An unprecedented coalition will kick off a new initiative aimed at bringing better quality processes to nursing homes on Sept. 29.
A two-year campaign will focus on helping providers reduce pressure ulcer incidence, prevalence of pain and the use of physical restraints, along with five other goals.
The coalition — ranging from providers to government agencies, consumers and quality experts — also will be pushing nursing home operators to address resident and family satisfaction issues, and measure staff turnover.
The voluntary program, Advancing Excellence for America’s Nursing Homes, also will urge providers to maintain consistent assigning of nurses to residents. Person-centered care and an empowered workforce will be other key themes.
Paul E. McGann, of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Office of Clinical Standards and Quality, informally unveiled the program during CMS’s July “Open Door Forum.”
Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) and former Sen. Bob Kerrey (D-NE), already co-chairs of the National Commission for Quality Long-Term Care, will play prominent roles in the program.
The coalition will formally launch the Advancing Excellence program at a one-day nursing home quality summit in Washington.
