Step one for improving accuracy for Section G ADL coding is to improve understanding between the language MDS uses to define levels of function and impairment in comparison to how rehab teams and nursing...
Navigating payment reform
By
Todd McQueston and Donna Hendricksen Fiala
Jul 27, 2015
Improving quality is the key to surviving payment reform. Here are six ways LTC providers can boost their quality.
How do we reach new antipsychotic goals?
By
G. Allen Power, M.D.
Jul 24, 2015
In June, McKnight’s reported that CMS is pushing for further reductions in antipsychotic use for people living with dementia in nursing homes.
Diabetes care: Take two betta fish and call me in a week
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jul 21, 2015
These days, with organizations being penalized for rehospitalizations and closely monitored on clinical outcomes, it would probably be very worthwhile to provide a group of elders with some pet fish, food...
Uber-terrified by technology
By
Gary Tetz
Jul 16, 2015
I was scared, I’ll admit it. I had never used it before. It was all so intimidating and new. The old system worked fine for me, and I was comfortable with its inadequacies. You might think I’m...
Thinking beyond the swallow
By
Renee Kinder
Jul 15, 2015
Meal times are well-defined, often highly structured and supervised intervals during the day in many skilled nursing facilities.
Got chalance?
By
Scott McFadden
Jun 26, 2015
We have a word that reflects our cultural philosophy at Lutheran Homes and Harwood Place: “Chalance,” which is a concept which counters the more negative term of ‘nonchalance’ or...
The pressure is on, Part 1
By
Tara Roberts
May 20, 2015
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently released its annual series of Medicare payment-related proposed rules for long-term care post-acute settings, which includes skilled nursing facilities,...
Put your gait belt where your mouth is
By
Julie Thorson
Apr 30, 2015
A couple of weeks ago, I put my scrubs on, grabbed a gait belt and worked alongside daily caregivers. I was humbled.
Defeat the plague of improper claims
By
Kristin Walter
Apr 17, 2015
For recovery auditing professionals everywhere, performance-based payments are a financial best practice and the industry standard. The client wins when no upfront expenses occur and payments are made...