The cost of payroll-based journal reporting adding up fast

For the past year, skilled nursing facilities have been aware of pending new regulations from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Facilities are required to electronically submit detailed direct-care staffing information, with the intent of linking those staffing records to the CMS’ five-star rating system.

When the first quarterly reporting period for the Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) program began July 1, long-term, post-acute care  providers have woken up to the realization that meeting the requirement is more difficult and time-consuming than originally thought. As a result, many have turned to the vendors of time-and-attendance software and other solution providers for help.