Sat.Mar 23, 2024 - Fri.Mar 29, 2024

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CMS 2025 Proposed Rule Signals Changes to Quality Measurement, Omits Program Integrity Actions

Hospice News

The 2025 proposed hospice rule is raising some questions along with payment rates. In a proposed rule released yesterday, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a 2.6% increase in hospice per diems for 2025. The agency also proposed two new quality measures and 2025 implementation of the Hospice Outcome and Patient Evaluation (HOPE) assessment tool to replace the Hospice Item Set.

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A Pediatric ICU Nurse Finds Relief in Not Compartmentalizing Hard Emotions Like Grief

AJN Off the Charts

Editor’s note: Hui-wen Sato is a pediatric ICU nurse in California and a regular writer for this blog who has gone deeply into the topic of grief, her own and that of patients and their families. Her insights reverse our usual ways of understanding grief, finding a generative energy instead of a wasteland. Here is a key passage from a TED-style talk (see video below) she gave at the last End Well Project conference in November 2023.

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Mastering the Art of Creating a Sustainable Routine Beyond Nursing

Daily Nurse

Creating a routine looks different for everyone and isn’t always what people see on social media. It certainly doesn’t have to look perfect, and most people make mistakes before finding what helps them manage their everyday lives. You might want to eat healthier, take a walk after work , or remember to do a particular chore. Whatever it is, maintaining a dependable routine can be tricky with a busy work schedule, but not impossible.

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The Ultimate Spring Bucket List To Help Nurses Recharge

Diversity Nursing

Whether you're a Nurse dealing with the daily stresses of the healthcare profession or simply looking for ways to unwind and recharge, this list of activities is designed to help you make the most of the spring season. From outdoor yoga sessions to mindful walks in nature, each suggestion is aimed at promoting relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.

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The Essential Guide to Secure Messaging in Healthcare

Discover everything healthcare providers need to know about secure messaging. Covering essential topics like HIPAA compliance, communication efficiency, and patient privacy protection, this resource is indispensable for professionals, caregivers, and administrative staff alike.📱 💬 Whether managing sensitive patient data, coordinating care teams, or streamlining workflows, discover actionable insights to implement secure messaging solutions effectively.

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M&A Volume May Shift From Hospice to Home Health

Hospice News

Though many expect a hospice M&A rebound in 2024, the scales are tipping in favor of home health companies among buyers. Generally, signs point to heightened buyer activity this year, particularly among private equity as interest rates start to come down. After 2023’s slump, PE firms have been sitting on more than $800 million in dry powder, according to data shared with Hospice News by The Braff Group.

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Parkinson's vs Parkinsonism: What's the Difference?

Caring Senior Service

Like the distinction between dementia and Alzheimer's disease, Parkinsonism and Parkinson's disease are related terms, but they refer to different concepts. Parkinsonism is an umbrella term that describes a number of conditions with movement symptoms. Parkinson's disease is one of those conditions and is the most common form of Parkinsonism.

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Crafting Care: Exploring the Therapeutic Benefits for Seniors

Community Home Health Care

Join Us in the Celebration of National Craft Month with Springtime Creativity March is not only a month that welcomes new beginnings and the vibrancy of spring, but it also marks National Craft Month ! This is the perfect time to celebrate creativity and self-expression. Did you know that crafting is beneficial to seniors? Benefits of Crafting for Seniors Mental Stimulation : Engaging in crafts stimulates the brain, promoting cognitive function and memory retention.

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Many Hospices Need to Step Up Disaster Planning

Hospice News

Many hospices may be unprepared to cope with a large-scale disaster or a future pandemic. Operators need to be prepared to deliver care and support their communities’ responses to catastrophic events. Increasingly, this factors into compliance. In 2017, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expanded a Condition of Participation pertaining to disaster preparedness planning.

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In pursuit of excellence: the career vacation

The Nurse Break

More from In Pursuit of Excellence here Express interest in writing for us here When I initially started to write this piece, I was on a career vacation. I was on long service leave for the first time in my life. When I first wrote those words, I was stunned I had been around long enough for that, and as I look in the mirror today, I have had to face facts, I am a little greyer (okay a lot), a little wrinklier (just a little) but hopefully a little bit smarter than I was all those years ago

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Traditions Health of Park Hill, OK Awarded Home Health Accreditation

Traditions Health

Nashville, TN – Traditions Health of Park Hill, OK has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Home Health Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a healthcare organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care. The Park Hill home health branch underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review.

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3 Reasons to Retire Pagers from Healthcare Settings

Let's discuss the trusty pager—an old favorite that’s losing its shine in hospitals and clinics. While once a staple in hospitals and clinics, pagers now present significant limitations that hinder rather than facilitate communication among healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals are constantly on the move, and they need communication tools that can keep up with their fast-paced lives.

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How to make family gatherings more accessible for aging family members

Living Assistance Services

Easter weekend is upon us, and that’s just one of many holidays and special events families gather for throughout the year. These.

