The IHCA Foundation is offering 77 scholarships this year to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Scholarship opportunities are available for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors who are pursuing an education in health care.
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The Q4 2024 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa facilities. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey success, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference begins this afternoon! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as CMS guidance changes, Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny and Iowa City with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is next week! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as CMS guidance changes, Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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On Thursday, March 13, IHCA hosted its monthly Home Health Provider Update Call to discuss the most recent changes for the home health and home care profession. This article contains a summary of the call and action steps home health providers should take to ensure compliance.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released clarification on reporting requirements for recipients of Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Recruitment and Retention (R&R) grant funds. Recipients must submit quarterly expenditure reports and are encouraged to fully expend their grant funds by March 31, 2025, though an extension until March 31, 2026, is available if needed. Final expenditure reports are due by April 30, 2026.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny and Council Bluffs with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Join IHCA tomorrow, March 13, for ICD-10-CM 101 - Back to Basics for Home Health and Hospice. This virtual training will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the home health and hospice setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, apply specific coding guidelines and accurately sequence diagnoses, including complications and comorbidities. This education is approved for 4.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services staff and home health leaders.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is just two weeks away! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as CMS guidance changes, Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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Under the OSHA Standard 1904.41 - Electronic submission of Employer Identification Number (EIN) and injury and illness records to OSHA, certain employers are required to electronically submit their EIN and injury and illness records to OSHA. A cornerstone of this effort is the Injury Tracking Application (ITA), introduced through the "Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses" rule. This article explores OSHA recordkeeping, the ITA’s role and its implications for LTC employers, including key metrics like the Days Away, Restricted or Transferred (DART) rate.
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The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is currently recruiting qualified nurses to serve on item review and item writing panels for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) examinations. Interested volunteers may apply directly on their website. Volunteers who participate on these panels are an integral part of the item development process. NCSBN is especially seeking nurses who are currently supervising newly licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs).
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. An event is planned for this Friday in Ankeny, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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It's not too late to join IHCA's four-part Leadership Foundations webinar series, featuring Jerald Cosey. The second webinar of the series, Leadership Foundations – The Trust Framework, will be held next Wednesday, March 12, and will explore the power of empathy in leadership. Please note, you must watch the recording of the first session in order to attend the remaining live sessions. The remaining live sessions will not be recorded.
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Join IHCA next Thursday, March 13, for ICD-10-CM 101 - Back to Basics for Home Health and Hospice. This virtual training will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the home health and hospice setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, apply specific coding guidelines and accurately sequence diagnoses, including complications and comorbidities. This education is approved for 4.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and home health leaders.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Manchester, Greenfield, Ankeny and Waterloo, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is just three weeks away! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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IHCA's Spring Conference is just one month away! If you haven’t secured your accommodations yet, book your room by tomorrow, Feb. 27, to take advantage of the exclusive discounted rate. IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is our second largest event of the year! With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this conference, presented by BCG Data Services, is a must-attend event!
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On Thursday, Feb. 13, IHCA hosted its monthly Home Health Provider Update Call to discuss the most recent changes for the home health and home care profession. IHCA has provided a summary of the call, as well as action steps home health providers should take to ensure compliance.
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A research team at the University of Iowa is working to enhance dementia care through an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) digital tool designed to support family caregivers in managing pain for individuals with dementia. To ensure the tool meets the needs of caregivers and health care professionals, researchers are seeking participants with expertise in pain management for people with dementia to share their insights.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny, Coralville and Iowa City, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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A research team at the University of Iowa is working to enhance dementia care through an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) digital tool designed to support family caregivers in managing pain for individuals with dementia. To ensure the tool meets the needs of caregivers and health care professionals, researchers are seeking participants with expertise in pain management for people with dementia to share their insights.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have issued Informational Letter (IL) 2654, updating hospice payment policies and replacing previous guidance. A letter from CMS dated Sept. 13, 2024, updated the rates for the two-tiered system and Service Intensity Add-On (SIA), effective Oct. 1, 2024.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events will take place in Burlington, Ankeny, Lake Mills, Thompson, Forest City, Waterloo and Council Bluffs this Friday, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Grow your skills and spring into quality improvement at IHCA’s two-day, in-person 2025 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by BCG Data Services, will take place Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 30 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Join IHCA on Thursday, March 13, for ICD-10-CM 101 - Back to Basics for Home Health and Hospice. This virtual training will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the home health and hospice setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, apply specific coding guidelines and accurately sequence diagnoses, including complications and comorbidities. This education is approved for 4.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and home health leaders.
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Join us for IHCA Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline, on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Your participation is critical, as legislators need to hear directly from you about the challenges you face and the funding necessary to continue serving Iowa’s most vulnerable populations. Please RSVP for this event by this Friday, Feb. 14.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events will take place in Ankeny and West Des Moines on Friday, with additional forums held across the state on Saturday and Monday. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions, and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Grow your skills and spring into quality improvement at IHCA’s two-day, in-person 2025 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by BCG Data Services, will take place Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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IHCA is launching a four-part live webinar series designed to help long-term care leaders foster trust in their teams and organizations. Led by Jerald Cosey, founder of J.Cosey Speaks, "Leadership Foundations – The Trust Framework," will offer a unique opportunity to learn actionable leadership strategies rooted in research from Harvard experts. The series will focus on the three primary drivers of trust: empathy, logic and authenticity, and will provide practical tools to strengthen leadership capabilities and improve team dynamics. This IHCA webinar series begins next Wednesday, Feb. 12, and is approved for 6.0 CEUs for activity professionals, nurses, social services, environmental services, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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Grow your skills and spring into quality improvement at IHCA’s two-day, in-person 2025 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by BCG, will take place Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are requesting Medicaid providers to complete a survey on Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) Act Section 5042(e)(1)(A) reporting requirements for FFY 2024. The survey gathers data on providers’ compliance with prescription drug monitoring requirements when prescribing controlled substances. The survey will close on March 21, 2025.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have identified an error in 1099-MISC tax forms sent to providers who received fee-for-service (FFS) payments in calendar year 2024. Forms postmarked Jan. 27, 2025, were issued with incorrect payer information and should be disregarded. Providers who received a form listing TIN XXXXX4568, payer name: Iowa Department of Human Services, and address: 1305 East Walnut will receive a corrected version.
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As an IHCA member, you have access to IHCA’s provider network – Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) – a collaboration of over 200 long-term and post-acute care providers. This network has been helping members for years by streamlining administrative processes, improving contract terms and providing valuable resources to support quality care.
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Several legislative town halls are scheduled across Iowa this Friday and Saturday, offering an opportunity to engage with state lawmakers. Events will be held in Allison, Ankeny, Manchester, Eldridge and other locations statewide, featuring discussions on key legislative issues. Attendees can hear directly from state representatives and senators on topics impacting their communities.
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Join us for IHCA Day on the Hill on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Your participation is critical, as legislators need to hear directly from you about the challenges you face and the funding necessary to continue serving Iowa’s most vulnerable populations. Please RSVP for this event by next Friday, Feb. 14.
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Accommodations are now available for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 21-24 at the Des Moines Marriott Hotel, located at 700 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Attendees can enjoy a discounted rate of $143 per night (plus tax) for single or double occupancy rooms.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently announced the release of the 2024 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Quality Self-Assessment. The HCBS Provider Quality Self-Assessment (form 470-4547) can be found on the Iowa DHHS website and is due this Friday, Jan. 31. The form has been updated and prior years’ versions will not be accepted. A complete and accurate self-assessment must be received no later than Jan. 31, 2025. Failure to submit by Jan. 31, 2025, will jeopardize an organization’s Medicaid enrollment, including managed care contracts, and may result in a sanction of payment suspension.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Jan. 22 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed nursing board rules regarding education programs, continuing education, nursing practice and more.
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Join us for IHCA Day on the Hill on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Your participation is critical, as legislators need to hear directly from you about the challenges you face and the funding necessary to continue serving Iowa’s most vulnerable populations. Please RSVP for this event by Friday, Feb. 14.
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This article provides an overview of upcoming town halls. Events are planned for this Friday in Waverly, Monticello and Baxter, with additional town halls next week in Greene, Des Moines and New Hampton.
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Accommodations are now available for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 21-24 at the Des Moines Marriott Hotel, located at 700 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Attendees can enjoy a discounted rate of $143 per night (plus tax) for single or double occupancy rooms.
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Navigating the world of long-term care (LTC) can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of terms and acronyms unique to this field. To make things easier for professionals, caregivers and others involved in long-term care, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new webpage designed to clarify frequently used terms and acronyms.
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The U.S. Department of Labor and OSHA require employers in most industries to record workplace injuries on their 300 logs within seven days of the incident. The summary of this log, 300A, is required to be posted for employee review from Feb. 1 to April 30 each year. This posting is for the calendar year immediately preceding the year of posting (the posting in February 2025 is the log for calendar year 2024). Furthermore, most senior living communities are required to submit data from their 300 logs and 300A to OSHA by March 2.
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The CMS Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) Guidance Manual directs clinicians to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for determining the accurate answer for O0350, COVID Vaccination. Use this tool to summarize the current CDC recommendations for different types of patients by age, risk and vaccination status.
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On Jan. 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued two Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) articles describing changes in the 2025 immunization schedule for children, adolescents and adults. Changes related to older adults include new and updated recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV).
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) recently launched DIALED IN, a podcast series designed to educate the public about the department’s work and its impact on Iowa’s health care and licensing industries. The podcast explores a variety of topics, from nursing home surveys and CMS performance measures to fraud investigations, administrative hearings and the health facility complaint process. Each episode provides valuable insights into how DIAL operates and addresses important issues affecting Iowans.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Jan. 8 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed Human Services Department rules regarding nursing facilities, facility assessments, intermediate care facilities for the intellectually disabled (ICFs/ID) and Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT).
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Last Tuesday evening, Governor Reynolds gave her Condition of the State Address, where she discussed the strengths of the state and her policy initiatives for this session. This article contains an overview of her health care related recommendations and initiatives, as well as upcoming town halls.
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The Iowa Healthcare Credentialing Grant is open to eligible employers and accepting applications on iowagrants.gov until Wednesday, Feb. 19. The announced grant will provide $3 million in total funding to create new pipelines of workers to help fill high-demand occupations in the health care sector. Eligible high-demand occupations include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, direct support professionals, physical therapy assistants/technicians and more. An informative webinar for interested applicants will be held tomorrow, Jan. 23, at 11:30 a.m.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, Jan. 22, for its virtual Workforce Management Conference. This program will explore strategies to address workforce challenges, including staff recruitment, retention and engagement and is approved for 5.0 CEUs for department heads, directors of nursing, nurse leaders, administrators, assisted living managers and home health directors.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Dec. 11 and Dec. 25 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed Human Services Department rules regarding eligibility, application for assistance, rent reimbursement, specialized managed care programs and more.
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Effective Jan. 1, 2025, Iowa Medicaid began using a new assessment tool for members enrolled in the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Intellectual Disability (ID) Waiver. Iowa Medicaid has replaced the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) with interRAI tools. Also, effective Jan. 1, 2025, managed care organizations (MCOs) no longer conduct assessments for members enrolled in the HCBS ID Waiver. ID Waiver members enrolled with an MCO will now have their assessments completed by Telligen, Iowa Medicaid’s core standardized assessment vendor.
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This week IHCA received notification from the National Veterans Affairs (VA) Office that modifications will be made to the 2025 VA Fee Schedule (VAFS) for home health providers in Iowa. Overall, most of the home health aide rates will experience a slight decrease (5.3%), rather than the 35% decrease in the initial 2025 rate file. Homemaker rates will experience a slight increase of 4.7%, rather than the 28% decrease in the initial 2025 rate file.
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As of Jan. 1, 2025, Iowa Medicaid will no longer cover over the counter (OTC) COVID-19 test kits. CMS ended coverage for OTC COVID-19 test kits on May 11, 2023.
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IHCA is launching a four-part live webinar series designed to help long-term care leaders foster trust in their teams and organizations. Lead by Jerald Cosey, founder of J.Cosey Speaks, "Leadership Foundations – The Trust Framework," will offer a unique opportunity to learn actionable leadership strategies rooted in research from Harvard experts. The series will focus on the three primary drivers of trust: empathy, logic and authenticity, and will provide practical tools to strengthen leadership capabilities and improve team dynamics. This IHCA webinar series begins Feb. 12 and is approved for 6.0 CEUs for activity professionals, nurses, social services, environmental services, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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Stonehill Communities, an IHCA member, is a participating provider in the CMS Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model program. Located in Dubuque, Stonehill is one of three providers in Iowa selected for this innovative initiative and will launch its program on July 1, 2025.
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As we kick off the new year, IHCA is excited to announce that the IHCA Education Center has been renamed the Brighton Consulting Group (BCG) Education Center. While the center now carries a new name, it remains the same trusted location members have come to know at the IHCA office, 1775 90th Street in West Des Moines. This change reflects the deep appreciation IHCA holds for Brighton Consulting Group and its long-standing dedication to the association and Iowa’s long-term care providers.
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The next CMS Home Health, Hospice and Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Open Door Forum for is scheduled for today at 1:00 p.m. Topics covered will include Home Health Care Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HHCAHPS) survey updates and the expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) model.
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The December 2024 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report and Q3 home health (HH) survey trend report are now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center. These reports are member-only resources that provide listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share these reports with the individuals at your organization involved with managing survey quality, as they are a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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The 2025 Veterans Affairs (VA) Fee Schedule is now available. Rates went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
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On Dec. 18, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued Policy Clarification #PC00028, which reduces the allowable managed care organization (MCO) payment recoupment period to two years. The new policies, which apply to all MCO claims, took effect Jan. 1, 2025. IHCA is happy to have worked with the department on this needed change to the managed care system, providing needed relief on the administrative side of many provider’s operations.
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Join IHCA on Wednesday, Jan. 22, for its Workforce Management Conference. This conference will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually. The conference will explore strategies to address workforce challenges, including staff recruitment, retention and engagement. This hybrid conference is approved for 5.0 CEUs for department heads, directors of nursing, nurse leaders, administrators, assisted living managers and home health directors.
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Recently, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued Policy Clarification #PC00028, which reduces the allowable managed care organization (MCO) payment recoupment period to two years. The new policies, which apply to all MCO claims, take effect Jan. 1, 2025. IHCA is happy to have worked with the department on this needed change to the managed care system, providing needed relief on the administrative side of many provider’s operations.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently announced the release of the 2024 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Quality Self-Assessment. The HCBS Provider Quality Self-Assessment (form 470-4547) can be found on the Iowa DHHS website and is due Jan. 31, 2025. The form has been updated and prior years’ versions will not be accepted. A complete and accurate self-assessment must be received no later than Jan. 31, 2025. Failure to submit by Jan. 31, 2025, will jeopardize an organization’s Medicaid enrollment, including managed care contracts, and may result in a sanction of payment suspension.
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IHCA’s Home Health Final Rule 2025 education, sponsored by McKesson, is now available on-demand. This session covers payment changes, future changes to submission and data in the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS), as well as the new conditions of participation (COP) regarding acceptance of patients. This on-demand webinar is approved for 1.5 CEUs for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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On Dec. 16, CMS posted the final Office of Management and Budget-approved Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS)-E1 time points instruments, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Additionally, CMS provided updated forms for the Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage, its corresponding Detailed Explanation of Non-Coverage, and the Home Health Change of Care Notice.
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Iowa Total Care has announced several updates regarding home health services and prior authorizations (PAs). Effective Oct. 1, 2024, enhancements have been made to PAs for home health services billed on institutional (837i) claims, and PAs are now required after the care plan creation period (up to the first three visits). Additionally, starting Jan. 3, 2025, home health authorizations will be sent to CareBridge to align with state and managed care organization processes. Providers are encouraged to review training resources, update claim elements in the CareBridge Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) portal and ensure third-party EVV vendors are properly configured.
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Iowa has been selected as one of 20 states where the Unified Program Integrity Contractor (UPIC), CoventBridge, will conduct an audit of the Iowa Medicaid managed care programs (MCPs). The audit will include the managed care organizations (MCOs) and the prepaid ambulatory health plans (PAHPs). CoventBridge may request documentation from providers during the audit. The lifecycle of this audit is expected to be 13 months. Providers are required to comply with the requests for the documentation and the timeframes established by CoventBridge.
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Iowa Medicaid will distribute $1.7 million in funding to eligible providers through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Disaster Relief and Recovery Grant. This grant aims to support HCBS providers in counties impacted by disasters with their relief and recovery efforts. Eligible providers can apply for up to $200,000 in grant funds by completing the online application, open now through Dec. 29, 2024. Note: Since the article's original publication on Dec. 11, additional counties have been added to the list of eligible areas.
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Join IHCA next Tuesday, Dec. 17, for its Virtual Home Health Conference, sponsored by McKesson. This conference will cover the Home Health Final Rule, Veterans Affairs Community Care updates and frequently asked questions regarding Electronic Visit Verification and CareBridge. This virtual conference will not be recorded and is approved for 3.0 CEUs for nurses, social services and administrators.
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Iowa Medicaid intends to distribute $1.7 million to eligible providers from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Disaster Relief and Recovery Grant. This grant is intended to provide funding to disaster affected HCBS providers operating in disaster affected counties to assist with relief and recovery efforts. Eligible providers may request up to $200,000 in grant funds by completing the online grant application now through Dec. 29, 2024.
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CMS will host training sessions on several key provisions of the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services Final Rule (Access Rule) to ensure that all partners fully understand the various home-and community-based services (HCBS) provisions within the rule and have an opportunity ask questions and provide feedback. The first webinar, "Grievance Systems," will take place today, Dec. 11, at 2:00 p.m.
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Iowa Total Care now has Availity Essentials as its secure provider portal. On Nov. 18, 2024, providers became able to submit authorizations and access other payer resources via Availity Essentials.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Nov. 13 and Nov. 27 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed rules regarding workforce development, as well as an adopted and filed rule regarding employer records and reports.
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Join IHCA on Tuesday, Dec. 17, for its Virtual Home Health Conference, sponsored by McKesson. This conference will cover the Home Health Final Rule, Veterans Affairs Community Care updates and frequently asked questions regarding Electronic Visit Verification and CareBridge. This virtual conference will not be recorded and is approved for 3.0 CEUs for nurses, social services and administrators.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services recently announced upcoming Iowa Medicaid pharmacy program changes effective Jan. 1, 2025. The letter includes information regarding changes to the preferred drug list, new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to existing PA criteria and point of sale billing updates.
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On Tuesday, Nov. 26, CMS released the Contract Year (CY) 2026 Medicare Advantage (MA) and Part D proposed rule, which aims to hold MA plans more accountable. The release of this rule comes during the Lame Duck period, and it is unclear whether or how the incoming Trump Administration will proceed with these proposed policies.
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Join IHCA on Wednesday, Jan. 22, for its Workforce Management Conference. This conference will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually. This education program explores strategies to address workforce challenges, including staff recruitment, retention and engagement. This conference is approved for 5.0 CEUs for department heads, directors of nursing, nurse leaders, administrators, assisted living managers and home health directors.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services has released a formal policy clarification regarding home health care services electronic visit verification (EVV) claims as a result of the CareBridge system submitting claims with issues or errors.
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With the 2025 Medicaid rebase quickly approaching in the upcoming legislative session, grassroots engagement is more critical than ever. IHCA's collective goal is to have all 150 state legislators visit a nursing facility before the end of the year. This is especially important with many new legislators taking office, as it provides an opportunity to educate them on the basics of rebasing, revenue sources and rising costs — key points to lay the groundwork for budget conversations during the session. To support your efforts, IHCA has compiled a suite of resources below to help facilitate productive discussions with legislators.
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IHCA’s 2025 education calendar is now available and features education opportunities for skilled nursing facilities, assisted living programs, home health agencies and continuing care retirement communities. Stay up to date on the key skills needed to serve your residents, tenants or patients with more than 65 education events in 2025 provided by IHCA. Additionally, IHCA’s on-demand education platform is accessible 24/7 and features 50+ courses covering regulatory, clinical, leadership and reimbursement topics, as well as in-service training and certification programs.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released a reminder to providers that per their provider agreement, their ownership and control disclosure (OCD) is to be updated within 35 business days after any change in ownership or control.
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On Friday, Nov. 15, a federal judge in Texas struck down the “Overtime Rule” from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that would raise the minimum salary threshold for employees who are classified as “exempt” from payment of overtime wages under the white-collar exemptions to the Fair Labor Standards Act. Under this DOL rule, the salary threshold requirements for employees to be classified as “exempt” under the “white collar” exemptions increased in stages, the first going into effect on July 1, 2024. The next increase was scheduled for Jan. 1, 2025.
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Join IHCA on Tuesday, Dec. 17, for its Virtual Home Health Conference, sponsored by McKesson. This conference will cover the home health final rule, Veterans Affairs Community Care updates and frequently asked questions regarding electronic visit verification and CareBridge. This virtual conference will not be recorded and is approved for 3.0 CEUs for nurses, social services and administrators.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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On Friday, Nov. 1, CMS issued the Final Rule regarding Medicare home health services payment rates for calendar year (CY) 2025. The rule contains final policies related to the Medicare home health benefit for CY 2025 on payment and quality related programs. The Final Rule will become effective on Jan. 1, 2025. This article provides a summary of the Final Rule.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released annual submission requirements for prevention and detection of Medicaid fraud and abuse for federal fiscal year (FFY) 2025. Any provider or provider entity that receives payments, in any FFY, of $5,000,000 or more from any state Medicaid program must have written policies for all employees, including management, and for all employees of any contractor or agent. Providers are not required to send copies of their policies but must complete and return the Attestation of Compliance with Section 6032 of The Federal Deficit Reduction Act Form (470-5506) annually. The form can be found on the Iowa DHHS provider forms webpage. For the FFY ending Sept. 30, 2024, the attestation form must be received by Iowa Medicaid by Jan. 31, 2025.
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In an effort to strengthen incident management and reporting, Iowa Medicaid has introduced updated protocols for Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, Habilitation and Money Follows the Person (MFP) providers. These changes emphasize clearer definitions, expanded incident types and enhanced reporting guidelines to support the safety and well-being of members. The effective date of these changes is Nov. 1, 2024, so providers are to begin implementing these changes right away.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Oct. 2, 16 and 30 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include a newly noticed rule regarding the Home- and Community-Based Services Subsidy Program and numerous regulatory analyses.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Mandy Cohen has endorsed two new recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices regarding COVID-19 and pneumonia vaccines.
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On Oct. 16, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an updated warning regarding Cue Health’s COVID-19 tests due to the risk of false results. If you have Cue Health COVID-19 tests, the FDA recommends that you stop using them immediately and dispose of the entire test cartridge in your general waste. Providers should retest patients using a different FDA-authorized test if an inaccurate result is suspected from a Cue COVID-19 test.
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Lee Agency has developed strategic relationships with insurance carriers and other professional services, all of whom specialize in senior living, to ensure clients receive the best coverage and claim handling possible. Lee Agency is proud to be an IHCA Premier Partner and appreciates the opportunity to work with IHCA members.
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Several boards under the purview of the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) have received reports from their licensees of scam calls and letters stating that their Iowa license is under investigation and facing suspension.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued a Health Alert Network Health Advisory to inform health care providers of a supply disruption of peritoneal dialysis (PD) and intravenous (IV) solutions from the Baxter International’s North Cove Facility in North Carolina, due to Hurricane Helene. The supply disruption may impact patient care and require adjustments to the clinical management of patients. Health care providers should immediately assess their supply and develop plans and mitigation strategies to reduce the impact on patient care.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released informational letter (IL) 2634 to provide clarification of the service documentation requirements to support claims for payment submitted to Iowa Medicaid and the managed care organizations (MCOs) specifically related to Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS).
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Effective Feb. 1, 2025, Iowa Total Care applied changes to prior authorization requirements. These changes are applicable to all Medicaid products. Pay special attention to the procedure codes being listed in the Prior Authorization Code List. Many of the codes commonly billed by long-term care providers are not listed and would experience no change from their current prior authorization process.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Join IHCA for two full days of Outcome and Assessment Information Set - Version E (OASIS-E) data collection rule and guidance training at the Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy Workshop next Monday, Oct. 21 and Tuesday, Oct. 22. Join the comprehensive and nationally acclaimed workshop and learn to confidently teach, audit and collect OASIS-E items accurately. This course is approved for 14.0 CEUs for social services staff and nurses.
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Give your employees an opportunity to access their wages sooner, receive free one-on-one financial counseling and start a savings plan. Implement a financial wellness program for your staff through Payactiv, an IHCA endorsed product.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host a respiratory surveillance webinar for the 2024-2025 influenza season this Friday, Oct. 11, from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
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Every fall, Medicare beneficiaries are provided an opportunity to review and change their Prescription Drug Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan during the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. It’s important for Medicare beneficiaries to remember that Prescription Drug Plan and Medicare Advantage Plan costs, benefits and providers can change each year, so evaluating options could help in finding better coverage, and even saving money. Iowa Medicare beneficiaries are encouraged to evaluate and make any necessary changes to their coverage plans, as many new changes take effect in 2025.
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Home health agencies across the state are reporting changes in how they must obtain authorization for services and how authorization requests are reviewed, as well as a marked decrease in the number of services that are being approved. ICHC attended this quarter’s Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) call and asked for clarification on these issues.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services have updated the pharmacy prior authorization (PA) process following a Change Healthcare network outage due to a cybersecurity issue. The PA process will now revert to fax-based submissions, with forms and the Preferred Drug List (PDL) accessible on the Iowa Medicaid website.
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The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is currently recruiting qualified nurses to serve on upcoming item review and item writing panels for the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN examinations. Interested volunteers may apply directly on the NSCBN website.
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AHCA/NCAL has provided information on two current supply chain issues that may impact providers.
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Over 9,300 nursing homes, assisted living facilities, residential care homes, skilled care facilities, independent living communities, retirement communities and other senior care providers trust HPSI Purchasing Services for quality products and services at a low price. IHCA members have exclusive access to special member-only discounts on products and services purchased through HPSI Purchasing Services as part of IHCA Providers Solutions’ Group Purchasing Program.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released a crucial notification for providers required to use Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) for home health services billed on institutional (837i) claims. As of yesterday, Oct. 1, 2024, the changes to home health services 837i claim elements must be set up in the CareBridge EVV provider portal. If you have not yet completed your claim setup in the CareBridge provider portal, please take immediate action to avoid billing alerts and potential delays in claims submission.
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In Lieu of Services (ILOS) are now available for Medicaid members who are on a waiting list for one of the 1915(c) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These services aim to support members at immediate risk of hospitalization or institutionalization and those needing assistance to return to a community living environment.
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CMS is incorporating the Section GG items into the Home Health Value Based Purchasing (HHVBP) measures in 2025 data collection. CMS has released several resources and tools to provide support to agencies with their GG item accuracy, including updating the GG Web-Based Training series, which can be accessed for free.
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Iowa Total Care has chosen Availity Essentials as its new, secure provider portal. Starting Nov. 18, 2024, you can validate eligibility and benefits, submit claims, check claim status, submit authorizations and access Iowa Total Care payer resources via Availity Essentials.
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CMS recently released QSO-24-21-NH, Compliance with Residents’ Rights Requirement related to Nursing Home Residents’ Right to Vote. The purpose of the memo is to affirm the regulatory expectation that nursing home residents can exercise their right to vote without interference, coercion, discrimination or reprisal from the facility.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Sept. 18 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed rules regarding employer records and reports and health care employment agencies and technology platforms.
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The premier event for Iowa’s long-term and post-acute care professionals, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will begin this Monday, Sept. 23, at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Check out the online version of this year's program guide to see all this rockin' event will have to offer! Additionally, education session handouts are now available for attendees to access.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services recently released informational letter (IL) 2627 regarding an administrative code update to the Vaccine for Children (VFC) Program. Effective Dec. 1, 2012, Iowa Medicaid implemented changes to reduce the maximum reimbursement rates for Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes 90460 and 90461 describing vaccine administration and counseling for children ages zero (0) to 18. For reimbursement to process correctly, it is important to list all the vaccine codes on claim lines before the administration codes.
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As a valued member of IHCA, ICAL or ICHC, your voice and presence are vital to shaping the future of our industry. We invite you — no matter your experience level or job title — to join us for the 2024 Annual Business Meeting this Tuesday, Sept. 24, during the 2024 IHCA Convention and Trade Show. The 2025 boards and district officers will be announced, crucial legislative and regulatory issues will be discussed and administrators and assisted living managers can earn 1.0 CEU for attending! The 2024 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC Annual Business Meeting is sponsored by Williams & Company P.C.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA's Convention and Trade Show is less than two weeks away! Check out the online version of this year's program guide to see all this rockin' event will have to offer! This premier event for Iowa’s long-term and post-acute care professionals, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines.
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OSHA has issued a final rule updating the Hazard Communication Standard (Haz-Com Standard) to align with the seventh revision of the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The rule was published on May 20, 2024, and became law on July 19, 2024. This updated standard is an opportunity for all long-term care centers to update their labels, Safety Data Sheets and training.
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The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has released a new form/letter for reauthorizations that agencies will soon receive. The form/letter is intended to serve as a reminder that a veteran has a reauthorization coming due.
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Congratulations to IHCA member Eldora Specialty Care on receiving the 2024 Governor's Award for Quality Care in Health Care Facilities. This award recognizes Iowa-licensed health care facilities that offer unique or innovative activities to enhance the quality of care or quality of life for their residents, and facilities are nominated by residents and family members.
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Briarwood Health Care Center is selling a brand new VitaScan LT bladder scanner, including a probe, carry case, commercial grade tablet, rolling medical cart and accessories basket for $7,800. If interested, please contact Tammy Frame at
[email protected]
or 319-338-7912.
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As a valued member of IHCA, ICAL or ICHC, your voice and presence are vital to shaping the future of our industry. We invite you — no matter your experience level or job title — to join us for the 2024 Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 24, during the 2024 IHCA Convention and Trade Show. The 2025 boards and district officers will be announced, crucial legislative and regulatory issues will be discussed and administrators and assisted living managers can earn 1.0 CEU for attending! The 2024 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC Annual Business Meeting is sponsored by Williams & Company P.C.
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Lee Agency has developed strategic relationships with insurance carriers and other professional services, all of whom specialize in senior living, to ensure clients receive the best coverage and claim handling possible. Lee Agency is proud to be an IHCA Premier Partner and appreciates the opportunity to work with IHCA members.
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Give your employees an opportunity to access their wages sooner, receive free one-on-one financial counseling and start a savings plan. Implement a financial wellness program for your staff through Payactiv, an IHCA endorsed product.
Read More
IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show is quickly approaching! This annual event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Accommodation information, education session descriptions, speaker bios, special event details and more are available on the IHCA website. Register by this Friday, Sept. 6, to avoid the $50 late registration fee.
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IHCA wants to feature the awesome moments and epic smiles that light up your community at its 2024 Convention and Trade Show! Submitted photos will be shared on the big screen during Convention’s general sessions. Please submit your photos to
[email protected] by this Friday, Sept. 6.
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On Sept. 3, 2024, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced the intent to award a managed care organization (MCO) contract to Iowa Total Care. The new Iowa Medicaid contract period begins July 1, 2025, with no change in operations. Iowa Total Care has been serving Iowa Medicaid members as a MCO since July 1, 2019. This request for proposal and resulting contract aligns all three MCO contracts to the same contract cycle. All three MCO contracts will have a final contract end date of June 30, 2031.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is making an important upcoming change regarding the use of Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) for home health services billed on institutional claims (837i), effective Oct. 1, 2024. DHHS has provided a detailed notification outlining the changes, including updates to specific claim elements and the various communication and training channels available to help you prepare.
