In our ongoing commitment to enhancing the well-being of our senior communities and staying informed on pivotal health regulations, this week’s updates bring significant developments. From state-level legislative initiatives to federal regulatory updates, these changes reflect a concerted effort to improve care quality, ensure compliance, and protect resident rights in various healthcare settings.​

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NCAL Report: States Continue Adapting Assisted Living Regulations
The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) released its 2024 “Assisted Living State Regulatory Review,” highlighting that 15 states updated their assisted living regulations between July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024. These updates focus on infection control and quality measurement, reflecting a commitment to enhancing resident safety and care standards. ​

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State Bill Would Allow County Officials to Take on Nursing Home Survey Work
A proposed Maryland bill seeks to empower local governments to conduct nursing home surveys, aiming to strengthen oversight and ensure residents have access to safe and reliable care. Advocates believe this measure will enhance accountability and address potential gaps due to limited state resources. ​

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House Passes Bill to Extend Hospital-at-Home and Telehealth Through September
The House of Representatives has approved legislation extending hospital-at-home and telehealth services through September. This extension allows for continued flexibility in delivering healthcare services, particularly benefiting seniors and individuals with mobility challenges.​

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NHIA Applauds Bipartisan Bill to Improve Home Infusion Access in Medicare
The National Home Infusion Association (NHIA) has expressed support for a bipartisan bill designed to enhance access to home infusion therapies under Medicare. The proposed legislation aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospitalizations by facilitating in-home treatment options.​

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New York Home Care Providers Push Back Against DOH Allegations
Home care providers in New York are contesting allegations from the Department of Health (DOH) regarding compliance issues. Providers argue that the claims are unfounded and emphasize their commitment to delivering quality care amid regulatory challenges.​

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CMS Publishes Updated Home Health Agency Data
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released updated data on home health agencies, providing insights into performance metrics and compliance statuses. This transparency aims to assist consumers in making informed decisions about home health care services.​

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$7.8 Million Home Health Fraud Scheme Uncovered
Federal authorities have uncovered a $7.8 million fraud scheme involving a home health agency. The agency is accused of billing for services not rendered and falsifying documentation, highlighting the need for vigilant oversight in the home health sector.​

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Medicare Improperly Paid Suppliers for Intermittent Urinary Catheters
A recent audit revealed that Medicare improperly paid suppliers for intermittent urinary catheters, resulting in significant financial discrepancies. The findings underscore the importance of accurate billing practices and compliance with Medicare guidelines.​

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Tamiflu Slashes Risk of Death in Older Adults with Influenza A
A new study indicates that Tamiflu significantly reduces the risk of death in older adults diagnosed with Influenza A. Early administration of the antiviral medication is associated with improved survival rates, emphasizing its importance in treating vulnerable populations.​

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Did You Know Certain Insulins Can Be Mixed?
Healthcare professionals highlight that certain types of insulin can be safely mixed, offering flexibility in diabetes management. However, it is crucial to follow medical guidance to ensure efficacy and safety when combining insulin types.​

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Using Unifine SafeControl with Pen Devices
The Unifine SafeControl device has been introduced for use with insulin pen devices, aiming to enhance safety and precision in insulin administration. This innovation seeks to improve user experience and adherence to diabetes treatment protocols.​

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These developments underscore the ongoing efforts to enhance regulatory compliance, care quality, and resident safety in healthcare settings. By staying informed and adapting to these changes, we continue to advance our mission of providing exceptional care and support to our communities.