AHCA/NCAL is happy to introduce new resources available on the #GetVaccinated website, 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.
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
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
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]
HealthCap’s Resource and Education Center offers a bounty of free educational resources and tools to help long term care providers deliver quality care and reduce risk. AHCA/NCAL members are encouraged to take advantage of these quality risk management resources including policies and procedures, toolkits, and continuing education credits.
AHCA/NCAL has embraced HealthCap® for more than a decade as a premier provider of liability insurance that is solely dedicated to serving senior care communities. HealthCap® clients have the fewest liability claims in the industry, and HealthCap settles claims below the industry average.
Stop by Booth # 806 in the Expo Hall at AHCA/NCAL’s annual convention in Denver October 1-4 and meet HealthCap’s experts.
Facilities, staff, and families must work together to recognize and treat addiction and substance use disorders in LTC communities. Individualized plans are needed to provide necessary pain management without giving in to drug-seeking behaviors.
Infectious diseases will continue to present challenges for long term care. While vaccines and treatments for COVID-19 have had a positive impact, antibiotic-resistant bacteria and other infections are creating concerns and demanding attention. The good news is that we know more than ever about infection prevention and control, and there are a plethora of tools, resources, and best practices to rely on.
Learn more at https://www.providermagazine.com/Issues/2023/Spring/Pages/The-Ongoing-War-on-Infections.aspx
Infection prevention in skilled nursing facilities is essential for the safety of residents, staff, and visitors to minimize the communal spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). These facilities are home to some of our most vulnerable populations, including older adults and individuals with typically at least one chronic medical condition.
