How would you like to spend some ‘quality time’ with CMS?
By
John O'Connor
Sep 24, 2018
First it was staffing data, could Uncle Sam be after providers for quality data next? One Senator might be after just that.
Sleeper measures could cut Medicare payments to skilled care operators
By
John O'Connor
Mar 31, 2014
As far as skilled care is concerned, most recent reporting on a major Medicare bill has all but overlooked what’s in the bill for the sector. And it’s not trivial.
CMS expanding the reach of young telemedicine program
By
John O'Connor
Nov 01, 2012
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is increasingly looking to telemedicine as a way to improve care while reducing fiscal outlays.
Court: ‘Elegant theory’ not good enough
By
John O'Connor
Feb 01, 2011
Omnicare Inc. will need more than an elegant theory if it hopes to gain an antitrust ruling against UnitedHealth Group, an appellate court in Chicago recently ruled.
Is LTC leading the pack?
By
John O'Connor
Dec 01, 2013
If we’ve learned anything lately, it’s this: Changing a healthcare system is no easy task. Just ask the White House.
More frivolous lawsuits ahead? You can bank on it
By
John O'Connor
May 09, 2016
Eldercare service providers would be well advised to watch proposed arbitration rules that have been aimed primarily at banks — for now.
Obama attacks sequestration, Medicare payments in State of the Union address
By
John O'Connor
Feb 13, 2013
In a State of the Union address largely focused on jobs and the economy, President Obama challenged a divided Congress to avoid automatic funding cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, raise the minimum wage and...
Turning a challenge into an opportunity
By
John O'Connor
Jul 27, 2012
Many nursing home administrators are not sleeping well these days. If it’s any consolation, hospital administrators are probably catching even fewer winks.
New SNF business models and alligators
By
John O'Connor
Apr 02, 2012
There’s an old adage that goes something like this: It’s hard to remember that your objective was to drain the ditch when you are up to your waist in alligators.
Yes, the regulatory picture is actually improving
By
John O'Connor
Dec 18, 2017
Believe it or not, the overall picture has been improving. And it might get even better in 2018.