Interdisciplinary Group (IDG)
Medicare Benefit Policy Manual (CMS Pub. 100-02) Ch. 9
The Interdisciplinary Group (IDG) is the team responsible for the holistic care of the hospice beneficiary. It is this team which is responsible for development and review of the beneficiary's plan of care. At a minimum, the IDG must include the following hospice employees who are qualified to practice in the following professional roles:
- Doctor of medicine or osteopathy
- Registered nurse
- Social worker
- Pastoral or other counselor
Core Services of the IDG
Medicare Benefit Policy Manual (CMS Pub. 100-02) Ch. 9 §40.4, 40.4.1, and 40.4.2
There are three services that must routinely be provided directly by hospice employees. These services include:
- Nursing care
- Medical social worker (MSW)
- Counseling
Supplemental services and physician specialty services may be contracted by the hospice in order to meet unusual staffing needs. In extraordinary circumstances, the hospice may also contract for core services. However, the hospice must maintain professional, financial and administrative responsibilities. Evidence of the extraordinary events that required them to contract for the core services must also be maintained.
Arranged services must be supported by written agreements that require that all services be:
- Authorized by the hospice;
- Furnished in a safe and effective manner by qualified personnel; and
- Delivered in accordance with the patient's plan of care.
In addition, the hospice must assure contracted staff is providing care that is consistent with the hospice philosophy and the beneficiary's POC. Hospices may not routinely contract for a specific level of care (e.g. continuous care) or during specific hours (e.g. weekends).
Reviewed: 12.08.21