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As a valued member of IHCA, ICAL or ICHC, your voice and presence are vital to shaping the future of our industry. We invite you — no matter your experience level or job title — to join us for the 2024 Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 24, during the 2024 IHCA Convention and Trade Show. The 2025 boards and district officers will be announced, crucial legislative and regulatory issues will be discussed and administrators and assisted living managers can earn 1.0 CEU for attending! The 2024 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC Annual Business Meeting is sponsored by Williams & Company P.C.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. IHCA is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important role in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving as a member of one of these groups in 2025, please submit an application form to express your interest by this Friday, Aug. 30.
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A $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is currently available for employees of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are due by this Saturday, Aug. 31; apply today!
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As the long-term care sector in Iowa rapidly changes and the 2025 legislative session quickly approaches, IHCA's senior leaders have prepared a State of the Sector and Legislative Preview presentation. Member facilities and companies can schedule to have the presentation delivered in-person or virtually to leadership teams, boards, resident councils or any other constituency group that would benefit from a future-focused assessment of the sector and preview of key public policy battles ahead.
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The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC’s) Final Non-Compete Rule was released and was scheduled to go into effect on Sept. 4, 2024. The rule would make nearly all preexisting and future U.S. non-compete agreements with workers unenforceable, except for preexisting non-compete agreements with “senior executives.” Members should be aware that a federal judge in Texas has barred this rule from taking effect. The U.S. district judge said the FTC does not have the authority to ban practices it deems unfair methods of competition by adopting broad rules.
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PointClickCare is hosting its inaugural Iowa Care Collaboration Conference on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at the Surety Hotel in Des Moines. The event will be held from noon - 3:00 p.m. with lunch being served from noon - 1:00 p.m., followed by the event and discussion. The Care Collaboration Conference will bring together thought leaders, health plans and providers from both acute and post-acute care markets in Iowa to discuss how collaboration can be enhanced across the care continuum.
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IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show is quickly approaching! This annual event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Accommodation information, education session descriptions, speaker bios, special event details and more are available on the IHCA website. Register by next Friday, Sept. 6, to avoid the $50 late registration fee. Additionally, the cut-off date for the discounted room rate for the Renaissance Savery Hotel and Holiday Inn Express is Sept. 1.
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IHCA wants to feature the awesome moments and epic smiles that light up your community at its 2024 Convention and Trade Show! Submitted photos will be shared on the big screen during Convention’s general sessions. Please submit your photos to
[email protected] by next Friday, Sept. 6.
Read More
As a valued member of IHCA, ICAL or ICHC, your voice and presence are vital to shaping the future of our industry. We invite you — no matter your experience level or job title — to join us for the 2024 Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 24, during the 2024 IHCA Convention and Trade Show. The 2024-2025 boards and district officers will be announced, crucial legislative and regulatory issues will be discussed and administrators and assisted living managers can earn 1.0 CEU for attending! The 2024 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC Annual Business Meeting is sponsored by Williams & Company P.C.
Read More
IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important role in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving as a member of one of these groups in 2025, please submit an application form to express your interest by next Friday, Aug. 30.
Read More
A $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is currently available for employees of IHCA/ICAL/ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Nineteen scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are due by next Saturday, Aug. 31; apply today!
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The keynote speaker lineup at IHCA's 2024 Convention and Trade Show includes a variety of experts and entertainers, from the incoming AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Clif Porter, to Dan Meers, who serves as KC Wolf – the official mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs. This premier event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines.
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HealthCap, a trusted partner of AHCA, is hosting a complimentary webinar that will walk through the anatomy of a cyber-attack. This webinar will be held next Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
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Reviewing a contract is crucial to ensure that all terms are fair, clear and aligned with your expectations. Taking the time to thoroughly review a contract can save you from potential disputes and ensure that the agreement is in your best interest. IHCA has provided tips to help you through the process.
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As a valued member of IHCA, ICAL or ICHC, your voice and presence are vital to shaping the future of our industry. We invite you — no matter your experience level or job title — to join us for the 2024 Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 24, during the 2024 IHCA Convention and Trade Show. The 2024-2025 boards and district officers will be announced, crucial legislative and regulatory issues will be discussed and administrators and assisted living managers can earn 1.0 CEU for attending!
Read More
VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
Read More
Join IHCA for its Home Health Star Ratings webinar next Wednesday, Aug. 21, from noon to 1:00 p.m. This webinar will delve into strategies to ensure that your scores accurately portray the quality of care you provide to your community. Sources of data, publication timelines and updates, comparisons with state and national data and techniques for maintaining data precision will be discussed. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for administrators and nurses.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important role in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving as a member of one of these groups in 2025, please complete and submit an application form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
Read More
A $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is currently available for employees of IHCA/ICAL/ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Nineteen scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are due by Aug. 31; apply today!
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As IHCA begins its work and preparation for the 2025 legislative session, the involvement of members has become increasingly important as it relates to issues faced by nursing facilities.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2618 to announce upcoming Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) meetings. Some of the previously scheduled meetings have been cancelled. The next scheduled EVV meeting will now take place Tuesday, Sept. 10.
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IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show is quickly approaching! This annual event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Accommodation information, education session descriptions, speaker bios, special event details and more are available on the IHCA website.
Read More
IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2025, please complete and submit an application form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
Read More
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has informed providers of an important upcoming change regarding the use of Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) for home health services billed on institutional claims (837i), effective Oct. 1, 2024. In collaboration with Iowa Total Care, Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Wellpoint Iowa and CareBridge, Iowa Medicaid is implementing enhancements to the claiming process to better support all providers.
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Molina Healthcare has issued a provider update that covers an FBI cybersecurity alert and the Molina Healthcare Provider Advisory Council.
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A $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is currently available for employees of IHCA/ICAL/ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Nineteen scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are due by Aug. 31; Apply today!
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IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show is quickly approaching! This annual event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Accommodation information, education session descriptions, speaker bios, special event details and more are available on the IHCA website.
Read More
HealthCap, a trusted partner of AHCA, is hosting a complimentary webinar that will walk through the anatomy of a cyber-attack. This webinar will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
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Join IHCA for its Dementia Care Conference tomorrow, Aug. 1. This conference will offer a unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert in the field, gain insights into cutting-edge research and discover innovative care strategies tailored to the complex needs of individuals with dementia. This conference meets the State of Iowa’s dementia specific criteria for health care professionals who work in Iowa nursing homes and assisted living facilities and is approved for 6.0 CEUs for activity professionals, social services, physical therapists, nurses, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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Iowa Medicaid providers must complete enrollment revalidation every five years to remain compliant with Title 42 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) §455.414. Failure to complete revalidation will result in disenrollment from the Iowa Medicaid program. Iowa Medicaid provides two notices: one at 60 days and the other 30 days prior to your revalidation due date. If you are unsure if you have received this notice or want to confirm your revalidation due date, please contact Provider Services.
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If you are a provider who has been displaced due to flooding and are unable to provide services from the location at which you are currently enrolled with Iowa Medicaid, there is no need to enroll a temporary location. Instead, you may continue to utilize your enrollment information, including location address, that is currently on file with Iowa Medicaid. If services are being rendered at a temporary location due to flooding, please indicate this on your patients’ charts.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have announced upcoming Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) meetings. These meetings will provide stakeholders with the opportunity to engage with Iowa Medicaid, the managed care organizations (MCOs) and the MCOs’ chosen EVV solution for the purpose of supporting the implementation of EVV. The next meeting will be held Tuesday, Aug. 13.
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A new $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is for employees of IHCA/ICAL/ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Nineteen scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are due by Aug. 31.
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Registration is open for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. The annual event will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Additionally, accommodation information, education session descriptions, speaker bios, special event details and more are available on the IHCA website.
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Lee Agency has developed strategic relationships with insurance carriers and other professional services, all of whom specialize in senior living, to ensure clients receive the best coverage and claim handling possible. Lee Agency is proud to be an IHCA Premier Partner and appreciates the opportunity to work with IHCA members.
Read More
Women professionals at all levels working in long-term care who seek to enhance their overall life balance and professional fulfillment are encouraged to attend IHCA’s Empowering Women in LTC Conference tomorrow, July 25. Session topics will cover leading a balanced life, self-actualization, increasing productivity and preventing burnout, and the event will end with a wine tasting experience! This conference, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is approved for 5.0 CEUs for nurses, social services staff, activities, dietary, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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Over 100 Iowans wanting to advance their health care education to work in long-term care received over $300,000 in scholarships from the IHCA Foundation last week. Scholarship recipients include current long-term care employees, as well as high school students, veterans and Iowans in rural communities wanting to join the health care profession. Scholarships provide for the cost of a variety of health care and leadership programs to equip health care workers with the skills they need to work in long-term care.
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Congratulations to the 19 long-term care leaders who graduated from IHCA's 2023-2024 Executive Health Care Leadership Institute on July 12! This year-long leadership program provides Iowa long-term care workers with the leadership fundamentals and specific technical skills needed to provide care in post-acute care settings.
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A brand new $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is for employees of IHCA/ICAL/ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Nineteen scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are due by Aug. 31.
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Join IHCA for its Home Health Star Ratings webinar on Aug. 21 from noon to 1:00 p.m. This webinar will delve into strategies to ensure that your scores accurately portray the quality of care you provide to your community. Sources of data, publication timelines and updates, comparisons with state and national data and techniques for maintaining data precision will be discussed. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for administrators and nurses.
Read More
The keynote speaker lineup at IHCA's 2024 Convention and Trade Show includes a variety of experts and entertainers, from the newly appointed AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Clif Porter, to Dan Meers, who serves as KC Wolf – the official mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs. This premier event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines.
Read More
IHCA's Board Member On-Demand Training Series, sponsored by Williams and Company P.C., is now available for board members of long-term care organizations. This training will enhance the knowledge of those who serve on your facility’s/organization’s board of directors, and will cover board member responsibilities, recruiting board members, understanding financial systems and capital in long-term care, compliance programs and risk management.
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As we approach the upcoming IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board elections and annual business meeting, the association wants to ensure that every member has the opportunity to participate in these important events, even if they are unable to attend in person. To facilitate this, IHCA has established a proxy voting system that allows you to delegate your voting power to another member who will be present. Proxy forms are due by this Friday, July 26.
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Join IHCA tomorrow, July 18, for its new webinar, "The 2025 Home Health Proposed Rule - The Good, the Bad and What it Means to You!" Tune in to hear what the newest proposals may mean to our industry, as well as at your agency and how to best prepare! This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for home health administrators, nurses, social services staff and nursing facility administrators.
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Women professionals at all levels working in long-term care who seek to enhance their overall life balance and professional fulfillment are encouraged to attend IHCA’s Empowering Women in LTC Conference next Thursday, July 25. Session topics will cover leading a balanced life, self-actualization, increasing productivity and preventing burnout, and the event will end with a wine tasting experience! This conference, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is approved for 5.0 CEUs for nurses, social services staff, activities, dietary, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
Read More
A brand new $1,500 IHCA Foundation scholarship, made possible by UCare Foundation, is for employees of IHCA/ICAL/ICHC members that offer home- and community-based services (HCBS) or home health services. Nineteen scholarships are available for employees interested in pursuing a career in nursing, long-term care, health care administration, physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications for this scholarship are now open and due by Aug. 31. Scholarship applicants who applied for IHCA Foundation’s other scholarship programs prior to May 31 will be contacted via email between Wednesday, July 17 and Friday, July 19.
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On July 12, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released a medical alert regarding increased risk of heat related illness for persons taking antipsychotic medications. Individuals receiving antipsychotic medications are at particular risk of heat stroke and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) during periods of extreme heat. Children and the elderly are at increased risk.
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On July 9, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released informational letter 2607, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver and Habilitation Rate Changes. This letter describes the provisions of the 2023 Iowa Acts, House File 2698, Section 14, where the Iowa Legislature appropriated $14.6 million to implement an increase in HCBS Waiver and Habilitation reimbursement rates, effective July 1, 2024.
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This is the premier event for Iowa’s long-term and post-acute care professionals. The annual event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Get inspired by inspiring keynote speakers, participate in informative and timely education sessions, enjoy exciting evening entertainment and reconnect with your peers – all while earning continuing education credits to launch your career to the next level.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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The early bird registration discount for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show will end Monday, July 15. Take advantage of this opportunity to save on education! The annual event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, July 18, for its new webinar, "The 2025 Home Health Proposed Rule - The Good, the Bad and What it Means to You!" Tune in to hear what the newest proposals may mean to our industry, as well as at your agency and how to best prepare! This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for home health administrators, nurses, social services staff and nursing facility administrators.
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On July 9, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released informational letter 2607, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver and Habilitation Rate Changes. This letter describes the provisions of the 2023 Iowa Acts, House File 2698, Section 14, where the Iowa Legislature appropriated $14.6 million to implement an increase in HCBS Waiver and Habilitation reimbursement rates, effective July 1, 2024.
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Iowa Total Care recently announced four Provider Summits scheduled for 2024 for Iowa Total Care members. During these in-person sessions, Iowa Total Care will present on clinical practice guidelines, social determinants of health and more. Resource tables will also be available for claims support, Z codes and member-facing program information.
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The Iowa Health PAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring we have the support needed when decisions about long-term care are being made. Thanks to the support of IHCA members and Iowa Health PAC donors, the successful 2024 state legislative session resulted in the expansion of provider tools and resources to serve Iowans across the continuum of care.
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Members interested in running or nominating a candidate to serve on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC boards of directors must complete a nomination form by no later than this Friday, July 5, 2024.
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Last week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated recommendations for COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines. Providers should contact their pharmacies and begin the process of ordering vaccines for the upcoming season.
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CMS notes it has identified phishing scams for medical records. This may include scammers faxing providers fraudulent medical records requests to obtain patient records. If you think you received a fraudulent or questionable request, work with your medical review contractor to confirm if it is real. Submit medical documentation through the Electronic Submission of Medical Documentation (esMD) system or CMS medical review contractor secure internet portals, when available.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the June 26, 2024, issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include human services department and professional licensure division updates.
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CMS has issued a proposed rule regarding Medicare home health services payment rates for calendar year (CY) 2025. The National Association for Home Care (NAHC) has provided a summary of the proposed rule. Additionally, ICHC will host a one-hour webinar with Annette Lee of Provider Insights to discuss these changes on July 18. ICHC's 2025 Home Health Proposed Rule webinar will cover what the newest proposals may mean for the home health industry and how to best prepare.
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On June 28 the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released a public notice regarding Medicaid payment rates and legislative rate increases, effective July 1, 2024. Of note, the home health low utilization payment adjustment (LUPA) amounts will be increased by 6.900%, which accounts for $1.5 million state dollars of the appropriation. The remaining $1.5 million state dollars of the appropriation will be reserved to establish an add-on rate for home health agencies serving Medicaid members with higher level acuity at a later effective date.
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Join IHCA on July 18 for its new webinar, "The 2025 Home Health Proposed Rule - The Good, the Bad and What it Means to You!" Tune in to hear what the newest proposals may mean to our industry, as well as at your agency and how to best prepare! This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nursing facility administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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Join IHCA for two full days of Outcome and Assessment Information Set - Version E (OASIS-E) data collection rule and guidance training at the Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy Workshop on Oct. 21 and 22. Join the comprehensive and nationally acclaimed workshop and learn to confidently teach, audit and collect OASIS-E items accurately. This course is approved for 14.0 CEUs for social services staff and nurses.
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Registration is open for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. The annual event will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discounted rate of $359 for full registration. Additionally, accommodation information, education session descriptions, speaker bios, special event details and more are now available on the IHCA website.
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Anne Peters, owner of Home Instead in Polk County, has received the Home Instead Franchisee of the Year award. She was selected out of a network of over 600 franchise owners, and this recognition comes at a momentous time as Home Instead marks its 30th anniversary. She also serves as vice chair of the Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors.
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Lee Agency has developed strategic relationships with insurance carriers and other professional services, all of whom specialize in senior living, to ensure clients receive the best coverage and claim handling possible. Lee Agency is proud to be an IHCA Premier Partner and appreciates the opportunity to work with IHCA members.
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For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. This year-long program offers up to 30.0 CEUs and includes a mix of in-person and live digital sessions that you can attend in the comfort of your own home or office. Applications for this elite leadership opportunity are due by this Sunday, June 30!
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) boards of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than next Friday, July 5, 2024.
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IHCA is reaching out to all nursing home, assisted living and residential care facility providers in impacted flooding areas across western and northern Iowa. The association has been in contact with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and members of legislative and executive branches. It is recommended that providers currently impacted by flooding, as well as those who anticipate impact in the coming days, to establish communication with your local emergency management office.
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Earlier this year, legislators voted to change the training requirements for mandatory reporters in Iowa. Effective July 1, 2024, mandatory reporters of both child and dependent adult abuse will be required to complete the full two-hour training course every three years to maintain current certification. Based upon this recent change in rules, the one-hour renewal course will no longer be available after June 30, 2024.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is working in partnership with Mathematica and the Harkin Institute to improve community-based services in Iowa. To inform these efforts, it is conducting a survey among providers to learn more about services and supports needed to enable people with long-term service and support needs to stay in their communities.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites you to attend town halls for the Iowa Solutions for Aging with Independence and Longevity (IA SAIL) project as they work toward building a multisector plan on aging within the state. The town hall sessions are open to the public and are an opportunity to share insights, give suggestions and discuss concerns as DHHS works to meet the needs of Iowans in all phases of the aging process.
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Iowa joins a list of several other states with individuals who have become sick, some in critical condition, after consuming Diamond Shruumz-brand products purchased through a retail store in eastern Iowa. Consumers should not eat, sell or serve any flavor of Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones or gummies and should discard them. Iowa DHHS is investigating these instances and the FDA has an ongoing investigation related to these events.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2577. This IL provides additional guidance to IL 2511, dated Oct. 13, 2023, regarding date span billing for durable medical equipment (DME) rental and medical supplies.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is working on improvements to community-based services in Iowa. To inform this effort, DHHS is conducting a provider survey. This survey will help DHHS learn more about current provider capacity to serve people who need long-term services and supports. The deadline to complete this survey is July 19, 2024.
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Join IHCA on July 18 for its new webinar, "The 2025 Home Health Proposed Rule - The Good, the Bad and What it Means to You!" Tune in to hear what the newest proposals may mean to our industry, as well as at your agency and how to best prepare! This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nursing facility administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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Registration is open for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. The annual event will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $359.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Providers of post-acute health care services have been employing minors for decades. Now more than ever, employers in the long-term care, assisted living and home health settings are broadening their workforce options with young people under the age of 18 to meet the demands of their customers, combat the impact of a national workforce shortage and provide a gateway to future health care careers. Although employment of young people is beneficial to patients/residents, the system and the employees themselves, complicated federal and state rules can cause confusion and increase regulatory compliance risk for employers.
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The ICHC survey committee reviewed the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) surveys that were performed and published from the first quarter of 2024 (January-March 2024).
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the June 12, 2024, issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include licensure, continuing education and practice requirements for social workers and discipline when standard of care is not met.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will transition the level of care assessment tools for individuals on the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Intellectual Disability (ID) waiver on Jan. 1, 2025. Iowa DHHS will begin using the interRAI-Intellectual Disability (interRAI-ID) and interRAI Children and Youth Mental Health-Developmental Disabilities (ChYMH-DD) assessment tools for all new and recurring assessments for individuals accessing the ID waiver on that date. To gather essential information to inform the future assessment process, Iowa DHHS will conduct a voluntary “parallel assessment” to facilitate the transition from the SIS instruments to the interRAI assessments. Trained assessors from managed care organizations and Telligen will contact members from June 17 to July 12, 2024, to ask them to participate in this voluntary assessment.
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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) is informing agencies of upcoming changes with the Standardized Episode of Care (SEOC) for referrals/authorizations. This is a national change determined by the Office of Integrated Veteran Care (IVC).
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services have provided clarification to Medicaid enrollment options for individual practitioners. Iowa Medicaid is required to comply with federal provider enrollment regulations as outlined in the 21st Century Cures Act, requiring that any provider furnishing/rendering Medicaid covered benefits must be enrolled as an Iowa Medicaid participating provider, including those providers who order services for members, prescribe medications to members and who make referrals for medically necessary services.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has contracted with the Stephen Group to conduct an assessment of and make improvement recommendations about the current value proposition of the CyncHealth statewide Health Information Exchange (HIE). This survey will provide important information about provider and state use, helping shape the future state of data exchange in Iowa. Please take a few moments to complete the survey by June 30, 2024.
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For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. This year-long program offers up to 30.0 CEUs and includes a mix of in-person and live digital sessions that you can attend in the comfort of your own home or office. Applications for this elite leadership opportunity are due by June 30!
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Registration is now open for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. The annual event will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $359.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) boards of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 5, 2024.
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Give your employees an opportunity to access their wages sooner, receive free one-on-one financial counseling and start a savings plan. Implement a financial wellness program for your staff through Payactiv, an IHCA endorsed product.
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For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. This year-long program offers up to 30.0 CEUs and includes a mix of in-person and live digital sessions that you can attend in the comfort of your own home or office. Applications for this elite leadership opportunity are due by June 30!
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Within the past week, several IHCA members have reached out with questions about notices received from their learning management systems related to dependent adult and child abuse mandatory reporter certification. IHCA has provided further clarification to ensure providers understand the ongoing requirements for mandatory reporter recertification.
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As tornadic activity has been making headlines right here in Iowa this spring, long-term care facilities and assisted living programs should be assessing their preparedness for such events. This includes reviewing procedures, mitigating hazards, providing training and testing plans through drills and exercises.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently provided notification to eligible providers that Iowa Medicaid intends to distribute American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based (HCBS) grant funds for the purpose of capacity building and service waitlist reductions. The provider payments are to serve the purpose of providing financial support to providers that have or will be admitting residents from Glenwood Resource Center and providers of high-demand services.
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During the national public health emergency, Iowa Medicaid suspended prescription copayments for all members. Effective July 1, 2024, member copayments of $1.00 for covered prescription and nonprescription drugs will be reinstated. This guidance applies to Fee-for-Service members only. Copayments for outpatient prescription drugs do not apply to members covered under a managed care plan.
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The Final April 2024 Interim Performance Reports (IPRs) are now available on the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). IPRs are only available to home health agencies through iQIES. IPRs are not available to the public.
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Iowa Total Care released a provider news alert regarding an announcement of four Provider Summits scheduled for 2024.
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Registration is now open for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. The annual event will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $359.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) boards of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 5, 2024.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. IHCA is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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Registration is now open for IHCA’s 2024 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. The annual event will take place Sept. 23-25 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $359.
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The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is currently recruiting qualified nurses to serve on upcoming item review and item writing panels for the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN examinations. The NCLEX is designed to test the knowledge, skills and abilities essential to safe and effective nursing practice at the entry level. The process of developing items (questions) for the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN examinations requires multiple steps and involves many qualified volunteer nurses to write and review items. All volunteer opportunities are held at the NCSBN office in downtown Chicago, and travel expenses, including airfare, lodging and meals, are covered by NCSBN. Interested volunteers may apply directly on the NCSBN website.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly area of note found in the May 29, 2024, issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin includes agency realignment within the Human Services Department.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently provided information regarding changes to Iowa Medicaid policies impacting the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.
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The Iowa Health PAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring we have the support needed when decisions about long-term care are being made. Thanks to the support of IHCA members and Iowa Health PAC donors, the successful 2024 state legislative session resulted in the expansion of provider tools and resources to serve Iowans across the continuum of care. Check out the new 2024 Iowa Health PAC Report to view the direct results Iowa Health PAC had on this year’s biggest legislative outcomes.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) boards of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 5, 2024.
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Lee Agency has developed strategic relationships with insurance carriers and other professional services, all of whom specialize in senior living, to ensure clients receive the best coverage and claim handling possible. Lee Agency is proud to be an IHCA Premier Partner and appreciates the opportunity to work with IHCA members.
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The IHCA Foundation is offering 88 scholarships to help members address current workforce challenges and to help meet future care demands. Scholarship opportunities are available...
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, June 5 and Thursday, June 6 for its Medicare Boot Camp for Home Health (HH) Clinicians. This training will empower each...
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Join IHCA for its Fortifying Your Digital Fortress - Cybersecurity Series, sponsored by CLA, beginning on June 5. This three-part virtual series will take place...
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2589 regarding Iowa Solutions for Aging with Independence...
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Join IHCA on Thursday, July 25 for its inaugural Empowering Women in LTC Conference, a transformative event dedicated to uplifting and inspiring women in the...
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Join IHCA next Tuesday, May 28, at 1:00 p.m. for a new webinar, Understanding the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently issued regulations to assist employers in complying with the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. This webinar will focus on those changes, as well as practical steps to take for compliance. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for administrators, assisted living managers and department heads.
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This year, the IHCA Foundation is offering 88 scholarships to help members address current workforce challenges and to help meet future care demands. Applications for all 2024 scholarship programs are due next Friday, May 31. Apply today! Additionally this week, IHCA Foundation highlights the MolinaCares High School Scholarship, made possible by The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation (MolinaCares), for Iowa high school seniors enrolled in a nursing program upon graduation from high school. It is intended for those interested in a future career in long-term care.
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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and CMS recently issued a final rule, Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities, which advances protections against discrimination in health care. The purpose of the rule is to restore protections against discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age and disability. AHCA/NCAL has developed a member summary that highlights the impacts on long-term care providers.
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CMS security policy requires deactivation of user roles for inactive accounts. To align with CMS security policies, the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) will begin implementing an inactive user policy this month. This will allow CMS to continue to ensure that its system is safe and secure.
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View a brief video and message from IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett on the importance of the Iowa Health PAC, the political action committee for Iowa’s long-term care profession that supports candidates for state and federal office who understand the issues impacting long-term care in Iowa.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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AHCA recently reported that last week, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that its direct Veterans Care Agreements (VCAs) claims processing systems are back online following the Change Healthcare cybersecurity breach. If you submit medical claims directly to VA and were impacted by the recent Change Healthcare incident, you can now submit using the same VA Payer IDs.
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The $2,000 Linda Juckette Family Rural and Veteran Scholarship, made possible by the Linda Juckette Family Fund, is for anyone who is a veteran or active-duty military personnel OR resides in a rural Iowa county and is interested in pursuing a health care education with the goal of joining the long-term care profession. Scholarships will be offered to assist toward tuition for rural Iowa residents and military veterans interested in pursuing nursing or health care administration degree programs or long-term care certification programs. A total of five scholarships are available. Applications for this scholarship program are due by May 31, 2024.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. Bi-weekly areas of note found in the May 1, 2024, issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include standards for certificate of need review and the certificate of need program.
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Two bills impacting long-term care providers were signed by Governor Reynolds last week — one relating to nursing home provisional licenses and one that establishes an interstate license for social workers. Both of these bills accomplish legislative priorities set forth by IHCA and its membership for the 2024 legislative session.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) HOME project was created to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality behavioral health, disability and aging services in their communities. Project updates were provided in the May HOME Project Newsletter. To share your thoughts and suggestions on the HCBS changes detailed in the concept paper, please email
[email protected] or fill out a feedback form by Friday, May 17, 2024.
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Apply to receive a free registration to a director of nursing (DON) certification program held at IHCA on Nov. 12-15 by applying for the Care Initiatives DON Leadership Scholarship, made possible by Care Initiatives. This scholarship is for assistant DONs or RNs who are employed by an IHCA, ICAL or ICHC member facility, and a total of 12 scholarships are available. Applications are due May 31.
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Dentons Davis Brown recently released two articles that may be of interest to members regarding payroll rounding policies and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Pregnant Workers Fairness Act.
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The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is fighting for a different future. For families facing the disease today. For more time. For treatments. We’re closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s. But to get there, the Alzheimer's Association needs your help. Join them in your community for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease.
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CMS requires that a certified nursing assistant (CNA) perform at least a day of nursing or nursing-related duties every 24 months. IHCA reminds members to review and update, if necessary, the listing of actively employed CNAs found under their organization’s login on the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) database. Members unable to report electronically should develop an internal process to report CNAs at least every two years.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites post-acute providers to attend the 2024 Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference on May 7 and 8 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. This two-day, in-person conference brings together medical professionals invested in the improvement and management of evidence-based infection prevention and control principles. This program will be of particular interest to infection preventionists, medical directors and providers, nurses and allied health professionals involved in the advancement of infection prevention in the post-acute setting.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. A bi-weekly area of note found in the April 17, 2024, issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin includes a newly noticed rule regarding health care employment agencies.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2579 to clarify the process of a Change of Ownership (CHOW) and the responsibilities of the seller and buyer. To minimize any delays, Iowa Medicaid requests that a CHOW notice is submitted at least 60 days prior to the change. The CHOW notice must also be submitted to the managed care organizations (MCOs) and/or the prepaid ambulatory health plan (PAHPs).
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On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC’s) Final Non-Compete Rule and U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) Overtime Rule were released. AHCA/NCAL commented on the proposed rules during the open comment periods and has developed a summary of the final rules, as well as their potential impacts on long-term care providers.
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The 2024 IHCA Foundation Member Employee Scholarship is for employees of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC member organizations looking to advance their health care education via nursing, health care administration, or physical or occupational therapy programs. A total of 13 $1,500 scholarships are available. These scholarships are made possible by the Iowa Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine (IPALTC), IHCA Districts and Nurse Connect.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Advanced Strategies for Infection Prevention and Control in-person event on June 18, Staff Burnout and Prevention Webinar on June 18, Activity Professionals Workshop on June 19 and LTC Dietary Conference on June 20.
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The National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) recently released a summary regarding the final Medicaid Access Rule. Additionally, NAHC will host a Medicaid Access Rule webinar tomorrow, Thursday, April 25, at 1:00 p.m.
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The Iowa Legislature adjourned sine die on April 20, following a successful 104-day session for the long-term care profession. IHCA's 2024 Legislative Session Report provides a summary of what IHCA assesses to be final legislative outcomes of the legislative priorities set forth by the IHCA, ICAL and ICHC boards and the legislative committee for the 2024 session. Many of the bills still await Governor Reynolds’ signature, but IHCA assesses a high probability that she will sign the bills into law. IHCA will provide final outcomes in the coming weeks.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services project, Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments (HOME), will use Iowans’ input to improve home and community-based services (HCBS). People who need or use HCBS, caregivers, service providers, case managers, advocates and community members are encouraged to participate in a brief 10–20-minute poll to offer feedback on the proposed changes to HCBS waivers. Please submit your feedback by Friday, May 17, 2024.
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In July 2019, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) introduced updated mandatory reporter training modules for child and dependent adult abuse, updating the renewal cadence requirement from five years to three and allowing any mandatory reporter training completed prior to July 1, 2019, to remain valid for five years. As we approach the five-year anniversary of the rule change, members are reminded that mandatory reporters with certificates issued prior to July 1, 2019, should update their training certificates with the newer version of the DHHS-approved training, which can be found on IHCA’s on-demand education platform.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites post-acute providers to attend the 2024 Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference on May 7 and 8 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. This two-day, in-person conference brings together medical professionals invested in the improvement and management of evidence-based infection prevention and control principles. This program will be of particular interest to infection preventionists, medical directors and providers, nurses and allied health professionals involved in the advancement of infection prevention in the post-acute setting.
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A total of nine scholarships are available to cover the full $1,500 registration fee for members interested in attending the 2024-25 IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute. These scholarships are made possible by Iowa Total Care, and applications are due May 31.
