Are we being replaced by computers? Most likely the answer is no, but … computers have made our jobs more efficient, right? Right?
With new rules, more payment denials expected
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Oct 02, 2012
Here it comes again! The Oct 1, 2012, federal regulatory changes will not only impact reimbursement but new reporting requirements also will multiply denials for skilled nursing providers across the country.
Short-term rehab pros and cons
Sep 11, 2012
These types of short-term rehab patients usually produce the highest reimbursement rates. However, if you’re a facility that struggles with admissions and census, be aware that the length of stay...
The resident’s ‘right to refuse’
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Aug 28, 2012
Therapy services can be a tricky business when working with residents with a history of “behavioral issues.”
Grandma has an iPad, what now?
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Aug 07, 2012
Yes, it’s true: Our seniors are tech-savvy and love their gadgets. But where does this leave us as clinicians and caregivers? Hopefully, not in the dark.
Medicare reviewers often stop short
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Jul 23, 2012
If a patient can achieve his or her highest level of independence, as a rehab clinician, I say let’s go for it. To Medicare reviewers, too often they say stop at the prior level of function. So I...
Dear, sweet stubborn grandmother!
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Jul 09, 2012
I love my grandma dearly. She’s still going strong, living independently in a ranch-style house. But while her stubbornness may be the reason she lives such full and active lifestyle, it’s...
Eastern vs. Western standards of practice
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Jun 26, 2012
The theory of improving function in China is overshadowed by the focus on comfort, reducing pain, and providing as much rest as possible. From a cultural standpoint, the family dynamics are very different...
Big challenges ahead for therapy
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Jun 12, 2012
A few years ago, my consulting company had the opportunity to work with a facility to implement a bariatric unit within a skilled nursing facility. This would seem an easy task, but the facility ended...
Therapy not complete without some ‘home’ work
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
May 30, 2012
Is it worth it? I’m referring to home visits by the therapy team, the patient, and their family. These are the clinical visits with the patient to their home for a “practice run” conducted...