Hospitals and nursing facilities around the country are getting more dramatic in their efforts to attract new employees in the face of a worsening nurse shortage, according to a recent report.

A new survey of healthcare leaders finds that almost all feel the current healthcare payment system is fundamentally flawed and must be reformed. An overwhelming majority favor bonuses for high-quality outcomes and more efficient care.

Since the reduction of the so-called 75% Rule to 60%, SNFs have to work even harder to attract Part A therapy residents

In an effort to lower the cost of durable medical equipment, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has introduced a competitive bidding program among supply companies. Officials hope it will reduce medical equipment costs to the agency, beneficiaries and facilities that pay Medicare costs by 26% - or up to $1 billion per year.