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Join IHCA for its Fortifying Your Digital Fortress - Cybersecurity Series, sponsored by CLA, beginning on June 5. This three-part virtual series will take place on three separate dates and will focus on cybersecurity hygiene, ransomware resilience and defending against business email compromise. Attendees will learn to identify common threats and online behaviors that can lead to increased exposure, gain insights into the latest ransomware threat landscape and develop and refine incident response plans. This course is approved for 3.0 CEUs for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services, nurses, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Post-acute providers, such as nursing facilities, assisted living programs, residential care facilities and home health agencies, along with other provider types in Iowa, are required to complete both criminal background checks and dependent adult/child abuse registry reviews using the SING platform prior to employment of an individual. Provider types not required by state rules to complete background checks and/or abuse registry reviews may not be allowed access to the SING platform at the current time. Therefore, IHCA recommends that members partner only with health care employment agencies that are registered with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) due to the risk of incomplete background check and abuse registry reviews.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites medical professionals to attend the virtual 2024 Annual Governor’s Conference on Substance Use, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery next Tuesday, April 23, and Wednesday, April 24.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites post-acute providers to attend the 2024 Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference on May 7 and 8 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. This two-day, in-person conference brings together medical professionals invested in the improvement and management of evidence-based infection prevention and control principles. This program will be of particular interest to infection preventionists, medical directors and providers, nurses and allied health professionals involved in the advancement of infection prevention in the post-acute setting.
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The John W. & Kimberly D. Grubb Registered Nurse (RN) Scholarship Program, made possible by the John R. and Zelda Z. Grubb Charitable Foundation, is for employees of IHCA member organizations who are pursuing an accredited RN degree or seeking to advance their nursing degree. A total of 40 $4,000 scholarships are available for IHCA member employees enrolled in an accredited RN degree program.
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Advocates for home care, home health and hospice are in Washington, D.C. this week and are holding hundreds of meetings with congressional offices. However, home care and hospice supporters who cannot attend the National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) Advocacy Days can still take part in the advocacy by joining Virtual Advocacy Day today.
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Each week of Iowa’s 2024 legislative session, IHCA provides a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, social work licensure compact and more. Additionally, IHCA has provided budget update, as well as a list of upcoming town halls where you can advocate for long-term care in-person.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently updated recommendations for U.S. suppliers of plastic syringes, consumers, health care providers and facilities.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites medical professionals to attend the 2024 Annual Governor’s Conference on Substance Use, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery on April 23 and 24. The purpose of the conference is to establish a meaningful dialogue among health professionals by focusing on trending topics, best practices and strategies for addressing barriers in behavioral health. This year’s conference will be hosted virtually to enable professionals from many geographical areas to participate.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites post-acute providers to attend the 2024 Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference on May 7 and 8 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. This two-day, in-person conference brings together medical professionals invested in the improvement and management of evidence-based infection prevention and control principles. This program will be of particular interest to infection preventionists, medical directors and providers, nurses and allied health professionals involved in the advancement of infection prevention in the post-acute setting.
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Last week, CMS released the Contract Year (CY) 2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule, which finalized revisions to policies governing Medicare Advantage (MA), Part D, Medicare cost plans and the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).
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Healthcare Academy is hosting a free webinar titled, “Mastering Behavioral-Based and Peer Interviewing,” on Wednesday, May 8 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. This webinar will feature Todd Hendricks from Huron Consulting Group, who will share strategies to elevate the selection, retention and engagement of employees through effective interviewing techniques.
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This year the IHCA Foundation is offering 88 scholarships, totaling more than $200,000, to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Applications are now open and run through May 31 for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors, veterans or individuals residing in rural Iowa counties who are pursuing an education in health care.
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Each week of Iowa’s 2024 legislative session, IHCA provides a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, dementia service specialists and providing an appropriation, social work licensure compact and more.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Sepsis Identification and Prevention for the LTC Nurse webinar on April 30, Understanding Enhanced Barrier Precautions webinar on May 3, QAPI Methodology webinar on May 21, LTC Quality Symposium on May 30 and Medicare Boot Camp for the Home Health Clinician on June 5 and 6.
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Congratulations to IHCA member Stonehill Communities in Dubuque on being selected as a participant in the CMS Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model program.
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This year the IHCA Foundation is offering 88 scholarships, totaling more than $200,000, to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Applications are now open and run through May 31 for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors, veterans or individuals residing in rural Iowa counties who are pursuing an education in health care.
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Next Wednesday, April 10, from noon-1:00 p.m., Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host a free webinar for all health care professionals interested in understanding
microbiology culture and sensitivity reports. Discussion will include the differences between gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, drug resistance and emerging pathogens.
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Last week, IHCA received notice from Wellpoint about its recoupment project that it is placing on hold. IHCA had been hearing from members about their concerns with this project and made outreach to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Wellpoint. These recoupments have revolved around the incorrect interpretation that claims for home health need to be billed through Medicare first. Providers are to continue including the diagnosis code Z76.89 as a secondary diagnosis on claims.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) informational letter (IL) 2574 is intended to provide notice that Iowa Medicaid is collecting outcome and expenditure data from provider organizations awarded American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Recruitment and Retention (R&R) grant funds during 2022.
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Each week of Iowa’s 2024 legislative session, IHCA provides a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, social work licensure compact, dementia service specialists, statewide dementia care coordination and more. Additionally, IHCA has provided information on House budget targets, as well as a list of upcoming town halls where you can advocate for long-term care in-person.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit tomorrow, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reminds providers that effective March 17, 2023, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver and Habilitation providers must report and receive approval for new residential and non-residential settings prior to using HCBS funding in the setting. March 17, 2023, marked the end of the transition period for states to fully comply with the CMS final rule for HCBS settings. The HCBS settings rule requires states to ensure all settings where HCBS waiver and Habilitation services are provided comply with HCBS settings requirements rule prior to receiving HCBS funding in the setting.
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On March 25, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), CMS and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) provided additional information and resources for providers impacted by the Change Healthcare security incident. Resources include information to help providers connect with payers, links to payer resources, information on advanced payments and more.
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The National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) is embarking on a landmark survey focused on the operational and financial aspects of the relationship between home health agencies (HHAs) and Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Home health providers that contract with MA plans are encouraged to complete this survey.
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Each week of Iowa’s 2024 legislative session, IHCA provides a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, social work licensure compact, dementia service specialists, statewide dementia care coordination and more. Additionally, IHCA has provided a list of upcoming town halls where you can advocate for long-term care in-person.
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This year the IHCA Foundation is offering 88 scholarships, totaling more than $200,000, to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Applications will open this Sunday and run through May 31 for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors, veterans or individuals residing in rural Iowa counties who are pursuing an education in health care.
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In the last four years, there have been several updates to Home Health Agency (HHA) Conditions of Participation (CoPs) through final rule-making. These updates had not been incorporated into the State Operations Manual (SOM) and therefore lacked interpretive guidelines around these rule changes. On March 15, 2024, CMS updated the SOM, not only with the new regulations, such as the occasional allowance of one remote supervisory visit per certification (G810), but also added interpretive guidelines and provided a complete overhaul to surveyor guidance and protocols.
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The 2023 fourth quarter home health agency (HHA) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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On Wednesday, April 10, from noon-1:00 p.m., Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host a free webinar for all health care professionals interested in learning more about understanding a culture and sensitivity report. Discussion will include the differences between gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, drug resistance and emerging pathogens.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit next Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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CMS recently posted a fact sheet with additional guidance for providers and Medicare Administrative Contractors impacted by the Change Healthcare security incident. The fact sheet specifically focuses on frequently asked questions about implementing the Change Healthcare/Optum Payment Disruption (CHOPD) Accelerated Payments program.
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This week's legislative update contains information on the candidate filing deadline, legislator retirements and 2024 primary candidates. Additionally, IHCA continues to provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home provisional administrator licenses, social work licensure compact, advanced registered nurse practitioner preceptor tax credit, statewide dementia care coordination and more.
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Earn CEUs at your convenience by taking advantage of IHCA’s on-demand catalog of educational offerings. On-demand courses are available 24/7 and can be completed at your own pace. IHCA offers more than 30 on-demand courses covering subjects such as adverse drug effects, trauma-informed care, relocation stress and much more. The on-demand catalog is now organized by facility type and job role, making it easy to find educational offerings relevant to you. You can access IHCA’s on-demand catalog by selecting “On-Demand Learning” from the education dropdown on the IHCA homepage.
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IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference will be held next Tuesday and Wednesday! This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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As shared previously, UnitedHealth Group Inc.’s technology subsidiary Change Healthcare announced that its systems were adversely affected by a security incident a few weeks ago. AHCA/NCAL has advocated that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CMS take specific actions in response to this issue. Over the weekend, CMS took steps to expand financial relief opportunities for impacted providers, consistent with what AHCA/NCAL recommended. AHCA/NCAL has provided a summary of the recent announcements and relief options currently available to providers.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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Each week of the 2024 legislative session, IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, dietitian licensure compact, nursing home administrator training pilot program, health care employment agencies, statewide dementia care coordination and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. IHCA is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference is less than two weeks away! This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Unlock the keys to accurate and efficient coding at IHCA's virtual ICD-10 Coding for Home Health Care course next Wednesday, March 13 and Thursday, March 14. Master the intricacies of ICD-10 coding specific to home health settings and elevate your skills to ensure precise documentation, proper reimbursement and compliance with industry standards. This course is approved for 8.0 CEUs for nurses, social services staff and administrators and will not be recorded.
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Indwelling devices, such as central intravenous lines and foley urinary catheters, are necessary tools to help treat people who are ill. While these devices do not cause infections, they can provide a route for germs to enter the body if not inserted and maintained properly. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and ECRI are offering a complimentary webinar next Tuesday, March 13, from noon - 1:00 p.m. to highlight best practices to prevent device-related infections and device management.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will soon launch an updated website as part of its Digital Communication Modernization and Clean Slate initiatives. Before the new website launches, the CDC is inviting partners to preview and provide feedback on a subset of test pages. The beta pages are available through March 29, 2024. This beta site will feature selected topics, offering a sneak peek into what's coming once the website is officially launched in the coming months.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Feb. 21, 2024 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include licensure of physician assistants and social workers, continuing education, discipline and practice of social workers, declaratory orders, petitions for rule-making and more.
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Molina Healthcare recently provided an updated Provider Bulletin regarding the Optum-Change Healthcare outage that has impacted electronic claims submissions, as well as payment and settlement services. Molina Healthcare encourages all providers submitting paper claims to explore its electronic submission options.
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Iowa Total Care members’ Person-Centered Service Plans (PCSPs) are available in Iowa Total Care’s secure provider portal. Iowa Total Care will upload the PCSP into the provider portal instead of sending it directly to you. If you would like the PCSP emailed or mailed, please contact the member’s case manager.
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Each week of the 2024 legislative session, IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, dietitian licensure compact, nursing home administrator training pilot program, health care employment agencies, statewide dementia care coordination and more.
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IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference is three weeks away! This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Providers for both managed care and fee-for-service must begin using the updated universal forms for requesting medical prior authorizations (PAs). The updated universal forms include one PA request form for outpatient services (470-5595), another PA form for inpatient services (470-5594) and a supplemental form (470-5619) for additional provider addresses, member diagnosis and procedure codes. All medical PA requests must be submitted on the new universal forms.
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On Feb. 21, Change Healthcare, a software and data analytics subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group’s Optum unit, experienced a cybersecurity incident that has impacted its network and operations. The cybersecurity incident has created a service disruption impacting Iowa Total Care’s members and provider network in several ways. As of now, Change Healthcare has not provided a timeline for resolution. To protect members and providers, Iowa Total Care fully disconnected system access to and from Change Healthcare on Feb. 21. Iowa Total Care is working on multiple solutions to restore provider functionality and ensure continuity of care for its members and will continue to provide updates as this situation evolves.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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Each week of the 2024 legislative session, IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, electronic monitoring in nursing facilities, advanced registered nurse practitioner preceptor tax credit, dietitian licensure compact, statewide dementia care coordination and more.
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IHCA's Day on the Hill is next Wednesday, Feb. 28, and is sponsored by Medline. This legislative session is our chance to address important issues – including funding for home- and community-based services (HCBS) and Home Health Low Utilization Payment Adjustment (LUPA) – as well as active bills for nursing facilities that would impact your ability to provide care. Your participation in this event is critical to making an impact. To reserve your spot, please RSVP by this Friday, Feb. 23.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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As required by federal regulations at 42 CFR 455.460, Iowa Medicaid began requiring an application fee for certain newly enrolling and re-enrolling providers on Aug. 1, 2016. The application fee is required with initial applications for new enrollment, applications for a new practice location and any re-enrollment. Providers will be required to pay an application fee set by CMS before the application can be processed. Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the fee amount is $709.00. This may be adjusted annually.
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As part of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services' (DHHS') ongoing Hope and Opportunities in Many Environments (HOME) initiative, Mathematica will soon be leading a Needs on Waitlist (NOW) Survey to better understand the characteristics and needs of individuals awaiting a Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver slot. This telephonic survey will run through the end of May 2024 in partnership with teams from Iowa Medicaid’s Targeted Case Management, the Division of Aging and Disability Services and Iowa’s Area Agencies on Aging.
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Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor published a final rule, Employee or Independent Contractor Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which goes into effect on March 11, 2024. This rule revises the Department’s guidance on how the agency determines who is an employee or independent contractor under the FLSA. The new standard will, in certain circumstances, make it more difficult for long-term care providers to properly classify a worker as an independent contractor.
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Each week of the 2024 legislative session, IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to nursing home administrator provisional licenses, electronic monitoring in nursing facilities, advanced registered nurse practitioner preceptor tax credit, dietician licensure compact, statewide dementia care coordination and more.
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IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference is less than a month away! This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals. Rooms are available at a special discounted rate of $135 plus tax at the Prairie Meadows Hotel on the nights of March 18 – 19, 2024. The deadline to reserve a room in the IHCA block is this Sunday, Feb. 25.
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Make sure you are taking advantage of all the benefits your IHCA membership has to offer by reviewing IHCA’s new member benefits guide. This comprehensive guide provides information on how to access an array of resources available to you as an IHCA member.
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Each week of the 2024 legislative session, IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to Medicaid, a home administrator training pilot program, authorized electronic monitoring in nursing facilities, health care employment agencies, nursing home administrator provisional licenses and more.
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Join IHCA for its Day on the Hill on Feb. 28, sponsored by Medline. This legislative session is our chance to address important issues – including funding for home- and community-based services (HCBS) and Home Health Low Utilization Payment Adjustment (LUPA) – as well as active bills for nursing facilities that would impact your ability to provide care. Your participation in this event is critical to making an impact. To reserve your spot, please RSVP by Friday, Feb. 23.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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Grow your skills, earn up to 10.0 CEUs and spring into quality improvement at IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals. Rooms are available at a special discounted rate of $135 plus tax at the Prairie Meadows Hotel on the nights of March 18 – 19, 2024. The deadline to reserve a room in the IHCA block is Feb. 25, 2024.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Hannah Freund joined the IHCA team this month as the association’s Education Director. In this new role, Hannah will work closely with the Vice President of Convention and Education in planning and executing long-term health care education and training events in both in-person and on-demand formats throughout the year.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Jan. 24, 2024 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include board administrative processes, complaints and investigations and discipline relating to the Professional Licensure Division. If and when issues arise, IHCA will take appropriate steps in an effort to remediate problems for members.
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As of Jan. 1, 2024, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are subject to new regulations governing prior authorizations and utilization management strategies. AHCA/NCAL, in partnership with Hooper, Lundy & Bookman, has developed a checklist to assist association member providers in addressing MA denials to ensure that plans are in compliance with the new requirements. The checklist outlines items such as the appropriateness of the prior authorizations, medical necessity determinations, coverage criteria applied, denial process and provider recourse. In addition, AHCA/NCAL will host a webinar on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at noon on the topic.
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Each week of the 2024 legislative session, IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care. This week’s updates involve bills related to Medicaid, a home administrator training pilot program, authorized electronic monitoring in nursing facilities, health care employment agencies, nursing home administrator provisional licenses and more.
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Are your Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) reports missing from the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES)? CMS has identified a system issue which caused some HHVBP files, such as the recently distributed October 2023 Final Interim Performance Reports (IPRs), to be deleted from the home health agency Provider Preview Report folders in iQIES. Further, there are Preliminary IPRs retained despite the report retention timeframes outlined on QIES Technical Support Office (QTSO). CMS is actively working to correct the issue.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the 2024 Iowa Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. This summit is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and focus on implementation strategies to promote facility-wide incorporation and improved antimicrobial use and patient outcomes for both humans and animals.
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A letter to the editor from Brent Willett, IHCA President and CEO, was recently published in the Osceola Sentinel-Tribune regarding expansion of home-and community-based services (HCBS), "Benefits to expansion of Iowa's HCBS delivery system."
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The Iowa Legislature convened Monday, Jan. 8 at 10:00 a.m. for the second year of the 90th Iowa General Assembly. Each week of the 2024 legislative session IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care.
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Grow your skills, earn up to 10.0 CEUs and spring into quality improvement at IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals. Rooms are available at a special discounted rate of $135 plus tax at the Prairie Meadows Hotel on the nights of March 18 – 19, 2024. The deadline to reserve a room in the IHCA block is Feb. 25, 2024.
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The Train More Nurses Act (S. 2853) was agreed to unanimously by the U.S. Senate on Jan. 24, 2024. It will move next to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration. This bipartisan bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor to conduct a review of all nursing grant programs to find ways to increase faculty at nursing schools, particularly in underserved areas. It also increases pathways for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to become registered nurses (RNs).
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The calendar year (CY) 2024 Veterans Affairs (VA) fee schedule for Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) 23 locations and providers is now available. This is effective Feb. 1, 2024 to Jan. 31, 2025.
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The next Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) Stakeholder Session is Tuesday, Jan. 30, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Zoom. Meeting information, such as the agenda and Zoom link, will be posted to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Medicaid Meetings webpage by the day of the meeting.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking nominations for individuals to serve on a high-acuity statewide placement SWAT team. This team is being developed to address the growing number of situations in which appropriate placement cannot be attained for individuals in this state in an effort to clear barriers and better serve Iowans.
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The Iowa Legislature convened Monday, Jan. 8 at 10:00 a.m. for the second year of the 90th Iowa General Assembly. Each week of the 2024 legislative session IHCA will provide a brief summary of bill-related updates regarding long-term care.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. Bi-weekly areas of note found in the Jan. 10, 2024 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include continuing education, discipline and licensure for nursing home administrators, standards for Certificate of Need (CON) review and more. If and when issues arise, IHCA will take appropriate steps in an effort to remediate problems for members.
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The Iowa Legislature convened last Monday morning at 10:00 a.m. for the second year of the 90th Iowa General Assembly. IHCA has provided a review of each party’s legislative priorities, Governor Reynolds’ fiscal year (FY) 2025 budget proposal and upcoming town halls.
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Grow your skills, earn up to 10.0 CEUs and spring into quality improvement at IHCA's two-day, in-person 2024 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20 at Prairie Meadows Hotel in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. A welcome reception, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., will take place on Tuesday evening. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals. Rooms are available at a special discounted rate of $135 plus tax at the Prairie Meadows Hotel on the nights of March 18 – 19, 2024. The deadline to reserve a room in the IHCA block is Feb. 25, 2024.
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IHCA reminds members to review their employee roster in the IHCA Member Portal to ensure all IHCA member employees are able to access the tools and resources from the portal they need to provide the highest quality of care to Iowans. If you have portal admin or billing contact rights, you can oversee your organization in IHCA's Member Portal. Portal admins and billing contacts can add/remove individuals from your organization, print/pay for open invoices, view staff CEUs and more.
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CMS requires that a certified nursing assistant (CNA) perform at least a day of nursing or nursing-related duties every 24 months. IHCA reminds members to review and update, if necessary, the listing of actively employed CNAs found under their organization’s login on the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) database. Members unable to report electronically should develop an internal process to report CNAs at least every two years.
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Are you currently responsible for the medical direction of a health care entity in the event of a disaster? Are you interested in serving in that role in the future? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) Technical Resources, Assistance Center and Information Exchange (TRACIE) will host the Medical Leadership in Disaster Preparedness and Response Virtual Conference on Feb. 7-8, 2024. This two half-day virtual, interactive conference will feature individuals who have a medical direction role during disasters for their health care facility. Participants are encouraged to register early, as attendance will be limited.
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In recent weeks, long-term care in Iowa has been the subject of a number of media stories exploring how the profession delivers care and advocates for common-sense policies with lawmakers. IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett has provided a message to members regarding this issue.
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The Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Period 6 (RP6) opened Jan. 1, 2024, and will remain open through March 31, 2024, at 10:59 p.m. Providers who received one or more PRF (general or targeted) and/or American Rescue Plan Rural payment(s) exceeding $10,000 in the aggregate from July 1, 2022 to Dec. 31, 2022, must report on their use of funds in RP6. The deadline to use funds for RP6 was Dec. 31, 2023.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2519 regarding changes to the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Elderly Waiver. These changes are effective Oct. 1, 2023.
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Molina Iowa Provider Relations has provided a few reminders for members as they head into the new year, including upcoming Availity trainings, a new Molina Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) work group and Iowa Molina Provider Advisory Council, updated provider relations contacts, an Electronic Visit Verification reminder, as well as a reminder on redetermination.
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In April 2023, President Biden issued the Executive Order on increasing High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers. To support this effort, the U.S. Department of Labor developed sample employment agreements, for illustrative purposes, for home care workers.
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All Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers must complete and submit the HCBS Provider Quality Management Self-Assessment by Dec. 31, 2023, regardless of whether they are currently offering HCBS services.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2538 about annual submission requirements regarding prevention and detection of Medicaid fraud and abuse. This IL applies to you if you are a provider, or part of a provider entity, that receives payments of $5,000,000 or more from Iowa Medicaid in any federal fiscal year (Oct. 1 to Sept. 30).
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Amerigroup Iowa, a subsidiary of Elevance Health serving Medicaid enrollees, recently released a press release indicating that it will begin rebranding as Wellpoint in January 2024. There will be no impact or changes to current Amerigroup members’ health care benefits or coverage. Members will continue to have access to their established primary care providers, specialists, hospitals and other health care facilities. There will be no changes to Amerigroup Iowa's agreements or levels of support with their health care providers – now or in the future – because of this name change. Providers who serve current Amerigroup members will also have continued access to tools and resources to help streamline day-to-day administrative tasks.
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Are you currently responsible for the medical direction of a health care entity in the event of a disaster? Are you interested in serving in that role in the future? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) Technical Resources, Assistance Center and Information Exchange (TRACIE) will host the Medical Leadership in Disaster Preparedness and Response Virtual Conference on Feb. 7-8, 2024. This two half-day virtual, interactive conference will feature individuals who have a medical direction role during disasters for their health care facility. Participants are encouraged to register early, as attendance will be limited.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites you to attend the 2024 Antimicrobial Stewardship Summit on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. This one-day event is designed to highlight the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, illustrate implementation strategies to promote organization-wide incorporation and improve patient/resident outcomes. IHCA encourages members to reserve this date on the calendar and plan to attend. Registration is not yet available but will be shared by IHCA when the link is provided.
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Please take a moment to view and share with your staff a brief holiday greeting from IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett reminding members that the work you do and the care you provide has never mattered more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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All Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers must complete and submit the HCBS Provider Quality Management Self-Assessment by Dec. 31, 2023, regardless of whether they are currently offering HCBS services. Due to changes from previous self-assessments, IHCA will offer a live webinar tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 14, to provide guidance regarding this requirement of all HCBS providers. Please note that only a live version of this webinar will be offered, and there will be no on-demand version or recording available.
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Beginning Jan. 2, 2024, a revised Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) rule will go into effect. This new rule clarifies that nurses relocating to another compact state will have 60 days from the date of relocation to apply for licensure in the new state of primary residence. Although nurses holding a compact license have been required to obtain a license in their state of primary residence since 2018, this revision creates a timeframe for which this action must be completed.
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Within long-term care (LTC), where meticulous recording and documentation are routine practices, the analysis of both resident and employee events takes a central role. Employee injury and illness tracking is governed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under 29 CFR Part 1904. This article serves as the first installment of a two-part series on OSHA recordkeeping. In this initial piece, AHCA/NCAL introduces the OSHA Standard and covers terms and key insights. The subsequent article will cover the new regulations set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.
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As reported in July, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is expanding its requirements to electronically submit employee injury data through its Final Rule on Improving Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses. The updated regulation requires electronic submission of OSHA 300 Logs and Form 301 (incident reports), in addition to the 300A summaries that are already submitted electronically. It's essential to understand that while this updated regulation goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2024, it applies to the 2023 data you'll be submitting before March 2024. Meaning, the current year (2023) 300 Logs, Form 301, and 300A summaries must comply with this new requirement and be submitted before March 2, 2024.
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Both Republican and Democratic caucuses are scheduled for Monday, Jan. 15. Only individuals registered with the Republican or Democratic parties and eligible to vote in the Nov. 5, 2024 election can participate in the Republican and Democratic caucuses. IHCA has provided information relating to how each party's caucus will operate, as some changes have occurred for the upcoming caucuses.
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The Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) is scheduled to meet today, Dec. 13. The REC's purpose is to make revenue estimates for the General Fund for the current fiscal year and the following fiscal year. The revenue estimates established at the December meeting must be used by the governor in the preparation of her budget message in January and by the General Assembly in the budget process for FY 2025, unless a meeting at a later date establishes a lower estimate.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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The Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) provider self-assessment is due Dec. 31, 2023. All HCBS providers must complete and submit the Provider Quality Management Self-Assessment by the specified annual deadline, regardless of whether they are currently offering HCBS services. Due to changes from previous self-assessments, IHCA will offer a live webinar next Thursday, Dec. 14, to provide guidance regarding this requirement of all HCBS providers.
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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center (HC3) has released a notice strongly encouraging health care organizations to upgrade their devices due to a vulnerability. Known as “Citrix Bleed,” this vulnerability has been ongoing since August 2023 and could allow hackers to access private health care information by bypassing passwords and multifactor authentication.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2525 regarding electronic visit verification (EVV) home health care services (HHCS) implementation. Effective for dates of service on or after Jan. 1, 2024, all HHCS subject to EVV requirement not submitted via the CareBridge EVV solution will be denied. While assisted living (AL) facilities and residential care facilities (RCFs) were allowed to opt out for long-term services and support (LTSS) PCSs, the AL facilities and RCFs who provide HHCS may not opt out of this requirement to participate in EVV for HHCS.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2535 regarding upcoming Iowa Medicaid pharmacy program changes effective Jan. 1, 2024. The letter includes information regarding changes to the preferred drug list (PDL), new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to existing PA criteria, point of sale billing and Drug Utilization Review (DUR) updates.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released an update regarding the timeline for the expenditure of the Home- and Community Based Services (HCBS) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funds that have been awarded to eligible HCBS providers. Iowa Medicaid initially informed providers that the grant funds awarded must be fully expended by March 31, 2024. However, CMS clarified that it defines funds as being fully expended once funds are transferred from the state to the entity designated by the state to expend the funds. This means that grant recipients no longer need to fully expend the funds or complete the approved projects by March 31, 2024. Grant award recipients needing additional time should plan to fully expend all grant funds received by March 31, 2025.
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On Nov. 16, 2023, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) launched a brand-new website. The new site does include the same content as legacy website, but the page URLs and links have changed, so you will need to update any bookmarked links you have saved. Iowa Medicaid and Iowa DHHS have provided a list of most frequently used Medicaid links. These new links should replace the links you have saved and can be used going forward.
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In this column, IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP, Quality Improvement and Regulatory Compliance, discusses the difference in perspectives between health care providers and how intentional effort must be made to foster connections in an environment where quality improvement and collaboration are a shared responsibility.
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Sleeping rooms are now available to reserve for IHCA's 2024 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 22-25 at the Des Moines Marriott Hotel located on 700 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. The discounted room rate is $139 per night, plus tax, for a single or double room.
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In compliance with the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, please be advised that, per section 6033(e) of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code), the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA)/Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) reasonably estimates that 14.5% of the 2023 dues and 14.5% of the 2024 dues will be spent on lobbying and other expenditures subject to section 162(e)(1) of the Code and therefore is not deductible for federal income tax purposes.
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Iowa Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS’) new initiative, Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments (HOME), is aimed at redesigning community-based services (CBS) to help Iowans stay independent in their communities. Three virtual HOMEtown Conversations are scheduled for Nov. 28, Nov. 30 (Spanish language event) and Dec. 7 (Medicaid town hall event). These forums provide an opportunity for invested Iowans to directly connect with Iowa DHHS leadership to learn more about HOME, ask questions and share their ideas to improve the CBS system.
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IHCA's 2024 education calendar is now available and features in-person education opportunities for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), assisted living (AL) facilities, home health (HH) agencies and continuing care (CC) retirement communities. Stay up to date on the key skills needed to serve your residents, tenants or patients with more than 70 in-person education events in 2024 provided by IHCA. Additionally, IHCA’s on-demand education platform will remain accessible 24/7 and features courses covering regulatory, clinical, leadership and reimbursement topics, as well as in-service training and certification programs.
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Iowa Senator Joni Ernst has co-sponsored the Healthcare Workforce Resilience Act that was reintroduced in Congress this month, which aims to improve the visa process and create more opportunities for international nurses to join the long-term care workforce.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members have access to regulatory, legal, clinical and quality improvement services and resources to assist in remaining in compliance, staying up to date on the ever-changing regulations, enhancing care quality and improving clinical outcomes.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA’s fall District Education and Meetings, sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services and NuCara Pharmacy, kicked off with its NW District event in Storm Lake yesterday. The NE District event will take place tomorrow, Nov. 9, in Cedar Falls, and the SE and SW District events will be held on Nov. 14 and Nov. 16. At the education events, representatives from Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will provide information to help you achieve and maintain substantial compliance so that resident outcomes are achieved and adverse events are prevented, and members will have the opportunity to hear from key policymakers during the new Legislator Panel session.
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IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, are being held in-person this week and next in conjunction with IHCA's District Education events featuring Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) representatives. The next event is tomorrow, Nov. 9, in Cedar Falls. IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks provide an important opportunity to connect with your elected officials prior to the next legislative session to discuss the critical role of long-term care in Iowa and to share your specific concerns regarding long-term care access in your community. It is important for legislators to hear from you directly. Registration for the District Education events is not required in order to participate in the Legislative Table Talk portion of the event.
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CMS issued the final rule regarding Medicare home health services payment rates for CY 2024. As usual, the rule also includes a mix of non-rate related proposals as well. This article from National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) provides a summary of the final rule. NAHC will provide more detail over the next week as the rule is further analyzed.
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Iowa Medicaid and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have released informational letter 2521 regarding respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine codes.
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CMS is providing notifications to home health agencies that were determined to be out of compliance with the Home Health Quality Reporting Program (HHQRP) requirements for CY 2022, which will affect their CY 2024 Annual Payment Update (APU). Home health agencies that receive a letter of non-compliance may submit a request for reconsideration to CMS via email no later than Nov. 13, 2023, at 11:59 p.m.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2520 regarding the public health emergency (PHE) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) flexibilities unwind. The HCBS Habilitation flexibilities, which were extended after May 11, 2023, and the HCBS waiver flexibilities granted during the PHE that the Department has chosen not to continue will end Nov. 11, 2023.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom this Friday, Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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Your immediate action is needed to address CMS’ proposed unfunded staffing mandate for nursing facilities (NFs) released on Sept. 1. This rule, if implemented in its current form, will make staffing challenges even more difficult during the current workforce crisis and threatening access to long-term care options for all providers. All IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members are strongly encouraged to submit comment letters to CMS on this proposed rule. Comment letters are due by Monday, Nov. 6.
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IHCA’s fall District Education and Meetings, sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services and NuCara Pharmacy, will take place on Nov. 7, 9, 14 and 16. Representatives from Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will provide information to help you achieve and maintain substantial compliance so that resident outcomes are achieved and adverse events are prevented. In addition, you will have the opportunity to hear from key policymakers during the new Legislator Panel session and visit with local legislators about legislative priorities and health care issues prior to the next legislative session when decisions on these issues will be made.
