Prohibit binding arbitration entirely? CMS was tempted
By
James M. Berklan
Sep 04, 2015
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is toughening its stance on the use of binding arbitration agreements for nursing home residents and their families. But the agency isn’t being as tough...
Looking to open eyes about ‘observations’
By
James M. Berklan
May 01, 2013
Bully for provider groups pulling out the stops to draw attention to the ludicrous mishandling of “observation stay” designations by many hospitals. One prong of the plan is to have providers...
Lawmakers revisit sprinkler legislation
By
James M. Berklan
Jul 06, 2007
Nearly 1 in 5 nursing homes might find themselves shopping for sprinkler systems as a result of a new push from federal lawmakers.
LTC’s smart choice for president
By
James M. Berklan
Mar 02, 2016
The nation should have a better idea soon as to who will be slinging mud at one another this fall for the top office in the nation. One way or another, it’s not looking good for long-term care interests....
Observation stay victory
By
James M. Berklan
May 01, 2020
A Connecticut federal appeals court granted certain hospital patients the right to appeal “observation stay” designations in a ruling that many hope will lead to greater access to Medicare-covered...
Wider vaccine mandate afoot
By
James M. Berklan
Oct 01, 2021
The Biden administration raised the stakes significantly in August, first announcing that nursing homes would need to have staff members fully vaccinated to receive Medicaid or Medicare funding, and three...
CMS: No test-out option for health worker vax mandate
By
James M. Berklan
Nov 05, 2021
Healthcare workers may seek a medical or religious exemption under the new emergency federal COVID-19 vaccination mandate, but a test opt-out does not exist, a top Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services...
All of LTC invited to Women of Distinction and Forum events May 12-13
By
James M. Berklan
Apr 22, 2022
The speakers and agenda have been fully set to welcome attendees at the 4th Annual McKnight’s Women of Distinction Awards ceremony and forum. A dinner gala in Chicago will be held May 12, with the educational...
The path to professional advancement lies online
By
James M. Berklan
Jan 03, 2011
We’re into January now so that means one of two things, if you’re like me: You’ve either already broken your New Year’s resolutions, or you’re about ready to.
Slain nursing home nurses to be honored on Memorial Day
By
James M. Berklan
May 25, 2017
The National Association of Health Care Assistants is asking fellow long-term care professionals to observe a moment of silence on Memorial Day to recognize “sisters in service who were killed so...