Feds announce additional measures to trim red tape
By
John O'Connor
Sep 18, 2018
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has unveiled several changes designed to reduce regulatory burdens for firms doing business with the Medicare program.
Memo to memory care communities: Don’t bogart that medicine, and lighten up
By
John O'Connor
Jul 25, 2018
Could synthetic marijuana and bright lights be the next big things in dementia care? New findings revealed at the Alzheimer’s Association’s International Conference in Chicago suggest both...
CMS needs to improve handling of beneficiary data, GAO says
By
John O'Connor
May 13, 2018
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services needs to improve how it handles shared beneficiary data, according to the Government Accountability Office.
Caught in a Medicare claims appeals case? You may not have to immediately turn over disputed funds.
By
John O'Connor
Apr 06, 2018
Senior living firms engaged in a Medicare claims appeal currently are required to return any disputed payments right away. A recent court ruling, however, gives operators a chance to retain disputed amounts...
Insurers likely to add and trim senior living benefits, thanks to relaxed Medicare rule
By
John O'Connor
Apr 06, 2018
Medicare managed care enrollees soon may enjoy enhanced senior living benefits, thanks to a new rule. But existing coverage also may be reduced or eliminated when revamped policies hit the marketplace,...
Preventive medicine for dementia: Try to stay positive
By
John O'Connor
Feb 09, 2018
“Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is not just a song made famous by Bobby McFerrin. It turns out it may also be good advice for those who want avoid dementia.
Feds promise to enhance industry oversight in wake of GAO report
By
John O'Connor
Feb 09, 2018
Responding to a report that cites lax state oversight, federal officials said they will begin to monitor potentially dangerous incidents at senior living communities more closely.
First-responder collaboration can reduce unnecessary trips to the hospital after falls
By
John O'Connor
Dec 13, 2017
When a resident falls, the default response at many assisted living communities is an ambulance ride to the nearest emergency department. This practice can be time-consuming, costly and stressful to the...
Bill Gates sets aside $100 million for Alzheimer’s research
By
John O'Connor
Nov 14, 2017
Billionaire Bill Gates announced he will invest $50 million in the Dementia Discovery Fund. The venture capital fund links targets the disease by coordinating public and private-sector efforts.
How senior living might win — and lose — under the new tax bill
By
John O'Connor
Nov 06, 2017
House Republicans have unveiled an ambitious plan to revamp the nation’s tax code. If enacted, the measure promises to be a mixed bag for senior living operators.