Recertification is when you’re continuing care into the next 60-day episode. The physician has to certify that the patient still needs home health; you need a recert visit and updated orders. Miss the timing and you’re not paid for the next period.
When recert is due
Before the end of the current episode (by day 60). The physician’s recertification and new orders have to be in the chart. Many agencies start the process around day 50 so there’s time to get the visit, the order, and the paperwork in place.
What has to be in the chart
Physician certification that the patient continues to need home health, and orders for the next period. The recert visit (assessment) has to support the need. OASIS at recert has to be completed and submitted. Run OASIS QA before lock so one bad recert OASIS doesn't hit payment. Experienced clinical leads start the recert process around day 50 so there’s buffer for physician signature and any missing documentation,waiting until day 58 often means missed payment for the next period. We have a recert checklist you can download: timing and a list of what has to be done and documented. Use the button below to get it.