We examine how the federal shutdown disrupts nursing home oversight, why CMS triaged surveys to emergencies, and the risks created by fewer inspectors and furloughed staff. We share steps facilities can take to protect residents, drawing lessons from the OIG’s pandemic report. • status of the shutdown and date context • CMS priorities for complaint…
We examine how CMS F841 and new OIG oversight raise expectations for nursing home medical directors, demanding visible engagement, better policies, and data-informed leadership. We share field lessons on antipsychotics, facility assessment, and building dashboards that support real accountability. • CMS shifts from F501 to F841 and clarifies medical director duties • OIG focus on…
The shifting landscape of long-term care staffing requirements has created significant uncertainty for healthcare facilities nationwide. This episode dives into the CMS minimum staffing standards announced in April 2024 and the dramatic congressional intervention that followed.
When a resident in long-term care exhibits distressed behaviors, the path forward should not begin with medication. This compelling conversation between registered nurse Deanna Fye and speech-language pathologist Sarah Reminga unveils critical insights into appropriate psychotropic medication use in skilled nursing facilities. The discussion centers on three core principles: comprehensive assessment, appropriate interventions, and avoiding…
Healthcare compliance isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about creating systems that genuinely protect residents in long-term care facilities. This episode dives deep into three critical components of the OIG’s compliance guidance that every healthcare organization should master. The backbone of effective compliance is a well-structured committee composed of engaged stakeholders who are genuinely invested in…
In this episode, I will discuss the OIG November 2023 Compliance Officer Roles and Responsibilities guidance. The compliance officer has a responsibility to develop policies and procedures, conduct risk assessments, provide education and training, and promptly investigate any reports of abuse or fraud. They must also foster a culture of open communication and transparency within…
In this podcast episode, the host discusses the 2023 and 2024 updates to OIG’s compliance program guidance (CPGs). These updates include a move to publishing the CPGs on the OIG website and the addition of a section on quality and patient safety. The host emphasizes the importance of incorporating quality and patient safety into compliance…
unecessary meds CE
Skilled nursing facilities are facing changes in CMS survey guidance regarding unnecessary use of psychotropic medications. CMS is closely monitoring the use of these medications, which can be considered chemical restraints, and is asking facilities to focus on behavior interventions to minimize use. CMS is emphasizing the importance of professional standards of practice and the…