The CLASS Act has Obama’s back. Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, said as much today in a letter to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP)...
State, federal pain policies hurt
By
Liza Berger
Nov 13, 2009
A lot of Americans suffer from chronic pain. This group includes many nursing home residents. Which is why some new developments on the pain front are encouraging.
Card-check and transparency and arbitration acts—Oh my!
By
Liza Berger
Mar 20, 2009
If you’ve been staying on top of long-term care news, you’ve probably noticed that lawmakers have been busy lately. Lots of bills have been introduced in recent days—some drawing praise, others scorn...
Extension of therapy caps exceptions process hinges on healthcare reform passage
By
Liza Berger
Jan 08, 2010
Whether or not you are a fan of healthcare reform, here’s one reason Congress should pass it: It would extend the therapy caps exceptions process.
Longer life expectancy has an underside
By
Liza Berger
Aug 20, 2009
A child born in 2007 can expect to live to nearly 78, according to preliminary findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of course, that is good news. Everyone should be entitled to...
Medicaid payment bundling sparks controversy in Ohio
By
Liza Berger
Oct 28, 2009
Medicaid payment bundling is emerging as a key topic in national healthcare reform. As part of their research on bundling, federal lawmakers should pay attention to what is happening in Ohio.
War of the words
By
Liza Berger
Feb 20, 2008
The blockbuster piece of nursing home legislation introduced last week put the for-profit community on edge – and in a delicate position in terms of public relations. That was evident in a bit of a verbal...
Consumer group takes on long-term care field
By
Liza Berger
Jun 15, 2010
The group formerly known NCCHNR is known for butting heads with nursing home associations. As it expands its advocacy mission, more long-term care providers are likely to feel the heat.
Good timing for AAHSA conference
By
Liza Berger
Nov 06, 2009
Emotions will be running high at the rapidly approaching conference of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging. The question is, will the mood be one of elation or disappointment?
MedPAC idea could be bad for nursing homes
By
Liza Berger
May 27, 2009
Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) recently introduced legislation that would make the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) part of the executive branch. The proposal is at once both logical and worrisome....