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IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, will be held in-person in conjunction with IHCA's District Education events featuring Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) representatives on Nov. 7, 9, 14 and 16. IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks provide an important opportunity to connect with your elected officials prior to the next legislative session to discuss the critical role of long-term care in Iowa and to share your specific concerns regarding long-term care access in your community. Registration for the District Education events is not required in order to participate in the Legislative Table Talk portion of the event.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a COVID-19 Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) VIS. Vaccine information statements are important tools to use when educating staff and residents/clients about vaccines. To further support vaccination administration, the CDC released an FAQ to address additional vaccine related questions.
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IHCA is excited to announce the launch of new enhancements made to the IHCA Member Resource Portal. This innovative platform is set to transform the way members access valuable information and stay up-to-date with the latest guidance and resources for long-term care providers.
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Providers were notified by Iowa Medicaid in June that telehealth services that were granted use during the PHE would be facing a discontinuation date of Dec. 31, 2023, unless they were added to the Telehealth Approved List. ICHC has made it a priority throughout 2023 to make permanent some of the services that were being used by home health agencies throughout the state. Having services permanently approved by Iowa Medicaid can open the door for agencies to invest in technology to provide these services through this avenue, creating greater access to the tremendous work you provide. ICHC has provided a list of services relevant to home health members that have been added to the permanent list.
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Molina Iowa has reported that the enhancement of modifiers and units are now live on the Availity portal. Additionally, Molina’s Continuity of Care period will end Nov. 1, 2023. Molina members should submit prior authorizations (PAs) as required. If you have questions regarding whether a PA is required, please use Molina's PA look up tool.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom next Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week (USAAW) will take place Saturday, Nov. 18 through Friday, Nov. 24. USAAW is an annual one-week observance that gives participating organizations an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of appropriate antibiotic use to combat the threat of antimicrobial resistance.
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As the nation prepares for the impending cold and flu season and new COVID-19 booster shots are being rolled out, long-term care facilities nationwide are taking steps to ensure the health and well-being of their residents and staff. The American Health Care Association (AHCA) and National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) released its 2023 #GetVaccinated Toolkit, a comprehensive set of resources designed to equip providers with the tools and information needed to promote and facilitate critical vaccinations among residents and staff this fall and winter.
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As the complexity of care requirements increase for many individuals seeking care placement in Iowa’s nursing facilities, assisted living programs, residential care facilities and home health agencies, oftentimes the way providers are reimbursed for the care they provide is not sufficient. At times, a tool that has proven to be helpful for providers is the use of single case agreements (SCAs). These are oftentimes used on individuals that the managed care organization (MCO) or Iowa Medicaid have extreme difficulties in placing. The use of SCAs would likely be characterized as the exception, rather than the rule. IHCA has provided descriptions from each of Iowa’s MCOs and for individuals discharging from hospitals with no payer source on when/how they use SCAs.
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Representatives from Senator Joni Ernst’s office will be available in all 99 counties throughout October and November to assist Iowans with problems or questions about issues involving social security, veterans’ benefits, military affairs, passports, immigration issues and other federal programs.
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Starting next week on Nov. 1, IHCA is taking a significant step to enhance member communications, ensuring that you receive the most relevant and tailored information for your role. We are excited to introduce new updates to the IHCA Member Bulletin, a new specialized IHCA Clinical Update for Nurses and enhanced sector-specific Education Update publications, all designed to empower you with the information and resources essential to the work that you do.
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Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) Director Larry Johnson will be the featured speaker at IHCA's District Education and Meetings on Nov. 7, 9, 14 and 16. At these meetings, sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services and NuCara Pharmacy, IHCA member providers will have the opportunity to hear firsthand from the director and his key staff on the recent state government realignment and how to achieve and maintain substantial compliance to improve resident outcomes and avoid adverse events. In addition, IHCA member providers will have the opportunity to hear from key policymakers during a new Legislator Panel at the district meetings and visit with their local legislators about legislative priorities and health care issues prior to the next legislative session when decisions on these issues will be made.
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IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, will be held in-person in conjunction with IHCA's District Education events featuring Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) Director Larry Johnson in November. IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks provide an important opportunity to connect with your elected officials prior to the next legislative session to discuss the critical role of long-term care in Iowa and to share your specific concerns regarding long-term care access in your community. Registration for the District Education events is not required in order to participate in the Legislative Table Talk portion of the event.
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CMS requires that a certified nursing assistant (CNA) perform at least a day of nursing or nursing-related duties every 24 months. IHCA reminds members to review and update, if necessary, the listing of actively employed CNAs found under their organization’s login on the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) database. Members unable to report electronically should develop an internal process to report CNAs at least every two years.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently provided clarification to all providers submitting claims for COVID-19 vaccines and administration.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2505 regarding Electronic Data Interchange Support Services (EDISS) registration. All providers must ensure their registration with EDISS, which is located within EDISS Connect, is accurate and up to date to avoid issues with their electronic transactions.
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As part of its redesign of community-based services (CBS) through the Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments (HOME) initiative, Iowa DHHS is seeking to ensure access to high-quality behavioral health, disability and aging services in local communities. This October, November and December, Iowa providers are invited to attend HOMEtown Conversations, a series of local events held both in-person and virtually across the state. These events provide an opportunity for invested Iowans to connect directly with DHHS leadership to learn more about HOME, ask questions and share their ideas to improve the CBS system. Providers are encouraged to attend, participate and distribute HOMEtown Conversations promotional materials within their networks and to the communities they serve.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Home Health (HH) In-Service Training Series available on-demand, Proper Investigations, Documentations and Response webinar on Nov. 6, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 101 on Nov. 8, MDS 201 on Nov. 9, HH Final Rule and 2024 Updates on Nov. 15 and the Restorative Nursing Program on Nov. 28.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom on Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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Utilize IHCA Provider Solutions endorsed product partner, Touché, to assist with your admission process and help secure revenue, regardless of payor source. Touché is a digital platform developed by long-term care providers for long-term care providers.
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Join ICAL tomorrow, Oct. 19, at 11:00 a.m. for its Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Synchrony Health Services. Iowa Center for Activity Professionals (ICAP) will hold its quarterly call next Tuesday, Oct. 24, at noon. Additionally, call recordings of last week's Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls and Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call are now available.
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Blueprint for Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS-E) Accuracy will take place next Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 25 and 26, and will provide attendees with a 13-hour workshop highly focused on the current OASIS-E data collection rules and instructions. As these rules continue to evolve, Blueprint keeps you up-to-date, always sourcing instructions and providing the latest key source documents in handout form to rely upon after the workshop. This course is approved for 14.0 CEUs for nurses and social services staff.
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IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, will be held in-person in conjunction with IHCA's District Education events in November. IHCA’s Legislative Table Talks provide an important opportunity to connect with your elected officials prior to the next legislative session to discuss the critical role of long-term care in Iowa and to share your specific concerns regarding long-term care access in your community. Registration for the District Education events is not required in order to participate in the Legislative Table Talk portion of the event.
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Iowa Total Care members may be receiving lettters regarding possible sanctions on their Medicaid eligibility. Sanctions will sometimes occur if a member has a slip/fall or injury that could possibly be related to a third party. If an Iowa Total Care member gets a letter from The Rawlings Company in regard to possible sanctions from Iowa Total Care, they need to follow the directions in the letter as soon as possible.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently announced that effective Oct. 12, 2023, over the counter COVID-19 testing code T5999 - Supply not otherwise specified code, will no longer be available for claim submission.
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CMS has released two Health Equity Confidential Feedback Reports to post-acute care (PAC) providers: the Discharge to Community (DTC) Health Equity Confidential Feedback Report and the Medicare Spending Per Beneficiary (MSPB) Health Equity Confidential Feedback Report. This data is meant to provide feedback to providers about their performance for certain populations who may have been historically disadvantaged and to identify opportunities to focus their internal quality improvement initiatives to provide all individuals their best opportunity to achieve their best potential health outcomes.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom on Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Home Health (HH) In-Service Training Series available on-demand, Assisted Living Management Certification Course Oct. 30 - Nov. 3, November LPN-IV Course beginning Nov. 1, Proper Investigations, Documentations and Response Nov. 6 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Join IHCA this morning for its October Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls beginning at 10:30 a.m. Additionally, join ICHC tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. for its monthly Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call.
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In October 2023, the second quarterly Interim Performance Report (IPR) will be available to home health agencies (HHAs) via the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). The quarterly IPRs provide HHAs with the cohort assignment, performance year measure data for the 12 most recent months and interim Total Performance Score (TPS). To receive an IPR during the Calendar Year (CY) 2023 performance year, HHAs must be active, Medicare-certified prior to Jan. 1, 2022, and meet the minimum threshold of data for at least one quality measure in the quarterly reporting period for the performance year.
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Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments (HOME) is an Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) initiative aimed at redesigning community-based services (CBS) to help Iowans stay independent in their communities. As part of this effort, DHHS leadership will visit communities in October and November. HOMEtown Conversations will be held both in-person and virtually across the state. These forums provide an opportunity for invested Iowans to directly connect with Iowa DHHS leadership to learn more about HOME, ask questions and share their ideas to improve the CBS system. The first forum will take place on Oct. 23 in Des Moines at the Polk County River Place from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
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CMS is offering a three-minute, animated explainer video titled, “Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) and BIMS Summary Score: Stopping and Coding an Incomplete Interview,” for home health (HH), inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF), long-term care hospital (LTCH) and skilled nursing facility (SNF) providers. Additionally, CMS is offering a four-minute, animated explainer video titled, “Understanding Coding for N0415 — High-Risk Drug Classes: Use and Indication,” for HH providers.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom on Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Home Health (HH) In-Service Training Series available on-demand, Clinical Nursing Documentation and the Minimum Data Set (MDS) on Oct. 25, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 25-26, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Nov. 1 and more.
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Join IHCA for its monthly Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls next Wednesday, Oct. 11. Additionally, ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call is next Thursday, Oct. 12. IHCA has provided all call-in details for remaining member calls in October.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and ECRI are offering a complimentary, one-hour webinar next Wednesday, Oct. 11, from noon to 1:00 p.m. focusing on proper food handling and storage, the importance of appropriate sanitation techniques and other valuable topics related to food service.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom on Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Home Health (HH) In-Service Training Series available on-demand, Dementia Training Webinar Series beginning Oct. 11, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, Clinical Nursing Documentation and the Minimum Data Set (MDS) on Oct. 25, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 25-26, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Nov. 1 and more.
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IHCA's variety of member benefits includes access to a collection of 200+ regulatory resource documents, saving you time and money. Due to IHCA’s relationships with state agencies, consultants and experts, members are able to receive prompt and accurate answers to their regulatory issues.
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Your immediate action is needed to address CMS’ proposed unfunded staffing mandate for nursing facilities (NFs) released on Sept. 1. This rule, if implemented in its current form, will significantly impact not only NFs, but also the entire health care continuum, including home health and assisted living providers, by making the competition and costs for staff even more difficult during the current workforce crisis and threatening access to long-term care options for all providers. We are currently in a 60-day comment period window, with comments due by Nov. 6, 2023. It is crucial for all NF providers to actively participate in the comment process to help mitigate the detrimental impact this rule could have on an already strained long-term care workforce.
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On Sept. 11, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for emergency use updated COVID-19 vaccines for 2023-2024 manufactured by ModernaTX Inc. and Pfizer Inc. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that if you have not received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past two months to get the newly updated COVID-19 vaccine.
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As the nation prepares for the impending cold and flu season and new COVID-19 booster shots are being rolled out, long-term care facilities nationwide are taking steps to ensure the health and well-being of their residents and staff. The American Health Care Association (AHCA) and National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) released its 2023 #GetVaccinated Toolkit, a comprehensive set of resources designed to equip providers with the tools and information needed to promote and facilitate critical vaccinations among residents and staff this fall and winter.
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Join Mathematica and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for an upcoming series of in-person events this October and November to discuss Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS). These public forums are an important opportunity for HCBS waiver providers to hear from Iowans about their needs and experiences with HCBS.
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Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the three managed care organizations (MCOs), Amerigroup, Iowa Total Care and Molina Healthcare, will host the 2023 Annual Provider Training through a series of in-person and virtual presentations throughout the month of October. All sessions will cover the same presentation topics. The deadline to register is Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023.
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Molina Healthcare has provided updates on continuity of care, the Iowa Medicaid Roadshow, rejection issues, its payment cycle timeline, the Availity portal, out of network rates and more.
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The seventh annual Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference, hosted by Broadlawns Medical Center, will be held in person at Des Moines University in Des Moines and streamed live online via Zoom on Nov. 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This course is open to all interested health care professionals. In its seventh year, the Geriatric Behavioral Health Conference brings together behavioral health professionals to learn about geriatric dementia and other mental health disorders in older adults.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and ECRI is offering a complimentary, one-hour webinar on Oct. 11 from noon to 1:00 p.m. focusing on proper food handling and storage, the importance of appropriate sanitation techniques and other valuable topics related to food service.
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CMS is offering a set of cue cards to assist providers in conducting the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) in writing, the resident mood interview (Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-2 to 9), the pain assessment interview and the interview for daily and activity preferences, as referenced in the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Index (RAI) v1.18.11 coding guidance. In addition, CMS is offering a three-minute, animated explainer video titled, “BIMS and BIMS Summary Score: Stopping and Coding an Incomplete Interview for Home Health, Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility, Long-Term Care Hospitals Skilled Nursing Facility Providers.”
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its new Home Health (HH) In-Service Training Series, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Oct. 2, Dementia Training Webinar Series beginning Oct. 11, 2024 Bronze Award Application Workshop on Oct. 10 and Oct. 17, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, Clinical Nursing Documentation and the Minimum Data Set (MDS) on Oct. 25, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 25-26 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by Iowa Health Care Association to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., starts this Sunday, Sept. 17, with a pre-convention education session, followed by an action-packed line up for the full convention Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. The Convention and Trade Show will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Don’t miss out. Register today!
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Members of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC are invited to attend the 2023 Annual Business Meeting, sponsored by Lument and Trio Pharmacy Services, next Tuesday, Sept. 19. All IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members are encouraged to attend the meeting where the new 2023-2024 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC boards and district officers will be announced. Additionally, the annual meeting gives members insight into the association’s activities throughout the year and an update on the future of long-term care and home health.
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Join IHCA for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls today, Wednesday, Sept. 13, beginning at 10:30 a.m. A recording of IHCA's special Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call is now available. Additionally, a video recording of the September Home Health (HH) Provider Update is now available. This video replaces the September HH Provider Update Call and highlights reimbursement updates, details on how to reach out to members of Congress on the HH proposed payment rule and information on the HH education track at next week’s IHCA Convention.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have announced that Medicaid clients may receive a visit from their managed care organization (MCO). To ensure as many people as possible retain their Medicaid coverage after the end of the continuous coverage requirement, Medicaid’s three MCOs, Amerigroup, Iowa Total Care and Molina Healthcare, are attempting to reach members by phone call, text and email. If these efforts are not successful, the respective MCO may send a representative to follow up in person at the address on file. These representatives will help members complete their renewal paperwork or schedule an appointment to fill it out over the phone. Providers are asked to inform their Medicaid clients about the renewal paperwork and direct them to send it to Iowa DHHS promptly.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2472 to provide additional guidance for billing appropriate Place of Service (POS) codes for covered services delivered via telehealth.
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Meet your in-service training requirements with ICHC’s new Home Health (HH) Aide and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) In-Service Training Series. This educational opportunity provides 12 one-hour, on-demand education sessions specifically for HH aides and CNA staff. HH agencies can access each module for multiple individuals, or an individual can watch a module on their own.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Oct. 2, Dementia Training Webinar Series beginning Oct. 11, 2024 Bronze Award Application Workshop on Oct. 10 and Oct. 17, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, Clinical Nursing Documentation and the Minimum Data Set (MDS) on Oct. 25, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 25-26 and more.
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Join IHCA for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls next Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 10:30 a.m. A video recording of the September Home Health (HH) Provider Update is now available. This video replaces the September HH Provider Update Call and highlights reimbursement updates, details on how to reach out to members of Congress on the HH proposed payment rule and 2023 IHCA Convention HH Day information.
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The August 2023 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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Amerigroup Iowa, Iowa Total Care and Molina Healthcare of Iowa are working with CareBridge to leverage their software platform for the Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) solution for providers in Iowa. Over the next several months, CareBridge will be leading the efforts to prepare provider agencies to successfully use EVV beginning Oct. 1, 2023. To help ensure a smooth implementation, each agency needs to complete the CareBridge Provider Set Up and Access Request Form by Nov. 1, 2023.
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The October 2023 release of the Home Health Prospective Payment System Grouper Software (HHGS) (v04.2.23) is now available on the CMS website. Included in the v04.2.23 HHGS update are the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) diagnosis codes, effective beginning Oct. 1, 2023.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is less than two weeks away! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Additionally, the Convention Poster Showcase will take place again this year. Create a poster that spotlights your staff and those you care for and incorporate this year’s theme of “Focus on the Future.” Poster entry forms must be submitted to IHCA by next Monday, Sept. 11, 2023.
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Meet your in-service training requirements with ICHC’s new Home Health (HH) Aide and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) In-Service Training Series. This educational opportunity provides 12 one-hour, on-demand education sessions specifically for HH aides and CNA staff. HH agencies can access each module for multiple individuals, or an individual can watch a module on their own.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Oct. 2, Dementia Training Webinar Series beginning Oct. 11, 2024 Bronze Award Application Workshop on Oct. 10 and Oct. 17, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 25-26 and more.
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Members of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC are invited to attend the 2023 Annual Business Meeting, sponsored by Lument and Trio Pharmacy Services on Tuesday, Sept. 19. All IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members are encouraged to attend the meeting where the new 2023-2024 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC boards and district officers will be announced. Additionally, the annual meeting gives members insight into the association’s activities throughout the year and an update on the future of long-term care and home health.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by the end of today, Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term in January 2024.
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CMS will host an Open Door Forum tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 31 at 1:00 p.m. Advance registration for this webinar is required. CMS will provide updates regarding the fiscal year (FY) 2024 Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Prospective Payment System (PPS) Final Rule, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Manual, MDS Crossover Rule, August 2023 performance score reports and more.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. An area of note that was found in the Aug. 9 and 23 issues include a newly noticed rule regarding agency alignment.
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Iowa Medicaid has implemented a new process for providers to report new Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) settings compliance. Effective March 17, 2023, providers must report new residential and non- residential settings in which they offer provider-owned or controlled residential and site-based or group-based non-residential services within 30 days of the change. This ongoing process will replace the need to complete the annual address collection. The annual provider quality self-assessment will still be required.
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As of July 1, 2023, all claims for services provided on or after July 1, 2023, for managed care organization (MCO) enrolled members must be submitted directly to the appropriate MCO, adhering to each MCO’s claims submission and timeliness guidelines. There are limited exceptions to this rule outlined in Iowa Medicaid informational letter 2489. Any services provided prior to July 1, 2023, should be billed to the MCO that the member was enrolled with for the month of services.
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UnitedHealthcare/Optum has reported that agencies may be overlooking recredentialing emails/messages from UnitedHealthcare/Optum. Please remember to recredential with UnitedHealthcare/Optum when requested.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) - Amerigroup, Iowa Total Care and Molina Healthcare - are working to ensure as many members as possible keep their Medicaid health coverage after the end of the public health emergency (PHE) continuous coverage requirement. According to Iowa Medicaid and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the MCOs may reach out to members via phone call, text or email to make sure their information is up to date. If they are not able to reach a member, an MCO representative may come to the member’s home to offer assistance with renewal paperwork or to schedule an appointment to fill it out over the phone.
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Molina Healthcare's provider services team will host weekly office hours in September for providers that have a question about claims, the provider portal, authorizations or simply want to meet their provider representative. Additionally, Molina has provided updates on rejection issues, its payment cycle timeline, the Availity portal, out of network rates and more.
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Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid have launched a brand-new Iowa Medicaid dashboard. The dashboard brings several new benefits and clarity to the Iowa Medicaid program, including improved accessibility, enhanced data analysis capabilities and oversight of the managed care plans (MCPs). The dashboard streamlines the reporting process, provides timely updates and ensures information is available to Medicaid stakeholders.
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Iowa Medicaid fee-for-service (FFS) is updating how it communicates with providers about coverage and billing guidelines regarding code updates. Iowa Medicaid has created a new communication bulletin containing the code updates that is posted on the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website.
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In an effort to ensure that Iowa Medicaid members have access to high-quality behavioral health, disability and aging services in their communities, Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are implementing a new program called Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments (HOME), which is highlighted in informational letter (IL) 2489. HOME will be implemented in phases through the end of 2024. Community members, caregivers and providers are encouraged to share their thoughts during virtual and in-person feedback sessions, which will be announced in the coming months.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2495 regarding competency-based training reporting changes for critical (major) incident reporting. The recent IL 2480, released on June 27, 2023, announced reporting changes for critical (major) incident reporting for all Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, habilitation and Money Follows the Person (MFP) members. The “Incident Report User Guide” in the Iowa Medicaid Portal Access (IMPA) was updated in June to prepare for these changes. The new direct entry reporting form was effective July 1, 2023.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2498 regarding upcoming Iowa Medicaid pharmacy program changes effective Oct. 1, 2023. The letter includes information regarding new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to and removal of certain existing PA criteria and point-of-sale billing updates.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is less than three weeks away! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Additionally, the Convention Poster Showcase will take place again this year. Create a poster that spotlights your staff and those you care for and incorporate this year’s theme of “Focus on the Future.” Poster entry forms must be submitted to IHCA by Sept. 11, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Oct. 2, Dementia Training Webinar Series beginning Oct. 11, 2024 Bronze Award Application Workshop on Oct. 10 and Oct. 17, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 25-26 and more.
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IHCA's variety of member benefits includes the opportunity to join Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP), a network of 200 independent long-term care and post-acute care providers joined together for the purpose of improving the quality and efficiency of patient care and financially rewarding providers for doing so through value-based contracts with MCOs. Network partners have the opportunity to pursue better contract terms due to IHCQP’s connections with national insurance plans, national experts and legal counsel.
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Your urgent attention and action are needed to safeguard the future of home health care. CMS has proposed a rule that would include a staggering 9.36% rate cut, posing severe, long-term consequences to Iowa's home health care agencies. ICHC urges home health members to submit comment letters to CMS. Letter templates have been provided to assist in preparing comments, which are due online via the Federal Register by Aug. 29.
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It's not too late to apply for this year’s IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute! To apply, please submit an updated resume, reference letter and short summary of what you hope to achieve by attending the program via email to Brenda Irlbeck at
[email protected] by the end of today, Aug. 23. The course begins Aug. 30. IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is a year-long program where leaders have the opportunity to network with peers, maximize their distinct potential and recognize new quality improvement pathways to enhance the future of the post-acute profession.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by next Wednesday, Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term January 2024.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is less than one month away! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Additionally, the Convention Poster Showcase will be taking place again this year. Create a poster that spotlights your staff and those you care for and incorporate this year’s theme of “Focus on the Future.” Poster entry forms must be submitted to IHCA by Sept. 11, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Oct. 2, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, Outcome and Assessment Information Set Version E (OASIS-E) Workshop on Oct. 25-26 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Was there something in this week's issue that would be helpful to one of your staff members or teammates? Make sure they are receiving the IHCA Member Bulletin emails by following four simple steps.
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IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is a year-long program where leaders have the opportunity to network with peers, maximize their distinct potential and recognize new quality improvement pathways to enhance the future of the post-acute profession. While there are a limited number of openings available for this elite leadership training, it's not too late to apply for this year’s program. To apply, please submit an updated resume, reference letter and short summary of what you hope to achieve by attending the program via email to Brenda Irlbeck at
[email protected] by Aug. 23. The course begins Aug. 30.
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Join the Iowa Council of Activity Professionals (ICAP) next Tuesday at noon for its quarterly update call. Additionally, recordings of IHCA's Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls and Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call are now available.
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Save time and money with IHCA Professional Consulting from IHCA Provider Solutions. IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by Iowa Health Care Association to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is quickly approaching! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Additionally, the traditional Convention Poster Showcase will be taking place again this year. Create a poster that spotlights your staff and those you care for and incorporate this year’s theme of “Focus on the Future.” Poster entry forms must be submitted to IHCA by Sept. 11, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Update Class on Aug. 29, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-IV Course beginning Oct. 2, Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Medicare Review Virtual Training on Oct. 18-19, Outcome and Assessment Information Set Version E (OASIS-E) Workshop on Oct. 25-26 and more.
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In the first half of the year, the long-term care profession has successfully navigated many challenges – including historic workforce shortages and rising inflation – as well as seized opportunities – such as securing increased Medicaid funding and tort reform. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the last half of the year, please take a moment to view this video message from IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett for an update on critical topics that require our collective attention, including the proposed federal staffing mandate, Congressional delegate tours, quality initiatives, regulatory challenges and more.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term January 2024.
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Join IHCA this morning for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Additionally, join ICHC tomorrow, Aug. 10 for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m.
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Long-term care facilities, assisted living programs and home health providers holding a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certificate will continue to receive COVID-19 test kits until further notice. Before disposing of testing supplies that are believed to be expired, members are reminded to review the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website to determine if the FDA has issued an expiration extension, allowing test kits to be used past the expiration date printed on the box.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. An area of note that was found in the July 26 issue includes a newly noticed rule regarding the Iowa Office of Apprenticeship.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI) are hosting a free webinar titled, “Infection Prevention Best Practices in Home Care Settings,” on Sept. 13 from noon to 1:00 p.m. The webinar is designed for Iowa’s frontline health care workers with a focus on those who interact in any capacity with persons seeking health care in the home, including environmental services/housekeeping personnel, emergency medical services personnel, pharmacists, home health service providers, therapists, dietitians and non-clinical staff.
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For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, formerly known as IHCA's Leadership Academy, to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. In this year-long program, leaders will have the opportunity to network with peers, maximize their distinct potential and recognize new quality improvement pathways to enhance the future of the post-acute profession. While there are a limited number of openings available for this elite leadership training, it's not too late to apply for this year’s program. To apply, please submit an updated resume, reference letter and short summary of what you hope to achieve by attending the program via email to Brenda Irlbeck at
[email protected] by Aug. 23. The course begins Aug. 30.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is quickly approaching! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. The 2023 IHCA Convention and Trade Show program guide is now available to view online.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Assisted Living Leadership Conference on Aug. 22, Nursing Facility (NF) Reimbursement Conference on Aug. 23, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Update Class on Aug. 29 and more.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term January 2024.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, Aug. 9 for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Additionally, join ICHC next Thursday, Aug. 10 for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m.
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Employers must use Form I-9 to verify the identity and employment authorization of their employees. Now only one page long, the new edition is easier for employers and employees. Other improvements include clearer instructions and guidance on acceptable receipts and the auto-extension of some documents found on the Lists of Acceptable Documents.
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The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) published a final rule on Improving Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses. This rule, effective Jan. 1, 2024, modifies existing requirements for reporting workplace injuries and illnesses. This rule directly impacts long-term care (LTC) facilities (skilled nursing, assisted living and intermediate care facilities for the developmentally disabled (ID/DD)) with more than 100 employees.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched an updated COVID-19 website. The updates are intended to make it easier for the public to find relevant information on COVID-19.
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The July 2023 quarterly refresh for the Home Health (HH) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) is now available on Care Compare. For this refresh, HH Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) will be based on the standard number of quarters.
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Join the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI) on Aug. 9 from noon to 1:00 p.m. for its free webinar, Infection Prevention and Best Practices: Supplemental Disinfection Techniques. This webinar is designed for Iowa’s frontline health care workers with a focus on those who interact in any capacity with persons seeking health care.
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Applications are still be accepted to join IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute for 2023-24. For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, formerly known as IHCA's Leadership Academy, to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. In this year-long program, leaders will have the opportunity to network with peers, maximize their distinct potential and recognize new quality improvement pathways to enhance the future of the post-acute profession. Whether you are new to your leadership role and looking for tips to get started, or you have been a leader for a while, the IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is for you!
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In the calendar year 2024 home health rate update proposed rule, CMS proposed several new regulations governing Medicare provider enrollment. These proposals apply to home health and hospice providers.
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The Q4CY22 release of the Home Health Agency (HHA) Program for Evaluating Payment Patterns Electronic Report (PEPPER) is now available for download through the PEPPER Resources Portal.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is quickly approaching! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Single Facility Conference on Aug. 17, Assisted Living Leadership Conference on Aug. 22, Nursing Facility (NF) Reimbursement Conference on Aug. 23, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Update Class on Aug. 29 and more.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term January 2024.
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Fifty-two Iowans who want to advance their health care education to work in long-term care received over $100,000 in scholarships from the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA) Foundation this week. Scholarships recipients include current long-term care employees, as well as high school students and veterans wanting to join the health care profession. Scholarships provide for the cost of a variety of health care and leadership programs to equip health care workers with the skills they need to work in long-term care.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. An area of note that was found in the July 12 issue includes an adopted and filed rule related to licensure by verification for veterans and their spouses.
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IHCA members can stay up to date on the latest reimbursement news through a variety of services and resources, including reimbursement interpretations and guidance from expert staff, access to key personnel with Iowa’s managed care organizations (MCOs) through IHCA’s monthly member calls, a collection of reimbursement resource documents and wage information to assist in competing for and retaining qualified staff. Additionally, IHCA offers reimbursement education, including the upcoming Nursing Facility Reimbursement Conference on Aug. 23.
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Applications are still be accepted to join IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute for 2023-24. For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, formerly known as IHCA's Leadership Academy, to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. In this year-long program, leaders will have the opportunity to network with peers, maximize their distinct potential and recognize new quality improvement pathways to enhance the future of the post-acute profession. Whether you are new to your leadership role and looking for tips to get started, or you have been a leader for a while, the IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is for you!
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is quickly approaching! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Hotel rooms at the Marriott Hotel are sold out for the IHCA Convention and Trade Show. However, IHCA has provided a list of hotels that still have available rooms.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including IHCA's Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course beginning Aug. 1, Long-Term Care (LTC) Social Services Virtual Conference on Aug. 9-10, Single Facility Conference on Aug. 17, Assisted Living Leadership Conference on Aug. 22 and more.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term January 2024.
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IHCA’s Professional Consulting provides IHCA members with expert facility-level MDS, EHR and quality consultation services from qualified specialists designed to improve quality and maximize reimbursement.
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Join ICAL today at 1:00 p.m. for its quarterly Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Synchrony Health Services. The call will cover health care employment agency guidance, the Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) attestation requirement and more. Additionally, recordings of this month's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) and Home Health (HH) Provider Update Calls are now available on the IHCA website.
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The National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) filed a lawsuit against CMS and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) challenging the validity of a change in Medicare home health payment that reduced rates by 3.925% in 2023 with significant additional cuts expected over the next several years. CMS has proposed an additional 5.653% permanent rate cut to begin in 2024 based on the same challenged payment methodology.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Mathematica have developed a survey to learn about people’s experiences with community-based Medicaid services. These are services and supports that Medicaid pays for to help people live, work and participate in their community. The survey takes approximately 15-25 minutes to complete, and survey responses are due July 24.
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For more than a decade, IHCA has hosted the Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, formerly known as IHCA's Leadership Academy, to provide leaders with essential tools to advance their leadership skills. In this year-long program, leaders will have the opportunity to network with peers, maximize their distinct potential and recognize new quality improvement pathways to enhance the future of the post-acute profession. Whether you are new to your leadership role and looking for tips to get started, or you have been a leader for a while, the IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is for you!
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CMS has released a video tutorial to assist providers with guidance application and interview strategies for the cognitive assessment known as the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS). This video tutorial is approximately 20 minutes in length and is designed to provide targeted guidance for accurate coding using live-action patient/resident scenarios.
