Ask Proactive – We have a patient who has achieved ambulation in the hallways at supervision level using a walker. Our new case manager is insistent that we discharge as soon as possible, or our services could be denied by Medicare. The patient wants to return to PLOF, independent ambulation, so her therapists do not feel a discharge is appropriate at this time. Would this claim be at risk for denial?

Q: We have a patient who has achieved ambulation in the hallways at supervision level using a walker. Our new case manager is insistent that we discharge as soon as possible, or our services could be denied by Medicare. The patient wants to return to PLOF, independent...

Ask Proactive – When a resident who has a feeding tube for nutrition is receiving speech therapy and has orders for a pureed diet/thickened liquid trials at lunch during therapy sessions, should this be coded on the MDS as a mechanically altered diet in section K0510?

Q: When a resident who has a feeding tube for nutrition is receiving speech therapy and has orders for a pureed diet/thickened liquid trials at lunch during therapy sessions, should this be coded on the MDS as a mechanically altered diet in section K0510?   A:...