Tag: #providermagazine

How to Structure Your Compliance Program

Nursing, assisted living, and post-acute facilities have long been an area of scrutiny by the Office on Inspector General (OIG) as they are high-risk areas. It is important that an organization have a formal compliance program as proactive and preventive; a structure to address issues; and as a mitigating factor should compliance violations be identified by regulatory agencies.

OIG recognizes a common structure for compliance programs centered around seven elements. They are:

  • Written policies, procedures, and standards of conduct
  1. How accessible are they to all employees?
  2. How often are they reviewed?
  3. What is the process/procedure for review and approval?
  4. Are they written in understandable language?

Find out more by going to https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/How-to-Structure-Your-Compliance-Program.aspx

Polypharmacy Is a Problem in Senior Care

Polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, is a growing concern in senior care. As the elderly population continues to grow, so too does the prevalence of chronic conditions that require pharmaceutical intervention. However, while medications can be life-saving, the indiscriminate use of multiple drugs often leads to adverse effects, drug interactions, and diminished quality of life for seniors.

Addressing polypharmacy is not just a medical issue; it’s a critical aspect of providing holistic, patient-centered care that respects the complexities of aging.

Read the full article at https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Polypharmacy-Is-a-Problem-in-Senior-Care.aspx

How AI Can Help Differentiate Between a UTI or Dementia

Staff, administrators, and medical professionals in senior care communities are acutely aware of the increased frequency of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among older adults and how often they are misdiagnosed as signs of dementia.

While these two diagnoses are separate, they are inextricably linked based on overlapping symptoms. One of the most significant and obvious overlapping symptoms is a sudden increase in confusion. This often presents as delirium and explains why many jump to a diagnosis of dementia before testing for a UTI. Other overlapping symptoms include increased agitation, withdrawal, and difficulty concentrating. Yet diagnosis can be further challenging because the typical physical symptoms of a UTI, such as a burning sensation during urination, may not be present in older adults.

Read the full article at  https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/How-AI-Can-Help-Differentiate-Between-a-UTI-or-Dementia.aspx

Balancing Technology and Humanity in Long Term Care

The integration of technology into long term care is revolutionizing the way we approach this delicate and crucial stage of life. Being an executive in the senior care space for decades, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that technological advancements can have on enhancing the quality of care, communication, and comfort for patients and their families. From innovative medical devices to sophisticated data management systems, technology is not just a tool but a transformative force that is reshaping the landscape of long term care.

Read the full article at https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Balancing-Technology-and-Humanity-in-Long-Term-Care-.aspx

Distinguish Quality Measure Exclusions from Clinical Standards in Long Term Care

​In the long term care profession, understanding the differences between Quality Measure (QM) exclusions outlined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and clinical standards of practice can be challenging.

Read more by going to https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Distinguish-Quality-Measure-Exclusions-from-Clinical-Standards-in-Long-Term-Care.aspx

Health Care’s Value Revolution Focusing on Quality Over Quantity

Provider financial returns have long been driven by the quantity of services provided, not the outcomes that were achieved. However, as we journey deeper into the 21st century, it’s becoming clear that this volume-driven approach is no longer sustainable, nor beneficial to patients.

https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Health-Care%E2%80%99s-Value-Revolution-Focusing-on-Quality-Over-Quantity.aspx

Cybersecurity Safety is Patient Safety!

Post-acute care facilities play a unique and critical role in the health care ecosystem. However, with this specialized focus comes distinct challenges in the realm of cybersecurity. Additionally, the recent staffing mandates announced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as of April 22, 2024, pose further hurdles, potentially straining resources and complicating cybersecurity efforts.

Find out more by going to https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Cybersecurity-Safety-Is-Patient-Safety.aspx

Improving Outcomes Through Better Communication

Communication is key when providing quality care to residents because those living in long term care environments experience increased vulnerability. Good communication can often be likened to a dance. When synchronized, it is beautiful to watch. However, one misstep can lead to injury or hurt feelings. Lack of communication can result in missed appointments, medication errors, adverse events, rehospitalization, and even death. This article offers tips to facility leadership on how to improve communication with residents and their families, staff, and outside partners.

https://www.providermagazine.com/Issues/2024/Spring/Pages/Improving-Outcomes-Through-Better-Communication.aspx