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IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., is quickly approaching! The annual event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Hotel rooms at the Marriott Hotel are sold out for the IHCA Convention and Trade Show. However, IHCA has provided a list of hotels that still have available rooms.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 1, IHCA's Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course beginning Aug. 1, Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) and Survey Review on Aug. 2, Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning Aug. 2 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA, ICAL and ICHC committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. If you are interested in serving on one of these groups in 2024, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30. Committee members selected will be notified in November 2023. Approved committee members will begin their term January 2024.
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IHCA’s Professional Consulting provides IHCA members with expert facility-level MDS, EHR and quality consultation services from qualified specialists designed to improve quality and maximize reimbursement.
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IHCA members who register for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show by this Saturday, July 15, will receive the early bird discount rate of $349. After July 15, the registration rate will be $379. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer a total of 45 education sessions and up to 16.5 CEUs. Hotel rooms at the Marriott Hotel are sold out for the IHCA Convention and Trade Show. However, IHCA has provided a list of hotels that still have available rooms.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, July 13, for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m. Additionally, IHCA’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will be next Tuesday, July 18, and ICAL’s Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Synchrony Health Services, will be next Wednesday, July 19.
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Health care employment agencies, also known as staffing agencies, operating in Iowa are now expected to comply with several regulatory requirements. IHCA's Brenda Irlbeck has provided a message to members to assist in implementing best practices to improve accountability and transparency with their partnering agencies.
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IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett advocates for the nursing home profession by discussing current staffing needs, a looming federal staffing mandate and potential solutions for protecting access to long-term care in our local communities in a new interview on Iowa Press. The interview aired on Iowa PBS on Sunday, July 10, and is available to stream online. Iowa Press is the premier statewide legislative news program watched regularly by Iowa's state and congressional leaders.
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AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson sent a letter to President Biden this week underscoring serious concerns regarding a federal staffing mandate for nursing homes that is expected to be issued soon by CMS. Opposing this mandate has also been a key priority of IHCA, and the association voiced its disapproval of the mandate while meeting with Iowa's congressional delegation last month, in a comment letter to CMS, in a Des Moines Register op-ed and in an Iowa Press interview last week.
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CMS issued the proposed rule regarding Medicare home health services payment rates for calendar year (CY) 2024. The rule also includes non-rate-related proposals as well. This article from the National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) provides a summary of the proposed rule.
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CMS will host a Home Health Value Based Purchasing (HHVBP) model webinar on July 27, 2023 at 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. During this live event, members of the HHVBP Model Technical Assistance Team will provide an overview of the data and information available in the Interim Performance Report (IPR), which will help home health agencies monitor their performance during the 2023 performance year.
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Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Iowa's newest managed care organization (MCO), has officially launched in Iowa and has provided tips to providers. Additionally, Molina Healthcare of Iowa is hosting Lunch and Learn town hall meetings three times per week, starting this week through Aug. 11.
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Iowa Medicaid has released informational letter 2481 regarding the billing and coding of Spravato®. Spravato® (esketamine nasal spray) is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, in combination with an oral antidepressant, for treatment-resistant depression in adults, and for the treatment of depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
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Governor Reynolds has ordered the Iowa Legislature back into a special session that began yesterday, July 11, 2023. During a special session, the legislature may conduct regular order of business, however, this session is expected to be brief and focus solely on re-introducing the Fetal Heartbeat Law (Iowa Code Chapter 146C).
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 1, IHCA's Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course beginning Aug. 1, Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) and Survey Review on Aug. 2, Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning Aug. 2 and more.
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Utilize IHCA Provider Solutions endorsed product partner, Touché, to assist with your admission process and help secure revenue, regardless of payor source. Touché is a digital platform developed by long-term care providers for long-term care providers
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Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors must complete a nomination form by tomorrow, July 7.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, July 12 for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Additionally, join ICHC next Thursday, July 13 for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2480 regarding critical incident reporting changes. As a condition of participation in the medical assistance program, HCBS waiver and habilitation providers must comply with the requirements of Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) 441 – Chapter 77.25(3) – incident management and reporting. Additionally, case managers, targeted case managers, integrated health home (IHH) care coordinators and community-based case managers are required to submit an incident report when an incident has been witnessed or discovered.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2481 regarding Spravato® billing and coding. Spravato® (esketamine nasal spray) is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, in combination with an oral antidepressant, for treatment-resistant depression in adults, and for the treatment of depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
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Registration is open for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. This event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer an action-packed agenda of timely education and networking opportunities. A total of 45 education sessions will be offered, with the opportunity to earn a total of 16.5 CEUs. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $349. After July 15, the registration rate will be $379.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including a Nursing Facility Administrator Education Summit on July 18-19, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 1, Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) and Survey Review on Aug. 2, Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning Aug. 2 and more.
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Take your career to the next level with IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, presented by HealthCARE of Iowa and sponsored by Consonus Pharmacy, NuCara, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and Williams and Company P.C. The program will cover the leadership fundamentals you need to lead others and the specific technical skills in demand in post-acute care settings. Whether you are new to your leadership role and looking for tips to get started, or you have been a leader for a while and looking for new strategies to navigate today’s ever-evolving environment, the IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is for you! Applications for this elite leadership training are due this Friday, June 30.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 7, 2023.
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A recording of yesterday's IHCA Skilled Nursing Facility Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, is now available on the IHCA website. Additionally, IHCA has provided all Provider Update Call details for the month of July.
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ICHC has provided its members with information from the Home Health Value Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Newsletter, which provides home health agencies (HHAs) with the latest information about the expanded HHVBP Model, as well as important tools, news and timely insights from CMS and the HHVBP Model Technical Assistance (TA) team.
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The Iowa Medical Society, in partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and partner organizations, are working together to assess and evaluate the evolving landscape and future of rural health care workforce in Iowa as part of the Iowa Rural Healthcare Workforce Strategic Planning and Stakeholder Engagement Initiative. The goals of this initiative are to learn about what challenges are facing Iowa's health care workforce. particularly in rural communities, and to identify potential solutions to improve health care workforce shortages across Iowa.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI) are presenting a FREE webinar on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. for frontline health care workers highlighting the impact of environmental cleaning and disinfection practices. IHCA recommends infection preventionists, environmental services personnel, nurse managers, nurses’ aides, dietary personnel and activity staff listen in to hear key points about infection prevention practices relevant to daily tasks for each individual role.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. This event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer an action-packed agenda of timely education and networking opportunities. A total of 45 education sessions will be offered, with the opportunity to earn a total of 16.5 CEUs. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $349. After July 15, the registration rate will be $379.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including a DON and Nurse Leaders 101 Bootcamp on July 11-12, Nursing Facility Administrator Education Summit on July 18-19, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 1, Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) and Survey Review on Aug. 2 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by IHCA to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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IHCA's two-day Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health (HH) Clinicians will take place next Tuesday and Wednesday, June 27 and 28, and will highlight a wide variety of key topics for HH professionals. This educational event is approved for 11.0 CEUs for HH nurses, administrators, business office staff and social services staff.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. This event will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines and will offer an action-packed agenda of timely education and networking opportunities. A total of 45 education sessions will be offered, with the opportunity to earn a total of 16.5 CEUs. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $349. After July 15, the registration rate will be $379.
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Join IHCA next Tuesday, June 27, for its Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. Additionally, recordings of last Wednesday's Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls are now available.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2477 regarding the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Housing Infrastructure Grant.
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Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2478 regarding a change of review contractor for the federal fiscal year (FY) 2024 Payment Error Rate Measurement (PERM) Program. As noted in IL 2429, Iowa is participating in the federal FY 2024 PERM program. The original IL stated that providers may be contacted by CMS review contractor, NCI Information Systems, Inc. (NCI), who will collect medical records either in hard copy or electronic format. The CMS review contractor has changed names and is now known as Empower AI.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2479 regarding upcoming competency-based training opportunities for all Iowa Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers. Competency-based training allows providers and direct support professionals to acquire skills that can be applied to member care. Trainings are provided at no cost to agencies or direct support professionals. The next training is July 10 and will cover providing support through behavioral challenges.
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Take your career to the next level with IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, presented by HealthCARE of Iowa and sponsored by Consonus Pharmacy, NuCara, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and Williams and Company P.C. The program will cover the leadership fundamentals you need to lead others and the specific technical skills in demand in post-acute care settings. Whether you are new to your leadership role and looking for tips to get started, or you have been a leader for a while and looking for new strategies to navigate today’s ever-evolving environment, the IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute is for you! Applications for this elite leadership training are due June 30.
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The Iowa Health PAC is your best weapon in the fight for the resources you need to provide care – and it has a proven record of success. Iowa Health PAC made significant progress on issues critical to the long-term care profession during the 2023 legislative session, and in order to continue achieving these legislative outcomes that have a direct impact on you, your organization, your staff and those you care for, the Iowa Health PAC needs strong financial support – from as many people as possible. Please consider joining your peers in contributing to the Iowa Health PAC.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including a DON and Nurse Leaders 101 Bootcamp on July 11-12, Nursing Facility Administrator Education Summit on July 18-19, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 1 and more.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 7, 2023.
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Registration opens tomorrow, June 15, for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. This premier event for Iowa long-term care professionals will take place Sept. 18-20 at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines, and will offer an action-packed agenda of timely education and networking opportunities. A total of 45 education sessions will be offered, with the opportunity to earn a total of 16.5 education contact hours. IHCA members who register by July 15 will receive the early bird discount rate of $349. After July 15, the registration rate will be $379.
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Applications for the Iowa Total Care Executive Health Care Leadership Scholarship and Care Initiatives Director of Nursing (DON) Leadership Institute Scholarship are due tomorrow, June 15. The Iowa Total Care scholarship covers the cost to attend IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute program, while the Care Initiatives’ DON scholarship covers the cost to attend a variety of leadership trainings, including IHCA’s DON/Nurse Leader Bootcamp on July 11-12, AL Leadership Conference on Aug. 22, AL Regulatory/Nurse Manager class on Nov. 2, Leadership 101 On-demand series and LTC Nurse Leadership On-demand series. If you have been considering attending any of these IHCA leadership courses, don’t miss your chance to attend for free by applying for and receiving an IHCA Foundation scholarship.
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Based on feedback from our members, IHCA has migrated to a new on-demand learning platform to make it easier to access and complete on-demand learning opportunities. The new platform is now available for you to use. You will no longer be able access to the old on-demand learning platform and CEUs earned on that platform after tomorrow, June 15. Please finish any courses you have in progress the old platform and save your CEUs and certificates for your records by end of day, June 15.
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Join IHCA today, Wednesday, June 14, at 10:30 a.m. for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls. Additionally, a recording of last Thursday's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call is now available.
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Congratulations to the 19 long-term care leaders who graduated from IHCA’s 2022-2023 Executive Health Care Leadership Institute yesterday, June 13. If you would like to join the list of IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute graduates, it’s not too late to apply for the 2023-2024 class! Applications for this elite leadership training are due by Friday, June 30.
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The June 2023 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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Iowa Total Care has provided additional clarity related to a provider alert that was posted on March 28, 2023, related to pre-pay review of claims.
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Molina Healthcare, Iowa's newest managed care organization, recently provided an update regarding its contact information and trainings, including Molina Iowa Townhall Lunch and Learn series beginning July 10.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including a Health Care Employment Agency (HCEA) Compliance Review on June 26, Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health Clinicians on June 27-28, LTC Dietary Conference and Food Vendor Fair on June 29, DON and Nurse Leaders 101 Bootcamp on July 11-12, Nursing Facility Administrator Education Summit on July 18-19 and more.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 7, 2023.
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IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by IHCA to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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Take your career to the next level with IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, presented by HealthCARE of Iowa and sponsored by Consonus Pharmacy, NuCara, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and Williams and Company P.C. Applications are now open for this elite leadership training. Individuals who apply for the program by June 9 will save $250 with the Early Bird discounted price of $1,250; or save $500 with the Early Bird discounted price of $2,000 for two individuals from the same organization. After June 9, the registration fee is $1,500 for one individual or $2,500 for two individuals for the same organization.
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On May 31, 2023, CMS announced a final rule that makes key changes involving staff and resident COVID-19 testing and vaccines. This rule will be effective 60 days after its publication date, or Aug. 4, 2023.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the May 31 issue includes adopted and filed rules related to residential care facility minimum physical standards, health care facilities administration and nursing facilities' five-year rule review.
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The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) recently announced the recipients of the 2023 Bronze Commitment to Quality Award. Ten Iowa long-term care facilities were recognized by AHCA/NCAL with this award, which encompassed nearly 400 long-term and post-acute care providers in 47 states.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2457 regarding telehealth flexibilities following the public health emergency (PHE).
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2466 regarding the Iowa Medicaid Specialty Drug Administration - Alternative Site of Care (SOC). The goal of this program is to provide members with alternative SOC options for select chronic, provider-administered specialty drugs when appropriate (i.e., improve access and accessibility).
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has announced upcoming competency-based training opportunities for all Iowa long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers. Competency-based training allows providers and direct support professionals to acquire skills that can be applied to member care. Trainings are provided at no cost to agencies or direct support professionals. The next training will be June 19.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including an Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21, MDS 3.0 Update Class on June 22, Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health Clinicians on June 27-28, LTC Dietary Conference and Food Vendor Fair on June 29, DON and Nurse Leaders 101 Bootcamp on July 11-12, Nursing Facility Administrator Education Summit on July 18-19 and more.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 7, 2023.
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Join ICHC next Thursday, June 8, at 2:00 p.m. for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. A recording of the May Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, is now available on the IHCA website.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2462 regarding the unwinding of COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) provider enrollment renewal flexibilities.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2468 regarding Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver expanded services, including medical day care for children and adult day care.
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Take your career to the next level with IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, presented by HealthCARE of Iowa and sponsored by Consonus Pharmacy, NuCara, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and Williams and Company P.C. Unlike other leadership training programs, this program is custom built for those who work in the post-acute care profession. It includes the leadership fundamentals you need to lead others and the specific technical skills in demand in post-acute care settings. Applications for this elite leadership training are due June 30. Apply by June 9 and receive the Early Bird Discount.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including an Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21, MDS 3.0 Update Class on June 22, Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health Clinicians on June 27-28, LTC Dietary Conference and Food Vendor Fair on June 29, DON and Nurse Leaders 101 Bootcamp on July 11-12, Nursing Facility Administrator Education Summit on July 18-19 and more.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 7, 2023.
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Based on feedback from our members, IHCA has migrated to a new on-demand learning platform. The new platform is now available and will make it easier for you to access on-demand learning opportunities. To ensure your access to the new on-demand learning platform, please follow the instructions in this article if you have not already done so. The current on-demand learning platform and CEUs will be available until June 15. Please finish the course you are currently in by June 15 and print your CEUs for your records.
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IHCA’s Legislative Outcomes Report for the 2023 session is now available. The report covers the outcomes of IHCA's legislative priorities, including Medicaid rate rebasing, medical malpractice tort reform, Certificate of Need (CON), change of ownership of licensed nursing facilities, staffing agency reform, scope of practice, the Quality Assurance Assessment Fee (QAAF), Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) the Home Health Low Utilization Payment Adjustment (LUPA) rate and more.
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Iowa Health PAC, the political action committee for Iowa’s long-term care profession, allows providers to pool their resources together to support candidates for state and federal office who understand the issues impacting long-term care in Iowa. IHCA's legislative accomplishments are proof that support of the Iowa Health PAC is working. However, the battle is not over. As competition for limited state resources continues, the Iowa Health PAC will continue to fight for long-term care to be prioritized for resources, including funding, needed to provide care, and to push back on legislative and regulatory barriers to providing care. To do so, we need your support.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2450 regarding a virtual training session on June 6 that will address revalidation requirements as a part of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) unwind. This training is intended for all provider types.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have announced upcoming competency-based training opportunities for all Iowa long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers. Competency-based training allows providers and direct support professionals to acquire skills that can be applied to member care. Trainings are provided at no cost to agencies or direct support professionals.
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Take your career to the next level with IHCA’s Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, presented by HealthCARE of Iowa and sponsored by Consonus Pharmacy, NuCara, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and Williams and Company P.C. Unlike other leadership training programs, this program is custom built for those who work in the post-acute care profession. It includes the leadership fundamentals you need to lead others and the specific technical skills in demand in post-acute care settings. Applications for this elite leadership training are due June 30.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including an AAPACN RAC-CT Workshop June 6-8, 2023, Medicaid Funding Update Webinar on June 8, Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21, MDS 3.0 Update Class on June 22, Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health Clinicians on June 27-28, LTC Dietary Conference and Food Vendor Fair on June 29 and more.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), Iowa Center for Assisted Living (ICAL) or Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) board of directors. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 7, 2023.
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IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by Iowa Health Care Association to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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Join Iowa Council of Activity Professionals (ICAP) next Tuesday, May 23, at noon for its quarterly ICAP Call. Call recordings for last week’s Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call and Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls are now available on the IHCA website.
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The 2023 IHCA Foundation Member Employee Scholarship, made possible by the Iowa Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care (IPALTC), IHCA Districts and Iowa Council of Nurse Leaders (ICNL), is for employees of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC member organizations looking to advance their health care education. This year 13 scholarships, at $1,500 each, are available for employees interested in pursuing nursing, health care administration or physical or occupational therapy programs. Scholarships are for the 2023-2024 academic year. Applications are now open and due by May 31, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including an AAPACN RAC-CT Workshop June 6-8, 2023 Medicaid Funding Update Webinar on June 8, Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21, MDS 3.0 Update Class on June 22, Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health Clinicians on June 27-28, LTC Dietary Conference and Food Vendor Fair on June 29 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Join IHCA today, May 10, for its monthly Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls beginning at 10:30 a.m. and ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m. The HH Provider Update Call will cover a legislative session update, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) HH listening session details, upcoming electronic visit verification (EVV) stakeholder sessions, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver eligibility information, 2023 IHCA Foundation scholarship programs, upcoming education opportunities and more.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly area of note found in the May 3 issue includes an adopted and filed rule related to health care facility self-identification and correction of a class II or III violation.
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Iowa’s newest managed care organization (MCO), Molina Healthcare of Iowa, will join Amerigroup and Iowa Total Care in providing medical benefits for IA Health Link and Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki) members on July 1, 2023. DHHS will reallocate up to one-third of Medicaid members to Molina effective July 1, 2023. This IL provides guidance for providers regarding contracting with Molina, Molina provider training dates and locations, information about member choice and assignment and how to assist members should they have questions.
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Iowa Medicaid providers and members are invited to a virtual listening session to discuss challenges to the current home health (HH) system and propose solutions to improve the program in Iowa. The listening session will be held on Monday, May 22, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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The Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA) Foundation is pleased to announce a new registered nurse (RN) scholarship endowment to help Iowa long‐term care employees advance their nursing skills, thanks to the generosity of the John R. and Zelda Z. Grubb Charitable Foundation. This is the first scholarship endowment received by the IHCA Foundation, whose mission is to support Iowa’s long‐term care workforce. In addition, the IHCA Foundation is offering 51 scholarships this year to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Applications for 2023 IHCA Foundation scholarship opportunities are due by May 31, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including a ServSafe Certification Program on May 24, AAPACN RAC-CT Workshop June 6-8, 2023 Medicaid Funding Update Webinar on June 8, Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21, MDS 3.0 Update Class on June 22, Medicare Bootcamp for Home Health Clinicians on June 27-28, LTC Dietary Conference and Food Vendor Fair on June 29 and more.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, May 10, at 10:30 a.m. for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Provider Update Calls. Additionally, ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call will take place on May 10 at 2:00 p.m. A recording of the April Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, is now available on the IHCA website.
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On May 1, CMS released new regulatory guidance for the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE). The memo outlines each waiver CMS put into place during COVID-19 and how the end of the PHE will affect those waivers. Additionally, the memo outlines timelines for certain regulatory requirements issued through the PHE, including ending of COVID-19 staff vaccination requirements. This memo applies to long-term care, intermediate care facilities and other provider types.
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As the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) is nearing its end on May 11, 2023, there have been many changes and flexibilities needed to respond to the PHE. Some of these flexibilities became permanent over the years, some have been extended and some will end after May 11. To assist providers with navigating those changes, CMS had developed a new roadmap with additional details about end of PHE changes, which includes fact sheets specific to home health.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the April 18 issue include adopted and filed rules related to the professional licensure and labor service divisions.
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Please take a moment to view a video message from IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett about the Iowa Health PAC. Watch for more information to come about the impact the Iowa Health PAC has had on the association's legislative outcomes this session, as well as the upcoming Iowa Health PAC campaign in preparation for the fall election cycle.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2453 regarding Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver eligibility. This (IL) clarifies the HCBS waiver eligibility policy pertaining to the need for services.
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On April 27, 2023, CMS released a proposed rule that will significantly impact the Medicaid program, if finalized. The notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) addresses a wide range of issues regarding access to and payment for Medicaid services. While there are positive components to the regulation, there are also several areas of potential concern for providers.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2455 regarding premiums and co-payments for Medicaid, Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki), Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP) and Medicaid for Employed People with Disabilities (MEPD). During the national public health emergency (PHE), Iowa Medicaid suspended co-payments and premiums for all members. The PHE is scheduled to end May 11, 2023. Iowa Medicaid will complete eligibility redeterminations for most members. To ensure accurate premiums and co-payments are billed to members, premiums will remain suspended until June 2024 for all members that have coverage under Hawki, IHAWP and MEPD.
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May is National Nurses Month — What better time to learn about funding opportunities available to nursing programs, students and practicing nurses provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Bureau of Health Workforce (BHW)? Join HRSA on Wednesday, May 10, at 1:30 p.m. for a free informational webinar regarding HRSA workforce funding opportunities for nursing programs, students and practicing nurses, as well as the benefits of each program and the eligibility requirements.
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The Care Initiatives Director of Nursing (DON) Leadership Scholarship, made possible by Care Initiatives, is for DONs, assistant directors of nursing (ADONs) or registered nurses (RNs) interested in pursuing an ADON or DON position with an IHCA, ICAL and ICHC member organization. Six scholarships will be offered to provide for up to $1,500 toward tuition or registration fees to attend eligible leadership programs offered by an Iowa community college or eligible education provider. Applications are now open. Scholarship applications are due by May 31, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Assisted Living Nurses Conference on May 17, Medicaid HCBS Elderly Waiver Review on May 18, ServSafe Certification Program on May 24, AAPACN RAC-CT Workshop June 6-8, 2023 Medicaid Funding Update Webinar | on June 8, Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21 and more.
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Sleeping rooms are now available to reserve for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 18-20 at the Des Moines Marriott located at 700 Grand Ave. in downtown Des Moines. The discounted room rate is $135 per night, plus tax, for a single or double room.
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Save time and money with IHCA Professional Consulting from IHCA Provider Solutions. IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by the Iowa Health Care Association to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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Beginning Oct. 1, 2022, Iowa Medicaid began accepting applications from eligible providers for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Employee Training and Scholarship Grant. Because of the limited time remaining to expend ARPA funds, the deadline to apply for the ARPA HCBS Employee Training and Scholarship Grant is April 30, 2023. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
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Molina Healthcare will be hosting provider educations from May 2 to June 22, 2023. These 'General Sessions' are all identical, live presentations. Molina Healthcare will have an open Q&A after the presentation is complete, which will occur mid-way through this time slot to allow for a substantial amount of time for questions and answers.
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The Linda Juckette Family Veteran and Rural Scholarship, made possible by the Linda Juckette Family Fund, is for anyone who is a veteran or active-duty military personnel OR resides in a rural Iowa county and is interested in pursuing a health care education with the goal of joining the long-term care profession. Five scholarships will be offered to provide for up to $2,000 toward tuition for rural Iowa residents and military veterans interested in pursuing nursing or health care administration degree programs or long-term care certification programs. Scholarship applications are due by May 31, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Assisted Living Nurses Conference on May 17, Medicaid HCBS Elderly Waiver Review on May 18, ServSafe Certification Program on May 24, AAPACN RAC-CT Workshop June 6-8, Activity Professionals Workshop on June 21 and more.
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IHCA Provider Solutions is a new service line offered by the Iowa Health Care Association to help Iowa long-term care providers with effective solutions to maximize their operations and drive positive results. IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program. IHCA’s Professional Consulting provides IHCA members with expert facility-level MDS, EHR and quality consultation services from qualified specialists designed to improve quality and maximize reimbursement.
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On April 18, 2023, U.S. President Joe Biden and the Administration announced what they described as “the most sweeping set of Executive Actions to improve care in history.” The White House fact sheet on these Executive Actions specifically notes the Administration’s focus in the fiscal year 2024 budget around support for quality and affordable long-term care (LTC), along with childcare and pre-school. While Congress is considering these options, the President noted he wanted to take “immediate action to make care more affordable for American families, support family caregivers, boost compensation and improve job quality for care workers and expand care options.”
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Join ICAL next Wednesday, April 26, at 11:00 a.m. for its Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call, and join IHCA next Thursday, April 27, at 10:00 a.m. for its Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. A call recording for last week's ICHC Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call is now available on the IHCA website. The call covered new CMS resources, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver billing code updates, Preview Reports and Star Ratings Preview Reports available in the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), managed care organization (MCO) updates and onboarding details, upcoming education opportunities and more.
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Based on feedback from our members, IHCA is in the process of migrating to a new on-demand learning platform for its website this week. The new platform will be available for use starting on Monday, April 24 and will make it easier for you to access on-demand learning opportunities. To ensure your access to the new on-demand learning platform, please save or print this article for future reference.
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The Notifications of Enforcement Discretion issued under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act during the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) will expire at 11:59 p.m. on May 11, 2023, due to the expiration of the COVID-19 PHE. This policy change will no longer permit providers to use technology, such as unsecure iPads, smart phones or other technology, for telehealth services after Aug. 9, 2023, unless they meet the stringent HIPAA patient privacy requirements. There will be a 90-day transition period for covered health care providers to come into compliance with the HIPAA Rules with respect to their provision of telehealth.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the April 5 issue include adopted and filed rules related to hospice license standards, dependent adult abuse and managed care.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2448 regarding the end of COVID-19 coverage for uninsured individuals. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) created a new Medicaid eligibility group for uninsured individuals. The new eligibility group was provided a limited benefit package of services related to testing and diagnosis of COVID-19 during the public health emergency (PHE). Under federal law, Medicaid coverage of COVID-19 vaccinations and testing for this group will end when the PHE ends on May 11, 2023.
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On April 4, 2023, CMS released the following notice. The Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), Form CMS-R-131 and form instructions have been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for renewal. The use of the renewed form with the expiration date of Jan. 31, 2026 will be mandatory on June 30, 2023. You may continue to use the ABN form with the expiration date of June 30, 2023 until the renewed form (expiration date Jan. 31, 2026) becomes mandatory on June 30, 2023. The ABN form CMS-R-131 is the notice you would provide a beneficiary who wishes to receive Part B services (therapy) which the provider believes Medicare won’t pay. This form would be required to provide to the beneficiary prior to services you intend to bill the beneficiary due to Medicare B non-coverage.
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Amerigroup recently released an updated provider experience representative map for Iowa providers. The provider contact information provides Amerigroup Iowa, Inc., Iowa Health Link and Health and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki) account management representatives.
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Encounter Telehealth and IHCA Foundation are offering one-hour webinars on mental health topics that can be used for free by IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members and their staff to help with stress and mental health. Webinar topics include trauma informed care, stress management and overcoming anxiety and fears.
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The 2023 MolinaCares High School Scholarship, made possible by the MolinaCares Charitable Foundation, is for Iowa high school seniors who are in their senior year during the 2022-2023 academic year and interested in pursuing a career in long-term care. This $2,000 scholarship covers tuition fees to pursue a certified nursing assistant (CNA), licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), associate of science in nursing (ASN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program for the 2023-2024 academic year. Applications are now open. Scholarship applications are due by May 31, 2023.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its District Education and Meetings occurring on four different dates and district locations in May, Assisted Living Nurses Conference on May 17, Medicaid HCBS Elderly Waiver Review on May 18, ServSafe Certification Program on May 24 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, April 13, at 2:00 p.m. for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. This call will cover new CMS resources, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver billing code updates, Preview Reports and Star Ratings Preview Reports available in the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), managed care organization (MCO) updates and onboarding details, upcoming education opportunities and more. IHCA has provided the call-in details for all member calls remaining in April.
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The March 2023 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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CMS has added cue cards as a resource to assist providers in conducting the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2 to 9) and the Pain Interview, as referenced in the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS-E) coding guidance. This resource is intended to be utilized as a supplemental patient communication tool that provides a visual reference for the coding of response options.
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Due to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently ending the mandatory reporting order in the state, case data is no longer available to inform the data shown within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 Data Tracker. Since September 2020, providers have been using the CDC’s Community Transmission rates as directed in QSO-20-39-NH to determine appropriate infection prevention measures, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) use. Until CMS releases new guidance, providers are reminded that the guidance remains in effect.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2445 regarding monoclonal antibody treatments Evusheld (tixagevimab co-packaged with cilgavimab), bebtelovimab and sotrovimab.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2446 regarding provider messaging and the continuous coverage requirements unwind. Members will not automatically lose coverage after March 31, 2023. Because of the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) unwind, most members will need to renew their coverage this year, but member renewal dates are different.
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On April 11, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced that some Medicaid members’ personal information was compromised in a national data breach affecting a contractor’s computer system last year. The Iowa Medicaid system was not breached.
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With Professional Consulting from IHCA Provider Solutions, you receive an expert evaluation of your current processes and personalized recommendations to make the most of your time – and money! IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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For this refresh, Home Health (HH) Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) will be based on the standard number of quarters. The July 2023 refresh will add a new claims-based measure for public reporting. Due to the COVID-19 reporting exceptions, the claims-based measures have been calculated excluding Q1 and Q2 2020 data from measure calculations.
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The 2023 IHCA Foundation scholarship programs are now open for application. Scholarship opportunities are available for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care education or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors, veterans or individuals residing in rural Iowa counties who are pursuing an education in health care. A total of 51 scholarships are available this year through six different scholarship programs, including two new scholarships for any members interested in attending IHCA Leadership Institute and for DONs interested in further developing their leadership skills. The application deadline is May 31.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Minimum Data Set (MDS) 101 Workshop on April 26, MDS 201 Workshop on April 27, District Education and Meetings occurring on four different dates and district locations in May, Assisted Living Nurses Conference on May 17, Medicaid HCBS Elderly Waiver Review on May 18 and more.
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With Professional Consulting from IHCA Provider Solutions, you receive an expert evaluation of your current processes and personalized recommendations to make the most of your time – and money! IHCA Provider Solutions services include professional consulting, group purchasing benefits, endorsed products and the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Network program.
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The 2023 IHCA Foundation scholarship programs are now open for application. Scholarship opportunities are available for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care education or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors, veterans or individuals residing in rural Iowa counties who are pursuing an education in health care.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, April 12, at 10:30 a.m. for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls. Additionally, ICHC will hold its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call next Thursday, April 13, at 2:00 p.m. IHCA has provided the call-in details for all member calls in April, and a recording of last week’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, is available on the IHCA website.
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On March 22, 2023, CMS began sending electronic certificates to laboratories that opt-in on their Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) application (Form CMS-116) to receive email notifications. These laboratories will be emailed a link to their CLIA certificate, which they can print in hard copy. Generally, new certificates will be emailed approximately 30 days prior to the expiration of the current certificate.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the Assisted Living Management Certification (ALMC) course on April 17-21, Assisted Living (AL) Regulatory class on April 20, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 101 Workshop on April 26, MDS 201 Workshop on April 27 and more.
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Utilize IHCA Provider Solutions endorsed product partner, Touché, to assist with your admission process and help secure revenue, regardless of payor source. Touché is a digital platform developed by long-term care providers for long-term care providers.
