F0800F: "Transportation -from NACHC: Yes, kept from non-medical appointments", step-by-step

Step-by-Step Coding Guide for Item Set F0800F: "Transportation (from NACHC©): Yes, kept from non-medical appointments"

1. Review of Medical Records

• Objective: Begin by reviewing the resident’s recent health records, social services notes, or any progress notes that may indicate a history of transportation issues preventing attendance at non-medical appointments or activities.
• Procedure:
  • Look for any documentation over the past 6-12 months regarding the resident's access to transportation and any reported issues, particularly for non-medical purposes such as social events, religious services, or community engagement.

2. Understanding Definitions

• Non-Medical Appointments: Refers to any meetings, activities, or appointments that are not related to the resident’s medical care. Examples include social gatherings, family events, or personal errands.
• Transportation Barrier: A situation where the resident is unable to access or arrange for transportation, which directly affects their ability to attend non-medical appointments and events Coding Instructions
• Code Options:
  • Yes - Check “Yes, kept from non-medical appointments” if the resident has experienced transportation barriers that prevented them from attending non-medical appointments or meetings.
  • No - Select “No” if transportation issues have not affected the resident’s ability to attend non-medical appointments.
  • Unable to Respond - Code as “X” if the resident is unable to answer, and no information is available from family or significant others.
  • Declined to Respond - Code as “Y” if the resident chooses not to provide information regarding transportation issues.
• Procedure:
  • Directly ask the resident, or if they are unable to respond, consult with family members or other representatives who are aware of their transportation history.

4. Coding Tips

• Multiple Sources: If the resident cannot respond, seek information from family members or caregivers. Only use medical record information if no other sources are available.
• Separate Medical and Non-Medical Appointments: Ensure that the transportation issue applies to non-medical purposes. If transportation barriers affect both medical and non-medical events, code both responses as applicable.
• Resident Declines Response: If the resident declines to answer questions about transportation, code “Y” without further probing or alternative sources .

5tation**

• Objective: Ensure all coding decisions are supported by clear documentation within the resident's file.
• Documentation Tips:
  • Record the resident's or family’s responses regarding transportation access, specifying non-medical situations where transportation was a barrier.
  • If transportation issues are noted by staff (e.g., social services or activity coordinators), ensure these notes are consistent with coding for F0800F.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

• Incorrectly Assuming Lack of Access: Avoid coding based on assumptions about transportation barriers due to age or disability without documented evidence.
• Coding Without Confirming Non-Medical Impact: Ensure the transportation barrier specifically affected non-medical appointments before selecting “Yes” for F0800F.
• Failure to Code All Applicable Responses: If both medical and non-medical appointments are affected, document and code both appropriately .

7. Practition

• Scenario Example:
  • Resident P lives in a rural area without access to public transportation and has missed multiple church services and community social events. Family members are unable to provide transport consistently.
  • Coding: Code “Yes” for F0800F as the resident’s transportation issue affects their ability to attend non-medical appointments.
  • Documentation: Document the family’s report of transportation challenges specifically impacting non-medical activities.

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item set F0800F was originally based on the CMS's RAI Version 3.0 Manual, October 2023 edition. Every effort will be made to update it to the most current version. The MDS 3.0 Manual is typically updated every October. If there are no changes to the Item Set, there will be no changes to this guide. This guidance is intended to assist healthcare professionals, particularly new nurses or MDS coordinators, in understanding and applying the correct coding procedures for this specific item within MDS 3.0.  

The guide is not a substitute for professional judgment or the facility’s policies. It is crucial to stay updated with any changes or updates in the MDS 3.0 manual or relevant CMS regulations. The guide does not cover all potential scenarios and should not be used as a sole resource for MDS 3.0 coding.  

Additionally, this guide refrains from handling personal patient data and does not provide medical or legal advice. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective practices.