When the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented its latest rounds of new and stricter regulations, the groan was heard throughout nursing homes across the country. But, I have good news:...
Andy Rooney and Grandpa Gus
By
Mary Gustafson
Nov 07, 2011
When I found out Andy Rooney died over the weekend, I was unexpectedly saddened. For me, Andy Rooney represents my fondest thoughts about my own grandfather. He died from congestive heart failure, after...
Frustrations of a persecuted provider boil over
By
Barry Bortz
Nov 01, 2011
What happens when a government and society create an evil enemy of the state? They begin by calling them monsters, a drain on society that is guilty of heinous crimes, and they use the legal system and...
How to avoid end-of-therapy pitfalls
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Oct 28, 2011
You are not required to offer therapy services on weekends under new MDS 3.0 changes instituted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. But you do have to be careful if you don’t.
This long-term care ‘Leader’ is just that
By
James M. Berklan
Oct 25, 2011
There are certain times in your life when you reach your limit, and I hit one today. I just don’t think I can put up with it any longer.
A time for pride to take over for nursing homes
By
James M. Berklan
Sep 30, 2011
If you’re a long-term care provider reading this in the waning hours before fiscal 2012 hits, be strong. If you’re reading this after Saturday, Oct. 1, stand tall.
Has CMS gone too far?
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Sep 27, 2011
Previously, I’ve explained my position on the new rehab regulation changes to take effect on Saturday (Oct. 1). However, has CMS gone too far this time?
A team for all ages
By
Michael McCann, MS
Sep 23, 2011
When working at a continuing care retirement community, or for that matter any type of organization that services the aging population, one hears the term “Intergenerational programming” from...
How old is too old?
By
Shelly Mesure, MS, OTR/L
Sep 06, 2011
“They don’t need rehab, they’re too old!” How many times have we heard or even asked this question? Did you know that Regis Philbin turned 80 on August 25? The Dancing with the...
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...