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Home Instead Senior Care – Polk County has become the first Iowa Accredited Home Care Agency, announced by Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC), a division of the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), on March 24, 2023. By achieving accreditation, Home Instead Senior Care completed ICHC’s Home Care Accreditation Program to demonstrate that it meets operational and quality standards for excellence that set accredited agencies apart from others in the industry.
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The IHCA Foundation 2023 scholarship programs will open for application this Friday, March 31. Scholarship opportunities will be available for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care education or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors who are pursuing an education in health care.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2434. In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), Iowa Medicaid directed the managed care organizations (MCOs) to provide 100% reimbursement to out-of-network providers. This flexibility will end on April 30, 2023.
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In a Provider News Alert released on March 28, Iowa Total Care stated it is committed to continuously improving its overall payment integrity solutions to prevent overpayments due to waste or abuse. Iowa Total Care will begin performing additional prepayment claim reviews starting April 4, 2023, using Optum’s Comprehensive Payment Integrity (CPI) tool.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently updated informational letter (IL) 2082 with IL 2435 regarding Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver billing code updates. Effective Jan. 1, 2020, procedure codes 96152 and 96153 are no longer valid for health behavior and intervention services under the Iowa Medicaid HCBS waivers. These HCBS waiver codes were overlooked when the prior code update was announced. Iowa Medicaid is replacing the invalid codes effective April 1, 2023.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently announced upcoming competency-based training opportunities for Iowa long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers and case managers. The in-person and virtual trainings will cover quality improvement and Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) landlord/tenant rules and will occur on April 11 and April 13.
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IHCA recently created an Instagram account (@iowahealthcare) to help spread awareness, news, resources and opportunities available for individuals interested in beginning, continuing and advancing in a career in long-term care. In addition, AHCA/NCAL recently announced the launch of Careers in Caring, a new national campaign to raise awareness of the opportunities in long-term care and equip facilities with the necessary resources to attract new caregivers to the field.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the Assisted Living Management Certification (ALMC) course on April 17-21, Assisted Living (AL) Regulatory class on April 20, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 101 Workshop on April 26, MDS 201 Workshop on April 27 and more.
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Register today for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics. Additionally, LaShuan Bethea, executive director at the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) will provide an assisted living (AL) national update.
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Kimber Larson is joining the IHCA team on Monday, March 27, as the association's Director of Quality Solutions. In this new role, Kimber will operate as part of IHCA’s new Provider Solutions service line and provide consultation to the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) network related to quality outcome improvement.
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The IHCA Foundation 2023 scholarship programs will open for application next Friday, March 31. Scholarship opportunities will be available for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care education or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors who are pursuing an education in health care.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) listed albuterol sulfate inhalation solution, 0.5% in shortage status starting in October 2022. Due to recent news of additional manufacturer closures, the shortage is likely to continue, if not worsen. Although the shortage has not impacted many Iowa providers, IHCA encourages members to reach out to their partnering pharmacies to discuss response plans in the event the shortage affects their ability to provide or administer this necessary medication to residents/tenants/clients.
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CMS recently released a short video tutorial to assist providers with coding GG0170C — Lying to Sitting on Side of Bed. This five-minute video is designed to provide targeted guidance using simulated patient scenarios.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the March 8 issue include adopted and filed rules related to home- and community-based services (HCBS) provider reimbursement rates, nursing facility (NF) major renovations and Medicaid utilization, the NF Quality Incentive Payment Program, Iowa Health and Wellness Plan and more.
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The American Health Care Association (AHCA) and National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) recently announced the launch of Careers in Caring, a new national campaign from AHCA/NCAL to raise awareness of the opportunities in long-term care and equip facilities with the necessary resources to attract new caregivers to the field.
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Veterans Integrated Services Network 23 (VISN23), also known as the Veterans Affairs (VA) Midwest Health Care Network, hosted live webinars on March 14 and 16 regarding a new standardized form to request new services or reauthorizations. For those who could not attend the webinar, resources offered last week are now available for the VISN23 Request for Services (RFS) and Reauthorization form.
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As of March 13, 2023, the Iowa Total Care Provider Portal claims dashboard and claim details page has a new look. This redesign changes the look and feel of the claims portion of the portal.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the Medicare Review Seminar on April 5, Assisted Living Management Certification (ALMC) course on April 17-21, Assisted Living (AL) Regulatory class on April 20, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 101 Workshop on April 26, MDS 201 Workshop on April 27 and more.
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IHCA has recognized HPSI as a Premier Partner for over 25 years. HPSI takes great pride in providing IHCA members with the opportunities for significant savings in key areas of spending through a combination of aggressive supplier pricing programs and consistent local support. 2023 begins a new chapter in the HPSI and IHCA program relationship with new group purchasing organization (GPO) benefits, offered to IHCA members as part of IHCA’s new Provider Solutions service line.
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Register today for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics. Additionally, LaShuan Bethea, executive director at the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) will speak and provide an assisted living (AL) national update.
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The International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) Coding Essentials for Home Health Professionals virtual class will take place next Wednesday and Thursday, March 22 and 23. This class will focus on diagnosis coding in the Patient-Driven Groupings Model (PDGM), the impact of the primary diagnosis and comorbidities on payment calculation and claim submission and how home health agencies can avoid problems in this area. This course is approved for 14.0 CEUs for home health nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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A recording of ICHC's March 9 Home Health Provider Update Call is now available on the IHCA website. This call covered managed care organization (MCO) updates and onboarding, a LUPA funding update, CMS Open Door Forum details, upcoming electronic visit verification (EVV) stakeholder sessions, grassroots advocacy topics, telehealth reporting on HH claims, upcoming CMS HH Prospective Payment System (PPS) final rule webinar details and more. IHCA's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call will be on March 31.
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Iowa’s Revenue Estimating Conference (REC), the three-member panel from the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency, met on March 10, 2023, to project state revenues which will be used by Iowa lawmakers to develop the budget for the next fiscal year. According to the REC, the state’s estimated revenue for the current budget year improved slightly from December but is expected to drop below last year as 2022 tax cuts take effect. Beginning July 1, the start of fiscal year 2024, revenues are expected to be about 1% below 2023.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released informational letter (IL) 2432 regarding the end of the federal public health emergency (PHE) flexibilities. In March 2020, the federal PHE established flexibilities to the Medicaid program in accordance with PHE policies and benefits. With the announcement that the PHE will end on May 11, 2023, Iowa Medicaid will begin releasing a series of ILs concerning the end of these PHE flexibilities. As each flexibility ends, Iowa Medicaid will publish an IL explaining the piece that is “unwinding” or returning to normal operating procedures.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the Medicare Review Seminar on April 5, Foundations for Wound Care on April 11-13, Assisted Living Management Certification (ALMC) course on April 17-21, Assisted Living (AL) Regulatory class on April 20, Minimum Data Set (MDS) 101 Workshop on April 26, MDS 201 Workshop on April 27 and more.
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IHCA’s Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline, took place this afternoon at the Iowa Capitol. Nearly 130 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members participated in the event and shared with legislators the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including the need for funding. IHCA appreciates attendees taking the time to visit directly with their elected representatives on how these issues impact their organizations and the communities they serve.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, March 9, at 2:00 p.m. for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. This call will cover managed care organization (MCO) updates and onboarding, a LUPA funding update, CMS Open Door Forum details, upcoming electronic visit verification (EVV) stakeholder sessions, grassroots advocacy topics, clarification from CMS regarding telehealth reporting on HH claims, upcoming CMS HH Prospective Payment System (PPS) final rule webinar details and more. IHCA's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call will be on March 31.
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Veterans Integrated Services Network 23 (VISN23), also known as the Veterans Affairs (VA) Midwest Health Care Network, has been working on a process improvement project to help streamline care coordination and communication between their community partners and the VA. VISN23 will be offering a series of webinars next Tuesday, March 14 and Thursday, March 15 to update individuals on the upcoming changes.
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CMS will host an expert-led overview of the calendar year (CY) 2023 Home Health (HH) Prospective Payment System (PPS) final rule. The webinar will take place on Wednesday, March 29, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. During this webinar, CMS will provide an overview of several provisions from the CY 2023 HH PPS final rule on behavior changes, the construction of 60-day episodes, payment rate development and more.
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CMS's February 2023 Home Infusion Therapy (HIT) Monitoring Report is now available. This report summarizes utilization for the HIT service visits, characteristics of HIT recipients and characteristics of durable medical equipment (DME)/HIT supplier organizations. Data points are presented from the first quarter of 2020 through the end of the second quarter of 2022.
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The Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Model Technical Assistance (TA) team invites you to participate in a brief survey. CMS hopes to learn more about your home health agency’s (HHA) experience with the resources provided for the expanded HHVBP Model and identify areas for future outreach and education. Your input in this survey is vital and appreciated. The last day to complete the survey is Friday, March 31.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Feb. 22 issue include newly noticed rules related to health care facilities administration, nursing facilities and minimum physical standards for residential care facilities (RCFs).
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Register today for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics. Additionally, LaShuan Bethea, executive director at the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) will speak and provide an assisted living (AL) national update.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the MDS 3.0 Update Class on March 21, ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Home Health on March 22-23, Medicare Review Seminar on April 5, Foundations for Wound Care on April 11-13, Assisted Living Management Certification (ALMC) course on April 17-21, Assisted Living (AL) Regulatory class on April 20 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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Register today for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. The final day to receive the discounted room rate of $139 plus tax is Monday, March 6. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics. Additionally, LaShuan Bethea, executive director at the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) will speak and provide an assisted living (AL) national update.
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A recording of yesterday’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, is now available on the IHCA website. ICHC’s Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call will be next Thursday, March 9. Due to scheduling conflicts with IHCA’s Day on the Hill and MCO training, there will be no IHCA MCO Calls in March.
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IHCA received informational letter (IL) 2428 from Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announcing Iowa Medicaid Pharmacy Program changes, effective April 1, 2023. The letter includes information regarding new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to and removal of certain existing PA criteria and point-of-sale billing updates.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Skilled Nursing Facilities on March 14-16, MDS 3.0 Update Class on March 21, ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Home Health on March 22-23, Medicare Review Seminar on April 5, Foundations for Wound Care on April 11-13 and more.
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Utilize ECSI’s group purchasing partner, Touché, to assist with your admission process and help secure revenue, regardless of payor source. Touché is a digital platform developed by long-term care providers for long-term care providers.
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Today is the last day to register for IHCA’s Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline. Your participation in this event on March 8 is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including funding. As a new addition to this year's Day on the Hill, IHCA will host a Grassroots Boot Camp on the best practices for conversing with elected officials prior to the trip to the State Capitol. The Grassroots Boot Camp will offer 2.0 CEUs and lunch will be provided, courtesy of Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. There is no registration fee to attend the class or to participate in Day on the Hill.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have announced upcoming competency-based training opportunities. Competency-based training ensures providers and direct support professionals acquire skills that can be applied in the home- and community-based services (HCBS) setting. Trainings are provided at no cost to agencies or direct support professionals. The next training webinar, “Accessibility Gone Viral,” will take place tomorrow, Feb. 23.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Feb. 8 issue include updates to definitions and terminology and changes to the Health Care Award Program.
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There is still time to apply for Future Ready Iowa's Summer Youth Internship Program grant. Employers, non-profits, educational institutions and community organizations can apply for the funding, which will support the creation of internship programs for Iowa’s youth between the ages of 14 and 24 to prepare them for high-demand careers. Funds may be used for services and resources that support internship programs, including direct participant wages, training resources and more. St. Anthony Regional Hospital and Nursing Home – Carroll, an IHCA member, was a recipient of this grant in 2022. Grant applications for this grant cycle must be submitted by noon on Feb. 28.
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Register today for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics. The final day to receive the discounted room rate of $139 plus tax is March 6.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Skilled Nursing Facilities on March 14-16, MDS 3.0 Update Class on March 21, ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Home Health on March 22-23, Medicare Review Seminar on April 5, Foundations for Wound Care on April 11-13 and more.
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IHCA is hiring a Nurse Consultant to support the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) network in designing and executing quality improvement projects with particular attention paid to specific contracted rehospitalization and infection control goals. This position will work remotely, with travel required.
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IHCA is hiring a Nurse Consultant to collaborate with the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) network to execute quality improvement projects.
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Your participation in IHCA's Day on the Hill on March 8, sponsored by Medline, is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including funding. As a new addition to this year's Day on the Hill, IHCA will host a Grassroots Boot Camp on the best practices for conversing with elected officials prior to the trip to the State Capitol. The Grassroots Boot Camp will offer 2.0 CEUs for administrators, department heads and assisted living managers, and lunch will be provided, courtesy of Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. There is no registration fee to attend the class or to participate in Day on the Hill. Registration closes next Wednesday, Feb. 22.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently released details regarding the managed care organization (MCO) onboarding and open enrollment period beginning on March 1, 2023. Member reassignment happens when a new MCO joins the Iowa Health Link program. Members will be distributed between the three MCOs to ensure equal membership and will have a chance to choose their MCO during the open choice period (March 1 through May 18).
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Register today for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Skilled Nursing Facilities on March 14-16, MDS 3.0 Update Class on March 21, ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Home Health on March 22 - 23, Medicare Review Seminar on April 5, Foundations for Wound Care on April 11-13 and more.
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There is still time to apply for Future Ready Iowa's Summer Youth Internship Program grant. Employers, non-profits, educational institutions and community organizations can apply for the funding, which will support the creation of internship programs for Iowa’s youth between the ages of 14 and 24 to prepare them for high-demand careers. Funds may be used for services and resources that support internship programs, including direct participant wages, training resources and more. St. Anthony Regional Hospital and Nursing Home – Carroll, an IHCA member, was a recipient of this grant in 2022. Grant applications for this grant cycle must be submitted by noon on Feb. 28.
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A recording of the February Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call is now available on the IHCA website. The call covered information about home health and personal care meetings, Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) stakeholder sessions, health care employment agency rules, a home health telehealth G-code reminder and more.
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Mark your calendar for IHCA's in-person Spring Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by Medline and Performance Foodservice, on March 28 and 29, at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Des Moines. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, assisted living managers, department heads, home health professionals, nurses, nursing facility (NF) administrators and social services staff. Attendees may choose from six breakout sessions and more than 25 timely topics.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, Feb. 9, at 2:00 p.m. for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. This call will cover information about home health and personal care meetings, IHCA Day on the Hill, Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) stakeholder sessions, an update regarding the health care employment agency rules, home health telehealth G-code reminder and more. Recordings of this morning's Managed Care Organization (MCO) calls are now available on the IHCA website. IHCA has provided the call details for all remaining member calls in February.
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Your participation in IHCA's Day on the Hill on March 8, sponsored by Medline, is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including funding. As a new addition to this year's Day on the Hill, IHCA will host a Grassroots Boot Camp on the best practices for conversing with elected officials prior to the trip to the State Capitol. The Grassroots Boot Camp will offer 2.0 CEUs for administrators, department heads and assisted living managers, and lunch will be provided, courtesy of Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. There is no registration fee to attend the class or to participate in Day on the Hill.
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The COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) will come to an end on May 11, 2023. Throughout the PHE, various waivers, regulations, enforcement discretion and sub-regulatory guidance were utilized to ensure access to care and give health care providers the flexibilities needed to respond to the PHE. Some of these flexibilities became permanent over the years and some have been extended to end after May 11. In August 2022, CMS created a roadmap for the end of the PHE to help guide providers toward returning to previous health and safety standards and billing practices.
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AHCA/NCAL recently released a memorandum regarding how to prepare for the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) unwinding and returning to Medicaid eligibility redetermination. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 laid out timelines for states to return to regular Medicaid redeterminations, which were paused during the COVID-19 PHE. For providers, this means your state will begin re-determining all residents covered by Medicaid in February, March or April of 2023, and your buildings will begin receiving Redetermination Notices all together depending upon your state’s start date.
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The Iowa State Treasurer's Office provides a free service known as The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt. Each year, funds are turned over to the State Treasurer's Office as unclaimed property. Examples of unclaimed property include utility refunds, uncashed checks, dormant bank accounts and more. The goal of the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt is to help Iowans locate and reunite with their lost or abandoned funds. IHCA encourages providers to check for any potential property owed to them.
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There is still time to apply for Future Ready Iowa's Summer Youth Internship Program grant. Employers, non-profits, educational institutions and community organizations can apply for the funding, which will support the creation of internship programs for Iowa’s youth between the ages of 14 and 24 to prepare them for high-demand careers. Funds may be used for services and resources that support internship programs, including direct participant wages, training resources and more. St. Anthony Regional Hospital and Nursing Home – Carroll, an IHCA member, was a recipient of this grant in 2022. Grant applications for this grant cycle must be submitted by noon on Feb. 28.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the new CNA In-Service Training Series that launched on Jan. 1, Life Safety - Fire Safety 2023 Virtual Conference on Feb. 21 - 22, ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Skilled Nursing Facilities on March 14-16, MDS 3.0 Update Class on March 21, ICD-10 Coding Essentials for Home Health on March 22 - 23, Foundations for Wound Care on April 11-13 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Make sure you are taking advantage of all the benefits your IHCA membership has to offer by reviewing IHCA’s new member benefits guide. This comprehensive guide provides information on how to access an array of resources available to you as an IHCA member.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 10:30 a.m. for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls. Additionally, ICHC will hold its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 2:00 p.m. A recording of yesterday’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, is now available on the IHCA website. IHCA has provided the call-in details for all member calls in February.
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Your participation in IHCA's Day on the Hill on March 8, sponsored by Medline, is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including funding. As a new addition to this year's Day on the Hill, IHCA will host a Grassroots Boot Camp on the best practices for conversing with elected officials prior to the trip to the State Capitol. The Grassroots Boot Camp will offer 2.0 CEUs for administrators, department heads and assisted living managers, and lunch will be provided, courtesy of Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. There is no registration fee to attend the class or to participate in Day on the Hill.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Jan. 25 issue include self-identification and correction of deficiencies by health care facilities, scope of practice of physician assistants and dependent adult abuse.
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On Monday, Jan. 30, 2023, the Biden Administration announced its plan to end the federal public health emergency (PHE). This announcement meets the Administration’s promise of providing 60 days’ notice of the end of the PHE. Based on the guidance, the PHE will end on May 11, 2023. The end of the PHE also marks the end of Section 1135 National Blanket Waiver. IHCA and ICHC have provided information on how this will impact skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and home health (HH) agencies.
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Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), with Mathematica and The Harkin Institute, recently conducted an evaluation of the state’s community-based behavioral, disability and aging services to understand how Iowans access and use services through Medicaid and other programs and how the state can improve on the current structure. On Jan. 31, 2023, DHHS shared recommendations for strengthening Iowa's community-based services system, which describes findings and recommendations to improve service delivery throughout the state.
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The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) and Iowa Workforce Development will discuss work-based learning and high school apprenticeship opportunities during their virtual webinar, “Build Your Early Talent Pipeline: High School Registered Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning,” on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 9:00 a.m. This free webinar will provide details regarding opportunities to build your talent pipeline.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the new CNA In-Service Training Series that launched on Jan. 1, Perfecting Your Care Areas Assessment (CAA) and Care Planning Process on Feb. 14, Champion Your Wound Care Program on Feb. 15 and 16, Life Safety - Fire Safety 2023 Virtual Conference on Feb. 21 and 22, MDS 3.0 Update Class on March 21 and more.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host a stakeholder session covering the end of the continuous coverage requirement today, Wednesday, Jan. 25, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.
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Your participation in IHCA's Day on the Hill on March 8, sponsored by Medline, is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including funding. As a new addition to this year's Day on the Hill, IHCA will host a Grassroots Boot Camp on the best practices for conversing with elected officials prior to the trip to the State Capitol. The Grassroots Boot Camp will offer 2.0 CEUs for administrators, department heads and assisted living managers, and lunch will be provided, courtesy of Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. There is no registration fee to attend the class or to participate in Day on the Hill.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Jan. 11 issue include updates to definitions and terminology, as well as new informational letters from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI) invites all IHCA members to participate in a free webinar “Pathogen X,” on Feb. 8 at noon. In this session, speakers will address preparation strategies appropriate to be equipped for a future pandemic.
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In accordance with Section 441 of the Iowa Administrative Code (IAC), Chapter 79.1(27), Medicaid fee-for-service (FFS) reimbursement rates for early periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment (EPSDT), private duty nursing and personal care services provided by home health agencies are limited to 133 percent of the statewide average. Payment rates are established at the lesser of actual unit cost or the rate maximum. Interim payment rates will be updated for the new rate maximum as cost reports are finalized.
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On Jan. 18, Iowa Total Care released a provider alert regarding oxygen concentrators. Effective Nov. 1, 2022, pre-authorization is not required for procedure code E1390, Oxygen Concentrator, for participating (PAR) providers with home location (12). Participating (PAR) providers will need an authorization in any location other than home (location 12). Non-participating (Non-PAR) providers will need an authorization in all instances.
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On Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) launched a new website. The Iowa Medicaid portion of the new website mirrors the structure and content of the previous website. Iowa DHHS will temporarily maintain a redirect service for the legacy site. At this time, there are no changes to sites that do not have a DHHS domain, such as the Iowa Medicaid Preferred Drug List and the Iowa Medicaid Portal Access (IMPA).
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the new CNA In-Service Training Series that launched on Jan. 1, the new Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course launching in February, Perfecting Your Care Areas Assessment (CAA) and Care Planning Process on Feb. 14, Champion Your Wound Care Program on Feb. 15 and 16 and more.
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ICAL’s Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call will take place next Wednesday, Jan. 25, and IHCA’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will be on Jan. 31. The call recording for ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call on Wednesday, Jan. 11, is now available. The HH call covered the legislative session, Type of Bill frequency code updates, the 2023 Veterans Affairs Fee Schedule, the Home Health Value-Based Purchasing expansion and more.
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Your participation in IHCA's Day on the Hill on March 8, sponsored by Medline, is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession, including funding. As a new addition to this year's Day on the Hill, IHCA will host a Grassroots Boot Camp on the best practices for conversing with elected officials prior to the trip to the State Capitol. The Grassroots Boot Camp will offer 2.0 CEUs for administrators, department heads and assisted living managers, and lunch will be provided, courtesy of Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. There is no registration fee to attend the class or to participate in Day on the Hill.
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The U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra recently renewed the declaration that a public health emergency (PHE) exists. This is effective Jan. 11, 2023, and will continue for 90 days pursuant to federal law. The PHE renewal through mid-April provides for the uninterrupted continuation of several flexibilities that have protected beneficiary access to important services in as safe and effective manner as possible.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued preliminary findings about monitoring the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine’s safety that discusses an initial increase of strokes in their safety monitoring data for the Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 vaccine. However, the totality of the data currently suggests that it is very unlikely that the initial signal represents a true clinical risk. This announcement does not change IHCA/ICAL/ICHC’s recommendation for people to be vaccinated.
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Molina Healthcare recently released an updated 2023 Provider Manual. The Provider Manual includes information regarding provider responsibilities, member rights and responsibilities, benefits and covered services, cultural competency and linguistic services, managed long-term services and support (MLTSS), health care services, behavioral health services, eligibility, enrollment, credentialing, claims and more.
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During her Condition of the State address, Governor Reynolds announced a new $15 million round of funding targeted at growing registered apprenticeship (RA) programs across high-demand fields in health care. Applications for this year’s Health Careers Registered Apprenticeship Grant Program will be accepted on IowaGrants.gov beginning Wednesday, Jan. 11. The deadline for applications will be March 9, 2023, at noon. A grants webinar will take place on Jan. 27 at 11:00 a.m. to highlight the application process and answer questions.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the new CNA In-Service Training Series that launched on Jan. 1, the new Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course launching in February, Perfecting Your Care Areas Assessment (CAA) and Care Planning Process on Feb. 14, Champion Your Wound Care Program on Feb. 15 and 16 and more.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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ICHC is hosting its Home Health Provider Update Call today at 2:00 p.m. The call will cover the legislative session, Type of Bill frequency code updates, the 2023 Veterans Affairs Fee Schedule, the Home Health Value-Based Purchasing expansion and more. ICAL’s Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call will be on Jan. 25, and IHCA’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will be on Jan. 31.
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IHCA's 2023 Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline, will be held on March 8, and your participation is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that were found in the Dec. 28 issue include nursing facility renovations, the Quality Incentive Payment Program, the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan, State Supplementary Assistance Program applications and payment and more.
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In December 2022, the Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) released finalized administrative rules to operationalize the health care employment agency bill that was adopted into Iowa Code last year. This new set of rules outlines actions required of health care employment agencies (HCEA) that provide direct care staff to health care facilities in Iowa. IHCA has updated its guidance document, IHCA’s Guidance on Health Care Employment Agency Reform, to provide more detail. Additionally, suggested action items for health care provider members are included.
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On Dec. 29, 2022, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 was signed and ends the Medicaid program’s continuous coverage requirement as of April 1, 2023. This means that beginning April 1, Iowa Medicaid will no longer be required to maintain a member’s health coverage if they are found to be ineligible after an evaluation of their eligibility status. Iowa Medicaid will host a one-hour webinar on Jan. 25 at 3:00 p.m. where Medicaid team members will share details about the state's plan and what members can expect in the coming weeks and months.
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Molina Healthcare is convening a listening session on Jan. 17, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. for providers. The purpose of this engagement is to listen, hear and discuss critical issues and priorities for providers. As Molina Healthcare prepares to launch, their team values hearing from providers about what is important to them in delivering health care services to their patients and the most vulnerable populations.
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) recently released two important updates related to the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 4 and American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural payments that HRSA began distributing in November 2021 and continued throughout 2022.
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It is now even easier for IHCA members to get their job openings in front of potential candidates with IHCA’s online job board. IHCA is excited to share a new feature available on its website that allows individuals searching for a career in long-term care (LTC) to subscribe to receive email alerts when a new job is posted by IHCA members to the IHCA job board. IHCA's Find A Job webpage allows individuals interested in pursuing a career in LTC to view local job openings posted by IHCA members.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the new CNA In-Service Training Series that launched on Jan. 1, the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning on Jan. 25, the new Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course launching in February, Perfecting Your Care Areas Assessment (CAA) and Care Planning Process on Feb. 14, Champion Your Wound Care Program on Feb. 15 and 16 and more.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, June 8, at 2:00 p.m. for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. Additionally, join IHCA for its monthly Managed Care Organization Calls next Wednesday, June 14.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, Jan. 1, at 10:30 a.m. for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) calls. Additionally, ICHC will hold its Home Health (HH) Provider Update call next Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. IHCA has provided the call-in details for all remaining member calls in January.
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IHCA's 2023 Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline, will be held on March 8, and your participation is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2399 to provide guidance regarding appropriate billing of Type of Bill (TOB) frequency codes in conjunction with patient discharge status codes. The information in this IL went into effect on Jan. 1, 2023.
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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently published the 2023 VA Fee Schedule (VAFS) with a new yearly cycle adjustment. Beginning in 2023, the VAFS cycle will run Feb. 1 to Jan. 31. The VA adjusted the yearly fee schedule cycle to ensure rate settings take into account comprehensive data from other industry sources.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. An area of note that was found in the Dec. 13 issue includes an adopted and filed rule regarding the College Student Aid Commission.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2411 to provide guidance regarding Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) cost report submission requirements.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the new CNA In-Service Training Series that launched on Jan. 1, Infection Preventionist 101 on Jan. 17, the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning on Jan. 25, the new Intravenous (IV) Therapy for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Course launching in February, Perfecting Your Care Areas Assessment (CAA) and Care Planning Process on Feb. 14 and more. Additionally, IHCA's 2023 education calendar is now available.
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The Q4 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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AHCA/NCAL recently shared how the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) began transmitting emails to providers who, based on the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) reporting period one submissions, will receive a Repayment Request Notice via the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
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IHCA's 2023 Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline, will be held on March 8, and your participation is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession. While IHCA has been working on long-term care issues with key leaders, and will continue to strongly advocate on your behalf, it is also important for your elected representatives to hear from you directly during the legislative session on how these issues impact your organization and the community you serve.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Dec. 14 issue include flexibility in the presentation of the Governor's Award for Quality Care, rate increases from the 2022 legislative session and the Health Care Professional Recruitment Program.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Infection Preventionist 101 on Jan. 17, the new CNA In-Service Training Series launching in January, the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning on Jan. 25, the new LPN IV Course launching in February and Perfecting Your Care Areas Assessment (CAA) and Care Planning Process on Feb. 14. Additionally, IHCA's 2023 education calendar is now available.
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Sleeping rooms are now available to reserve for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 17-20 at the Des Moines Marriott located at 700 Grand Ave. in downtown Des Moines.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA's 2023 Sponsorship, Trade Show and Advertising Guide is now available on the IHCA website. The guide is full of great ways to market your organization's products and services to decision-makers in the long-term care profession. These opportunities are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so don’t miss out! To reserve your 2023 marketing and sponsorship opportunities, complete the online marketing and sponsorship reservation form today!
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Join IHCA next Tuesday, Dec. 20, for its Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen. A recording of ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call from Thursday, Dec. 8, is now available on the IHCA website.
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As we reflect on the past year, we want to express our gratitude for the sacrifices you have made for your residents, patients, tenants and their families. Please take a moment to share our thanks with your staff, by sharing with them this video message from IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett.
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Iowa Total Care recently released a provider alert indicating that, in mid-December, the Provider Portal claims dashboard and claims details page will have a new look. This redesign will change the look and feel of the claims portal as it exists today.
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IHCA's 2023 Day on the Hill will be held on March 8, and your participation is critical to making an impact during the state legislative session on the issues that matter most to the long-term care profession. While IHCA has been working on long-term care issues with key leaders, and will continue to strongly advocate on your behalf, it is also important for your elected representatives to hear from you directly during the legislative session on how these issues impact your organization and the community you serve.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Nov. 30 issue include a new wage add-on factor, health care employment agency legislation, quality improvement initiative grants and more. If and when issues arise, IHCA will take appropriate steps in an effort to remediate problems for members.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its new CNA In-Service Training Series launching Jan. 25, Infection Preventionist 101 on Jan. 17 and the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning on Jan. 25. Additionally, IHCA's 2023 education calendar is now available.
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Sleeping rooms are now available to reserve for IHCA's 2023 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 17-20 at the Des Moines Marriott located at 700 Grand Ave. in downtown Des Moines.
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IHCA recently created how-to videos to provide a step-by-step virtual training to help assist with navigation of the IHCA Member Portal. As a member of IHCA, ICAL or ICHC, you have access to our online Member Portal where you can create a personal profile to get member benefits, view your CEUs, register for IHCA/ICAL/ICHC-hosted educational events, update your contact information and more.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, Dec. 8, for its December Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m. The call will cover the status of the federal public health emergency (PHE), Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) pre-implementation reports, the ICHC Home Care Accreditation Program, details on the Provider Annual Self-Assessment, the vaccination status in health care settings, upcoming education events and more. IHCA has provided the call-in details for all remaining member calls in December.
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In the most recent Iowa Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reported that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was in the lead of respiratory illnesses in our state with over 1,300 new cases. Although influenza A and B are not topping the charts over RSV, the number of new cases is on the rise. IHCA has shared resources regarding the prevention and management of influenza outbreaks, as well as influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
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CMS recently released its Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) November 2022 Newsletter. This newsletter provides home health agencies (HHAs) with the latest information about the expanded HHVBP Model, as well as important tools, news and timely insights from the CMS and HHVBP Model Technical Assistance (TA) team. Please consider sharing this newsletter within your organization.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its new CNA In-Service Training Series launching Jan. 1, Infection Preventionist 101 on Jan. 17 and the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning on Jan. 25. Additionally, IHCA's 2023 education calendar is now available.
