The physiatrist’s role in post-acute rehabilitation
By
Steve M. Gnatz, M.D.
Dec 09, 2015
In the IRF environment, it is mandated by federal regulation that the rehabilitation physician performs several key functions. It is not specified that this doctor necessarily be a physiatrist, but only...
7 employee wellness ideas for the holidays (and beyond)
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Dec 08, 2015
After a staff training on reducing burnout in long-term care last week, a look through the evaluation forms was illuminating. A significant number of attendees — mostly nursing aides, nurses, and environmental...
The skilled eye of a speech pathologist
By
Renee Kinder
Nov 16, 2015
The Medicare Benefit Policy Manual provides guidance for rehabilitation professionals on criteria for reasonable and necessary skilled services which include: Following Evidenced Based Practice Patterns:...
Why is it so easy to ignore Medicare improper payments?
By
Kristin Walter
Oct 28, 2015
Recovery auditors corrected more than $2.57 billion in improper payments for FY 2014 – representing 5% of the $46 billion in wasted taxpayer dollars the program lost in a comparable period to fraud,...
Understanding mild dementia
By
Renee Kinder
Oct 23, 2015
Providing care to individuals with dementia can be a daunting, yet rewarding experience for caregivers in long term care communities.
Lincoln at night is the cure
By
Gary Tetz
Oct 22, 2015
Anyone worried about the macro-challenges perpetually facing long-term care, and the country, should spend some quality time with Mr. Lincoln — preferably at night.
CMS sneaks a trick in with its treats
By
Steven Littlehale
Oct 21, 2015
With so many regulatory changes kicking in on Oct. 1, it’s no wonder providers were likely too distracted to notice the latest “trick” by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Left with the geraniums
By
Gary Tetz
Sep 24, 2015
Some things probably shouldn’t require a law. Kittens shouldn’t be water-boarded. Toddlers shouldn’t have to work in coal mines, at least not in the dark or winter. Seniors in long-term...
Making resident-centered care a priority
By
Sharon Belovarac, Jana Scavona and Steven Walkingstick
Sep 02, 2015
When Asbury Communities Inc., began its journey with Planetree it was not without a few questions. In our healthcare centers, where this culture-change journey would have its greatest presence, we wondered...
It’s hard work having this much fun
By
Julie Thorson
Aug 20, 2015
Being a leader means allowing the work to happen in an environment that’s exciting and fun. I believe too many people simply choose to be miserable.