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FutureFocus

Staying Ahead of Changes & Growth Opportunities

Message From Lisa Remington

November/December 2024 Issue
FREE CONTENT The end-of-the-year outlook outlines the significant changes care-at-home providers can anticipate in 2025. The key areas of focus include collaboration and relationship-building resulting from changes in quality measures and oversight of the patient’s care journey after discharge.

Message From Lisa Remington2024-10-28T17:07:28-04:00

2025 Social Determinants Quality Measure Expands to Medical-Surgical Patients

November/December 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT In 2025, social determinants measures will be implemented in three new areas of the hospital. The collaborative efforts between medical, surgical, and care-at-home providers are driven by the impact of social determinants of health on patient outcomes. Care plans for medical-surgical patients will demand greater comprehensive, team-based support tailored to patients’ individual needs.

2025 Social Determinants Quality Measure Expands to Medical-Surgical Patients2024-10-28T17:07:28-04:00

Unlocking the Mystery: Exploring the Differences in Readmission Penalties for the Dual-Eligible

November/December 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Discover the unique impact of dual-eligible readmission penalties on hospitals and learn how your organization can proactively prevent readmissions. Identify how these penalties affect hospitals and what steps you can take to make a positive difference.

Unlocking the Mystery: Exploring the Differences in Readmission Penalties for the Dual-Eligible2024-10-28T17:07:28-04:00

Medical Directors Remain in Enforcers’ Crosshairs

November/December 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT More providers are entering into agreements with referring physicians to provide consulting services to their organizations, but these legitimate relationships may easily be misunderstood by enforcers. To avoid potential violations, it’s crucial for providers to embrace seven practical guidelines.

Medical Directors Remain in Enforcers’ Crosshairs2024-10-28T17:07:28-04:00

Functional Outcomes to Improve ADLs

A deep dive into critical importance of functional outcomes in home care, the vital role of home care providers, and how these outcomes are linked to evolving payment models.

Functional Outcomes to Improve ADLs2024-11-20T13:57:59-05:00

Dementia Patients Experiencing Higher Readmissions

Dementia patients face significant challenges when it comes to hospital readmissions due to their complex care needs, cognitive impairments, and the frequent presence of multiple chronic conditions.

Dementia Patients Experiencing Higher Readmissions2024-11-20T13:58:06-05:00

Tackling Alzheimer’s and Dementia Readmissions and ED Visits

May/June 2024 Issue
In 2024, approximately 2.4 million individuals with Alzheimer’s dementia are aged 85 or above. Research indicates that patients who receive home health services following hospital discharge have a higher chance of staying in their community for at least 30 days post-discharge, with more significant advantages observed with extended durations of home health care.

Tackling Alzheimer’s and Dementia Readmissions and ED Visits2024-09-27T15:21:47-04:00

Fall Prevention Readmissions: Study and Toolkit

Fall-related injuries are a leading diagnoses for hospital readmissions, particularly for at-risk older adults discharged home. There is a need for greater attention to transitional prevention strategies to avoid post-discharge falls.

Fall Prevention Readmissions: Study and Toolkit2024-11-20T13:57:23-05:00

Message From Lisa Remington

September/October 2024 Issue
FREE CONTENT The Remington Report identifies multiple ways for your organization to get positioned competitively and gain referrals with ACOs, physicians, hospitals and health systems, and bundled payments. Get all the information you need in one magazine.

Message From Lisa Remington2024-10-28T17:06:53-04:00

What are the Average 30-Day Readmission Rates Across U.S. Hospitals?

September/October 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Readmission rates are critical for hospitals and ACOs as they work to improve patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary healthcare costs through better care coordination and patient education. This article provides critical readmission data related to average readmission rates, condition-specific readmission rates, and hospitals with high and low readmission rates.

What are the Average 30-Day Readmission Rates Across U.S. Hospitals?2024-10-28T17:06:53-04:00

6 Ways to Develop Outcome-Based Relationships Between Physicians and Home Care

September/October 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Outcome-based relationships are becoming crucial for home care organizations to stay competitive. This article describes six ways to develop outcome-based relationships with physicians and specific proactive strategies.

6 Ways to Develop Outcome-Based Relationships Between Physicians and Home Care2024-10-28T17:06:53-04:00

2025 New Hospital Quality Measure for Senior Care

September/October 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT A new hospital quality measure for senior care will address the most critical factors affecting the health outcomes of older adults. The measure evaluates five domains and incentivizes team-based care. Get the latest information and learn how this can impact your organization.

2025 New Hospital Quality Measure for Senior Care2024-10-28T17:06:53-04:00

Bundled Payments: 7 Ways to Position Home Care Competitively

September/October 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT A new mandatory bundled payment model incorporates home care as an essential partner. The payment continues 30 days after discharge. We provide the details of the program and seven ways to position your organization competitively.