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In compliance with the Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1993, please be advised that, per section 6033(e) of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code), the Iowa Health Care Association/Iowa Center for Assisted Living reasonably estimates that 15.5% of the 2022 dues and 14.5% of the 2023 dues will be spent on lobbying and other expenditures subject to section 162(e)(1) of the Code and therefore is not deductible for federal income tax purposes.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, Dec. 7, for its Winter Quarterly Education Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn in Johnston. The conference will include 12 different breakout sessions and is approved for up to 5.5 CEUs for nurses, social services staff, nursing facility administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals. The event is sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy, HealthCARE of Iowa, Softworks, Synchrony Health Services, Trio Pharmacy Services and Williams & Company P.C.
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Today is the final day to save $50 on IHCA's new Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) In-Service Training Series. This on-demand training series will provide 12 one-hour education sessions created specifically for your direct care staff. Each module can be accessed for your facility’s monthly in-service class for multiple people, or an individual can watch a module on their own. Once purchased, your facility can access any of the modules as many times as needed from Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2024.
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Join ICHC next Thursday, Dec. 8, for its December Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call at 2:00 p.m. IHCA held its November Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call yesterday, Nov. 29, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen. A recording of the call is now available on the IHCA website.
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Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are now required to submit an annual report summarizing influenza vaccination data for health care personnel (HCP) to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). This requirement was released in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 SNF Prospective Payment Systems (PPS) Final Rule and published in the Federal Register in August 2022. Starting with this year’s influenza season, providers will be expected to gather influenza vaccination data for their employees, licensed independent practitioners, volunteers and adult students/trainees and report the information to NHSN through a one-time annual summary format.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently announced the release of the 2022 Home- and Community-Based (HCBS) Provider Quality Management Self-Assessment, which consists of the self-assessment form found on the Iowa DHHS website and address collection tool which is emailed out to contacts listed on last year’s self-assessment or is available upon request. Both documents have been updated for 2022. The completed self-assessment form must be received no later than Dec. 31, 2022.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2399 to provide guidance regarding appropriate billing of Type of Bill (TOB) frequency codes in conjunction with patient discharge status codes.
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IHCA received informational letter (IL) 2405 from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Iowa Medicaid announcing Iowa Medicaid Pharmacy Program changes, effective Jan. 1, 2023. The letter includes changes to the preferred drug list (PDL), new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to existing PA criteria, point of sale billing updates and a Drug Utilization Review (DUR) update.
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Expand your workforce and reduce language barriers with the new Iowa Language Learners Job Training Program Grant. The new funding opportunity will support employer programs in English language proficiencies for work-related duties, procedures or policies, as well as support English speakers to learn a second language. Applications for the grant are due this Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, and must be submitted through IowaGrants.gov.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Infection Preventionist 101 on Jan. 17 and the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning on Jan. 25, 2023. Additionally, IHCA's 2023 education calendar is now available.
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Register by Nov. 30 and save $50 on IHCA's new Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) In-Service Training Series. This on-demand training series will provide 12 one-hour education sessions created specifically for your direct care staff. Each module can be accessed for your facility’s monthly in-service class for multiple people, or an individual can watch a module on their own. Once purchased, your facility can access any of the modules as many times as needed from Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2024.
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Join IHCA on Dec. 7 for its Winter Quarterly Education Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn in Johnston. The conference will include 12 different breakout sessions and is approved for up to 5.5 CEUs for nurses, social services staff, nursing facility administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals. The event is sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy, HealthCARE of Iowa, Softworks, Synchrony Health Services, Trio Pharmacy Services and Williams & Company P.C.
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Iowa Total Care has identified an internal project review that was incorrectly triggered and executed letters notifying providers of a recoupment. These letters should not have been sent, as internal reviews were not complete relative to the data in the internal project. Providers should ignore this letter; there are no funds being recouped at this time.
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The annual provider self-assessment will be released soon and is due to be submitted with all supporting documents by Dec. 31, 2022. The self-assessment is required for any provider that is reviewed by the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) quality improvement organization (QIO). To assist with this process, Iowa Medicaid is hosting a Self-Assessments for HCBS Providers Virtual Training on Nov. 30 at 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The areas of note that were found in the Nov. 16 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include licensure, rent reimbursement and more.
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Expand your workforce and reduce language barriers with the new Iowa Language Learners Job Training Program Grant. The new funding opportunity will support employer programs in English language proficiencies for work-related duties, procedures or policies, as well as support English speakers to learn a second language. Applications for the grant are due next week on Dec. 2, 2022, and must be submitted through IowaGrants.gov.
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A recording of ICHC’s Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call from Nov. 10 is now available. The call covered timely topics, including the CMS Final CY 2023 Home Health Rule, updates on the Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) implementation and telehealth, updated vaccination requirements, the status of the federal public health emergency (PHE), a legislative session preview, upcoming education events and more. The call-in information for IHCA’s Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call on Nov. 29 is now available.
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On Oct. 1, 2022, Iowa Medicaid began accepting applications from eligible providers for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Health Information Technology and Infrastructure (HIT&I) and Remote Monitoring (RM) grants. Because of the number of responses that included multiple requests for exceptionally high-dollar amounts, the deadline to apply for HIT&I and RM grants is Nov. 30, 2022. Review and approval of HIT&I and RM grant projects and funding amounts will occur during the month of December 2022. Funding decisions for grant applications received between Oct. 1, 2022, and Nov. 30, 2022, will be announced in January 2023.
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CMS has issued Change Request 12805 that creates new G-codes for reporting home health (HH) services furnished by telehealth and to revise original Medicare systems to process them without affecting payment to the home health agencies (HHAs).
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Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2402 announcing the dates and times for the Iowa Medicaid member and provider town halls for the month of November. Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, this month’s town hall series will be held on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022.
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It is anticipated that the Biden Administration will renew the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) in January. The Administration had committed to provide 60 days’ advance notice to the public prior to allowing the PHE to expire, and the 60-day mark passed last week with no public announcement. Nov. 11 was the final day for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to announce it would allow the COVID-19 PHE to expire in January, while still providing stakeholders with 60 days’ notice prior to allowing the PHE to expire.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. Here are the bi-weekly areas of note that were found in the Nov. 2 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin. If and when issues arise, IHCA will take appropriate steps in an effort to remediate problems for members.
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AHCA/NCAL recently shared a list of five ways to reduce the spread of respiratory viral infections this winter. Increases in Influenza, RSV, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses are occurring in the general population, with some hospitals in communities nearing or reaching capacity. There are several key steps to help reduce the impact on residents from viral infections this winter.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Restorative Nursing Program on Nov. 29, Winter Quarterly Conference on Dec. 7, Infection Preventionist 101 on Jan. 17 and the Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning Jan. 25, 2023.
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Help your directors of nursing and nurse leaders by giving them a high-quality CNA training program they can use to educate your facility’s direct care workers. IHCA’s new CNA In-Service Training Series will provide 12 one-hour on-demand education sessions created specifically for your direct care staff. Each module can be accessed for your facility’s monthly in-service class for multiple people, or an individual can watch a module on their own. IHCA members can save $50 if they purchase the series before Nov. 30. The course will launch on Jan. 1.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Midterm elections took place yesterday. While there are still a few races too close to call, the IHCA has conducted an analysis of the results that are known at both the state and federal level, and the implications of those election outcomes for the long-term care sector. That analysis is included in this week’s Member Bulletin. This year’s state legislative session will be critical, as 2023 is the year the legislature will make decisions on rebasing nursing facility Medicaid rates. Now that elections have taken place and 2023 state legislators are known, the IHCA is initiating a member-wide grassroots call to action for skilled nursing facility members to invite legislators to their buildings before year end. It is imperative that elected officials see with their own eyes what is happening in Iowa nursing homes, how complex the medical needs are for nursing home residents, and how fundamental adequate funding is to ensure continued access to care for Iowans. This will be the first pre-session coordination grassroots activation by the association. Please watch for a Call to Action email to come later this week and take action when you receive the email to invite your legislator to visit your facility.
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Join the ICHC Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 10. The IHCA Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen, will occur later this month on Tuesday, Nov. 29.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the expiration date for certain lots of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Moderna has verified the new expiry dates and updated the Moderna Vial Expiration Checker. This update was also noted in a recent Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) vaccination information brief. Always be sure to check the manufacturer’s website to obtain the most up-to-date expiration dates for COVID-19 vaccines. It is important for health care providers to update vaccine expiration dates in Iowa's Immunization Registry Information System (IRIS).
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The Q3 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share these reports with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as they are a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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As the expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) model prepares to start the first performance year on Jan. 1, 2023, CMS issued the November Pre-Implementation Performance Report (PIPR) to all active home health agencies (HHAs). The PIPRs provide HHAs with data on their quality measure performance used in the expanded HHVBP Model, with comparison to HHAs nationally within peer cohorts. Additionally, the CY 2023 Home Health (HH) Prospective Payment System (PPS) final rule amended the model baseline year from CY 2019 to CY 2022 starting in the CY 2023 performance year to enable CMS to measure competing HHAs performance on benchmarks and achievement thresholds that are more current. The PIPRs provide a preview of where your agency’s performance falls in regard to the new baseline year, in advance of the release of the first Interim Performance Reports (IPRs) in July 2023.
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Iowa Medicaid will be hosting a listening session regarding Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) flexibilities today, Nov. 9, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The purpose of the session is to gather feedback from providers that the department can incorporate into its plans for the unwinding of the COVID-19 PHE. Iowa Medicaid holds monthly virtual town hall meetings with providers and members to gather feedback on the current state of the program and how to improve. They also plan to use these town hall meetings to share information on current and future program projects and improvements.
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In preparation for upcoming holidays, bank and office closures, Iowa Total Care would like to notify providers of changes to the normal Tuesday/Thursday processing and Wednesday/Friday payment transmission for the remainder of 2022.
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Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2350, which replaces IL 2088. Effective July 1, 2022, for the 1915(i) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) habilitation program, the interRAI assessment tools will be replaced by the Level of Care Utilization System (LOCUS) for adults ages 19 and older and the Child and Adolescent Level of Care Utilization System (CALOCUS) for youth ages 18 and under for the purposes of the needs-based eligibility (NBE) determination, person-centered service planning and home-based habilitation tier authorization. The LOCUS/CALOCUS will be based on the member’s Comprehensive Assessment and Social History (CASH).
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On Nov. 8, Iowa Medicaid released informational letter (IL) 2398 regarding an electronic visit verification (EVV) implementation update. On Oct. 5, 2022, Iowa Medicaid filed a good faith effort (GFE) exemption with CMS to delay implementation of home health care services (HHCS) EVV in Iowa. CMS has approved this exemption. Therefore, while Iowa works through implementation of the home health codes, there will not be federal match penalties in calendar year (CY) 2023 for the delay in implementation. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the managed care organizations (MCOs) are working on a phased approach to implement HHCS codes in Iowa. Phase 1 includes waiver HHCS codes. This phase is live now, and claims are required to flow through CareBridge by Jan. 1, 2023.
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Expand your workforce and reduce language barriers with the new Iowa Language Learners Job Training Program Grant. The new funding opportunity will support employer programs in English language proficiencies for work-related duties, procedures or policies, as well as support English speakers to learn a second language. Applications for the grant are due on Dec. 2, 2022, and must be submitted through IowaGrants.gov.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Restorative Nursing Program on Nov. 29, Winter Quarterly Conference on Dec. 7, In-Service Training Series starting on Jan. 1 and Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning Jan. 25, 2023.
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Join IHCA for its monthly Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, next Wednesday, Nov. 9. ICHC’s Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call will take place next Thursday, Nov. 10. The Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen, will occur later this month on Tuesday, Nov. 26. Additionally, a recording of last week’s ICAL Assisted Living Provider Update Call is now available on the IHCA website.
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CMS issued the Final Rule regarding Medicare home health (HH) services payment rates for calendar year (CY) 2023. ICHC has provided details on the Final Rule, as well as the Home Health Quality Reporting Program and the expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing Model.
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Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2394. The IL addresses the annual submission requirements regarding prevention and detection of Medicaid fraud and abuse. This IL applies to any provider entity or provider that receives payments of $5 million or more from Iowa Medicaid in any federal fiscal year (FY) (Oct. 1 - Sept. 30).
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Iowa Medicaid recently released informational letter (IL) 2392-MC-FFS regarding an upcoming telehealth virtual listening session. This virtual session will focus on telehealth flexibilities implemented during the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE). This session is open to Iowa Medicaid providers and members and will be held virtually on Monday, Nov. 7, 2022 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The purpose of this session is to share proposals for which telehealth flexibilities to continue and which to sunset with the end of the COVID-19 PHE and to gather input from stakeholders.
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Iowa Medicaid will host a Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) unwind process virtual listening session on Nov. 9. This virtual session is open to all Iowa Medicaid providers and will focus on HCBS flexibilities implemented during the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE).
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Early voting has begun for the midterm election that will take place next week on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Early in-person absentee voting is available at your local county auditor’s office or at a satellite location as set forth by your county auditor. Visit Voter Ready for additional information and utilize IA Votes to learn about your local elected officials and their position on long-term care priorities that are important to you.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17, Restorative Nursing Program on Nov. 29, Winter Quarterly Conference on Dec. 7, In-Service Training Series starting on Jan. 1 and Activity Professionals Qualification Course beginning Jan. 25, 2023.
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A recording of IHCA's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), on Oct. 25 is now available on the IHCA website. The call covered updated infection control practice changes, the status of the federal public health emergency (PHE), Eligibility Recovery Claim Submission guidance, temporary nurse aide (TNA) to certified nursing assistant (CNA) transition information, a licensed practical nurse (LPN) scope of practice update, health care employment agency rules, upcoming education opportunities and more. The Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update call will take place today at 1:00 p.m.
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Early voting has begun for the midterm election that will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Early in-person absentee voting is available at your local county auditor’s office or at a satellite location as set forth by your county auditor. Visit Voter Ready for additional information and utilize IA Votes to learn about your local elected officials and their position on long-term care priorities that are important to you.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10, AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17, Restorative Nursing Program on Nov. 29, WInter Quarterly Conference on Dec. 7 and the CNA In-Service Training Series starting on Jan. 1.
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AHCA/NCAL Connected Communities, which are online discussion groups used by IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members, will undergo a planned system outage on Oct. 31 through Nov. 2. During the outage you will not be able to log in directly to AHCA/NCAL Connect to access your communities, however, you can still engage with your community members by using the discussion emails to initiate or respond to ongoing community discussions.
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Utilize ECSI’s group purchasing partner, Touché, to assist with your admission process and help secure revenue, regardless of payor source. Touché is a digital platform developed by long-term care providers for long-term care providers.
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A recording of ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call on Oct. 14 is now available on the IHCA website. IHCA's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, will take place next week. Also taking place next week will be the Iowa Council of Activity Professionals (ICAP) Call and Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call.
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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the declaration that a public health emergency (PHE) exists. This is effective Oct. 13, 2022, and will continue for 90 days, moving the expiration date to Jan. 12, 2023, pursuant to federal law. The PHE renewal through mid-January is welcome news. It provides for the uninterrupted continuation of several flexibilities that have protected beneficiary access to important services in as safe and effective manner as possible. Specifically, the three-day stay waiver remains in effect until the end of the federal PHE through this renewal action.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI) are offering frontline health care workers a free Infection Prevention and Control Precautions webinar on Nov. 9 from noon to 1:00 p.m. This webinar will provide attendees with ways to familiarize the key differences between transmission-based and standard precautions in the health care setting.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that were found in the Oct. 5 and Oct. 19 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include health care employment agencies, the State Supplementary Assistance Program, the Health Care Award Program, service documentation, transfer of assets, rent reimbursement and facility assessments.
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The U.S. Department of Commerce has launched the Job Quality Toolkit, which provides strategies and actions to help organizations recruit and retain a high-performing workforce. The toolkit is based on the Baldrige Excellence Framework and highlights eight drivers of high-quality jobs. The toolkit provides strategies for each of these eight drivers that serve as actionable steps that organizations can take to recruit and retain staff.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Congratulations to the IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members who have been appointed to serve on an IHCA committee, advisory council or work group for the 2023 term. IHCA's committees, advisory councils and work groups play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession.
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Join ICHC for its monthly Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call this Friday, Oct. 14. Key topics will include information regarding updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) infection control guidance, COVID-19 testing supplies, an overview of congressional meetings held by ICHC this month, ICHC's Home Care Accreditation Program, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) grants, sequestration reporting instructions from CMS for home health agencies and more.
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IHCA's OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18 will provide the nation’s best preparation on the 27 new OASIS-E items and guidance, scheduled to become effective Jan. 1, 2023. This engaging, up-to-the-minute education is targeted for field data collectors, clinical supervisors, OASIS educators and reviewers, quality improvement staff and those preparing for the OASIS Specialist-Clinical (COS-C) Exam. This in-person event is approved for 14.0 CEUs for home health nurses and social services staff.
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CMS has rescinded QSO-22-25-CLIA, which barred the use of SARS-CoV-2 tests outside of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) test’s instructions for use. This comes after AHCA/NCAL strongly advocated that this memo should be rescinded, as it limited the use of the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen (Ag) Card being sent by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to symptomatic individuals. This means the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card tests being sent to long-term care providers from the HHS program can continue to be used on both asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals as they have been throughout the pandemic.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference on Nov. 8. This free virtual conference will feature updates related to ST-91 endoscopic reprocessing, environmental services in long-term care, water management and more.
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Iowa Medicaid recently released Informational Letter 2372 regarding guidance on eligibility recovery claim submissions. This letter provides instructions on how providers may submit their claims to Medicaid following a payment recovery from a managed care plan. This includes managed care organizations (MCO) and dental plans.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10, AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17, Restorative Nursing Program on Nov. 29 and the CNA In-Service Training Series starting on Jan. 1.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its SNF Medicare Review – Virtual Training on Oct. 26-27, Bronze Award Application Workshop on Oct. 28, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10 and AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17.
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IHCA's new Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) In-Service Training Series will provide 12 one-hour on-demand education sessions created specifically for your direct care staff. Each module can be accessed for your facility's monthly in-service class for multiple people, or an individual can watch a module on their own. Once purchased, your facility can access any of the modules as many times as needed from Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2024. Take advantage of the pre-launch member pricing of $250 per facility from now until Nov. 30, 2022. After Dec. 1, the rate will increase to $300 per member facility.
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IHCA's final 2022 Legislative Table Talk, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, will take place in person tomorrow, Oct. 6, at Luther Park Community in Des Moines. All IHCA members, state legislators and Iowa’s congressional delegates are invited to participate.
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Join IHCA for its monthly Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, next Wednesday, Oct. 12. Additionally, ICHC will host its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call next Friday, Oct. 14.
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Members are reminded that established temporary nurse aides (TNAs) must become certified nursing assistants (CNAs) before the Oct. 6, 2022 deadline. After the deadline, TNAs will no longer be allowed to work as nurse aides unless they are listed on Iowa’s Direct Care Worker Registry.
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CMS released an update to QSO-22-25-CLIA, which rescinds enforcement discretion for the use of SARS-CoV-2 tests not Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for use among asymptomatic individuals outside of the test’s instructions for use. IHCA/ICAL/ICHC recommends that all providers operating with a CLIA Certificate of Waiver using SARS-CoV-2 Point-of-Care (POC) Antigen (Ag) tests check the manufacturer’s instructions for the tests they have on hand to ensure they are FDA approved for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. If not, they must restrict the use of the tests to situations consistent with FDA approval.
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Beginning Oct. 1, 2022, Iowa Medicaid will accept applications from eligible providers to receive funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Employee Training and Scholarship Grant. Grants will serve the purpose of assisting qualified HCBS providers with funding employee training and scholarships for education and training in nursing, behavioral health and other health care fields.
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Beginning Oct. 1, 2022, Iowa Medicaid will accept applications from eligible providers to receive funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Health Information Technology (IT) and Infrastructure Grant. Grants will serve the purpose of assisting qualified HCBS providers with funding projects that improve, enhance and/or expand HCBS.
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Policy clarifications (PCs) are correspondence issued by Iowa Medicaid to clarify policy that affects managed care organization (MCO) operations. PCs have been provided to the MCOs, and the MCOs have attested to each PC based on Iowa Medicaid business practices at the time of issuance. Iowa Medicaid has created a policy clarification webpage that allows stakeholders to see PCs provided to MCOs. Providers are encouraged to sign up to receive PCs. To sign up online, please visit the policy clarification webpage.
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Governor Kim Reynolds has announced a new grant opportunity intended to reduce language barriers in the workforce. The Iowa Language Learners Job Training Program will provide a total of $5 million in grants to support employer programs that help employees improve English language proficiency in relation to work-related duties, policies or procedures. Applications are now being accepted at IowaGrants.gov and are due on Dec. 2. A webinar will take place on Oct. 11 at 11:00 a.m. to provide more information on the grant.
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Applications are now open for a new funding opportunity for businesses, made possible by Future Ready Iowa’s Child Care Business Incentive Grant. This new grant is targeted at supporting child care slots across the state while getting businesses more involved in child care solutions. Please note that businesses, not child care facilities, are the eligible applicants of this opportunity. Applications are due by Oct. 17.
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The holidays will be here soon, and you can do your holiday shopping and help support the IHCA Foundation at the same time! By shopping through AmazonSmile and selecting the IHCA Foundation as your charity, Amazon will donate 0.5% of eligible purchases to the IHCA Foundation. The IHCA Foundation supports workforce programs for Iowa's long-term care employees, including an array of scholarships, funding opportunities and more.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, SNF Medicare Review – Virtual Training on Oct. 26-27, Bronze Award Application Workshop on Oct. 28, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10 and AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17.
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IHCA and its divisions, ICAL and ICHC, announced their 2022-2023 board officers and directors elected during IHCA's 2022 Convention in Des Moines last week. These leaders formulate the long-range goals and objectives of these associations, which represent nursing homes, assisted living programs and home health care providers across Iowa.
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Hurricane Ian left a path of damage and destruction along many areas of Florida, impacting the lives of thousands of caregivers working in nursing centers and assisted living facilities. To support the caregivers who put the safety of their residents first, the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) has established a Hurricane Relief Fund. The fund will benefit employees of FHCA member centers who were affected by Hurricane Ian, and all donations received will go directly to those in need.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., is just a few days away! The event will take place next Monday through Wednesday, Sept. 26-28, at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Additionally, there is a pre-convention education session available on Sunday, Sept. 25. With full registration, attendees can choose from 45 timely education sessions from expert speakers and earn up to 18.0 CEUs.
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The Annual Business Meeting of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC, sponsored by BOK Financial, Encore Rehabilitation and Trio Pharmacy Services, will be held in conjunction with the 2022 IHCA Convention and Trade Show on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 1:30 p.m. in the Des Moines Embassy Club. All IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members are encouraged to attend and participate in the meeting where the new 2022-2023 boards and district officers will be announced.
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Effective Oct. 4, 2022, a report retention time period will be applied to user-requested or auto-generated home health agency (HHA) reports in the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). If you wish to permanently retain any existing reports in iQIES, you may download and save or print a copy prior to the report retention time period change. Any reports not printed or saved prior to the retention period time change will be permanently deleted if the report exceeds the retention time period.
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IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, include a combination of virtual and in-person events this year. There are two in-person events remaining, which will be held in Fort Dodge and Des Moines. Additionally, virtual Table Talks will be held for the areas of Sioux City, Spencer and Mason City. Member participation is strongly encouraged as it is important for legislators to hear from you directly.
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Iowa Medicaid has announced changes to the Medicaid service documentation requirements, effective Sept. 16, 2022. The changes are being implemented to clarify documentation requirements and remove administrative burden related to delivering services. Providers have requested the amendments in response to the direct care workforce crisis. This will provide immediate relief to providers struggling to recruit and retain direct care staff. These amendments were published in the July 27, 2022, Iowa Administrative Bulletin.
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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shared a document to assist providers when a service is considered bundled or non-bundled. The document also tells providers when bundled or non-bundled services are used, what the reimbursement model is and whether an Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) is required.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, SNF Medicare Review – Virtual Training on Oct. 26-27, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10 and AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Last week the Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) launched its new Home Care Accreditation Program for all ICHC members that offer supportive care services. This accreditation program will establish operational and quality standards that will set accredited agencies apart from others in the industry.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., is right around the corner! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. IHCA members who register by tomorrow, Sept. 15, will save $50 on the price of full registration. The rate for full registration for all three days of the event is $379 through Sept. 15. After Sept. 15, the member rate increases to $429.
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Online electronic balloting for the annual election of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board officers, the directors-at-large positions, conference chairs and district officers will close on Sept. 20, 2022. If you are the administrator or the organization’s approved voting representative, you should have received an email ballot to vote on Aug. 18. The new 2022-2023 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board and district officers will be announced at the Annual Business Meeting of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC, sponsored by BOK Financial, Encore Rehabilitation and Trio Pharmacy Services, on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 1:30 p.m. in the Des Moines Embassy Club.
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Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) is pleased to announce the launch of its new Home Care Accreditation Program for all ICHC members that offer supportive care services. This accreditation program will establish operational and quality standards that will set accredited agencies apart from others in the industry.
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A recording of ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call from Sept. 8 is now available on the IHCA website. The call covered congressional meetings, an Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) update, the phase-out of face-to-face telehealth flexibilities, the CMS proposed payment rule and more. IHCA's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen, will take place next Tuesday, Sept. 20.
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On July 8, 2022, Iowa Medicaid submitted a final draft of the statewide transition plan (STP) to CMS. The Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) rules require that all residential and non-residential settings be in compliance by March 17, 2023. Beginning in September 2022, the Iowa Medicaid Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) HCBS unit will send letters to providers with outstanding remediation related to settings, notifying them of actions needed and associated timelines to come into compliance with the settings rule.
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CMS has released guidance outlining requirements and expectations for the resumption of normal eligibility business processes when the federal COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) expires. Iowa Medicaid has utilized this guidance to establish a phased approach to resuming normal eligibility business processes. Phases 1 through 3 of Iowa Medicaid’s plan have been implemented, and the associated processes contained in each phase continue to be executed during the PHE.
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On Sept. 8, members of the ICHC Board of Directors and ICHC staff met with Senator Joni Ernst and her staff to discuss pressing issues surrounding home health care. Included in the conversation was an update on the status of the sector and the significant negative impacts the home health proposed payment rule would have on Iowa agencies.
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IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, kicked off last week with a combination of virtual and in-person events. The remaining events will resume in early October. There are two in-person events remaining, which will be held in Fort Dodge and Des Moines. Additionally, virtual Table Talks will be held for the areas of Sioux City, Spencer and Mason City. Member participation is strongly encouraged as it is important for legislators to hear from you directly.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, SNF Medicare Review – Virtual Training on Oct. 26-27, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10 and AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, Sept. 8, for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. IHCA's Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, are cancelled this month since they occur at the same time as Iowa Medicaid's Annual Provider Trainings. The MCOs are participating in Iowa Medicaid's trainings, and IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members are encouraged to attend as well.
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Iowa Medicaid will host virtual town hall events for providers, members and stakeholders on Thursday, Sept. 8 at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to discuss recent developments in the managed care request for proposal (RFP) process. The event for providers will be at 4:00 p.m., and the event for members will be at 5:00 p.m.
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IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, will be offered in-person and virtually this fall. Eight events originally scheduled to take place at member facilities will now take place virtually via Zoom, and four events will be held-in person. Inclusion of a virtual option helps accommodate legislator schedules as they prepare for elections following re-districting in Iowa. Next week's in-person Table Talks will be held on Sept. 12 at Western Home Communities in Cedar Falls and on Sept. 13 at West Ridge Care Center in Cedar Rapids. Virtual events will be held on Sept. 12, 13 and 14.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc., is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. IHCA members who register by Sept. 15 will save $50 on the price of full registration. The rate for full registration for all three days of the event is $379 through Sept. 15. After Sept. 15, the member rate increases to $429.
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On Aug. 18, 2022, CMS issued extensive materials that indicated the flexibilities currently allowing home health agencies and hospices to utilize telehealth for completion of their respective face-to-face encounter requirements would terminate with the end of the public health emergency (PHE). However, under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022 (CAA 2022), Congress enacted provisions that extend the geographic and originating site requirement waivers and the waiver allowing use of telehealth to perform the hospice face-to-face encounter for 151 days following the end of the PHE. CMS officials have acknowledged the changes made by the CAA 2022 and have indicated that they are in the process of correcting the fact sheets to reflect that the home health and hospice face-to-face telehealth waivers will remain in effect through the 151st day following the end of the PHE.
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The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), with approval from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has recommended the updated Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent COVID-19 boosters. These new bivalent vaccines are designed to fight the omicron strains of COVID-19 more effectively. The approval and recommendation to use the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 boosters are rescinded and replaced with recommendations to use the updated bivalent vaccine. This means individuals do not need to choose which booster to receive as there is only one booster available; the bivalent is now the sole booster.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHSS) announced that it has issued a Notice of Intent to award to two managed care organization (MCO) bidders for Request for Proposal (RFP) MED-23-005, IA Health Link. The bidders announced on Aug. 31, 2022, include Amerigroup Iowa, Inc. and Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Inc. Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Inc. will join Amerigroup Iowa, Inc. and Iowa Total Care, Inc. as MCOs in the Iowa Medicaid program.
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Iowa Medicaid released informational letter (IL) 2371 to provide guidance for the treatment of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) funds when completing the annual financial and statistical report. Iowa Medicaid providers that are eligible for HCBS ARPA grant funds and provide applicable services are required to submit reports in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code (IAC).
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Iowa Medicaid is participating in the federal FY 2024 Payment Error Rate Measurement (PERM) program. This means that providers may be contacted by the CMS review contractor who will collect medical records either in hard copy or in electronic format. Upon receipt of the request for medical records, providers must submit the records within 75 days.
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The Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) has signed onto the National Association for Home Care and Hospice's formal comment letter for the CY 2023 Medicare Home Health Services proposed rule. The Preserving Access to Home Health Act of 2022 is bipartisan legislation that is currently pending in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. This legislation would suspend any payment rate reductions, thereby allowing CMS additional time to reconsider its proposed actions.
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The August 2022 Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Newsletter, containing the latest information about the expanded HHVBP model, as well other as important tools, news and insights, is now available on the CMS website. A recording of the Aug. 25 CMS webinar on the expanded HHVBP model is now available online as well.
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Iowa Medicaid has announced new competency-based training for Iowa long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers and case managers. Competency-based training ensures providers and direct support professionals acquire skills that can be applied in the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) setting. Trainings are provided at no cost to agencies or direct support professionals. The next trainings will be held on Sept. 20 and 21 and will cover service documentation with Iowa Medicaid.
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The National Quality Forum (NQF) has released the "Advancing Anticoagulation Stewardship: A Playbook" to help guide health care organizations to implement evidence-based strategies to promote patient safety in the use of anticoagulant medications. This is a free resource to improve patient safety throughout anticoagulation therapy.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, SNF Medicare Review – Virtual Training on Oct. 26-27, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10 and AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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Online electronic balloting for the annual election of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board officers, the directors-at-large positions, conference chairs and district officers is now open and will close Sept. 20, 2022. If you are the administrator or the organization’s approved voting representative, you should have received an email ballot to vote on Aug. 18. The new 2022-2023 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board and district officers will be announced at the Annual Business Meeting of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC, sponsored by BOK Financial, Encore Rehabilitation and Trio Pharmacy Services, on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 1:30 p.m. in the Des Moines Embassy Club.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
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IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, are back and in-person this fall! These events will take place at 12 different locations this year, including one near you. All IHCA members, state legislators and Iowa’s congressional delegates are invited to participate. IHCA has provided a message template for attendees to use to personally invite their legislators to these events. The more people we have in attendance, the stronger the message we can send about the importance of long-term care in Iowa. The first Legislative Table Talk will be on Sept. 7 at Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa.
