CDC: U.S. life expectancy rises slightly, mortality rates fall compared to ’07
New CDC data includes life expectancy and mortality rates and shows where nursing home services rank in terms of use, among other notable findings.
Nursing Homes
Will telehealth help keep rural LTC residents healthy after discharge? Study aims to find out
Researchers will follow a group of discharged long-term care residents to test the benefits of telehealth nurse access in rural areas.
Rhode Island leaders, nursing homes negotiate rate hike instead of $24 million payout
Rhode Island lawmakers and nursing homes said Tuesday afternoon they had reached a tentative deal that would allow for the dismissal of a $24 million court battle over Medicaid reimbursements.
Also in the News for Wednesday, June 6
New Medicare scorecard compares state efforts, but still lacks detail … GAO: Soon-to-expand private program for VA patients has left them waiting months for care … Most Florida nursing homes unprepared for hurricane season
State to settle with nursing homes for $12 million
Almost all South Carolina nursing homes in dispute with the state over Medicaid processing have agreed to a proposed settlement, according to local reports.
Appeal sought after ruling on arbitration clauses
Plaintiffs in a negligent death lawsuit are asking the Texas Supreme Court to reconsider its recent ruling giving providers more leeway in forcing arbitration over alleged negligent care.
Judge rules that contract fee for ‘free’ nursing home bed rights is valid
A federal judge has ruled that the transfer of dozens of nursing home beds among nursing home operators must go through as originally planned, despite the would-be buyer’s claim the contract was invalid.
GAO has good points in how, why antipsychotics are given
The government recognizes the progress made in nursing homes with reduction of antipsychotics for residents with dementia, but also notes many who live in assisted living are receiving the drugs. It’s part of a continuing narrative where the government is not super interested in paying for inappropriate medications that can harm seniors.
Quality improving in nursing homes: CMS review
The 2015 National Impact Assessment of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Quality Measures Report shows “clear progress in improving the healthcare delivery system to achieve the three aims of better care, smarter spending, and healthier people.”
State bill would exempts LTC facilities from liquor permits
Nursing homes should be allowed to serve alcohol to residents without having to pay excise taxes or permits, according to a group of Indiana seniors who want to gain an exemption from the state.
