The BIG Picture: Healthcare reform is coming. So who in LTC cares?
By
John O'Connor
Nov 01, 2009
When the president, Congress, the media and others speculate about healthcare reform, they are not really talking about eldercare services.
MedPAC needs a new role, Rockefeller says
By
John O'Connor
Sep 01, 2009
Sen. John Rockefeller IV (D-WV), chairman of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Health, continues to advocate for a stronger role for the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC).
Obama against caps for malpractice suits
By
John O'Connor
Jul 01, 2009
President Obama told a roomful of doctors that he does not favor caps for malpractice awards. But he indicated he may be open to “apology legislation.”
The BIG Picture: understanding why significant healthcare reform is unlikely to happen
By
John O'Connor
Jun 01, 2009
Despite a general dissatisfaction with Medicare and Medicaid rates, providers have mostly benefited from the way things are, at least as far as payments are concerned. Why would they want to mess with...
The BIG picture: with so much on his plate, Obama’s going to have a tough time keeping his eyes...
By
John O'Connor
May 01, 2009
President Obama appears to have given the mantra “make no small plans” a more contemporary spin: Everything’s on the table.
Card-check battle leaves all combatants worse for wear
By
John O'Connor
May 01, 2009
The apparent demise of a bill intended to make it easier for unions to form has left nearly all sides bloodied from battle.
Two senators flip-flop and card check fades
By
John O'Connor
May 01, 2009
Both sides of the card check fight have been turning to commercials, polls and talking points to sway minds and votes. But there are signs that the battle may actually be over.
The BIG picture: Nursing homes are not long-term care’s embarrasing relatives
By
John O'Connor
Apr 01, 2009
When the Senate Special Committee on Aging decided to hold a hearing on future directions for long-term care, it seemed as though the nursing home industry was quickly walked down the stairs.
Anti-institution bias apparent at hearing
By
John O'Connor
Apr 01, 2009
A recent Senate hearing called on lawmakers revamping the nation’s healthcare system to remember long-term care.
Labor nominee mum on card-check issue
By
John O'Connor
Feb 01, 2009
Senate Republicans grilled President Barack Obama’s choice for Labor secretary at a recent confirmation hearing. But Rep. Hilda L. Solis (D-CA) gave them little ammunition.