Frequently Asked Question of the Month:
If nursing initiates the start of care (SOC) Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS), does nursing have to complete that along with all the subsequent OASIS forms for that patient?
Yes, it is true that the discipline that initiates the OASIS must complete it within the 5-day window; however, interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged.
RN, PT, SLP, or OT may complete the subsequent assessments. The OASIS guidance manual states: “In cases involving nursing, the RN is responsible for completing the SOC comprehensive assessment, including OASIS if applicable. For a Medicare therapy-only case, the PT or SLP may conduct the SOC comprehensive assessment including OASIS. Effective January 1, 2022, OTs may conduct the SOC comprehensive assessments including OASIS for Medicare patients when the physician’s referral order does not include skilled nursing, but does include PT and/or SLP, along with OT. Any discipline qualified to perform OASIS assessments (RN, PT, SLP, OT) may complete subsequent OASIS assessments (e.g., transfers, recertifications, resumptions of care, discharge) after the SOC.”
Symbria is committed to maintaining a high standard and level of communication with our clients and employees regarding clinical education, PDGM understanding, patient assessment, home health regulations, and coding efficiency. As a result, the Home Health Insider was born. In this monthly offering, we hope to provide some valuable information that can foster a quality level of care that meets the needs of the patients that we serve.