Healthcare reform bill to delay implementation of RUG-IV until 2011

The RUG-IV classification system will not start until Oct. 1, 2011, under the new healthcare reform bill.

The House of Representatives Sunday voted to approve a healthcare reform package that offers a lot of provisions that affect long-term care. Besides delaying implementation of RUG-IV, the bill will retain the Medicare market basket, delay a “productivity adjustment” to provider reimbursements until fiscal year 2010, and extend the Medicare Part B therapy caps exceptions process through Dec. 31, 2010.

It also will establish payment bundling pilot programs, require disclosure of nursing home ownership, enhance civil monetary penalties against nursing homes, establish an independent Medicare payment advisory board, and implement the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Act.