December 10, 2019
In this Issue:
- Phase 3 Nursing Home Regulations Go Into Effect without Guidance
- Fairness in Nursing Home Arbitration Act Introduced
- Updated Bill Would Provide Permanent Extension for Money Follows the Person
- Consumer Voice Webinar on Avoiding Inappropriate Use of Antipyschotic Drugs
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Phase 3 Nursing Home Regulations Go Into Effect without Guidance
On October 26, 2016, CMS published the final revised federal nursing home regulations for nursing homes participating in Medicaid or Medicare programs (Requirements of Participation). These requirements have been implemented in three phases: Phase 1 went into effect on November 28, 2016; Phase 2 on November 28, 2017; and Phase 3 was implemented on November 28, 2019. Learn more about Phase 3 »
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Fairness in Nursing Home Arbitration Act Introduced
Last week, U.S. Representatives Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) introduced the Fairness in Nursing Home Arbitration Act. The legislation would prohibit long-term care facilities from requiring or soliciting residents to enter into pre-dispute, mandatory, binding arbitration agreements. Senator Schakowsky said, "Whether it’s willful neglect or a simple accident, residents and their families should have the right to seek justice in front of a judge and jury, and not be locked into a conference room for forced arbitration.” Consumer Voice endorsed the bill. Read more about the bill »
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Updated Bill Would Provide Permanent Extension for Money Follows the Person
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR) released an updated version of the Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act of 2019. Not only would the bill help lower prescription drug costs, it also helps pay for critical health programs nationwide, like the Money Follows the Person (MFP) program. The bill provides a permanent extension with important policy improvements for the Money Follows the Person Demonstration program and a permanent extension with improved reporting requirements for protection for Medicaid recipients of home and community-based services against spousal impoverishment. Read more about the bill »
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Consumer Voice Webinar on Avoiding Inappropriate Use of Antipsychotic Drugs
Join us for a webinar Thursday, December 19th at 2:00pm ET "Avoiding Inappropriate Use of Antipsychotic Drugs: Knowing Your Rights." It’s well documented that the use of antipsychotic drugs, when prescribed for elderly persons with dementia, can have serious medical complications, including increased risk of injury, harm, and death. So what can an individual, or their family member do, if they have questions or concerns about the use of these drugs? When is their use warranted (hint – there’s a clinical diagnosis) and when is it inappropriate? Join our conversation about individual rights related to the use of antipsychotic drugs, providing informed consent, and hear a family member’s perspective about the impact of these drugs. We’ll also share resources and tips on getting individualized care, and where to go for help or more information. Register »
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