Q&A: MOON modifications

Q. Are hospitals required to deliver the Medicare Outpatient Observation Notice (MOON) in its standard format or can they modify the language on the form?

A. The wording of the MOON cannot be altered in any way. Hospitals may, however, add details in the “additional information” section and must also write the reason for observation in the appropriate spot on the form. Aside from these changes, you can only modify the MOON slightly to allow placement of a label or other identifier.
 

Editor’s note: This question was answered by Ronald Hirsch, MD, FACP, CHCQM, of R1 Physician Advisory Services in Chicago.

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