The Jimmo agreement, also known as the Improvement Standard, was a landmark legal settlement that aimed to improve access to healthcare for individuals who require long-term care services. The agreement was reached in 2013 and has since helped thousands of people receive the medical attention they need.
The agreement was reached after a lawsuit was filed by the Center for Medicare Advocacy against the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The lawsuit was filed on behalf of thousands of individuals who had been denied coverage for long-term care services due to an arbitrary standard used by CMS. The standard had previously been used to deny coverage for services such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and skilled nursing care.
Under the Jimmo agreement, CMS was ordered to revise its policies and educate healthcare providers regarding the availability of coverage for these long-term care services. The agreement also clarified that Medicare coverage is available for services that are necessary to maintain an individual`s current condition or prevent further deterioration. This is a significant change from the previous standard, which had required that services must improve an individual`s condition in order to be covered.
The Jimmo agreement has been a critical development for individuals who need long-term care services. It has provided clarity and assurance that necessary services will be covered, regardless of whether they improve an individual`s condition. This has allowed people with chronic conditions or disabilities to receive the care they need to maintain their quality of life and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations or institutionalization.
Furthermore, the Jimmo agreement has also helped healthcare providers better understand Medicare coverage policies. By providing education and resources to providers, the agreement has helped ensure that individuals receive the care they need without encountering unnecessary barriers.
In conclusion, the Jimmo agreement has been a significant development in improving access to healthcare for individuals who require long-term care services. It has provided clarity and assurance that necessary services will be covered, regardless of whether they improve an individual`s condition. The agreement has helped thousands of people receive the care they need to maintain their quality of life, and has helped healthcare providers better understand Medicare coverage policies.
