Show us the data: COVID vaccine boosters may get go-ahead, but LTC docs remain wary
By
Alicia Lasek
Danielle Brown
Aug 09, 2021
Booster shots for the most vulnerable appear to be on a fast track to federal authorization. But clinicians want information about necessity, safety, dosing and more to justify prescribing an extra dose...
LTC must provide full access to patient health data under Cures Act Final Rule
By
Alicia Lasek
Oct 07, 2022
As of Oct. 6, LTC facilities, home health entities and other stakeholders must provide patients with no-cost, easy access to a wider swath of electronic health information under the 21st Cures Act of 2016,...
Smartphone technology helps seniors with mild dementia complete daily tasks, study finds
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 18, 2021
Despite the pervasive notion that older adults dislike technology, participants enjoyed learning to use smartphone memory apps and were able to improve their daily prospective memory performance over four...
Norovirus outbreaks trouble LTCFs; prevention needed, CDC researchers say
By
Alicia Lasek
Sep 17, 2021
During the study period, 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico reported more than 13,000 norovirus outbreaks and upwards of 410,000 outbreak-associated cases in long-term care facilities.
SNF physicians’ unique skill set requires more definition and support, industry docs say
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 15, 2022
Insights into these doctors’ contributions and constraints are highlighted in interviews with medical directors and attending physicians.
White House pivots to air quality focus for COVID-19 infection control
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 28, 2022
The White House has embraced a model of COVID-19 transmission that could help shift infection prevention efforts toward indoor air quality and industrial hygiene. A related public webinar is set for Tuesday,...
Drug pricing reform deal may allow Medicare to negotiate with drug firms for first time
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 04, 2021
The Democrats’ deal also would limit insulin costs and cap annual out-of-pocket spending at $2,000 for seniors. Pharmacy benefit managers would face transparency requirements as well.
Residents’ lack of energy may signal malnutrition; full assessment advised
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 10, 2021
In a study of 13 nursing homes, fully 43% of residents reported that they lacked energy, and 12% were malnourished. The two problems were significantly linked, investigators say.
Treating rare blood clots related to J&J COVID vaccine following usage suspension: new guidance
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 28, 2021
Advisers to the CDC have released new clinical guidance and education regarding a rare blood clotting condition reported after vaccination.
CMS: End to pandemic waivers helps nursing homes ‘redirect efforts’ to meet residents’ needs
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 08, 2022
A sweeping phase-out of early COVID-19 pandemic allowances, such as the nurse aide certification waiver, addresses concerns about SNF residents’ physical, mental and psychosocial well-being, the agency...