CMS recently issued Transmittal 153, entitled – ”Allowing Physician Assistants to Perform Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Level of Care Certifications and Recertifications”. The transmittal provides guidance on the ability of physician assistants to perform level of care certifications and recertifications in skilled nursing facilities. The guidance implements Section 3108 of the Affordable Care Act. According the guidance, a physician assistant may now perform the certification or recertification if the physician assistant collaborates with the physician but does not have a direct or indirect employment relationship with the facility. The new rules become effective for items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2011.
You can find a copy of the new guidance here —> Transmittal 153
