Heart failure readmission rates tied to regional socioeconomic factors, research shows
By
McKnight's Staff
May 18, 2012
Socioeconomic differences and factors such as the availability of physicians have a bigger impact on readmission rates for heart failure than a provider’s performance, a new study asserts.
Five-Star insights: Will those stars ever illuminate your path?
By
Steven Littlehale
May 16, 2012
I recently asked a hospital discharge planner how she chooses which nursing home to discharge to. “Five-Star” was the reply. Was I surprised? Not at all. Once again, it demonstrates just how...
Final rule reduces regulatory burden for long-term care facilities
By
McKnight's Staff
May 11, 2012
A new rule eases the regulatory burden on providers serving Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and has the potential to save the healthcare system $100 million in the first year.
Regulators clash with suppliers over effectiveness of competitive bidding program for durable medical...
By
McKnight's Staff
May 10, 2012
Federal officials maintain that its competitive bidding program for durable medical equipment is operating successfully, but some industry suppliers disagree.
Some Medicaid doctors to receive reimbursement rates that equal Medicare’s
By
McKnight's Staff
May 09, 2012
Physicians providing primary care services to Medicaid beneficiaries will see a federal payment increase to bring Medicaid payments in line with those of Medicare payments, government officials announced...
CMS ‘overpayment’ rule may come at a greater cost
By
Glenn P. Hendrix
May 02, 2012
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently issued a proposed rule addressing how it will implement the 60-day deadline for returning overpayments made to federal health programs. If fully adopted,...
Advocates for dual eligibles are concerned about the fast pace of demonstration project timeline
By
McKnight's Staff
May 02, 2012
Medicare advocates are concerned about the speed with which the federal government is implementing care coordination plans for dual eligibles, according to reports.
CMS to start covering heart procedure that significantly extends life expectancy
By
McKnight's Staff
May 02, 2012
Medicare beneficiaries with heart valve damage will be able to have a valve replacement covered under certain conditions, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced Tuesday.
Long-term care hospital operators benefit from CMS payment reduction phase-in
By
McKnight's Staff
Apr 26, 2012
Two major long-term care hospital operators saw their stocks rise upon news that planned payment cuts will be phased in over time.
CMS issues final rule on provider identification number
By
McKnight's Staff
Apr 25, 2012
Providers and suppliers who submit claims to Medicaid and Medicare must include an identification number on enrollment applications and payment claims, according to a final rule.