HTS Blog

Keep Moving for Better Health

As we get older, society tells us to take it easy and rest. However, research shows that this whole “sitting around all day” can actually do us more harm than good. According to the CDC, statistics show that 75% of older adults are sedentary. Having…
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Q4FY19 PEPPER Now Available for Download

SNF PEPPER summarizes data statistics which are obtained from paid SNF Medicare UB-04 Claims for SNF episodes of care that end in the most recent three federal fiscal years (the federal fiscal year spans October 1-September 30). The current…
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New July 2020 Nursing Home Compare is Now Available

The July 2020 Nursing Home Compare refresh, including quality measure results based on SNF QRP data submitted to CMS, is now available. The following SNF QRP measures will displayed on NH Compare during the July 2020 refresh. Application…
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New SNF QRP COVID-19 Tip Sheet Now Available!

On July 24, 2020 CMS released a SNF QRP COVID-19 Tip Sheet. Here’s what you need to know: Starting on July 1, 2020, SNFs are expected to resume timely quality data collection and submission of measure and patient assessment data for the…
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CMS Issued FY 2021 SNF Final Payment Rule

On July 31, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule that updates the Medicare payment rates and the quality programs for SNFs. These updates include routine technical rate-setting updates to the SNF…
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Managing Pain

Chronic pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care.  In fact, statistics show that 60-75% of adults age 60+ report at least one type of chronic pain. Living with chronic pain can be overwhelming and greatly impact your…
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CMS Posts COVID-19 Data

CMS posted initial data analytics on COVID-19. Data was collected from nursing home reports to the CDC’s National Healthcare Safety Network. Data will be updated on a weekly basis moving forward. COVID-19 Focused Survey Items for Nursing…
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Daily Stretches for Better Health

Morning stretching is important for your body to help kick-start your energy levels and improve circulation. Stretching can help loosen tight muscles and improve your range of motion making it easier to move and perform daily activities like…
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Nurses Week Winners

Last week, HTS held a Nurse Appreciation contest to celebrate National Nurse's Week! Thank you to everyone for sending in nominations. We are honored to work alongside so many wonderful nurses in our communities. Thank you for your sharing your…
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CMS Approves for Therapy Minutes to Be Counted for Donning & Doffing of PPE

Blog by Cassie Murray, OTR, MBA, QCP, Chief Operating & Clinical Officer During the May 12th CMS Office Hours broadcast, CMS provided guidance for SNF therapists to include the time spent donning and doffing PPE in the MDS Section O minutes.…
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National Skilled Nursing Care Week

HTS Celebrates National Skilled Nursing Week In recognition of National Skilled Nursing Week, Healthcare Therapy Services, Inc. celebrated with their partners by honoring our aging in addition to the health care heroes for their unwavering…
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Safely Reopening Nursing Homes: Quick Summary of New CMS Guidance

Blog by:  Shelly Maffia, MSN, MBA, RN, LNHA, QCP, CHC, Director of Regulatory Services, Proactive Medical Review As part of President Trump’s Guidelines for Opening Up America Again, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced…
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