August 2009
We are thrilled to announce that the reimbursement cuts associated with the elimination of the Budget Neutrality Adjustment Factor (BNAF) have now been spread out over 7 years, instead of being harshly phased in over just 2 years.
The increased time period gives the hospice community a more realistic timeframe to absorb the eventual rate reductions. While the end result is the same—a substantial and unwarranted rate reduction—this approach recognizes the ongoing financial pressures facing the hospice community. It also gives priority to compassionate and high-quality care for one our most vulnerable populations, the dying and their families.
Thank you to all who sent letters, made phone calls and worked to impress upon our legislators the impact the previous ruling would have had on our work.
Be sure to stay up to date by checking the Legislative Action Center of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization—capwiz.com/nhpco.