Bundled Payments: 7 Ways to Position Home Care Competitively2024-10-28T17:06:53-04:00

ACOs: The Role of Care Coordinators in Managing Complex Patients

September/October 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT ACO care coordinators are the linchpin to help prevent hospital readmissions, ensure smooth discharge planning, assist in care transition, and coordinate among various healthcare providers. This article discusses how ACO care coordinators can collaborate with home care providers.

ACOs: The Role of Care Coordinators in Managing Complex Patients2024-10-28T17:06:53-04:00

5 Ways High-Functioning Team-Based Care Reduces Clinician Burnout

Evolving care delivery models emphasize collaboration and leveraging diverse expertise to provide comprehensive and effective patient care. This shift is largely driven by workforce shortages, clinician burnout, and the focus on patient-centered care.

5 Ways High-Functioning Team-Based Care Reduces Clinician Burnout2024-11-20T13:54:10-05:00

5 Ways High-Functioning Team-Based Care Reduces Clinician Burnout

Fostering effective team-based care improves both the patient’s and the team’s experience of care delivery. In this article, we discuss the two different approaches to team-based care, the five core principles, and how to reduce clinician burnout.

5 Ways High-Functioning Team-Based Care Reduces Clinician Burnout2024-07-06T17:36:17-04:00

Message From Lisa Remington

July/August 2024 Issue
FREE CONTENT In this issue of The Remington Report, we cover many aspects of social determinants of health. Get valuable insights, trends, and tools your organization can utilize to build referral partners, support patients and their families, and improve outcomes.

Message From Lisa Remington2024-08-30T12:46:06-04:00

Universal Foundation Measures: The Focus on Care Coordination After Hospitalization, Readmissions, Patient Experience, and Screening for Social Drivers of Health

July/August 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Universal Foundation Measures is a framework designed to foster a collaborative approach to quality reporting and improvement across healthcare settings and payers. This initiative aims to promote unity among all healthcare providers, emphasizing the collective effort in shaping the future of quality measures.

Universal Foundation Measures: The Focus on Care Coordination After Hospitalization, Readmissions, Patient Experience, and Screening for Social Drivers of Health2024-08-30T12:46:15-04:00

8 Reasons Why Hospitals and Health Systems are Focused on Social Determinants of Health

July/August 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Hospitals are using required screening tools to identify the risk factors of social determinants. Results will expand referral relationships to improve meaningful collaboration between healthcare providers and community-based organizations. Get to know the key reasons this is important to your organization.

8 Reasons Why Hospitals and Health Systems are Focused on Social Determinants of Health2024-08-30T12:46:22-04:00

What are the Top Preferences of Consumers to Improve Social Determinants of Health?

July/August 2024 Issue
COMPLIMENTARY CONTENT A groundbreaking consumer survey has unveiled key insights into how your organizations can enhance their social determinants of health. Your understanding of these top preferences can revolutionize your approach, underscoring the importance of your role in this process.

What are the Top Preferences of Consumers to Improve Social Determinants of Health?2024-08-30T12:46:43-04:00

Medicaid MCOs: 4 Key Trends to Reduce Social Determinants of Health and Increase Care Coordination

July/August 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Medicaid MCOs, as key players in the healthcare system, are increasingly focused on social determinants of health. They are implementing strategies to reduce these determinants and improve patient outcomes. Get the current trends and learn what’s ahead, so you can better collaborate with these organizations and enhance patient outcomes.

Medicaid MCOs: 4 Key Trends to Reduce Social Determinants of Health and Increase Care Coordination2024-08-30T12:46:50-04:00

Teaching Caregivers How to Help Patients Heal

July/August 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Noora Health’s Health Companion Program enhances family and caregiver knowledge, boosts professional development for aides, and gives your organization a competitive edge. Discover the key insights of this innovative program.

Teaching Caregivers How to Help Patients Heal2024-08-30T12:46:57-04:00

Message From Lisa Remington

May/June 2024 Issue
FREE CONTENT The home care industry lies at the center of chronic care management. It holds the key to reducing the overall cost of care, minimizing readmissions, emergency department visits, and offering value propositions that align with partnerships involving hospitals, health systems, ACOs, payers, and Medicare Advantage Plans.

Message From Lisa Remington2024-06-28T12:48:21-04:00

Assessing the Effectiveness of Chronic Care Management Services

May/June 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Are you aware that both Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are eligible for the Chronic Care Management program? It presents a remarkable opportunity to offer comprehensive care to those grappling with multiple chronic conditions. However, despite the widespread prevalence of chronic illnesses among Medicare beneficiaries, only a fraction is using the program. Which physicians are leveraging the program most frequently? What are the challenges?

