What services can be performed by ancillary help, such as aides?
Many SNF inpatients do not require skilled physical therapy services but do require services, which are routine in nature. Those services can be performed by supportive personnel; e.g., aides or nursing personnel, without the supervision of a physical therapist. Such services, as well as services involving activities for the general good and welfare of the patient (e.g., general exercises to promote overall fitness and flexibility and activities to provide diversion or general motivation) do not constitute skilled physical therapy. This information is located in Change request 5532, “Coverage Requirements for Therapy Services Provided in a Skilled Nursing Facility” at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/Transmittals/Downloads/R73BP.pdf.
Many SNF inpatients do not require skilled physical therapy services but do require services, which are routine in nature. Those services can be performed by supportive personnel; e.g., aides or nursing personnel, without the supervision of a physical therapist. Such services, as well as services involving activities for the general good and welfare of the patient (e.g., general exercises to promote overall fitness and flexibility and activities to provide diversion or general motivation) do not constitute skilled physical therapy.
Many Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) inpatients do not require skilled physical therapy services but do require services, which are routine in nature. Those services can be performed by supportive personnel; e.g., aides or nursing personnel, without the supervision of a physical therapist. Such services, as well as services involving activities for the general good and welfare of the patient (e.g., general exercises to promote overall fitness and flexibility and activities to provide diversion or general motivation) do not constitute skilled physical therapy.
