This article explains the importance of accurately recording your visit start (check-in) and end (check-out) times using GEOH. Accurate check-in/out helps ensure smooth operations for both you and your homecare agency.
What Is EVV and Why Is It Used?
Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) is a system used to confirm that homecare service visits occurred. It electronically documents the precise time services begin and end, the location of service delivery, the caregiver performing the service, the client receiving it, as well as other data. Agencies use EVV systems like GEOH to meet state and federal requirements, improve record-keeping, and verify service delivery for billing.
The Importance of Accurate Data From GEOH
The data captured when you check in and out using the GEOH system is used by your agency for several critical purposes:
- Service Verification: Digitally recorded service data provides proof that visits were completed as scheduled.
- Billing: Accurate times are essential for your agency to bill payers correctly.
- Payroll: Check-in/Check-out data may be used to calculate your work hours, and agencies may need this information to be accurate and avoid delays when processing payroll.
- Compliance: Your agency must meet regulatory mandates required by government programs and payers, which means agencies must be able to provide accurately recorded EVV data.
Impact on Payroll Processing
- Ensuring Correct Pay: The verified visit time you record in the GEOH system may be used to process payroll. Accurate check-in/check-out times ensure you will be paid correctly for the hours you work.
- Preventing Discrepancies: Inconsistent or inaccurate time entries can lead to payroll errors and delays, causing agencies to spend extra time verifying correct visit information. Consistent, accurate use of GEOH helps prevent these issues.
Meeting Compliance and Audit Requirements
- Regulatory Mandates: Many government payers (like State Medicaid programs) mandate the use of EVV. Agencies must collect this data accurately to remain compliant.
- Audits: Your agency's records, including the EVV data from GEOH, are subject to audits by payers and government oversight bodies. Accurate and complete GEOH data is essential for your agency to successfully pass these audits and avoid potential penalties or payment denials. Recording your check-in and check-out time accurately helps your agency demonstrate its commitment to compliance.
Best Practices for Using GEOH
- Real-Time Recording: Always check in immediately upon arriving for your visit and check out immediately upon leaving the client's location using the GEOH app or device.
- Follow Agency Procedures: Adhere strictly to the specific check-in/out procedures and guidelines provided by your agency administration.
What if I Have Questions or Make a Mistake?
- Policy Questions: If you are unsure about when, where, or how to check in/out according to your agency's policies, contact your agency administrator. They set the specific rules you need to follow.
- Errors or Missed Entries: If you forget to check-in or check-out, report it immediately to your agency administrator. Administrators have procedures for correcting time records. Your agency is responsible for the final, official time record.
- Technical GEOH Issues: If you encounter a technical problem with the GEOH app or device itself (e.g., your app won't load, or is giving an error message), please reach out to the support department at 317-434-1550.
Accurate time recording while using GEOH is a vital part of providing homecare services. Your diligence in checking in and out correctly helps your agency maintain compliance, bill accurately, and ensure you are compensated properly for your essential work.