CMS did more than ‘just’ cut Medicare pay by 11.1%
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Aug 19, 2011
Have you started your COT trending analysis? On Aug. 8, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released the final ruling and commentary for the new implementation of the MDS changes set to take effect...
Cognitive Coding: CPT Updates for 2020
By
Renee Kinder
Nov 21, 2019
With established cognitive treatment code codes published in the final rule, we are no longer lost!
Can you hear me now? Audiologists and new rules for diagnostic testing
By
Renee Kinder
Jun 22, 2023
If you weren’t paying close attention, you might have missed some big “noise” last week about coverage for hearing care. A June 15 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services transmittal titled “Allowing...
Therapy in the new year: In with the old and new
By
Renee Kinder
Jan 03, 2019
Where should we stay laser focused regarding current and future regulatory change and the impacts of therapy? Read on.
Rehab and ADLs
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Oct 17, 2011
Since MDS 3.0 was initiated in October 2010, facilities throughout the United States have experienced a significant increase in “A” ADL scoring ratios. By becoming aware of your facility’s...
Just below the surface: Depression in the elderly
By
Renee Kinder
Oct 22, 2020
We must dig deep, assess the unique coloring in any “heaviness” in our patients and understand what may be just below the surface.
Jimmo and the future of rehab
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Nov 07, 2013
On Jan. 24 of this year, the Jimmo vs. Sebelius class action lawsuit was settled. This was a significant win for us, the healthcare providers. As we continue to work out the details, I feel now is a good...
Home (safety) for the holidays
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Dec 21, 2012
It’s hard to believe the holidays are already here. As I have frantically baked cookies, mailed holiday cards and waited in long lines for the perfect gift, I couldn’t help but people-watch....
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.
Medical necessity — slippery for some
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Dec 02, 2011
Medical necessity has become a common phrase in healthcare terminology, but what exactly does it mean? Unfortunately, this term has become very subjective and is the primary reason we have been denied...