Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What documentation is required to support the need for General inpatient (GIP) level of care during a patient's stay?
A: Documentation from the facility must be obtained to show the level of care required. Be sure to get this from the facility and make it part of the contract for inpatient stays. In addition, be sure that frequent communication with the hospice physician occurs and is documented clearly, along with each order from the physician. And don't forget the patient's response to treatment. Each day the patient receives GIP care, document why it continues and conduct and document conversations about when it can end and what clinical findings will determine a readiness to return to a lower level of care.
Q: How will the agency ensure compliance with the updated bereavement services requirements?
A: A plan must be established that reflects the family's needs from the first comprehensive assessment and in each comprehensive assessment throughout the patient's hospice care. In addition, the person on the IDG who oversees bereavement must be part of the IDG, with IDG documentation showing this person's participation in patient-specific discussion each time the IDG meets.