After nearly three decades of watching this sector, I’m still astounded by two bizarre aspects of general media coverage.
The ‘fake news’ problem is all too real. But probably not as you imagine.
By
John O'Connor
Jul 16, 2018
We seem to breeding unprecedented numbers of self-righteous experts armed with warped perspectives. That’s where “fake news” is doing its real damage. And by all accounts, things are...
Medicaid blamed as closings escalate
By
John O'Connor
May 08, 2018
Inadequate Medicaid payments appear to be taking a major toll in Wisconsin. Two more facilities announced at press time they are closing. Executives in other states are keeping a close eye on developments....
We’re shocked — shocked! — that bribery is going on here
By
John O'Connor
Apr 30, 2018
Few sectors are as vulnerable to Washington’s fickle winds as long-term care.
The Big Picture: Things could be worse
By
John O'Connor
Apr 08, 2018
There’s no doubt the skilled care sector faces its share of challenges. While there have been hardly any new facilities built in recent years, occupancy levels remain myopic or worse. And the long-awaited...
Are we entering skilled care’s Golden Age? The answer might surprise you.
By
John O'Connor
Mar 05, 2018
It’s very possible historians may look back at 2018 as a kind of Golden Age for skilled care. No, I have not been drinking.
A no-brainer plan for Medicare and Medicaid
By
John O'Connor
Dec 11, 2017
But for those of you who think outrageous political trickery is dead, please let me point you in the direction of Capitol Hill. For we appear to be in the midst of one of the better con jobs to come along...
Tax bill reveals a great divide in long-term care
By
John O'Connor
Dec 04, 2017
One of the more interesting aspects of the epic battle over the tax reform bill has been this sector’s response. One major long-term care organization continues to blast proposed changes while the...
Biting off your nose to spite Obama’s face
By
John O'Connor
Sep 25, 2017
It’s hard to describe how incredibly dangerous and stupid the latest GOP effort to replace Obamacare really is. But I’ll try.
Here we go again: All nursing homes are bad
By
John O'Connor
Sep 17, 2017
There is no way to sugarcoat what happened last week in Hollywood Hills, FL. Eight skilled care residents died in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Our condolences go out to the victims and their families. But...