Assessing the Effectiveness of Chronic Care Management Services2024-06-28T12:48:31-04:00

Private Duty Home Care in Fraud Enforcers’ Crosshairs

May/June 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Personal care private duty agencies, it's crucial to recognize that fraud and abuse enforcement aren't exclusive to services covered by the Medicare Program. In fiscal year 2023 alone, there were 279 criminal convictions associated with private duty home care services. It's vital to understand the implications.

Private Duty Home Care in Fraud Enforcers’ Crosshairs2024-06-28T12:48:53-04:00

Revealing the Impact: Comparing 30 Chronic Conditions With and Without Home Care Services on Total Cost of Care

May/June 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Unlocking business insights into the total cost of care for patients with chronic conditions, with and without home care personal services, presents compelling findings that strengthen value propositions to your referrals.

Revealing the Impact: Comparing 30 Chronic Conditions With and Without Home Care Services on Total Cost of Care2024-06-28T12:49:07-04:00

Multi-Pronged Efforts to Strengthen Direct Care Workforce: CMS Initiative

May/June 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT CMS has unveiled the Direct Care Workforce Strategies Center, a pivotal initiative aimed at tackling the pressing shortage of workers providing direct care to elderly and disabled individuals. Worker registries play a crucial role in addressing fundamental questions: Who meets the criteria to deliver Home and Community-Based Services in each state, and how can Medicaid beneficiaries connect with them?

Multi-Pronged Efforts to Strengthen Direct Care Workforce: CMS Initiative2024-06-28T12:49:14-04:00

This ACO Model is Testing the Future of Home Care and Waivers

Care Continuum: Reports just published prove ACOs are saving Medicare money! The next generation ACO is expanding and testing home care through six new benefits including waivers, expanding the role of the nurse practitioner and piloting a value-based payment. This went into motion July 1. We explain in detail how this impacts home care.

This ACO Model is Testing the Future of Home Care and Waivers2024-07-06T17:49:36-04:00

Message From Lisa Remington

March/April 2024 Issue
FREE CONTENT The surge in collaborations between home care providers and referral sources is creating fresh avenues for growth and fostering opportunities for deeper relationship-building. Fostering relationships involves cultivating meaningful connections and collaboration. The increase in referral partnerships between home care and referral partners can be attributed to seven key factors.

Message From Lisa Remington2024-04-27T15:16:50-04:00

ACO MarketScan: Payments Shifting Care at Home Volume

March/April 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT ACO MarketScan: What makes it crucial for home care providers to establish connections with ACOs? With more than half of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in accountable care organizations, aiming for 100%, home care providers must craft compelling value propositions and engagement strategies to foster partnerships.

ACO MarketScan: Payments Shifting Care at Home Volume2024-04-27T15:16:56-04:00

Hospital MarketScan: Hospital Outcome and Quality Measures

March/April 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Hospital MarketScan: A thorough grasp of hospital quality and outcomes proves highly advantageous for home care providers. Establishing and fortifying referral partnerships with hospitals and health systems necessitates a more comprehensive understanding of hospital outcomes and quality measures to enhance relationship building efforts.

Hospital MarketScan: Hospital Outcome and Quality Measures2024-04-27T15:17:03-04:00

Physician MarketScan: Specialists Expanding Care in the Home

March/April 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Physician MarketScan: As CMS concentrates on integrating more specialists into value-based care, prioritizing engagement with home care providers emerges as a key strategic imperative. These engagement strategies center around areas such as readmissions, care transitions, longitudinal care, value-based payments, bundled payments, and the expansion of specialty care within a home setting.

Physician MarketScan: Specialists Expanding Care in the Home2024-04-27T15:17:12-04:00

Enforcers Target Discharge Planners/Case Managers Yet Again

March/April 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Case managers or discharge planners found in violation of the anti-kickback statute may face criminal prosecution, potentially leading to prison sentences and other repercussions. If you were aware or should have been aware, you may bear responsibility. Attorney Elizabeth Hogue provides detailed explanations of these implications.

Enforcers Target Discharge Planners/Case Managers Yet Again2024-04-27T15:17:20-04:00

A Key Health Indicator in Social Determinants of Health

March/April 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT One specific area of concern is transportation, given its high priority. Missed medical appointments incur costs of up to $150 billion annually for the healthcare industry. What is your organization's strategy to address this challenge?

A Key Health Indicator in Social Determinants of Health2024-04-27T15:17:27-04:00

Patients’ Right to Freedom of Choice of Providers

March/April 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Patients possess the right to select their care providers, and this choice is reinforced through various avenues embedded in policies and regulations. Attorney Elizabeth Hogue explains the key touchpoints.

Patients’ Right to Freedom of Choice of Providers2024-04-27T15:17:34-04:00

Message From Lisa Remington

January/February 2024 Issue
FREE CONTENT In the January/February issue of The Remington Report, we answer two critical questions. What are the most critical areas of change in 2024? How can your organization better anticipate the future, identify opportunities, and confidently grow? Our four environmental scans will get you ready for 2024.

