As home care services become increasingly popular, state and federal governments have begun to implement regulations to ensure that these services are provided in a safe and efficient manner. One such regulation is Electronic Visit Verification (EVV), which aims to confirm that caregivers are providing the services they are billing for. In this blog post, we’ll explore what EVV is, how to comply with it, and how to implement it in your home care agency.
What is Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)?
EVV is a system that uses electronic means, such as a mobile app or web-based platform, to verify that home care services have been provided as billed. The system typically requires caregivers to log in and out of each visit, and to provide information about the services provided, such as the date, time, and length of the visit. This information is then transmitted to a central system, where it can be reviewed by the home care agency or a third-party payer, such as Medicaid.
Why is EVV being implemented?
EVV is being implemented to reduce fraud and abuse in the home care industry. By verifying that services have been provided as billed, EVV can help to ensure that taxpayers’ dollars are being used appropriately. Additionally, EVV can help to improve the overall quality of care by providing caregivers with a more accurate record of the services they have provided, and by ensuring that patients are receiving the services they need.
How to comply with EVV
To comply with EVV, home care agencies must have an EVV system in place that meets the requirements of the state or federal government. This typically includes requirements such as:
- Real-time or near real-time transmission of visit information
- Automatic validation of visit information, such as the date, time, and length of the visit
- The ability to capture and transmit information about the specific services provided
- The ability to track and report on caregiver compliance with EVV requirements
How to implement EVV in your home care agency
Implementing EVV in your home care agency can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some steps you can take to make the transition as smooth as possible:
- Research different EVV systems to find one that meets your needs and budget
- Train your caregivers on how to use the system and why it is important
- Communicate with patients and their families about the new system and how it will affect their care
- Test the system before going live to ensure that it is working properly
- Monitor the system regularly to ensure that it is meeting your needs and that caregivers are using it correctly
- Make adjustments as needed
Conclusion
EVV is an important regulation that aims to improve the quality and safety of home care services. By understanding what EVV is and how to comply with it, home care agencies can take steps to implement it in a way that is efficient, cost-effective, and beneficial for both patients and caregivers. With the right tools, training, and communication, home care agencies can not only comply with EVV but also use it to improve the overall quality and efficiency of their services.
