Medicare Program; FY 2027 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update and Hospice Quality Reporting Program Requirements

Dear Hospice Provider, 

The hospice final rule continues to place important focus on the election addendum requirement and the need for clear communication with beneficiaries and their representatives. Agencies must be prepared to explain, document, and provide information related to items, services, and drugs that may be unrelated to the terminal illness and related conditions when requested. 

If your team has questions about the hospice election addendum requirement or would like assistance reviewing your current process, we would be happy to partner with you. 

This requirement reinforces the importance of strong admission processes, accurate documentation, staff education, and consistent communication with patients and families. Ensuring your team understands when the addendum is required, how it should be completed, and how to support compliance will be key to reducing risk and maintaining survey readiness.

We know these regulatory updates can feel overwhelming, and our team is here to help. We can support your agency with education, policy review, documentation guidance, process development, and staff training to help ensure your hospice program is prepared and confident. 

We’re here for you!

Have a question or concern? lcerto@smarthcr.com