The new 2nd edition of Developing a Quality Management System: The Foundation for Performance Excellence in Long Term Care can help any facility focused on improving quality. The manual addresses six essential quality management elements. The publication also shows how to develop a long-range plan-and more, according to its authors.

"Facing deficits, states get out sharper knives." That ominous headline appeared on the top of page 1 in Monday's New York Times. The article noted that most states "are scrambling to find ways to get through the rest of the year." That's a challenge more of us now find ourselves facing. But let's hope that budget cutters at the state level don't get too carried away. The reality is that providers are already being shortchanged by states. Medicaid alone underpays operators by more than $4 billion, according to a study commissioned by the American Health Care Association. It's no secret that these are challenging times times. But that's hardly an excuse for states to abdicate their responsibilities to our nation's elderly - or to the providers increasingly tasked with delivering the care they need.

Resource Systems and the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordinators have partnered to develop the Nursing Assistant of the Year Scholarship Program. Scholarship recipients will receive $5,000. The amount can be put toward the completion of a master's degree, bachelor's degree, associate degree or technical certification in nursing. In addition, the facility from which the winner is chosen will receive $1,000. That total can be used for continuing education or training, according to the organizations.

Investment firm IHP Capital Partners announced that it has selected Yardi Investment Management to manage its portfolio. IHP will use investment accounting, reporting, valuation, and executive management tools, according to the firm.

AOD recently partnered with The Kendal Corporation and Widener University to examine how electronic health records affect care delivery in eldercare settings. The study will continue through next year, and is expected to result in a paper that details full findings.

Space Tables recently unveiled a redesigned Web site. The site's improved visual appearance makes navigation easier than ever. Visitors can select from six separate options: Home, Benefits, Industries, Product, General Info and Contact.For more than three decades, the firm has offered a comprehensive line of height-adjustable tables for use in the eldercare setting.

Space Tables recently unveiled a redesigned Web site. The site's improved visual appearance makes navigation easier than ever. Visitors can select from six separate options: Home, Benefits, Industries, Product, General Info and Contact.For more than three decades, the firm has offered a comprehensive line of height-adjustable tables for use in the eldercare setting.

Medicus Health offers a new premium ABS plastic isolation stations designed to protect providers and patient visitors. The stations let facilities keep infection control supplies on-hand, highly visible and easy to access.

ECO-heaters are economical, energy efficient electric panel heaters that can help keep residents warm during the winter. Operating silently without a fan, they do not circulate dust or allergens, the firm notes.

Golite Blu offers quick relief from seasonal mood-related problems. With the end of Daylight Saving time many residents are affected by the increased darkness and experience what is known as the winter blues. Symptoms of the winter blues may include lethargy, lowered mood, sleeping problems and more.