Message From Lisa Remington2024-03-02T16:00:11-05:00

Payments Shifting Care at Home Volume

January/February 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN: Payments are shifting the site of care, accelerating the growth of care at home. The movement of ortho and cardiac payments from impatient to outpatient is related to increased volumes of care in the home. We provide forecasts and the impact to home care organizations.

Payments Shifting Care at Home Volume2024-03-02T16:00:05-05:00

Team-Based Care – A 2024 Strategy

January/February 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN: Team-based and multidisciplinary teams underpin the success of value-based care models and hospitals-at-home. Cross-collaborative teams in specialty clinical programs are making their way between hospitals and home care organizations. This is the next level of clinical integration and for stakeholders to better understand home care’s value.

Team-Based Care – A 2024 Strategy2024-03-02T15:59:57-05:00

Synergistic Referral Partnerships Gain Traction

January/February 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN: Referrals are more dependent on home care as partners for financial, quality, and patient experience measures. Shifting payments are changing traditional views of managing a patient’s care journey. Each segment of healthcare will contribute to a synergistic success level. No organization can do it alone.

Synergistic Referral Partnerships Gain Traction2024-03-02T15:59:50-05:00

Social Determinants: Changes Ahead in 2024​

January/February 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN: Screening requirements for social determinants in 2024 are front and center for hospitals, dialysis centers, physicians, and post-acute providers. Coordination across various healthcare settings, including ambulatory, emergency department, inpatient, and home health will create a unified approach.

Social Determinants: Changes Ahead in 2024​2024-03-02T15:59:44-05:00

Managed Medicare Plans: Update on Requirements for Prior Authorization

January/February 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The issues impacting prior authorizations from managed care organizations have caused some providers to discontinue relationships with plans. Starting January 1, 2024, UnitedHealthcare is changing home health agency processes.

Managed Medicare Plans: Update on Requirements for Prior Authorization2024-03-02T15:59:29-05:00

2024 Tests Expansion of Medicare Advantage Value-Based Insurance Design Model

January/February 2024 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The value-based insurance design model will be required to address health-related social needs in at least two of three health-related social needs areas: food, transportation, and housing insecurity and/or living environment, and improve care coordination. Get the changes affecting hospice and the list of 2024 participants.

2024 Tests Expansion of Medicare Advantage Value-Based Insurance Design Model2024-03-02T15:59:22-05:00

Patient Engagement Strategies for High-Need, High-Cost Patients

November/December 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT It has become a national priority to understand the needs of high-need, high-cost patients. In this article, we hear the voices of patients and how to prevent ED visits and readmissions.

Patient Engagement Strategies for High-Need, High-Cost Patients2023-12-31T11:22:35-05:00

Preventing Violence in Home Care: Action Items

November/December 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT According to a recent analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data, home healthcare is one of the most dangerous places to work in healthcare. Homecare field staff members who provide services on behalf of private duty agencies, hospices, Medicare-certified home health agencies, and home medical equipment companies are extremely vulnerable.

Preventing Violence in Home Care: Action Items2023-12-31T11:22:50-05:00

Patient Engagement Coaching: A Strategy for Patients Living with Chronic Conditions

November/December 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Coaching interventions have been widely touted as a potential way to prevent chronic illness and to help patients better self-manage their chronic illnesses. Coaching draws from a range of strategies to tailor its response to the dynamic situation of patients and their families.

Patient Engagement Coaching: A Strategy for Patients Living with Chronic Conditions2023-12-31T11:23:15-05:00

Certificate-of-Need Ties Back to Health Equity Assessments

November/December 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT New York State’s new requirement for certain certificate-of-need applications includes a health equity impact assessment. New York is now the first state to implement a required equity assessment in its health facility planning and approval process that went into effect June 22.

Certificate-of-Need Ties Back to Health Equity Assessments2023-12-31T11:23:21-05:00

Discharge Planning: CMS Concerns About Missing Information Provided to Post-Acute Providers at Discharge

September/October 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT On June 6, 2023, CMS issued a that when a patient is discharged from a hospital, it is important to provide post-acute providers and caregivers as applicable with the appropriate patient information related to a patient’s treatment and condition to decrease the risk of readmission or an adverse event.

Discharge Planning: CMS Concerns About Missing Information Provided to Post-Acute Providers at Discharge2024-09-28T09:23:01-04:00

Future Bundled Payment Programs to Improve Care Transitions and Collaboration Across Patients’ Care Journey

September/October 2023 Issue
CMS is asking for feedback to create a future episode-based payment model seeking feedback regarding a potential new episode-based payment model that would be designed with a goal to improve beneficiary care and lower Medicare expenditures by reducing fragmentation and increasing care coordination across health care settings.

