Encourage Action During National Influenza Vaccination Week

National Influenza Vaccination Week, which runs from December 4-8, is the perfect time to get a flu shot. This week highlights the importance of flu vaccines which are crucial in reducing the risk of illness, hospitalization, and even death.

The impact of influenza is substantial, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimating 9 million illnesses, 4 million medical visits, 10,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths during the 2021-2022 season.

Strengthening the Chain of Wound Prevention and Care.

Senior care facilities place a high priority on person-centered care and attending to the body, mind, and spirit of the whole resident. One critical facet of that care is skin health and wound management. The good news is that there are more technologies and treatments, as well as certification and training programs, to help maximize outcomes and quality of life.

Find out more by going to https://www.providermagazine.com/Issues/2023/Winter/Pages/Strengthening-the-Chain-of-Wound-Prevention-and-Care.aspx

Giving Thanks and Staying Vigilant.

This Thanksgiving, we extend our heartfelt thank you to our members who have been unwavering in their commitment to the well-being of the residents and staff.

​In the spirit of unity and vigilance, AHCA/NCAL would like to remind providers about resources to support their infection prevention and control efforts this respiratory season.

Let us continue to stand united in our commitment to health, safety, and the well-being of our communities.

Wishing you a joyous and safe holiday season.​

Boost Your Geriatric Care Competency for Less Through November 17

The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living’s Gero Nurse Prep course significantly increases RNs’ gerontological nursing competency test scores. Registrants can save $200 on Gero Nurse Prep through November 17, 2023 with promo code GNP23 (all caps).
New research conducted by AHCA/NCAL in 2023 finds compelling reasons to consider the Gero Nurse Prep course and ANCC Board certification for RNs. The new findings closely mirror 2016 and 2019 research results. Nursing facilities with at least one ANCC Board certified RN experienced:
  • Lower rehospitalization rates for short stay and long stay residents
  • Fewer deficiencies on average
  • Fewer Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) citations
  • More stars — twice as likely to be a CMS 5-Star facility (44% versus 19%)

New Resources Available to Enhance Vaccination Efforts in Long Term Care

AHCA/NCAL is happy to introduce new resources available on the #GetVaccinated we​bsite, including the latest “Frequently Asked Questions,” “Vaccine Co-Administration in Long Term Care,” and “Offering and Documenting Vaccines in Long Term Care.”

In the ever-evolving landscape of long term care, staying informed and equipped with the latest resources is paramount for providers.

https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-Resources-Available-to-Enhance-Vaccination-Efforts-in-Long-Term-Care-.aspx

Just For RNs: Boost Your Geriatric Care Competency for Less Through November 17

The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living’s Gero Nurse Prep course significantly increases RNs’ gerontological nursing competency test scores. Registrants can save $200 on Gero Nurse Prep through November 17, 2023 with promo code GNP23 (all caps).
New research conducted by AHCA/NCAL in 2023 finds compelling reasons to consider the Gero Nurse Prep course and ANCC Board certification for RNs. The new findings closely mirror 2016 and 2019 research results. Nursing facilities with at least one ANCC Board certified RN experienced:
  • Lower rehospitalization rates for short stay and long stay residents
  • Fewer deficiencies on average
  • Fewer Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) citations
  • More stars — twice as likely to be a CMS 5-Star facility (44% versus 19%)

Deadline Approaching to Submit Comments on Proposed Minimum Staffing Rule

​The formal comment period on the CMS minimum staffing proposed rule is nearing an end. Though AHCA/NCAL met its original goal of submitting 10,000 comments to CMS from members during the 60-day comment period, a new goal has been set to reach 15,000 comments to have a greater impact with CMS and the Administration.
With just under two weeks until the end of the comment period, this is a great opportunity to share with CMS why this rule won’t work. Submitting a comment is easy! Just visit our Action Center, where there are details on what to write in the comments, including specific asks for CMS regarding the rule. Comments are due November 6. Assisted living providers are encouraged to submit comments, as well.
For information on the effects of the minimum staffing proposed rule on skilled nursing, view our Issue Brief. For details on the impact of the minimum staffing proposed rule on assisted living, view our NCAL Issue Brief.
For additional information or questions, please contact Matt Smyth or Heather Posthumus​.

New Resource Available #GetVaccinated Reimbursement Guide

AHCA/NCAL  unveiled a new resource to encourage and support vaccinations in long term care facilities this season. Their  aim is to ensure that every member of the long term care community is well-informed about vaccine payment options, making it easier to prioritize their health and that of their residents.

Find out more at https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-Resource-Available-GetVaccinated-Reimbursement-Guide.aspx

Gerontological Nursing Certification Improves Care Outcomes and Reduces Citations, Research Shows

Recent research suggests that board certification in gerontological nursing offers immense benefits for nursing facilities and residents alike. According to an analysis of U.S.-based providers conducted by AHCA/NCAL this year, facilities that employ at least one RN with ANCC board certification in gerontological nursing enjoy numerous advantages over the national average: higher five-star ratings and quality ratings, lower short-stay and long-stay rehospitalization rates, fewer deficiencies, and fewer costly immediate-jeopardy citations.

Despite the clear advantages of board-certification in gerontological nursing, however, only 1 percent of RNs have this credential. The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Gero Nurse Prep course is designed to change this.

Read the full article at https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Gerontological-Nursing-Certification-Improves-Care-Outcomes-and-Reduces-Citations,-Research-Shows.aspx

Proposed Minimum staffing requirements for SNFs from CMS – What You Need to Know!

Thanks to one of our alert Gero Nurse Prep students for reminding us of the importance of this pending regulation.

To get the Fast Facts on the implications of  this unfunded mandate, go here:

https://www.ahcancal.org/Advocacy/IssueBriefs/NEW%20unfunded%20staffing%20mandate_IB.pdf

AHCA/NCAL has set a goal of submitting more than 10,000 comments on this proposed rule between now and November 6th. To make your voice heard, go to:

https://www.votervoice.net/AHCA/Campaigns/103471/Respond [votervoice.net]