Why the Obamacare repeal is being held up — at least for now
By
John O'Connor
May 22, 2017
There was a celebration at the White House earlier this month after the House narrowly voted to replace the nation’s health law. More than two weeks later, the House has still not advanced the American...
Readmission penalties could harm hospitals and SNFs
By
John O'Connor
Aug 24, 2012
Economic incentives – both good and bad – are a proven way to modify behavior. But what happens when an economic penalty is based on a dubious premise? Many hospitals may soon be forced to...
The state of long-term care is …
By
John O'Connor
Apr 12, 2021
So, are things getting better or worse for long-term care? The answer is not so obvious.
The real trick-or-treating is about to begin
By
John O'Connor
Nov 01, 2021
Halloween is the one event each year where getting scared silly can be part of the fun. But you could hardly blame providers who’d prefer to skip that opportunity.
A chance to make your staff very, very happy
By
John O'Connor
May 06, 2013
It’s your turn to risk having an excited staff. Starting today, the second annual McKnight’s Excellence In Technology Awards program is officially underway.
Long-term care operators won’t want to catch this wave
By
John O'Connor
Jan 17, 2021
For years, observers have talked about a big wave heading toward long-term care operators. In the past, it’s referred to a demographics phenomenon. We can now add a regulatory one to the watch list.
Thanks for the, er, help
By
John O'Connor
Mar 25, 2024
The adage about keeping friends close and enemies closer has been variously attributed. Its relevance for long-term care operators is pretty clear.
Docs might get a raise, and long-term care might get a bill
By
John O'Connor
Feb 10, 2014
Major League teams don’t celebrate World Series victories midway through the season. But politicians do the equivalent all the time. Consider a revised Medicare payment plan that was joyously unveiled...
Medicare’s midlife crisis
By
John O'Connor
Aug 03, 2012
The Medicare program just marked its 47th anniversary. Whether that milestone is a cause for celebration or concern is open to debate.
Getting in step at the AHCA show
By
John O'Connor
Oct 08, 2008
Traversing the nine acres of indoor space at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center can be grueling under normal conditions. Trying to do it on one good foot can be a real character builder,...