Future Bundled Payment Programs to Improve Care Transitions and Collaboration Across Patients’ Care Journey2024-09-28T09:25:26-04:00

Judge Orders State to Provide Private Duty Nursing Care

September/October 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT A Judge issued an opinion and order, in which he said that the State of Florida must provide services, including private duty nursing care, to medically fragile children who are living in nursing homes or threatened with institutionalization so that they can live at home.

Judge Orders State to Provide Private Duty Nursing Care2024-09-28T09:35:06-04:00

CMS Proposes Payment to Physicians to Train Caregivers

September/October 2023 Issue
For CY 2024, CMS proposes paying physicians for Caregiving Training Services (CTS) when the treating practitioner identifies a need to involve and train one or more caregivers to assist the patient in carrying out a patient-centered treatment plan.

CMS Proposes Payment to Physicians to Train Caregivers2024-09-28T09:34:59-04:00

Legal: Recent Study Links Hospital Readmissions to Discharge Planning Process

September/October 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The study is based on eight focus groups that included nurses, physicians, discharge planning staff, and patients. It identified areas of possible change to the discharge planning process to reduce instances of unplanned hospital readmissions.

Legal: Recent Study Links Hospital Readmissions to Discharge Planning Process2024-09-28T09:31:37-04:00

CMS Proposes to Pay Doctors for Social Determinants and Illness Navigation Services

September/October 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT CMS is proposing to pay separately for Community Health Integration, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Risk Assessment, and Principal Illness Navigation services to account for resources when clinicians involve community health workers, care navigators, and peer support specialists in furnishing medically necessary care.

CMS Proposes to Pay Doctors for Social Determinants and Illness Navigation Services2024-09-28T09:29:36-04:00

What’s Changing About Dementia Care Offered in Patient’s Home?

September/October 2023 Issue
The eight-year Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model (GUIDE) seeks to keep Medicare enrollees outside of long-term care facilities by extending a package of local care coordination and management and caregiver education and support services.

What’s Changing About Dementia Care Offered in Patient’s Home?2024-09-28T09:30:56-04:00

CMS’s Making Care Primary Model Advances Primary Care into Value-Based Care

July/August 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT A new CMS model for primary care is testing value-based payments, chronic care management, and management of social determinants. If successful, the model Making Care Primary can scale both large and small physician practices into value-based care and comprehensive care management.

CMS’s Making Care Primary Model Advances Primary Care into Value-Based Care2023-08-29T11:24:10-04:00

Supreme Court Rules on Knowledge Required to Prove False Claims

July/August 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT A ruling from the Supreme Court may make it more difficult for enforcers to prove liability under the False Claims Act and more manageable for providers to defend themselves against claims of violations.

Supreme Court Rules on Knowledge Required to Prove False Claims2023-08-29T11:24:17-04:00

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Participants Have Outpaced Workforce Expansion Since 2013

July/August 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The HCBS workforce is not growing fast enough to serve residents relying on long-term services and support. New investments in this workforce are essential to sustain access to HCBS for current and future generations.

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Participants Have Outpaced Workforce Expansion Since 20132023-08-29T11:24:25-04:00

Get to Know the New Providers in Care-at-Home Delivery

May/June 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Disruptors or non-traditional providers are quickly accelerating their footprint into the care-at-home market. These providers are addressing the pain points and healthcare gaps that traditional-for-service providers have failed to correct for many years.

Get to Know the New Providers in Care-at-Home Delivery2023-07-02T10:44:49-04:00

Potential Changes to the Home-Based Care Industry

May/June 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The Expanding Care in the Home Act: By moving an array of services for Medicare beneficiaries from hospital to home, lawmakers hope they can save money while allowing older Americans to receive care in their homes. Get an understanding of a new proposed bill.

Potential Changes to the Home-Based Care Industry2023-07-02T10:45:30-04:00

16 Key ACO Trends to Know in 2023

March/April 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The importance of key ACO trends is to better understand the plan to decrease fee-for-service and increase value-based payments. Growth through three initiatives will be the foundation to reach CMS’s goal of 100% of Medicare into an accountable care program.

16 Key ACO Trends to Know in 20232023-05-21T12:08:04-04:00

Legal: Preferred-Provider Arrangements Between Home Health, Hospice and Private Duty Agencies, and Assisted Living Facilities and Retirement Communities

March/April 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Preferred-provider agreements are an important strategy for increasing referral relationships. This article provides a greater understanding of the legal aspects.

Legal: Preferred-Provider Arrangements Between Home Health, Hospice and Private Duty Agencies, and Assisted Living Facilities and Retirement Communities2023-06-19T08:34:57-04:00

HIPAA Violations to Avoid

March/April 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Compliance with HIPAA can be complex. Examples of violations, or “HIPAA stories,” may make requirements more understandable. We share some of those stories.

