Tools and Resources

TennCare and Maximus are planning the continuation of the popular Tennessee PASRR Provider Webinar Series! Save the dates below to learn more about the PASRR process from the convenience of your own device. 
 

OCT 19 - PASRR 101 
This session will introduce learners to the purpose, process and goals of PASRR. 
 
Click Here to Sign Up | Tuesday, 10.19.21, 9:00-10:45 a.m. CT 
 

OCT 19 - LOC and Payer Source 101 
Participants will walk away from the training with a working knowledge of the Level of Care/PAE purpose, active processes and intent.
 
Click Here to Sign Up | Tuesday, 10.19.21, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. CT 
 

OCT 20 - Hospital Exemption and Categorical Determinations and Status Changes 
This more advanced session will highlight the Level I and Level II status change process and offer key highlights for providers to keep in mind for future submission.
 
Click Here to Sign Up | Wednesday, 10.20.21, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. CT
 

OCT 20 - Safety Determinations, ERC, and Skilled Services 
Verbalize the safety determinations, ERC, and skilled services process within TennCare.
 
Click Here to Sign Up | Wednesday, 10.20.21, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. CT 
 

Starting next Sunday, August 1, the following Tennessee Assessment Services programs - Audits and Appeals, PASRR, Katie Beckett Waiver, and SIS, will transition to a new hybrid assessment model, which includes the  option for in-person assessments. Per state guidance, virtual evaluations may still be selected as the preferred assessment method in the following instances:

• If the Assessor determines that the facility is closed to visitors, due to a current outbreak of Covid-19, or 
   
• If the assessment is being completed in a home setting and the family or individual is not comfortable having visitors in their home, or 
   
• If a referred individual shares with facility staff or the IC that they are not comfortable doing a face-to-face interview or are not comfortable wearing a surgical mask during the interview process.

Read on for more helpful assessment tips and best practice reminders as we move closer to the launch date for the new hybrid model. 
 

PROCESS: What to Expect with Face-to-Face Assessments?

Assessors are taking necessary steps to prepare for this transition in the safest manner possible, relying on CDC guidelines and best practices.

• Assessors will call in advance to arrange the in-person visit.
   
• Steps to be taken include the stringent use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during each visit. doing a face-to-face interview or are not comfortable wearing a surgical mask during the interview process.
   
• Assessors will work directly with the Maximus support team to submit health assessment forms on any days where an in-person interview is planned. 
   

QUESTIONS? Contact the Tennesseee Contracts Help Desk
 
If you have questions about this process change, please contact the TN Help Desk team for assistance:
 
             Email: Ascend-TNPASRR@maximus.com
             Phone: 833.617.2777
 

In this latest edition of the Tennessee PASRR Quarterly Newsletter we cover some important topics you might find useful. These include details on the upcoming July 20-21 PASRR Training sessions, an update regarding a return to a hybrid face-to-face assessing planned for August 1st, as well as a best practice reminder on the importance of providing accurate mailing address information to help ensure protection of PHI.
 

REGISTER: Summer PASRR Training Sessions | July 20 - 21, 2021

This summer we are offering NEW training sessions to dive deeper into PASRR! Be sure to join the TN PASRR Training team for these insightful webinars, covering some critical topics.

• Hospital Exemption and Categorical Determinations Case Scenarios | Tue, 7/20, 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. CT
   
• LOC Case Scenarios (Safety Determinations, ERC, and Skilled Services) | Wed, 7/21, 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. CT
   

UPDATE: Return to In-Person Assessments

Please be aware that the State of Tennessee is currently projecting a return to a hybrid in-person assessments model for the PASRR program on August 1, 2021. This revised plan will also include an option for virtual assessments in certain cases, using Zoom secure video conferencing. Additional details will be shared as we move closer to this planned transition date.
 

HIPAA REMINDER: Address Accuracy Critical to Compliance
 
Did you know that PASRR has required mailings as a critical part of the process of getting individuals the services they need? Maximus relies on the submitter who initiated the screen to provide the correct mailing addresses for recipients, guardians, and when applicable, attending physicians. Maximus may be required to issue multiple surface mail notices at various points in the process - from the date of the decision to one business day from the decision.

The submitter plays a crucial role in protecting an individual's PHI from potential breaches. Entering correct and current mailing address information is one of the most important ways that a Provider can help ensure HIPAA compliance as each person is stewarded through the required PASRR documentation process.
 

SUPPORT: Tennessee PASRR Help Desk Contacts

Ascend-TNPASRR@maximus.com
833.617.2777