Renovating a 20-year-old facility in West Texas takes more than fresh paint and new furnishings — it’s a transformation into a modern center
Bill would cover telehealth
By
John Andrews
Mar 04, 2015
In a move that could greatly expand the visibility and adoption of telehealth systems, Congress is proposing that Medicare reimburse telehealth services at the same rate as in-person medical visits.
Serious side effects
By
John Andrews
Feb 01, 2015
New pain medication rules went into effect in October, forcing long-term care providers to grapple with how to ensure residents receive what they need
Design Decisions: Getting the stars aligned
By
John Andrews
Feb 01, 2015
With a 125-year history of serving seniors in a quaint New England village, a new Berkshire Place ensures care for generations to come
Politicians pressure auditors to back down, paper claims
By
John Andrews
Feb 01, 2015
The prospects of politician intervention with Medicare audits has sparked some debate over whether elected officials are exerting undue influence, or simply defending providers’ rights against government...
Back to faxing orders?
By
John Andrews
Jan 01, 2015
Medication order transmission standards changed from HL7 to NCPDP 10.6, but not all providers are caught up, increasing risks, time and possibility of errors
Dual-eligible future cloudy
By
John Andrews
Jan 01, 2015
The National Association of Medicaid Directors is asking for more guidance on the dual-eligible program and for regulators to “articulate next steps for existing financial alignment demonstrations.”
States eye Medicaid hikes
By
John Andrews
Dec 01, 2014
In a sign that the economy continues its recovery from the devastating recession of 2008, most states are committed to raising Medicaid fees in fiscal years 2014 and 2015, research from the Kaiser Family...
Medicare coverage kicks in, 2 years after landmark win
By
John Andrews
Dec 01, 2014
Seven years after filing for Medicare benefits for diabetes complications, Glenda Jimmo of Bristol, VT, finally qualified for skilled home health maintenance coverage. The obstacle that caused the long...
Raising sensitive issues
By
John Andrews
Nov 01, 2014
Wound care gets most of the attention, but ostomy management is another critical need for long-term care residents that deserves study, improvement