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Stoneridge Hospice Owner Rollie Seebert: Hospices Help Address the ‘Demographic Tsunami’

Hospice News

Arizona-based Stoneridge Hospice launched services in 2020 with an aim to address a swelling aging population’s growing need for end-of-life care. Building the foundation for quality hospice care delivery during a global pandemic came with hurdles that were difficult, but not impossible, to overcome, according to Rollie Seebert, owner and executive manager of Stoneridge Hospice.

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Improving Patient Throughput: Recommended Reading in AJN’s April Issue

AJN Off the Charts

The April issue of AJN is now live. How can an acuity-adaptable model improve patient throughput and care? This month’s Original Research article, “Breaking Through the Bottleneck: Acuity Adaptability in Noncritical Trauma Care,” evaluates the implementation of such a model on a 20-bed noncritical trauma unit, examining the pre- and postimplementation metrics for throughput efficiency, resource utilization, and nursing quality indicators.

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NHPCO Responds to CMS FY 2025 Hospice Proposed Rule

NHPCO

For Immediate Release March 28, 2024 CMS Proposes 2.6% Payment Update, Insufficient to Meet Rising Cost Pressures (Alexandria, VA) – The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) published the following statement in response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rule which would update key components of hospice reimbursement and regulations in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025.

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The Ultimate Guide to Improving Caregiver Engagement & Retention

Want to learn how to retain your caregivers & improve caregiver retention X3? The home care industry is experiencing turnover rates of over 80%. How are you ensuring your agency is retaining caregivers? This FREE eBook from Smartcare Software is packed with industry secrets needed to keep your caregivers happy, engaged, and retained, unlocking the full potential of your agency.

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Preparing for a Solar Eclipse

Elaine Mansfield

Sky & Telescope / Dennis Di Cicco / 2017 It will probably be cloudy here, because it’s March in the NY Finger Lakes. Still, on the off chance we have a clear day, I prepare for the solar eclipse. My home is near the Path of Totality. Even if clouds are thick and I can’t see details, I’ll probably experience a noticeable change in the light. “Have you read Annie Dillard’s essay “ Total Eclipse” a local friend Tim asks.

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Sierra Community Palliative Care Reaps Rewards of Dignity Health Collaboration

Hospice News

A collaboration between a Dignity Health hospital and Sierra Community Palliative Care promises to be a winning combination with far-reaching results for the larger community. In early 2024 Dignity Health Sierra Nevada Memorial awarded Hospice of the Foothills in Nevada County, California, a generous $94,000 grant for its subsidiary Sierra Community Palliative Care.

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Proceedings of the RRIPM Round Table Workshop

Palliverse

The Rural and Remote Institute of Palliative Medicine (RRIPM) has released a draft of the proceedings of their Round Table Workshop held last month in Canberra. Participants included consumers and community advocates, clinicians and managers, college and peak body leaders, as well as state and federal government representatives. Recommendations from the workshop will guide implementation of the next phase of the RRIPM project: Maintain independence , with clearly defined roles and expectations w

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Spring refresh: Top of license practice

Rehab Realities by Renee Kinder

As the warmth of spring unfolds, it brings with it a renewal of energy and vitality. Spring symbolizes growth, rejuvenation and transformation. Growing in my backyard, in the midst of pebbles, three beautiful red tulips have bloomed in the last week. I have often found myself looking at them in wonder over my morning coffee. Honestly, I consider this nothing short of a miracle considering the sight of our lawn secondary to constant shade from hundred-year-old trees, poor drainage, children, dogs

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The Evolution of Communication in Healthcare Settings

Healthcare communication has evolved from handwritten notes and paper charts to digital tools like EHRs, telemedicine, and AI-powered platforms. This blog explores how these advancements improve patient outcomes, streamline care delivery, and enhance provider collaboration. Learn about the role of mobile health (mHealth) apps, secure messaging, and social media in bridging communication gaps.

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Unlocking the Power of Your Personal Brand: Why Nurses Need to Take Control of Their Professional Image

Minority Nurse

Whether you know it or not, you have a brand. Like it or not, YOU ARE THE BRAND! One way to check out your personal brand is to google yourself and see what pops up. You may be surprised. If you do not create your brand, it may develop on its own. Research demonstrates that 94% of recruiters will search for a candidate online. Career Builder found that 70% of employers said they use social media to screen their candidates and are less likely to interview a candidate they cannot find online.

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USF Unveils Palliative Care Certificate Program for Nurses

Hospice News

The University of South Florida (USF) College of Nursing has launched a graduate certificate program in palliative care and hospice. The program is designed to help nurses pass the Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN®) exam. It includes coursework, clinical hours and other training focused on pain management, symptom assessment, interdisciplinary teamwork and effective communication with patients and families.

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The Essence of Residential Care: Creating a Haven for Well-being

Caregiver Support Services

Residential care facilities serve as sanctuaries for individuals who require assistance and support with their daily activities due to various reasons such as aging, disabilities, or medical conditions. In this blog, we delve into the essence of residential care, exploring its significance in fostering well-being and providing a nurturing environment for residents.