HIPAA Violations to Avoid2023-05-21T12:08:49-04:00

Legal: HIPAA Violations To Avoid

Compliance with HIPAA can be complex. Examples of violations, or “HIPAA stories,” may make requirements more understandable. Here are some of those stories.

Legal: HIPAA Violations To Avoid2023-04-12T16:03:47-04:00

5 Changes to Social Determinants of Health Quality Measures Across the Continuum 2023

January/February 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT New social determinants of health (SDOH) quality measures will be required by hospitals, health plans, and multi-payer federal and state programs. We provide details on how each healthcare sector will be incorporating SDOH quality measures.

5 Changes to Social Determinants of Health Quality Measures Across the Continuum 20232023-04-12T16:03:48-04:00

2023 CMS Adding Physician Relationships to Home Care Providers on Medicare’s Care Compare Website

January/February 2023 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Medicare’s Care Compare website is adding physician and clinician affiliations to home-based care organizations. The new information is meant to provide additional information to support patients and caregivers as they make healthcare decisions.

2023 CMS Adding Physician Relationships to Home Care Providers on Medicare’s Care Compare Website2023-04-12T16:03:48-04:00

Do You Know Which Principal Diagnosis Has the Highest Rate of 30-Day Readmissions?

As a home-based care provider, all referral partners have the same goal – how to reduce readmissions and the cost. It’s important to continue to hone in on data that can help your organization better understand your role in preventing readmissions and reducing the cost of care.

Do You Know Which Principal Diagnosis Has the Highest Rate of 30-Day Readmissions?2023-04-12T16:03:49-04:00

Clinical Service Lines that Reduce the Cost of the Top 5 Medical Conditions

New information will help your organization better align clinical services to reduce the cost of the highest medical conditions and their expenditures. The data can be used in conversations with various payer sources to align your organization’s services to reduce the cost of care and readmissions.

Clinical Service Lines that Reduce the Cost of the Top 5 Medical Conditions2023-10-25T14:25:02-04:00

Which Types of ACOs Use Home Visits the Most and Why?

November-December 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Home-based organizations eager to have partnerships with ACOs will learn in our discussion why certain ACOs engage in greater home visits and care transitions to manage complex patients. No two ACOs are alike. Get insights into the characteristics of ACOs and their decision points. We follow up with three key leadership discussion questions.

Which Types of ACOs Use Home Visits the Most and Why?2024-04-15T09:31:35-04:00

Care Transitions Intervention Model to Manage Social Determinants of Health

November-December 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The focus on social determinants of health is a hot topic in healthcare. Multidisciplinary teams and a care transition model in the case study resulted in reduced readmissions and improved outcomes. The model is scalable and a win-win for healthcare and the patient.

Care Transitions Intervention Model to Manage Social Determinants of Health2024-04-15T09:32:28-04:00

Pre-Hospice Home-Based Transition Program

November-December 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Sharp HealthCare pre-hospice program called Transitions, is designed to give elderly patients the care they want at home and keep them out of the hospital.

Pre-Hospice Home-Based Transition Program2024-04-15T09:36:14-04:00

Improving Real-Time Communications with Care Teams and Patients

November-December 2022 Issue
FREE CONTENT In our extensive resource of special reports, you’ll find actionable solutions to improving care transitions, real-time communications with team members, and what patients want for better communications. These complimentary resources offer solutions to workforce shortages, clinician burnout, and advancing solutions in home-based care.

Improving Real-Time Communications with Care Teams and Patients2024-04-15T09:55:06-04:00

Workforce: How Will Medicare Fee-For-Service Trends Change the Way You Think About Future Staffing Needs?

September/October 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT With all the evolving changes occurring in healthcare, you may have missed CMS’s initiatives aligning value-based arrangements across traditional Medicare programs. We discuss the eight trends to help your organization think about the impact on your labor force and referral partners.

Workforce: How Will Medicare Fee-For-Service Trends Change the Way You Think About Future Staffing Needs?2023-04-12T16:03:54-04:00

11 Strategic Actions to Improve Care Team Productivity

September/October 2022 Issue
SPECIAL REPORT In this special report, we provide 11 strategic actions to improve your care team's productivity both internally and externally. Get insights into advancing clinical communications with your referral partners, ways your care team always has real-time patient status, and how to improve the referral process. Don't miss the eight additional resources to dig even deeper into this topic.

11 Strategic Actions to Improve Care Team Productivity2023-04-12T16:03:54-04:00

Analysis: Seniors Usage of Technology and Telehealth Growing

September/October 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT The gap between the younger generation and the senior population is narrowing when it comes to smart phones, tablets, internet users, YouTube, and telehealth. A recent study provides valuable insight for healthcare providers adopting technology in the home.

