Covid-19 Updates / Resources for Our Members
The following is a list of important resources to help our members navigate through these uncertain times. Resources from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics are included, as well as those available from the federal and state governments.
Reimbursement changes during the COVID-19 State of Emergency
Medicare and most commercial/private payers have expanded telemedicine coverage for RDNs during the COVID-19 state of emergency. This improves access to care and allows RDNs who are not working in facilities to continue to care for their patients. Each insurer has their own rules regarding reimbursement for telemedicine services, so please call your insurance representatives to get the most accurate, up to date information. Be sure to bill with the correct place of service and any applicable modifiers to avoid unnecessary delays in reimbursement.
UPDATE 10/16/2020:
PER AND WEBSITE
| Public Health Emergency Extended Another 90 Days As a result of the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has renewed the January 31, 2020 determination that a public health emergency has existed since January 27, 2020, nationwide. This action means all HHS/CMS waivers and flexibilities currently in place will continue until January 21, 2021 unless earlier terminated by Secretary Azar. Many waivers and flexibilities put into place by states and commercial payers are tied to these declarations and so will be extended as well. |
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Resources
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Professional Resource Hub: https://www.eatrightpro.org/coronavirus-resources
This page includes many resources for our members, including issues related to food security, business funding, standards of practice, patient care, and telemedicine. It also includes a Q&A section where members can post questions.
- Telehealth Quick Guide for RDNs: https://www.eatrightpro.org/practice/practice-resources/telehealth#quickGuide
This guide is for non-facility RDNs providing in-person MNT. It includes valuable information such as the first steps to take to prepare for telehealth appointments, choosing a telehealth platform, recommendations for workflow and patient care, Medicare rules, and billing information.
- Free Webinar from the Nutrition Entrepreneurs DPG:
TeleHealth: Expanding Options for Providing Nutrition Care and Education - Corona Virus Updates and Resources:
https://www.eatrightpro.org/news-center/member-updates/coronavirus-updates
State and Federal Resources
New York State Department of Health Website: COVID-19 Updates for Healthcare Providers: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/information-healthcare-providers
Live weekly updates are provided for Healthcare providers on Thursdays from 1-2 pm and are recorded for later viewing. Healthcare providers can sign up to receive email notifications from the DOH, including reminders of the weekly updates as well as other advisories issued by the NYS DOH regarding COVID-19.
U.S. Federal Government Resources & Information : https://www.caphill.com/us-federal-government-resources
Mental Health during a Pandemic
It is normal to experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, loneliness, grief, and other strong emotions during a crisis. As we face this global trauma together (but separately as we isolate to flatten the curve), please care for your mental health. Remember that none of us have experienced a global pandemic before, and that we are all figuring out how to cope. Help is available for those times when we struggle.
Employee Assistance Programs can provide help for those with access. In addition, the website below provides a list of many free therapy options available during this crisis.