It was supposed to work like this. When people need long-term care, they pay privately until they’re impoverished. Then and only then Medicaid helps. To avoid that outcome, people were urged to save...
The underappreciated bartenders of long-term care
By
Gary Tetz
Mar 21, 2024
Before you think poorly of me, let me explain. I was in the bar that afternoon only because I had heard such great things about the nachos. Not buying it? How about this: I was conducting an in-person...
Impossible expectations are undermining nursing home care
By
Brendan Williams
Feb 05, 2024
Maine has the nation’s oldest population, and yet almost 40% of its nursing homes have closed within the past few decades. As the Bangor Daily News has reported, that’s forced residents of some...
Patient care-related electrical equipment inspection and maintenance requirements
By
Stan Szpytek
Aug 28, 2023
Skilled nursing facilities are compelled by regulatory compliance to provide residents, staff and visitors with a safe environment of care. Providers occasionally receive deficiencies for conditions...
Occupational therapy and sleep, the missing ADL
By
Renee Kinder
Aug 03, 2023
The sleepover hangover is a telltale sign of summer in our home. Teenagers up and out way too late with friends, hopefully staying out of trouble and then crashing until 2 p.m. the next day. Little ones...
Redefining the role of agency staff in nursing homes: Unveiling new realities
By
Steven Littlehale
Jan 05, 2024
In the ever-evolving landscape of nursing home care, the use of agency staff has long been a topic of scrutiny, historically linked to concerns about inferior outcomes. However, as we navigate the aftermath...
Brave new birthday world
By
Gary Tetz
Nov 16, 2023
What do birthdays have to do with long-term care? Well, I’ve been having them long-term. And at this point, I’ve ceased to care. You probably see that statement for what it is, nothing but bitter bluster....
Caregiver training CPT codes finalized for CY 2024
By
Renee Kinder
Nov 09, 2023
In July we were pleased to share that the CY 2024 Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule held exciting news for therapists and caregivers. These have now officially been finalized for use beginning...
CMS gets it right: Individuals receiving care will benefit from RN staffing mandate
By
Nancy Haugen
Oct 16, 2023
Skilled nursing and assisted living facilities have long relied on licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVN) as the “backbone” of care to keep nursing salary costs low and increase profits,...
Flying V: Lessons for the interdisciplinary team
By
Renee Kinder
Feb 29, 2024
If there has been a theme in my world this month, it is the art of asking for help. Not just asking for help but doing so with the confidence of knowing I am surrounded by team members ready to step in...