NASL submitted comments to CMS expressing concerns about several flaws in the proposed CARE patient assessment tool. NASL is continuing to monitor the progress of this demonstration program and has met with representatives from contractor running the demonstration program. 

As part of the demonstration, CMS will develop the Continuity Assessment Record and Evaluation (CARE) tool.  This tool will be used to measure patient health and functional status at time of PAC admissions and discharge.  The tool also will be used if there is a severe change in a patient's condition.

The demonstration will be based on data supplied by volunteers.  CMS intends to seek 150 providers across a 10 market areas. The areas will be selected to ensure a mix of PAC availability. 

NASL Action

Volunteers will provide data on admissions and discharges over a 9-month period.  CMS will analyze the data through 2010 and provide a DRA-mandated report to Congress mid-2011.