HOPE Readiness Checklist for Hospice Implementation

This document is a checklist designed to assist hospice agencies in preparing for the implementation of the Hospice Outcomes and Patient Evaluation (HOPE) tool, which is set to take effect on October 1, 2025. It outlines specific steps that organizations should take to ensure readiness for this significant transition in patient assessment and care documentation. The checklist includes designating a HOPE Readiness Champion, reviewing CMS guidance, and communicating the implementation plan across teams. It emphasizes the importance of staff training, including enrolling personnel in HOPE training modules and providing internal education sessions. Additionally, the document details necessary preparations for data and documentation, such as reviewing electronic health records (EHR) for compatibility with HOPE requirements and establishing audit processes for documentation accuracy. The checklist also highlights the need for ongoing performance monitoring and quality assurance related to HOPE assessments, ensuring that organizations are fully equipped to meet the new standards.