MedicaidDocumentationHigh impact
25-1116 Hospice Documentation Deadlines Enforced Starting January 8, 2026
Health Net·CA · Palliative Care·Prior Authorization
Effective date
Jan 8, 2026
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Starting January 8, 2026, Health Net will strictly enforce a 5 calendar day deadline for submitting all required hospice documentation after hospice election. Services will not be reimbursed for any dates prior to receipt of complete documentation, and coverage is now limited to in-network hospice providers unless medically necessary services are unavailable.
Action Required
Before January 8, 2026: Billing team must update workflow to ensure all hospice documentation is submitted within 5 calendar days of hospice election. Update EMR alerts and tracking systems to monitor submission deadlines. Train staff on new in-network provider requirements and documentation submission process via encrypted email for outpatient services and prior authorization portal for inpatient services. Access the Hospice Services Documentation Guide in Provider Library for compliance requirements. Failure to meet 5-day deadline will result in denial of services from admission date until documentation is complete.