Extension of therapy caps exceptions process hinges on healthcare reform passage
By
Liza Berger
Jan 08, 2010
Whether or not you are a fan of healthcare reform, here’s one reason Congress should pass it: It would extend the therapy caps exceptions process.
Providers: Five-Star system disappoints
By
Liza Berger
Jan 01, 2010
The Five-Star Quality Rating System is a good idea—in theory. In practice, it has fallen short of acceptable standards.
Profile: Stephen L. Esdale – Perfect pitchman for LTC
By
Liza Berger
Sep 01, 2009
Stephen L. Esdale, Chairman ACHCA
Judge facilities on an individual basis
By
Liza Berger
Aug 07, 2009
A significant and perhaps somewhat controversial piece of research was released this week suggesting that not-for-profit nursing homes offer higher quality care overall than for-profits. That’s great...
Proposed Medicare commission could disregard funding realities
By
Liza Berger
Jul 28, 2009
I don’t know about you, Readers, but this push for an Independent Medicare Advisory Council (IMAC) makes me nervous. If approved by Congress, this new body could make it more difficult for nursing homes...
Movie ‘Up’ takes new look at aging
By
Liza Berger
Jul 23, 2009
Finally, there is a movie that provides a positive depiction of seniors and old age. That film is “Up,” and I suggest you head out to the nearest theatre to see it, if you haven’t already. Unlike...
Post-acute payment bundling system appears ominous
By
Liza Berger
May 21, 2009
Nursing homes have cause to worry about the prospect of a Medicare post-acute payment bundling system. If it pans out, facilities may end up on the losing side of the equation. That is just one of my takeaways...
Nursing homes can’t catch a break in flu fight
By
Liza Berger
May 01, 2009
We should have known better. When the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention said that it was one of the mildest flu seasons in years, we should have been wary. We should have looked askance and commented...
Bill would expand education, training for workers in LTC
By
Liza Berger
Feb 01, 2009
A group of bipartisan U.S. senators and congressmen last month introduced legislation to offer more educational and training opportunities for healthcare workers in long-term care and gerontology.
Spread the word: Long-term care is hiring
By
Liza Berger
Jan 23, 2009
It seems ironic, doesn’t it? Long-term care, often criticized as a financial albatross, may be an engine for economic growth. That is what the American Health Care Association and the Alliance for Quality...