Industry-backed report warns that cuts could hit $79 billion
By
John O'Connor
Sep 01, 2011
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently unveiled a Medicare plan that trims Medicare payments by 11.1%, beginning Oct. 1. But the real impact will be a $79 billion loss over the next decade,...
Survey shows seniors desire companionship at mealtime
By
Mary Gustafson
Sep 01, 2011
Dining in the company of at least one person is tied to decreased feelings of loneliness and healthier eating overall for seniors, according to a new survey.
Ask the care expert: If we have an RAC audit, can we also get an additional review from it?
Optical fiber showing promise as potential wound care tool
By
John O'Connor
Sep 01, 2011
Swiss researchers from the Technology in Textiles (TechinTex) project are working on a new type of wound dressing that could make it easier for providers to monitor how fast a wound is actually healing.
Ask the treatment expert: What is the best way to measure a wound?
By
Susan Wickard
Sep 01, 2011
Susan Wickard, RN, BSN, CWCN, CWS, CLNC Clinical Advisor, American Association for LTC Nursing
Resident handling programs can minimize worker injuries
By
Mary Gustafson
Sep 01, 2011
The growing disparity between the average American’s weight and safe lifting requirements presents a challenge for long-term care workers who perform heavy lifting. As a result, facilities with safe...
Ask the nursing expert: What orientation advice do you have for a new DON?
By
Anne Marie Barnett
Sep 01, 2011
Anne Marie Barnett, RN President, Maryland NADONA/LTC
Study: Part D cuts costs
By
James M. Berklan
Sep 01, 2011
Medicare’s young prescription drug coverage program has brought down admissions to nursing homes and hospitals, thereby cutting healthcare costs by $12 billion, researchers say.
Higher regulatory demands, money for hospice providers
By
James M. Berklan
Sep 01, 2011
When others were sweating out funding threats or declines, hospice providers were able to enjoy the announcement of a 2.5% rise in Medicare payments for fiscal 2012. The Center for Medicare & Medicaid...
Ask the payment expert: Coping with RUG payment reductions, Part II