MEDICARE Q & A - Friday April 26 2024

Need help navigating the world of Medicare?

(This is beneficial if you are opting into or out of Medicare as a therapist in private practice)

Cheryl-lynn childers, LISW-CPS, LPC, ATR-BC, RPTS, CDWF

January 2024 marked a milestone in Mental health access. The CMS allowed LPCs and LMFTs to opt into Medicare and provide services to their recipients.

But what does opting in mean?

What happens if I don’t opt in or out?

Does this even apply to me if I am in private practice and not billing insurance?
(Hint: The answer is a resounding YES!!!)

Explore the ins and outs of Medicare, enrolling, opting out, and how it is important to you in your practice. Join Cheryl Childers in this interactive discussion to dispel the myths, uncover the truths of opting in or out of Medicare, and get detailed instructions on enrolling/opting out. 

Bring your questions, and be ready for a deep dive into this new area to serve your community.

Friday April 26, 2024

9:00am - 12:00pm via Zoom

$45

In this experiential Q & A, you will:

  • Learn the Basics of Medicare Enrollment:

    • Define the key terms related to Medicare enrollment.

    • Explain the eligibility criteria for therapists, specifically LPCs, LISWs, and LMFTs, to enroll as Medicare providers.

    • Discuss the ethical considerations associated with providing services under Medicare.

  • Navigate the Opting-In Process for Medicare Providers:

    • Outline the steps involved in the enrollment process for becoming a Medicare provider, emphasizing ethical documentation and disclosure requirements.

    • Discuss the ethical implications of accepting Medicare, including considerations of accessibility, affordability, and ensuring equitable services for all clients.

    • Clarify the implications and benefits of opting into Medicare for therapists in terms of client access, reimbursement rates, and professional practice.

  • Comprehend Opting-Out Options and Ethical Considerations:

    • Explore the reasons therapists may choose to opt out of Medicare participation.

    • Describe the process of opting out and the associated responsibilities, such as establishing private contracts with Medicare beneficiaries.

    • Evaluate the potential impact of opting out of the therapist's practice, including financial considerations and client relationships.

    • Explore the ethical dimensions of therapists choosing to opt out of Medicare, considering potential impacts on client access and the therapist-client relationship.

    • Encourage critical reflection on the ethical responsibilities of therapists who choose to opt-out, including transparent communication with clients about the decision.

  • Stay Informed on Medicare Updates, Compliance Requirements and Ethical Considerations:

    • Emphasize the ethical obligation of therapists to stay informed about changes in Medicare regulations and policies affecting their practice.

    • Discuss the ethical importance of ongoing education and professional development to ensure therapists are ethically competent and compliant with Medicare requirements, fostering trust and accountability.

    • Provide resources and tools for therapists to regularly monitor updates, ensuring their continued understanding of Medicare enrollment and participation.

    These objectives are designed to equip LPCs, LISWs, and LMFTs in private practice with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of Medicare enrollment, make informed decisions about opting in or out, and stay updated on compliance requirements.

3 CEUs for LPC, LMFT, LISW Available