Trial of Alzheimer’s drug provides hopeful results

A large clinical trial has, for the first time, shown that a drug can reduce both plaques in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and slow the progression of their dementia.

The number of 5-star agencies in quality keeps rising

Home Health Compare’s latest refresh marks the fourth straight quarter where there was a rise in the number of 5-star agencies in quality of care.

CMS posts updates on IMPACT Act data elements

CMS has posted slides about recent Standardized Patient Assessment Data Elements (SPADE) activities involving the IMPACT Act. But it canceled the July 25 special open door forum where it had planned to discuss the slides.

Flowcharts to help you with the Medicare appeals process

Once an initial claim determination is made, beneficiaries, providers, and suppliers have the right to appeal Medicare coverage and payment decisions. There are five (5) levels in the Medicare A and B appeals process. Standard appeals give the resident the opportunity to have the SNF’s decision that care will not be covered by Medicare reviewed after the care is rendered. Beneficiaries who elect this second appeal option should be cognizant of the possibility of financial liability if the appeal is not successful.