Feb. 26, 2020
Featured News
CMS Accelerates Denial of Payment Remedy for Harm Level Citations
On February 25, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
Effective March 1, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) will impose Discretionary Denial Payment for New Admissions (DDPNA) on an accelerated basis for actual-harm level citations. The CMS-Chicago regional office has directed survey agencies in all Region V states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin) to implement this new policy, citing a heightened level of surveys resulting in a deficiency at scope/severity level G or above during federal fiscal year 2019.
Do the Right Thing: Rapid Evaluation Teams
On February 25, 2020 by Julie Apold
Safe Care for Seniors has released a new training video that will help staff know the right thing to do when they find a resident unresponsive or respond to urgent or unexpected situations. The 10-minute Rapid Evaluation Team video demonstrates a real-life scenario, provides an implementation action plan, and showcases the positive outcomes Carris Health Care Center & Therapy Suites in Willmar is experiencing as a result of this process.
State News
Ecumen Advances Sanctuary Services Bill at State Capitol
On February 25, 2020 by Libbie Chapuran
Ecumen advanced legislation last week to launch a pilot project that will provide, short-term shelter, safety and advocacy for older adults affected by elder abuse.
Federal News
CMS Proposes Revisions to PASRR Rule
On February 25, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a proposed rule on Feb. 20 that would revise requirements for Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR). While many of the changes seek to clarify or reinforce requirements already in statute, this overhaul could have significant implications for nursing homes.
MFAR Receives Bipartisan Pushback on Capitol Hill
On February 25, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
There are strong bipartisan concerns from federal lawmakers about the proposed federal rule that could eliminate up to $50 billion from the Medicaid program annually and have serious implications on aging services providers’ supplemental payments.
Notable News
The Real Truth of PDPM: HDG Provides Early Learnings for Senior Leadership
On February 25, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
It’s been five months since the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) went live. What have we learned since then? Let’s check in with Health Dimensions Group, who recently shared some early learnings at our Institute & Expo and recapped their presentation in a new blog post “The Real Truth of PDPM.”
Hot Off the Presses: 3rd Edition of Comprehensive Home Care Manual
On February 25, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
The LeadingAge Minnesota Comprehensive Home Care Manual – 3rd Edition is now available. This vital tool for Home Care Managers and RNs includes more than 140 sample policies and procedures, forms and checklists to comply with and manage operations of a Comprehensive Home Care Agency. Other new features include:
Member News
Jennifer Pfeffer, Senior Regional Director of Operations at Ecumen, Receives Leadership Award
On February 25, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
Visionary Leader. Consummate professional. Highly skilled operator. Those words define Jennifer Pfeffer, Senior Regional Director of Operations at Ecumen, who was recently honored by LeadingAge Minnesota with the Kal Michels Outstanding Leadership Award.
Craig Stewart, Ecumen Meadows in Worthington, Named Volunteer of the Year
On February 25, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
Craig Stewart has been described as the enduring spirit of Ecumen Meadows in Worthington who makes life better for residents and staff alike. He recently received our prestigious Volunteer of the Year award for his deep commitment to the well-being of others and mission to give people with dementia the gift of memory.
Education Solutions
Quality Improvement: It’s Time for a New Direction
On February 25, 2020 by Julie Apold
Quality. It’s the leading indicator of your reputation, reimbursement and capacity to thrive in the evolving healthcare and consumer marketplace. Need help removing the roadblocks and detours on your path to quality improvement? We have a new direction. Take the first steps toward Performance Excellence in Aging Services in March.
Leadership Academy Applications Due March 2
On February 25, 2020 by Barbara Landeen
Applications to become a fellow in the 2020 Leadership Academy are due on March 2. This acclaimed program focuses on developing and strengthening personal and professional leadership qualities.
Registration Open for Health Care Engineers Conference
On February 25, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
Registration is open for the Minnesota Health Care Engineers Association (MHCEA) Spring Conference, set for Friday, May 1 at Treasure Island Resort & Casino.