Minimum Staffing Rule
The Facility Assessment required as of August 8, 2024 was at § 483.70(e) is now moved to § 483.71. Question: Do therapists and assistants have anything to do with the facility assessment? Answer: Yes, therapists and assistants count as services provided which are required to be part of the facility assessment. Contracted services also count towards the […]
Prevent Falls with Strength and Balance
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, but the good news is that many falls can be prevented. By maintaining your balance and strength, you can stay safe and independent. How Our STEADY Program Can Help: Our STEADY program is a therapy-driven fall prevention initiative that offers the latest therapeutic interventions […]
Discharge Function Score
Imagine the interdisciplinary team at a SNF preparing to capture a snapshot of a patient’s readiness to “leave the nest” of the healthcare facility to return to their home. It’s a multifaceted process, assessing everything from how smoothly they move to how adeptly they tackle daily tasks. Out with the Old. In with the […]
When to Use a Cane or Walker – Tips from Therapy
Staying mobile and independent is key to living a fun and active life. But as you get older or recover from injuries, it may be necessary to use a walking aid to help you stay steady and get around safely. Cane: A cane is great if you need a little extra support and balance. […]
A Little Sunshine to Brighten Your Health
One simple yet powerful way to support our health is by spending a little time in the sun. Exposure to sunlight offers a host of benefits, from enhancing your mood to strengthening your bones. Key Health Advantages of Soaking up Some Sunshine: Enhance Your Mood: Sunlight increases serotonin levels, a hormone that boosts mood and […]
Feeling Tired?
As we age, it’s common to notice an increase in tiredness and a decrease in energy levels. While no one keeps the same high-energy levels as we did in childhood, there are ways to combat fatigue and maintain an active lifestyle as you age. Tips to Reduce Tiredness & Boost Energy: Prioritize Sleep: To […]
Swallowing Problems? Speech Therapy Treatments For Dysphagia
Swallowing is a complex process that involves over twenty-five muscles all working together to move food from the mouth to the stomach. For many older adults, swallowing can become a challenge. Swallowing disorders, also known as dysphagia, can greatly impact our ability to enjoy meals and stay properly hydrated. If you find eating or drinking […]
Keeping Bones Strong and Healthy
As we get older, our bones can weaken, which might cause osteoporosis—a condition where bones become fragile and break easily. However, osteoporosis is not an inevitable part of aging. By learning more about it and taking action early, you can significantly reduce your risk of osteoporosis and keep your bones strong and healthy. Did you […]
Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) Spotlights and Announcements
Now available! New Provider Data Catalog makes it easier to search and download publicly reported data. Also, Medicare’s Compare sites have been improved. Notice of Upcoming SNF QRP Measure Removals – January 2024 The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is alerting Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) providers of upcoming measure removals from the SNF […]
Elevating Patients Care & Maximizing Facility Reimbursement
The Opportunity: Medicaid is a major source of funding for many nursing homes. CMI analysis is crucial for understanding how the acuity and needs of a beneficiary affects reimbursement. A higher CMI directly correlates with increased Medicaid payments which covers the cost of patient care. Changes on the Horizon: States have an additional two years […]