DHS Delays Submission of COVID-19 Cost Schedule Indefinitely

Posted on March 17, 2021 by Jeff Bostic

Last week, DHS postponed the special COVID-19 supplemental cost report schedule to track the receipt and use of state and federal funds related to pandemic response until May 3. However, after further reflection on the lack of federal guidance on the reporting of provider relief funds to the federal government, DHS has decided to postpone the submission of the COVID schedule by care centers indefinitely.

The Department indicated on Friday that the earliest it will possibly be due is June 30. The postponement gives care centers time to concentrate on the submission of the usual cost report and other associated schedules, which are still due on April 1.

The cost report materials, including instructions and schedules, along with the current version of the COVID-19 schedule, are available on the Nursing Facility Provider Portal. Because of the complexity of the COVID-19 reporting, DHS is working on an FAQ document. We are also encouraging them to schedule a webinar to respond to provider questions about this special schedule. The delay in having to complete that form, which will hopefully allow time for detailed federal reporting guidance, creates the opportunity to give providers more detailed guidance on exactly what needs to be reported for the Sept. 30, 2020 cost report year and in subsequent cost report years.