Analysis: Seniors Usage of Technology and Telehealth Growing2023-04-12T16:03:55-04:00

Staffing Strategies: Efficient Ways to Leverage Scheduling for Improved Staffing Utilization and Increased Continuity of Care

September/October 2022 Issue
SPECIAL REPORT What are the four questions leadership should explore to optimize scheduling with continuity of care and staff utilization? In this special report, we answer these four questions and give you solutions to help provide better care to more patients, while making the most of your staff’s time. This effort starts with their scheduling process.

Staffing Strategies: Efficient Ways to Leverage Scheduling for Improved Staffing Utilization and Increased Continuity of Care2023-04-12T16:03:56-04:00

Trend #1: Payers Are Accelerating Into the Home-Based Care Market

July/August 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT How should your organization be responding to payers expanding their position in home-based care? What key trends support this advancement? What are key strategies to partner and align with payers? In this article, we cover the key market changes, the disruption, and growth opportunities for home-based care organizations.

Trend #1: Payers Are Accelerating Into the Home-Based Care Market2023-04-12T16:03:57-04:00

Trend #2: Payers Expanding Home-Based Care Models Nationally

July/August 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Payers are deepening their care delivery models focused on the home. In the past, we may have thought of payers in traditional roles as a medical-cost manager. Today, they are acquiring home-based care organizations to control readmissions, cost, and outcomes.

Trend #2: Payers Expanding Home-Based Care Models Nationally2023-04-12T16:03:58-04:00

Trend #3: Highest Chronic Care Conditions in Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plans, And Special Needs Plans

July/August 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Different payers such as Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Special Needs Plans are focusing on the highest chronic care conditions to reduce the cost of care. In this article, is the data by payer and a discussion about how organizations can support a better aligned financial and quality partnerships.

Trend #3: Highest Chronic Care Conditions in Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plans, And Special Needs Plans2023-04-12T16:03:58-04:00

Trend #4: Growth in Medicare Advantage Plans 2022 Signals Future in Managed Care Contracting

July/August 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Medicare Advantage enrollment is growing at a fast pace. The number of plans is expanding geographically, and payers will continue to invest in the Medicare Advantage market. In this article, we dig deep into the growth of Medicare Advantage by enrollment, states, and the future. The market signal is strong to put Medicare Advantage contracting as a high priority.

Trend #4: Growth in Medicare Advantage Plans 2022 Signals Future in Managed Care Contracting2023-04-12T16:03:58-04:00

Trend #5: Payer and Home-Based Provider Partnering to Reduce the Cost of Care

July/August 2022 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Important to all payers is the value your organization brings to reducing the cost of care. Available data can gear-up your partnership value quickly. In this article, we sliced and diced data to provide an overall macro/micro picture of how to reduce the cost of care.

Trend #5: Payer and Home-Based Provider Partnering to Reduce the Cost of Care2023-04-12T16:03:58-04:00

Strategic Priority: Facts Driving Why Family Caregivers Choose One Care-at-Home Organization Over the Other

July/August 2022 Issue
SPECIAL REPORT/FREE CONTENT What do family caregivers identify as important areas for choosing care-at-home provider? What area did family caregivers identify for improvement? How are your organization’s surveys being affected? What strategies made the top of the list? What are the five ways to achieve family caregiver communication success? In this special report, we give you seven family caregiver expectations to increase your competitive advantage.

Strategic Priority: Facts Driving Why Family Caregivers Choose One Care-at-Home Organization Over the Other2023-04-19T13:35:39-04:00

Legal: Non-Compete Agreement Trends

Although the trend is certainly against non-compete agreements or restrictive covenants in the health care industry, some state courts have affirmed their use.

Legal: Non-Compete Agreement Trends2023-04-12T16:04:03-04:00

Is Socioeconomics a Main Influencer of Readmissions?

March/April 2022 Issue
Researchers examined the common reasons why some hospitals have more readmissions treating a disproportionate share of patients with low incomes, poor health and other negative circumstances.

Is Socioeconomics a Main Influencer of Readmissions?2024-09-21T09:11:36-04:00

Discharge Planning Patterns: Care Transitions and Readmissions

March/April 2022 Issue
FREE CONTENT A recent study examined the patterns of Medicare beneficiaries post-acute care transitions among assisted living residents and their outcomes in the first 30 and 60 days after hospital discharge.

Discharge Planning Patterns: Care Transitions and Readmissions2023-04-12T16:04:06-04:00

Complaints About Referrals Must Be Based on Facts

The owner of a supplier of home medical equipment (HME) complained that her company did not receive referrals from TidalHealth Nanticoke Hospital. The Court dismissed the owner’s lawsuit because she could not prove her claims. This case illustrates why providers who complain about practices of referral sources must have facts to support their claims. 

Complaints About Referrals Must Be Based on Facts2023-04-12T16:04:08-04:00

The Latest on Recoupment of Overpayments

In a November 2021 decision, the U,S, Court of Appeals said that CMS can recoup overpayments from providers even though its appeals are still pending before Administrative Law Judges.

