Columnists frequently fall into a predictable trap around this time of year. Many feel an almost primal urge to have their December essay babble about the amazing year that was. This almost invariably...
Is it any wonder this field has an identity crisis?
By
John O'Connor
Aug 25, 2014
What’s in a name? That’s a fairly topical question, given the many differing views on how best to describe the business we’re in. Not that this field’s identity crisis is a recent...
When it comes to free Medicaid dollars, some governors in a state of denial
By
John O'Connor
Jun 10, 2013
Under a newly expanded Medicaid program option, states stand to reap billions of dollars in what amounts to free money. Much of this could go toward better resident care. But some governors can’t...
Who can you trust?
By
John O'Connor
Jul 24, 2022
How bad is the public’s erosion of trust these days? A recent Gallup poll found that barely a quarter of Americans (27%) have a great deal of confidence in 14 leading institutions. That’s a 5%...
A growing concern for long-term care?
By
John O'Connor
May 10, 2021
Janet Yellen insists inflation is not something we need to be terribly concerned about. Yet it has been on my mind quite a bit lately. Perhaps it should be on yours, as well.
Keeping your friends close, and the media closer
By
John O'Connor
Jul 30, 2018
After nearly three decades of watching this sector, I’m still astounded by two bizarre aspects of general media coverage.
SNFs and cabbies agree that more regs are needed — for the other guy
By
John O'Connor
May 16, 2016
You can gain real insights about your future by examining what the competition is up to. Remarkably, there are still some skilled care operators who don’t see assisted living as the competition....
Ready to improve your world in 2019? Best to put first things first.
By
John O'Connor
Dec 03, 2018
In the interest of service journalism, I have taken the liberty of picking out the three issues that will be most deserving of your attention next year. If you don’t deal with them, the rest won’t...
Replace the Five Star Quality Ratings system with points?
By
John O'Connor
Nov 17, 2014
There’s a need to fix what’s broken with the Five Star nursing homes-ratings system, and the way to do it is obvious.
Long-term care could use a new vanguard
By
John O'Connor
Feb 15, 2021
Much has improved since I began covering this field in 1990. But, sadly, one discomforting reality remains. And if anything, it’s gotten worse.