determined by ODM, ODA, DODD or their designee, as necessary to ensure the health and safety of the individual and authorized on the PCSP, paid care is limited to forty hours per week per relative with legal decision-making authority, and may not exceed the amount of service the individual is assessed to need.

(G) Limitations

(1) A direct care worker providing services described in paragraph (A) of this rule may not verify service provision on behalf of the individual.

(2) A direct care worker may not receive payment from any source for activity other than the direct care for the individual during the time authorized to provide HCBS waiver services.

(3) A direct care worker may not provide care to a person other than the authorized individual(s) during medicaid billed hours.

(4) Participant directed services: if an individual chooses to designate a representative through the FMS, the FMS designated representative(s) may not serve as a direct care worker.

(H) The PCSP will document that the conditions set forth in paragraphs (E) and (F) of this rule are met.

(I) Within ninety days of the effective date of this rule, parents of minor children and spouses of individuals who were authorized to provide paid services under the Appendix K authority will be assessed by care management agencies or service and support administration entities, as appropriate, to determine whether they meet the requirements outlined in this rule in order to continue to provide services. The authorized parents of minor children and spouses of individuals may continue to provide paid services until the assessment has been completed or the ninety-day period has expired, whichever comes first.

(J) A decision by ODM, ODA, DODD, or their designee related to whether someone qualifies under this rule to serve as a provider or a direct care worker for an individual is not subject to notice and appeal rights under division 5101:6 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated January 2, 2024 at 9:03 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5162.02
Amplifies: 5166.02
Five Year Review Date: 1/1/2029