St. Joseph London in danger of losing Medicare certification

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St. Joseph London in danger of losing Medicare certification

Hospital has until Sept. 9, 2012 to submit corrected plan for CMS to regain certification before their 23-day window comes to a close.

By Magen McCrarey Staff Writer The Sentinel-Echo Thu Sep 13, 2012, 01:59 PM EDT

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. — Saint Joseph London is currently submitting a plan of correction to Health Insurance for the Aged and Disabled Program (Medicare) which has been terminated for use at the hospital.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) notified the facility that they will not make payment to the hospital for services to patients on or after Monday, September, 9, 2012.

Saint Joseph London released a statement that they are a place of caring and healing for patients, in addition, their policies and procedures align with the industry standards with regard to patient care, safety and patient rights.

“We work with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) as partners. Reviews like this are an important part of the process of ensuring excellence and making certain that not just Saint Joseph London — but all — healthcare facilities continually improve and employ best practices. As part of our continuing effort to provide the safest care possible for our patients, we are submitting a plan of correction to CMS,” said Sharon Hershberger, public affairs director for Saint Joseph London.

Associate Regional Administrator Sandra M. Pace of the Division of Survey and Certification stated that for patients of Saint Joseph London who were serviced prior to Sept. 9, payment will continue for a maximum of 30 days for services. Payment is specifically limited to covered services through the close of business.

mccrarey@sentinel-echo.com