When Congress repealed a budgetary provision known as the Boren Amendment back in 1997, I wrote that providers had lost a significant legal protection. It appears that the full force of that loss may soon...
When failure is a virtue
By
John O'Connor
Jun 06, 2016
In “My Losing Season,” Pat Conroy’s moving memoir notes how championship teams keep the good times going. They jump up and down when the game ends. They party and have victory dinners...
Must work be dreadful?
By
John O'Connor
Apr 04, 2016
Few things are less interesting than your typical “help wanted” ad.
They’re not all ingrates
By
John O'Connor
Sep 01, 2014
It’s no surprise that staff turnover remains alarmingly high at many long-term care communities.
Making a big difference
By
John O'Connor
Feb 01, 2012
About a decade ago, Monster.com unveiled a brilliant ad campaign. The spots were black and white vignettes in which children talked about their aspirations. But these kids were already jaded.
Here’s what the jury saw
By
John O'Connor
Oct 01, 2011
Small fortunes are spent each year trying to figure out how juries reach their verdicts in malpractice cases.
Having just served on such a panel, I can probably offer some helpful insights. These may come...
The BIG Picture: They like to talk—and do
By
John O'Connor
Nov 01, 2010
I had the good fortune to speak with two uniquely qualified insiders during the National Investment Center for the Seniors Housing & Care Industry conference.
Getting older and wider
Aug 02, 2011
I have a friend who says America is the only country where poor people are fat. Well, it’s not just the poor anymore.
The next time you are in a public place — say a restaurant or a mall — take...
The BIG Picture: a sense of entitlement
By
John O'Connor
Apr 01, 2010
We’re so accustomed to deficit spending, the mounting numbers have essentially lost most of their shock value.
The BIG Picture: The kid gloves come off
By
John O'Connor
Oct 01, 2009
The Internet has given rise to an angry mob that seems intent on snuffing out any thoughts that don’t align with theirs.