2025 December Coffee Chat-December Coffee Chat 2025

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The HMDCB's final 2025 Coffee Chat, led by Dr. Alan Rosen, reviewed the year's activities, regulatory challenges, and upcoming plans for hospice and palliative care professionals. The discussion highlighted the introduction of the annual longitudinal assessment and the initial application opening dates in January 2026, with upcoming Coffee Chats and webinars planned, including one focusing on Dr. Ira Biok's strategic paper. Key regulatory issues such as telehealth policy uncertainties, the Palliative Care Hospice Education and Training Act (PACHETA), and changes to the Hospice Outcomes Patient Evaluation (HOPE) were discussed, with participants sharing concerns about HOPE’s implementation burden and its potential to improve quality measures. The importance of certification, such as HMDCB and board certifications, was debated, emphasizing advocacy for certified practitioners to ensure quality care and hospital privileges. Participants exchanged experiences on staffing, documentation challenges, and hospice regulations, including California’s new requirements for medical directors. Discussions also addressed employment types, respite care guidelines, and the need for ongoing education and advocacy in the field. The session underscored the value of collaboration within the professional community. Attendees were encouraged to engage with future HMDCB events for continued support, certification guidance, and professional development in hospice and palliative medicine.

Keywords

HMDCB

2025 Coffee Chat

Dr. Alan Rosen

hospice and palliative care

annual longitudinal assessment

Palliative Care Hospice Education and Training Act

Telehealth policy

Hospice Outcomes Patient Evaluation (HOPE)

certification and advocacy