HTS Blog

Therapy Myth-Busters

Many older adults hold misconceptions about therapy that can prevent them from getting the care they need. Let’s bust some common myths and see how therapy can support your health, independence, and quality of life.   Myth #1: “I’m…
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Using CPT 97530 Correctly: The “-ing” Code Misunderstood

In skilled nursing facilities, CPT 97530 (Therapeutic Activities) is one of the most functionally rich, clinically powerful interventions therapists can provide. Yet despite its value, it is often misunderstood, misapplied, and underutilized. Many…
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Beat the Winter Slump

Shorter days and colder weather can make anyone feel sluggish. It’s natural to want to stay indoors and get comfortable, but too much sitting can increase fatigue and affect your health. For older adults, even brief periods of inactivity…
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CMS to Suspend Deadline for SNF Off-Cycle Revalidation

CMS to Suspend Deadline for SNF Off-Cycle Revalidation   CMS is expected to announce an indefinite suspension of the submission deadline for the mandatory Medicare provider off-cycle revalidation for Skilled Nursing Facilities. The…
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When Eating Isn’t So Simple

The holiday season is filled with twinkling lights, delicious aromas, and meals shared with loved ones — but for many older adults, swallowing can be a challenge. This difficulty, called dysphagia, becomes more common with age and can make…
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Federal Government Shutdown

What Nursing Homes Need to Know   On October 1, 2025, a U.S. federal government shutdown was announced. While the news may create uncertainty across healthcare sectors, nursing home operations are expected to continue with minimal…
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The Gift of Independence

November is a time to give thanks and appreciate the people who mean the most. For older adults, one of the most meaningful “gifts” isn’t something you can wrap in a box. It’s the gift of independence. Being able to move safely, manage…
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Healthy Aging Through Movement

Did you know? One of the simplest ways to stay healthy as we get older is just… keep moving! Every movement you make, big or small, helps your body stay strong, flexible, and ready for whatever life brings. But staying active isn’t…
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Navigating Care Compare Updates

What Providers Need to Know   On June 18, 2025, CMS issued QSO-25-20-NH, a memorandum to State Survey Agency Directors outlining significant updates to Nursing Home Care Compare aimed at improving transparency and enhancing performance…
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Strengthening Employee Screening

Lessons from Recent OIG Audit Findings   A recent audit by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) revealed serious gaps in verifying nursing home staff background checks in Alabama. While…
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UPDATED: Final MDS 3.0 Item Sets v1.20.1v3 Released

  CMS has released the final Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Item Sets version 1.20.1v3 and the Item Matrix v1.20.1v3, which are now available in the Downloads section on the MDS 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Manual page. These…
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Live Well, Age Well

Thanks to advances in medicine and nutrition, people today are living 10-15 years longer than just a few decades ago. A longer life gives you more time to enjoy hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and make new memories. But healthy aging isn’t…
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