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Recently, the Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) Board of Managers and Quality Committee took the next step in the maturity of the provider network by moving to clinical integration. This move to clinical integration, known as Tier 2, makes Iowa the first AHCA/NCAL affiliated, provider-owned network to make this advancement. This advancement allows IHCQP to begin negotiating rates with insurance payors and leveraging the high quality care that is being provided by those members electing to move to Tier 2, all while maintaining the current opportunities and benefits that are in place for members in Tier 1.
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Beginning Sept. 1, 2022, Iowa Medicaid will accept applications from eligible providers to receive funds from the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Recruitment and Retention Grant. Grant funds must be used to cover costs related to recruitment and retention incentive payments to direct care employees and other essential staff supporting the delivery of HCBS directly or indirectly including, but not limited to, program coordinators, managers, nurses, counselors, accounting, human resources, informational technology, transportation and maintenance.
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2022 Iowa Medicaid Annual Provider Training sessions will be held in-person and via Zoom live broadcast. There will be six four-hour sessions. Each session will cover the same material; providers only need to sign up for one session. Iowa Medicaid will record the sessions and post the recordings to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website for providers who are unable to attend.
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IHCA received informational letter (IL) 2370 from Iowa Medicaid announcing Iowa Medicaid Pharmacy Program changes, effective Oct. 1, 2022. The letter includes changes to the preferred drug list (PDL), new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to existing PA criteria, point of sale billing updates and a Drug Utilization Review (DUR) update.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that are found in the Aug. 10 and Aug. 24 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) cost report reviews and the Health Care Profession Recruitment Program.
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The Iowa Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Programs at the University of Iowa and St. Louis University invite IHCA, ICAL and ICHC members to join the Post-Acute and Long-Term Care (PAC/LTC) ECHO. This fall, ECHO sessions co-presented by leaders in Kansas and Iowa will focus on promoting health and wellness for staff and residents alike. Sessions are free and provide continuing education credits.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, SNF Medicare Review – Virtual Training on Oct. 26-27, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3, MDS 101 on Nov. 9, MDS 201 on Nov. 10 and AAPACN RAC-CT Program (MDS Certification) on Nov. 15-17.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is less than one month away! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. The event will offer education for everyone - nursing facility, assisted living and home health providers! Check out the list of sessions created specifically for long-term care nurses.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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Online electronic balloting for the annual election of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board officers, the directors-at-large positions, conference chairs and district officers is now open and will close Sept. 20, 2022. If you are the administrator or the organization’s approved voting representative, you should have received an email ballot to vote on Aug. 18. The new 2022-2023 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board and district officers will be announced at the Annual Business Meeting of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC, sponsored by BOK Financial, Encore Rehabilitation and Trio Pharmacy Services, on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 1:30 p.m. in the Des Moines Embassy Club.
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IHCA's committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. Beginning in 2023, IHCA committees will be revamped to meet those needs. If you are interested in serving on an IHCA committee, advisory council or work group in 2023, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
Read More
IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, are back and in-person this fall! These events will take place at 12 different locations this year, including one near you. All IHCA members, state legislators and Iowa’s congressional delegates are invited to participate. IHCA has provided a message template for attendees to use to personally invite their legislators to these events. The more people we have in attendance, the stronger the message we can send about the importance of long-term care in Iowa.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its LTC Social Services Virtual Conference on Sept. 7-8, Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4 and Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. The event will offer education for everyone - nursing facility, assisted living and home health providers! Check out the list of sessions created specifically for nursing facility administrators.
Read More
The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Online electronic balloting for the annual election of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board officers, the directors-at-large positions, conference chairs and district officers is now open. If you are the administrator or the organization’s approved voting representative, you should have received an email to vote on Aug. 18. The new 2022-2023 IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board and district officers will be announced at the Annual Business Meeting of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC, sponsored by BOK Financial, Encore Rehabilitation and Trio Pharmacy Services, on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 1:30 p.m. in the Des Moines Embassy Club.
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Join IHCA on Aug. 22 at Mayflower Home in Grinnell for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Review Class. This class is for temporary nurse aides (TNAs) or any student wanting to take the state CNA test. This workshop will prepare attendees for the written and skills exams to become a CNA and listed on the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry.
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Online electronic balloting for the annual election of IHCA, ICAL and ICHC board officers (chair, vice chair, secretary and treasurer), the directors-at-large positions, conference chairs and district officers will begin this Thursday, Aug. 18. If you are the administrator or the organization’s approved voting representative, you will receive an email to vote on Aug. 18. The email will include a link to your electronic ballot. If you do not receive a ballot, your organization chose to proxy vote for all its locations. Online voting will close on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022.
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Recordings of last week's Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, and ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call are now available on the IHCA website. IHCA's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen, will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 30.
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IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, are back and in-person this fall! These events will take place at 12 different locations this year, including one near you. All IHCA members, state legislators and Iowa’s congressional delegates are invited to participate. Your attendance is greatly needed. The more people we have in attendance, the stronger the message we can send about the importance of long-term care in Iowa.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its LTC Social Services Virtual Conference on Sept. 7-8, Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16, OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18, Assisted Living Management Program on Oct. 31-Nov. 4 and Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Nov. 3.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Check out the newly released program guide to see all that the event will have to offer, including the Monday Night Disco Party featuring the Shagadelics, sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., and the Tuesday Trivia Game Night, sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group.
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
Read More
The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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IHCA is proud to offer a variety of online courses through its On-Demand Education Platform. One of the many on-demand courses available is Leadership 101. This eight-module training series will provide new and experienced managers with practical skills and a broader understanding of leadership in health care. This training program is approved for up to 8.0 CEUs for activity professionals, nurses, social services staff, environmental services staff, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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IHCA's committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. Beginning in 2023, IHCA committees will be revamped to meet those needs. If you are interested in serving on an IHCA committee, advisory council or work group in 2023, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, Aug. 11, for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. The call will cover the bill to extend federal public health emergency telehealth flexibilities, legislation to stop home health rate cuts, notice of admission (NOA) system corrections, the CMS proposed payment rule, certified nursing assistant 14-day skilled supervision and more.
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IHCA's Legislative Table Talks, sponsored by Cornerstone Government Affairs, are back and in-person this fall! These events will take place at 12 different locations this year, including one near you. All IHCA members, state legislators and Iowa’s congressional delegates are invited to participate. Your attendance is greatly needed. The more people we have in attendance, the stronger the message we can send about the importance of long-term care in Iowa.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its CNA Review Class in Grinnell on Aug. 22, Requirements of Participation (RoP) Phase 3 Workshop on Aug. 31, LTC Social Services Virtual Conference on Sept. 7-8, Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. With full registration, attendees can choose from 45 timely education sessions from expert speakers and earn up to 18.0 CEUs approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing.
Read More
Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
Read More
The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
Read More
IHCA's committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. Beginning in 2023, IHCA committees will be revamped to meet those needs. If you are interested in serving on an IHCA committee, advisory council or work group in 2023, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
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The IHCA Foundation has announced the winners of its 2022 health care scholarship programs. This year, the IHCA Foundation awarded 78 scholarships totaling over $105,000 to assist Iowans who want to advance their health care education and work in long-term care.
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Join IHCA for its monthly Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, next Wednesday, Aug. 10. Additionally, ICHC is hosting its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call next Thursday, Aug. 11.
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Legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate designed to prevent CMS from moving forward with its proposed 7.69% payment cut for Medicaid home health services for calendar year (CY) 2023. The bill, Preserving Access to Home Health Act, S. 4605, would freeze the current payment rate in place, with the exception of annual market basket updates, through 2025. Please urge your senators to sign on to the bill. Calls and personal messages are best, but for those short on time, a message has been pre-drafted and is ready to go in the National Association for Home Care and Hospice's (NAHC's) Virtual Advocacy Center.
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The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Department of Human Services (DHS) are one step closer to becoming a single agency. Last week, the department held a town hall call to provide an update to stakeholders on the progress of the alignment. Slides from the town hall and an updated organization chart are now available. The department indicated that the organization chart will serve as a roadmap to bring together both agencies under a single leadership structure.
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The recent Legislative Service Agency (LSA) memo reported that fiscal year (FY) 2022 came to an end with another month of strong revenue. For the full FY 2022, the State of Iowa took in $9.6704 billion in net receipts. That is a $716.8 million increase over the same figure at the end of June 2021, which makes yearly revenue collections 8% higher than last year.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that are found in the July 27, 2022 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include care facility pharmacy practice and service documentation changes for medical and remedial care.
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CMS has released Change Request (CR) 12790, modifying the Medicare systems to ensure prior periods are updated correctly when a notice of admission (NOA) is canceled. The CR also ensures medical review information is not removed when claims are subsequently adjusted due to period sequence edits.
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Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) announced new competency-based training for Iowa Medicaid enrolled long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers and case managers. Competency-based training ensures providers and direct support professionals acquire skills that can be applied in the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) setting. Training sessions are provided at no cost to agencies or direct support professionals.
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) recently announced the availability of funding to increase the nursing workforce and improve nursing education and practice. Eligible applicants include accredited schools of nursing, health care facilities or a partnership of such a school or facility. HRSA will award approximately $10 million to up to 10 grantees over four years. The application deadline is Monday, Aug. 22, 2022.
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The Briar Cliff University Career Development Office will host a part-time job fair for its students on Aug. 30 in the Heffernan Mall in Sioux City. If you are hiring student workers, this is a great opportunity to secure workers early in the semester, as there may be interest from students who are working toward degrees in many sectors of the health care industry.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including its Reimbursement Market Strategies Conference on Aug. 17, Single Facility Conference on Aug. 18, CNA Review Class in Grinnell on Aug. 22, Requirements of Participation Phase 3 Workshop on Aug. 31, LTC Social Services Virtual Conference on Sept. 7-8, Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. With full registration, attendees can choose from 45 timely education sessions from expert speakers and earn up to 18.0 CEUs. Three general sessions featuring entertaining keynote speakers will provide laughs and leave attendees refreshed, renewed and inspired to "Remember the Why."
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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IHCA's committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. Beginning in 2023, IHCA committees will be revamped to meet those needs. If you are interested in serving on an IHCA committee, advisory council or work group in 2023, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. IHCA members who register by this Sunday, July 31, will save $50! Register before July 31 to receive the early bird discount rate of $329 for full registration. After July 31, the regular member rate is $379.
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Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) has reopened the third application period from eligible Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) direct service providers to receive funds from the HCBS American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Recruitment and Retention Grant. Eligible agency providers identified below who did not apply for funds during the first application period prior to the application closing will now have until close of business Friday, Aug. 19, 2022, to apply for a portion of the grant funds.
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Western Home Communities, an IHCA member, added 34 interns from Jamaica to its staff this summer. Due to J-1 visas, the interns are approved to work for one year at Western Home Communities through the U.S. State Department’s Exchange Visitor Program, started in 1961.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including Constructing a Competitive Culture on Aug. 8, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14, Reimbursement Market Strategies Conference on Aug. 17, Single Facility Conference on Aug. 18, CNA Review Class in Grinnell on Aug. 22, LTC Social Services Virtual Conference on Sept. 7-8, Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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IHCA's committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. Beginning in 2023, IHCA committees will be revamped to meet those needs. If you are interested in serving on an IHCA committee, advisory council or work group in 2023, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, July 27, for its Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call. Recordings of ICAL's Assisted Living (AL) and ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Calls from this month are now available on the IHCA website.
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Last Friday afternoon, U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the declaration that a public health emergency (PHE) exists. This is effective July 15, 2022, and will continue for 90 days pursuant to federal law. IHCA’s Regulatory Relief Summary highlights the elements of the CMS Coronavirus 1135 Emergency Blanket Waiver that remain in place, including the waiver of required three-day stay to access skilled nursing services.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that are found in the July 13, 2022 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include Medicare drug subsidy (Part D), debts due from transfers of assets and disability services management.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the launch of 988, the National Suicide Prevention Line (NSPL) three-digit number to call for individuals in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Iowans who contact 988 will be directly connected to trained crisis counselors who provide crisis de-escalation and connect individuals to the services and supports they need, when they need it.
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IHCA has several upcoming education opportunities available, including the Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, Constructing a Competitive Culture on Aug. 8, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14, Reimbursement Market Strategies Conference on Aug. 17, Single Facility Conference on Aug. 18, LTC Social Services Virtual Conference on Sept. 7-8, Bronze Award Application Workshop Orientation on Sept. 16 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. IHCA members who register by July 31 will save $50! Register before July 31 to receive the early bird discount rate of $329 for full registration. After July 31, the regular member rate is $379.
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages. You don't have to attend convention to participate in the raffle.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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IHCA's committees and advisory councils play an important part in providing the association with member input to guide our association in meeting the current and future needs of the profession. Beginning in 2023, IHCA committees will be revamped to meet those needs. If you are interested in serving on one of the re-structured committees, advisory councils or work groups in 2023, please complete and submit a nomination form to express your interest by Aug. 30.
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Two IHCA staff members advocated for the needs of the long-term care profession this week in the press. IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett discussed workforce challenges and the current status of long-term care on last Friday's broadcast of Iowa Press. IHCA Vice President of Quality Improvement and Regulatory Affairs Brenda Irlbeck was featured as a panelist today for the Cedar Rapids Gazette's Aging in Iowa virtual series.
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Nominations are being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than this Friday, July 15, 2022.
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Join IHCA on July 20 at Happy Siesta Nursing Home in Remsen for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Review Class. This class is for temporary nurse aides (TNAs) or any student wanting to take the state CNA test. This workshop will prepare attendees for the written and skills exams to become a CNA and listed on the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry. IHCA will also offer this class on Aug. 22 in Grinnell.
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Join ICHC tomorrow, July 14, for its Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call. ICAL's Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call will be next Wednesday, July 20.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that are found in the June 29, 2022 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include the Rent Reimbursement Program, five-year rules review and nurse aide program training.
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The IHCA Foundation received over 190 applications this year for its scholarship programs, and judging is currently underway to select this year's 88 scholarship recipients. IHCA Foundation scholarship winners will be announced by the first week of August. All applicants will be notified of their application status, and winners will be recognized at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show in September.
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including the LTC Quality Symposium on July 27, Pressure Ulcer and Wound Care Clinic on July 28, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, Constructing a Competitive Culture on Aug. 8, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14, Reimbursement Market Strategies Conference on Aug. 17 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18. Additionally, the three-part Bronze Award Application Workshop will kick off on Sept. 16 with an orientation webinar.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. is quickly approaching! The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. IHCA members who register by July 31 will save $50! Register before July 31 to receive the early bird discount rate of $329 for full registration. After July 31, the regular member rate is $379.
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Feature the stars of your organization on the big screen with IHCA's 2022 Convention Video Contest – to give them the recognition they deserve! We invite our members to create a totally rad 30-second video that features your staff, residents, tenants, patients or a special event. The videos will be shown on the big screen during the general sessions at IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 26-28. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 2, and five videos will win cash prizes.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages.
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IHCA is proud to offer a variety of online courses through its On-Demand Education Platform. The courses are available 24/7 and convenient for long-term care professionals to integrate into their busy schedules. The newest courses available on IHCA's On-Demand Education Platform include the free one-hour Mandatory Reporter Recertification Trainings for dependent adult abuse and child abuse.
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Utilize ECSI’s group purchasing partner, Touché, to assist with your admission process and help secure revenue, regardless of payor source. Touché is a digital platform developed by long-term care providers for long-term care providers.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 15, 2022.
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Join IHCA on July 12 at Midlands Living Center in Council Bluffs for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Review Class. This class is for temporary nurse aides (TNAs) or any student wanting to take the state CNA test. This workshop will prepare attendees for the written and skills exams to become a CNA and listed on the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry. IHCA will also offer this class on July 20 in Remsen and on Aug. 22 in Grinnell.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, July 13, for its Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call will be next Thursday, July 14.
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As the health care employment agency reform bill went into effect on July, 1, 2022, IHCA has received questions from members affiliated with staffing agencies on how to pay the new agency Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) registration fee. DIA advises staffing agencies to read the explanation of HF 2521 on DIA's website stating that registration will not be available until this fall and that until the new administrative rules can be written and put into place, agencies will be unable to register with DIA, nor will they be penalized for noncompliance.
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The COVID-19 Unwind Plan is the process of returning to normal operations after the federal COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) ends. Once the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) ends the federal PHE, states must put plans in place to implement normal eligibility processes and roll-back flexibilities, as well as redetermine eligibility for all Medicaid members. The redeterminations of eligibility will be completed over a 12-month unwinding period.
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As part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Section 9817 Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) implementation plan, Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) has designated $14.6 million in state funds to increase HCBS waiver and habilitation reimbursement rates by 4.25%, effective for dates of service on or after July 1, 2022. Medicaid HCBS providers are reimbursed based on retrospectively limited prospective rate services or fee schedules.
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including the LTC Quality Symposium on July 27, Pressure Ulcer and Wound Care Clinic on July 28, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18. Additionally, the three-part Bronze Award Application Workshop will kick off on Sept. 16 with an orientation webinar.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. With full registration, attendees can choose from 45 timely education sessions from expert speakers and earn up to 18.0 CEUs! Plus, the evening entertainment events will provide good vibes and funky tunes! IHCA members who register by July 31 will receive the early bird discount rate of $329 for full registration.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages.
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IHCA’s Legislative Outcomes Report for the 2022 session is now available. Thanks to the support of IHCA members and Iowa Health PAC contributors, the association achieved policy improvements to support access to long-term care for Iowans and several other positive results for our members, their employees and the residents they serve. Additionally, the 2022 Iowa Health PAC Fundraising Toolkit is available for organizations to use in their facilities to assist in strengthening the Iowa Health PAC.
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The one-hour Mandatory Reporter Recertification Trainings for dependent adult abuse and child abuse are now available on IHCA's On-Demand Education Platform. Every individual required to report suspected abuse must complete two hours of mandatory reporter training within their first six months of employment or self-employment and one hour of additional training every three years, unless otherwise specified by federal regulations.
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Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) is a business entity organized and owned by a network of independent long-term care providers for the purpose of reducing overhead and pursuing business ventures, including reimbursement and value-based contracts with managed care organizations (MCOs). Since the launch of IHCQP in early 2020, network participants have received increased contracted rates from Medicare Advantage plans and a payout of quality bonus of over 1.1 million dollars from a payer.
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Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) is currently refining the provider manual review process and would like to incorporate stakeholder input. To this end, DHS has developed a feedback survey for providers. The survey can be completed multiple times should providers wish to submit multiple recommendations on content. This survey is not intended for recommending policy or coverage changes.
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IHCA received informational letter (IL) 2352 from Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) announcing Iowa Medicaid Pharmacy Program changes, effective Aug. 1, 2022. The letter includes new drug prior authorization (PA) criteria, changes to existing PA criteria, point of sale billing updates and a Drug Utilization Review (DUR) update.
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including CNA Review Classes on July 12, July 20 and Aug. 22, LTC Quality Symposium on July 27, Pressure Ulcer and Wound Care Clinic on July 28, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18. Additionally, the three-part Bronze Award Application Workshop kicks off on Sept. 16 with an orientation webinar.
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IHCA's 2022 Convention will feature three keynote addresses during the event's general sessions that will inspire attendees from all disciplines to "remember the why." Register today for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott.
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VGM Education/CE Solutions, an IHCA Premier Partner, works with long-term care facilities to meet compliance requirements while streamlining staff education offerings through its online learning platform.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 15, 2022.
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Join ICHC on June 28-29 for its Medicare Boot Camp for Home Health Clinicians. This two-day in-person training will provide every attendee, from new home health clinicians to clinical managers, with resources, tools and CMS guidance to help guide them through the "maze of Medicare." This in-person event is approved for 11.0 CEUs for nurses, social services staff, administrators, home health agency directors and business office staff.
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CMS has provided new information on how it will survey for compliance of the staff COVID-19 vaccination requirement. CMS survey oversight of the staff vaccination requirement for Medicare and Medicaid-certified providers and suppliers will continue to be performed during initial and recertification surveys, as originally stated. With the updated guidance, compliance will not be evaluated with every complaint survey. Instead, surveyors will review compliance only in response to complaints alleging non-compliance with the vaccination mandate requirements.
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CMS has rescinded guidance that expects surveyors to be fully vaccinated before participating in an on-site survey. In a memo published on June 16, 2022, CMS stated that confusion stemming from penalties for noncompliance and the prohibition of facilities’ request for surveyor vaccination status information was the basis for the recision.
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Iowa Medicaid is accepting applications from eligible Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) direct service providers to receive funds from the HCBS American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Recruitment and Retention Grant. Providers that were not included in the first and second application periods and are identified in informational letter (IL) 2351 may apply for a share of the funds. Agency providers will have until close of business on Friday, June 24, 2022, to request grant funds by completing the online application and attestation and submitting the minority impact statement.
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Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) is instructing all Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver and habilitation service providers who received COVID-19 retainer payments for the month of April 2020 to conduct a self-audit of their retainer claims submitted and retainer payments received. Providers are obligated to notify the managed care organizations (MCOs) when funds are incorrectly paid or when an overpayment has been detected. Any overpayments or improper payments for the month of April 2020 must be returned to the MCO no later than July 31, 2022.
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Effective July 1, 2022, for the 1915(i) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) habilitation program, the interRAI assessment tools will be replaced by the Level of Care Utilization System (LOCUS) for adults ages 19 and older and the Child and Adolescent Level of Care Utilization System (CALOCUS) for youth ages 18 and under for the purposes of the needs-based eligibility (NBE) determination, person-centered service planning and home-based habilitation tier authorization.
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In recognition of World Refugee Day, IowaWORKS, in partnership with the Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa (RACI), will host a three-part webinar series for employers who are interested in hiring refugees to fill their workforce gaps. The free webinars will offer insight on how to successfully employ refugees and how communities can invest in the refugee population. The first webinar will take place tomorrow, June 23, at 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including CNA Review Classes on July 12, July 20 and Aug. 22, LTC Quality Symposium on July 27, Pressure Ulcer and Wound Care Clinic on July 28, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. This premier event for Iowa's long-term and post-acute care professionals will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Get inspired by inspiring keynote speakers, participate in informative and timely education sessions, enjoy exciting evening entertainment and reconnect with your peers – all while earning continuing education credits to launch your career to the next level.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 15, 2022.
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Join IHCA at the Hilton Garden Inn in Johnston next Wednesday, June 22, for its Summer Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by BCG Research, Medline and Synchrony Health Services. The four different sessions will offer a variety of classes covering timely topics. This in-person event is approved for 5.5 CEUs for nurses, nursing facility administrators, social services staff, department heads, assisted living managers and home health staff.
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The Assisted Living (AL) Provider Update Call originally scheduled for Friday, June 17, has been cancelled. Starting in July, AL Provider Calls will occur quarterly, corresponding with ICAL's quarterly survey trend reports. The next AL Provider Update Call will be Wednesday, July 20, at 10:00 a.m. A recording of last week's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call is now available on the IHCA website.
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The second quarter 2022 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your facility involved with managing survey quality, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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To support home health agencies (HHAs) participating in the expanded Home Health Value Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Model, the HHVBP Technical Assistance Team has produced two new learning materials.
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Last Tuesday, June 7, was the primary election for numerous statewide and legislative races. IHCA has provided results for the state and federal elections.
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If your organization has not yet applied for the IHCA Foundation COVID Recovery Fund, there is still time to apply for this $1,000 grant. Requests of up to a maximum of $1,000 per member organization will be accepted as long as funds are available, with requests for personal protective equipment (PPE) limited to $250. Funds may be used for purchasing PPE, testing and screening supplies and resources to boost staff morale. Applications will be reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are distributed or until July 15, whichever comes first.
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Give your employees an opportunity to access their wages sooner, receive free one-on-one financial counseling and start a savings plan. Implement a financial wellness program for your staff through PayActiv, an IHCA group purchasing partner.
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including Medicare Boot Camp for Home Health Clinicians on June 28-29, LTC Dietary Conference on June 30, LTC Quality Symposium on July 27, Pressure Ulcer and Wound Care Clinic on July 28, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. This premier event for Iowa's long-term and post-acute care professionals will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Get inspired by motivational keynote speakers, participate in informative and timely education sessions, enjoy exciting evening entertainment and reconnect with your peers – all while earning continuing education credits to launch your career to the next level.
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The IHCA Foundation and Care Initiatives Hospice are offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot! There is also an opportunity to register for a raffle for a chance to win $250 to bring a massage therapist on-site to your organization to provide staff massages.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 15, 2022.
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Join ICHC for its monthly Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call tomorrow, June 9. The call will cover a summary of the legislative session, the extension of the American Rescue Plan Act spending deadline, the OASIS-E guidance manual draft, the expanded Home Health Value Based Purchasing Model and more.
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Join IHCA at the Hilton Garden Inn in Johnston on June 22 for its Summer Quarterly Education Conference, sponsored by BCG Research, Medline and Synchrony Health Services. The four different sessions will offer a variety of classes covering timely topics. This in-person event is approved for 5.5 CEUs for nurses, nursing facility administrators, social services staff, department heads, assisted living managers and home health staff.
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During the past few weeks, members have shared their experiences with OSHA inspections or health survey activity where the surveyors reviewed the organization’s approach to respiratory protection. Although most organizations have implemented a process to meet these expectations, now is the time to review your respiratory protection plans, renew annual fit testing for employees and implement updated guidance if needed. AHCA has provided a customizable template respiratory protection plan for members to use.
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On May 26, 2022, CMS updated QSO-20-41, guidance related to emergency preparedness exercise exemption based on a facility's activation of their emergency plan. This update clarifies that providers are exempt from the 2021 and 2022 Full Scale Exercise (FSE) so long as the facility is still operating under an activated emergency plan or has reactivated its plan due to COVID-19.
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The Department of Labor's (DOL's) Wage and Hour Division is providing additional resources for workers on their rights to take leave for serious mental health conditions and for employers to better understand how to comply with the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
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Effective Oct. 22, 2021, Iowa Medicaid began using Iowa Medicaid Portal Access (IMPA) to distribute information regarding member Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) habilitation and waiver eligibility. Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) has worked to improve the portal and providers are now able to access HCBS habilitation and waiver eligibility information for members they serve based on members’ current Medicaid eligibility and providers’ authorization to offer services based on the most recent HCBS service plans submitted to Iowa Medicaid by the managed care organizations (MCOs).
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Iowa Medicaid offers provider training sessions on a quarterly basis. Second quarter training this year will focus on vision care, and there will be two one-hour sessions held via Zoom on June 21. Each session will cover the same material, and providers only need to attend one session. Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) will record the sessions and post the recordings to the DHS website for providers who are unable to attend a live session.
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The IHCA Foundation is offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot!
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including Medicare Boot Camp for Home Health Clinicians on June 28-29, LTC Dietary Conference on June 30, LTC Quality Symposium on July 27, Pressure Ulcer and Wound Care Clinic on July 28, Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4, LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14 and OASIS-E Workshop on Oct. 17-18.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Get inspired by inspiring keynote speakers, participate in informative and timely education sessions, enjoy exciting evening entertainment and reconnect with your peers – all while earning continuing education credits to launch your career to the next level.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 15, 2022.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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Work with those who truly understand your business. ECSI is proud to partner with Iowa Long-Term Care (LTC) Risk Management Association, a group self-insured association that provides workers’ compensation coverage to more than 190 Iowa LTC providers.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA, ICAL or ICHC board of directors or as an officer in the Southeast (SE), Northeast (NE), Southwest (SW) or Northwest (NW) District. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for any of these positions must complete a nomination form by no later than July 15, 2022.
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Join IHCA for its monthly Managed Care Organization (MCO) Calls, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, next Wednesday, June 8. ICHC's Home Health (HH) Provider Update Call is next Thursday, June 9. Additionally, a recording of yesterday's Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Update Call, sponsored by Lee Agency and CliftonLarsonAllen, is now available on the IHCA website.
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On May 24, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the definition of "up to date" with COVID-19 vaccinations. With the recent revision of the Interim COVID-19 Immunization Schedule, any adult over the age of 50 is recommended to have a second booster of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine four months after their first booster dose.
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The Iowa Legislature adjourned its second session of the 89th General Assembly last Wednesday, May 25, after 21 weeks of session. IHCA has provided details on final remarks from legislative leadership, primary elections and upcoming congressional meetings. Additionally, IHCA will distribute an end of session report in the coming weeks detailing specific issues the association has been tracking.
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If your organization has not yet applied for the IHCA Foundation COVID Recovery Fund, there is still time to apply for this $1,000 grant. Funds may be used for purchasing personal protective equipment, testing and screening supplies and resources to boost staff morale. Applications will be reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are distributed or until July 15, whichever comes first.
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The IHCA Foundation is offering a chance to give your employees a break – with massage therapy appointments at the IHCA Convention and Trade Show – and to help support the IHCA Foundation’s workforce programs. For a $20 donation, you can purchase a 10-minute massage therapy appointment for your employees to enjoy during the
IHCA Trade Show on Monday, Sept. 26. Sign up now to request your spot!
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IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including the Activity Professionals Workshop on June 15, the Summer Quarterly Education Conference on June 22, the Medicare Boot Camp for Home Health Clinicians on June 28-29, the LTC Dietary Conference on June 30, the Dementia Care Conference on Aug. 2, the Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4 and the LTC Nurse and Administrator Leadership Training Program on Aug. 10-11 and Sept. 13-14.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Get inspired by inspiring keynote speakers, participate in informative and timely education sessions, enjoy exciting evening entertainment and reconnect with your peers – all while earning continuing education credits to launch your career to the next level.
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This is the final week to apply for an IHCA Foundation scholarship! The IHCA Foundation is offering 88 scholarships to help members address current workforce challenges and to help meet future care demands. Scholarship opportunities are available for current long-term care employees seeking to build their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school students, veterans or individuals residing in rural Iowa counties who are pursuing an education in health care. Completed applications are due by next Tuesday, May 31.
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The Iowa Legislature adjourned sine die in the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 25, 2022, capping an extended 136-day session at 12:10 a.m. in the Senate and 12:16 a.m. in the House, and wrapping up a successful session for the Iowa Health Care Association and its members! IHCA has provided details on final session outcomes, the November election, federal updates and more.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note that are found in the May 18, 2022 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include telehealth standards of practice.
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The CMS Kansas City Office is hosting Rural Health Week, a series of one-hour online sessions for rural health care providers in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska, on June 13-17. Each session will take place from noon to 1:00 p.m. and will feature a 15-30 minute presentation followed by a listening session where providers can ask questions or inform CMS of challenges they face.
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On May 16, 2022, CMS posted the draft OASIS-E Guidance Manual and an updated version of the draft OASIS-E Instrument. The draft OASIS-E Guidance Manual, effective Jan. 1, 2023, contains guidance for the 27 new items added to the OASIS-E Instrument.
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Iowa Medicaid has amended the terms and conditions of the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Recruitment and Retention Grant after receiving feedback from providers that there is a need for greater flexibility in how the funds are distributed to direct care workers.
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On May 18, Governor Reynolds announced a new Child Care Business Incentive Grant Program to encourage employers to offer child care as a benefit to their employees. The grant program will provide a total of $25 million to support child care projects across the state. The state will begin accepting applications on IowaGrants.gov starting on Friday, June 17. Applications must be submitted by Monday, July 18.
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Registration is now open for IHCA's 2022 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co. Inc. The event will take place Sept. 26-28 at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott. Get inspired by inspiring keynote speakers, participate in informative and timely education sessions, enjoy exciting evening entertainment and reconnect with your peers – all while earning continuing education credits to launch your career to the next level.
Read More
IHCA has several upcoming in-person education opportunities available, including the Activity Professionals Workshop on June 15, the Summer Quarterly Education Conference on June 22, the Medicare Boot Camp for Home Health Clinicians on June 28-29, the LTC Dietary Conference on June 30 and the Assisted Living Regulatory Class on Aug. 4.
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