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The Emotional Journey of Caregiving: Coping Strategies for Caregivers

Caregiverology

Caring for a loved one can be deeply rewarding, yet it comes with its own set of emotional challenges. Many caregivers find themselves on an emotional journey that tests their strength, patience, and resilience.

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The Role of Technology in Remote Patient Monitoring

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is transforming healthcare by enabling providers to track patient health outside traditional clinical settings. This blog explores the role of technology in RPM, including wearable devices, mobile apps, and connected medical tools that collect and share real-time data. Discover how RPM expands care access, improves outcomes, enhances patient engagement, and reduces costs by shifting from reactive to proactive care.

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Advancing Your Nursing Career Through Certifications

Minority Nurse

When you earn a nursing degree — an ADN, BSN, MSN, or beyond — you signal to the world that you ’ re a professional who values education and advancing your career. Consistently reaching for increased expertise is a goal for individuals working in almost any discipline, and nurses are no exception. Beyond your formal education, you have other opportunities to expand your knowledge, and certifications are one such avenue for demonstrating dedication to having the most up-to-date, evidence-based in

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Federal Court Dismisses Care Alternatives Hospice Fraud Case

Hospice News

A federal court has dropped a False Claims Act (FCA) case against hospice provider Care Alternatives that has been working its way through the legal system for 16 years. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and four whistleblowers in 2008 filed the qui tam lawsuit against Care Alternatives Inc., doing business as Ascend Health. In a qui tam action, a whistleblower, called a “relator” by the courts, files a False Claims Act suit on behalf of the government and possibly receives a portion of any f

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Ways Nurses Reassure Families When Someone Is Hospitalized

Caregiver Support Services

Having a loved one hospitalized can be an emotionally challenging time for families. Understanding ways nurses reassure families when someone is hospitalized can provide comfort and build trust during these difficult periods. Read on to explore some strategies nurses use to ease the worries of families. Providing Honest, Factual Answers One of the primary ways nurses reassure families is by providing honest, factual answers.

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Chronic Kidney Disease Self Care at Home

Freedom Home Care and Medical Staffing

Empowering At-Home Self-Care for Chronic Kidney Disease: A Freedom Home Care Guide Living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) requires diligent care and lifestyle adjustments, particularly in the comfort of one’s home. Freedom Home Care is committed to supporting individuals with CKD by providing essential guidance and services that promote health and wellness right where they live.

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Real-Life Examples of HIPAA Violations and How to Avoid Them

Speaker: Jack Clough, Chief Growth Officer

Download our 30-minute webinar where we delve into real-life examples of HIPAA violations and preventative measures every organization should know! You will learn: The critical factors that lead to HIPAA violations and how to identify them. Three compelling real-life cases of organizations that faced severe HIPAA penalties. Proven strategies to safeguard YOUR organization against HIPAA violations.

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March 30 Is World Bipolar Day

Minority Nurse

The stigma around mental illness is slowly ebbing, but it is by no means gone. Days like World Bipolar Day , held annually on March 30, offer excellent opportunities to spread awareness about this condition including symptoms, treatment, medications, and resources. World Bipolar Day opens the door for people to share their stories and for others to learn how they can get help for themselves or for a loved one.

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Frontline Honors: Mihir Kamdar, Tuesday Health

Hospice News

Mihir Kamdar, Head of Clinical Delivery for Tuesday Health, has been named a 2023 Frontline Honors honoree by Hospice News. To become a Frontline Honoree, an individual is nominated by their peers. The candidate must be a dedicated, high-performing frontline worker who delivers exceptional experiences and outcomes; a passionate worker who knows how to put their vision into action for the good of older adults and aging industry professionals; and an advocate for older adults, their industry, and

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Music Therapy for Seniors: Enhancing Well-being Through Melodies

Seasons Hospice

Music has a remarkable ability to evoke emotions, spark memories, and uplift spirits. For seniors, music therapy offers a powerful tool for improving overall well-being and quality of life. Whether through listening, singing, or playing instruments, engaging with music can have profound effects on cognitive, emotional, and physical health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of music therapy for seniors and how it can enhance their lives in various ways.

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10 Energizing Snacks to Boost Your Hiking Adventures

Freedom Home Care and Medical Staffing

Hiking is an exhilarating experience that merges the love of nature with physical activity. But to truly enjoy the journey and maintain stamina, you need the right kind of fuel. That’s where smart snacking comes into play. Here are 10 energizing snacks recommended by Freedom Home Care to keep you fueled on your next hike. These snacks are not only nutritious but also easy to carry, ensuring you have the energy to explore the great outdoors.

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Best Practices for Sharing Protected Health Information (PHI)

Explore essential topics in this ebook, including what constitutes PHI and how to identify it using 18 indicators. Gain insights into the importance of safeguarding PHI to protect patient privacy and learn about the severe consequences of HIPAA violations. Discover practical strategies for securely exchanging PHI within your healthcare organization, including assessing risks and implementing effective safeguards.