The Latest on Recoupment of Overpayments2023-04-12T16:04:08-04:00

Legal: What Can Providers Give to Patients?

Providers, including marketers, are tempted to give patients free items and services. But be careful! These activities may violate laws prohibiting providers that participate in state and federal health programs from giving free items and services to patients.

Legal: What Can Providers Give to Patients?2023-04-12T16:04:09-04:00

Can Hospitals Require Physicians to Direct Referrals?

November-December 2021 Issue
FREE CONTENT Effective on January 19, 2021, new regulations related to the Stark laws expanded and underscored the ability of hospitals to require physicians to send referrals to particular providers. These new regulations also make it clear that providers can monitor and enforce requirements to direct referrals to designated providers.

Can Hospitals Require Physicians to Direct Referrals?2023-04-12T16:04:11-04:00

The Obesity Crisis and Chronic Illness Attributed to 64% of Hospitalizations

The 18th annual report by Trust for America’s Health on the obesity crisis in the United States has been released. This year, special features highlight the interaction of the COVID-19 pandemic with social, economic, and environmental conditions that impact hospitalizations, social determinants of health (SDOH), and outcomes.

The Obesity Crisis and Chronic Illness Attributed to 64% of Hospitalizations2023-04-12T16:04:12-04:00

Six Smart Ways to Stay in Communication with Your Referral Sources

September/October 2021 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Your referral partners increasingly expect robust communications to make patient transfers as seamless as possible, for both the patient and providers. They will have to make a choice. Ultimately, they will look for relationships with organizations that are easy to work with and that can deliver proven quality care. We provide insights and strategies from high-performing organizations.

Six Smart Ways to Stay in Communication with Your Referral Sources2023-04-12T16:04:13-04:00

Three Missed Opportunities for End-of-Life Discussions

September/October 2021 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Recent research discusses the missed opportunities for discussions about end-of-life, including advance care planning, palliative care, discontinuation of disease-directed treatment, hospice care, and after-death wishes, with outpatients with advanced cancer.

Three Missed Opportunities for End-of-Life Discussions2023-04-12T16:04:14-04:00

Six Ways to Identify, Increase, and Manage Referrals

September/October 2021 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT In this new normal, it’s important to understand how your referral sources work, what they are sending to you versus the competition, how to deepen relationships with these sources, and what differentiates you as a provider in the marketplace.

Six Ways to Identify, Increase, and Manage Referrals2023-04-12T16:04:14-04:00

Seamless Care Transitions: Six Smart Ways to Stay in Communication with Your Referral Sources

SPECIAL REPORT Your referral partners increasingly expect robust communications to make patient transfers as seamless as possible, for both the patient and providers, which means you need strategies to create seamless transitions. Learn what leading home health and hospice agencies are doing in this free special report.

Seamless Care Transitions: Six Smart Ways to Stay in Communication with Your Referral Sources2023-04-12T16:04:14-04:00

Five Payer Strategies Ramping-up Home Care Usage

July/August 2021 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Payers are targeting their member populations that will benefit the most from at-home care. The center of their home health offerings is focused on high-cost patients, palliative care, diabetes, home care visits, telehealth, and at-home testing.

Five Payer Strategies Ramping-up Home Care Usage2023-04-12T16:04:15-04:00

Administering Specialty Drugs at Home

July/August 2021 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT A recent study found receiving certain forms of care at home instead of in the hospital can lower healthcare spending. Administering specialty drugs at home or in a provider’s office lowered healthcare spending by $4 billion.

Administering Specialty Drugs at Home2023-04-12T16:04:15-04:00

Six Ways To Recharge Clinical Engagement and Work/Life Balance

July/August 2021 Issue
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT Strategies and actions to improve clinician experiences. Work/life balance is something nurses are constantly trying to achieve, and many nurses are falling short of that goal. What solutions are your peers using to combat burnout, achieve better nurse work/life balance, and improve patient care?

Six Ways To Recharge Clinical Engagement and Work/Life Balance2023-04-12T16:04:15-04:00

The Care at Home Market Shake-Up

May/June 2021 Issue
Payers, health systems, Private Equity firms, and SPAC’s acquisition of care at home companies are quickly changing market dynamics, and signaling change is ahead. This is a must-read to understand trends and insights reshaping the future.

The Care at Home Market Shake-Up2023-04-12T16:04:17-04:00

The Four Frustrations Your Referrals are Voicing. Is Your Organization Losing Referrals?

May/June 2021 Issue
Your referral sources are the lifeblood of your organization. Ultimately, they will look for relationships with organizations that are easy to work with and that can deliver proven quality care. A new research report reveals the four frustrations felt by your referral sources. A roundtable of your peers' weigh-in with solutions.

The Four Frustrations Your Referrals are Voicing. Is Your Organization Losing Referrals?2023-04-12T16:04:18-04:00