Update: SNF PPS and consolidated billing.

Wound, ostomy, and continence specialists have a unique opportunity for developing programs in the long-term care environment. Their expertise and perspective can assist in providing care within the PPS payment rate, improving the fiscal stature of the facility, improving patient outcomes, and increasing the facility's referral base. The HCFA has posted a tool on its website that allows the user to follow RUG III grouper logic manually. It walks through each step of the process and is designed to be a helpful learning tool: http:@www.hcfa.gov/medicare/hsqb/mds20/>.