Why SNFs better start talking with the hospital down the street, or risk getting left in the dust
I’ll admit that accountable care organizations are not my favorite topic in the world.
Accountable Care Organizations
Providers struggling with new ACO decisions, deadlines
Providers groups are pushing back against the federal government, as the initial deadline looms for deciding whether to take part in Medicare’s most popular accountable care organization.
Proving that the ACA challenge can be met
If there’s one question sure to put a provider on edge these days, it’s this: How do I transition my facility into the world of accountable care organizations? For those who want to see how it can be done, look no further than New Jersey.
New ACO proposals could leave long-term care providers smiling
If nothing else, federal health officials displayed Monday that they are intent on getting this accountable care organization (ACO) thing right. Or at least closer to “right” than it has been.
Also in the news for Nov. 5, 2014 . . .
Supreme Court hears arguments over whether Omnicare misled investors … Hospice medical director faces up to 20 years in prison for improper patient certifications … Lack of interoperability is hindering accountable care organizations, ONC report says
For long-term operators, a growing list of ‘frenemies’
Most of us are all too aware of our professional friends and enemies. But not so much when it comes to our “frenemies.” Given the many changes taking place in healthcare today, the frenemy list for many long-term care operators is expanding as never before.
Latest ACO dropout blames issues with payment system
A California healthcare system recently became the latest dropout from the Pioneer Accountable Care Organization program, citing the fact that payments are not adjusted by region. Sharp HealthCare announced the move in its third-quarter financial report.
No ACOs have reliable interoperability with external organizations, survey finds
A widespread lack of interoperable technology threatens the Accountable Care Organization model, according to recently released survey results.
Report: Complex care management can succeed, reduced Medicare SNF expenditures 64% in one instance
Well-designed programs to coordinate care for patients with complex needs can reduce Medicare expenditures, including skilled nursing facility costs, according to an issue brief released Thursday by The Commonwealth Fund.
Skilled nursing facility trends contribute to improved Medicare outlook, Congressional report says
The Medicare trust fund is on track to remain solvent until 2030, trustees of the program stated in a Congressional report released Monday. This improved outlook is due in part to revised expectations about the case mix in skilled nursing facilities.
