Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

According to Medicare hospice benefit, how often must the interdisciplinary group review and document the individualized plan?

1. Once a week

2. Every 30 days

3. At least every 15 days

4. At the beginning of each month

The correct answer is: At least every 15 days

The interdisciplinary group is required to review and document the individualized plan of care at least every 15 days according to the Medicare hospice benefit guidelines. This frequent review process is crucial to ensure that the care provided is responsive to the changing needs of the patient and reflects their current condition and preferences. It allows the team to adjust care plans as necessary, engage with the patient's family, and ensure that all aspects of care—physical, emotional, and spiritual—are being addressed adequately. While other timeframes may seem reasonable for certain medical care situations, they do not meet the specific guidelines established by Medicare for hospice care, which emphasizes the importance of ongoing assessment and timely adjustments to the care plan. Regular reviews every 15 days help maintain a high standard of care in the hospice setting, ensuring that patients receive the attention and compassion they need during this critical time.