On Thursday, Dec. 4, CMS informed AHCA that the mandatory off-cycle SNF provider enrollment revalidation deadline of Jan. 1, 2026, has been suspended indefinitely. Official guidance has now been released from CMS on the off-cycle 855 revalidations.
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Nursing Facility (NF) Administrator Foundations is IHCA’s newly redesigned, comprehensive training program built specifically for new nursing facility administrators, help on Jan. 13 and 14. This two-day educational experience equips emerging leaders with the essential knowledge, practical tools and confidence needed to navigate the complex operational, clinical, regulatory and leadership responsibilities of today’s long-term care environment. This course is approved for 12.0 contact hours for NF administrators and nurses.
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IHCA's two-part virtual Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) Compliance Workshop - Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation is designed to strengthen your PBJ knowledge and survey readiness. Increased attention to PBJ reporting during surveys has made it essential for facility leaders to clearly understand the requirements, the data behind their submissions and how to confidently speak to both. This workshop is approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators.
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IHCA’s February LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Monday, Jan. 26. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility (SNF) as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs. Please note in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Feb. 10 and Feb. 25.
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IHCA's on-demand Activity Professionals Qualification Course, sponsored by the Iowa Council of Activity Professionals, meets the State of Iowa’s Department of Inspection, Appeals and Licensing requirements for activity professionals. Completion of this course qualifies one to direct an activities program in a nursing facility or residential care facility. This course is approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit, to be held tomorrow, Dec. 4, and sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 4.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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On Thursday, Dec. 4, CMS informed AHCA that the mandatory off-cycle SNF provider enrollment revalidation deadline of Jan. 1, 2026, has been suspended indefinitely. CMS is not announcing a new compliance date at this time and will post a formal notice in the coming days.
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Skilled nursing facility (SNF) providers enrolled in Medicare or Medicare/Medicaid must submit a mandatory off-cycle provider enrollment revalidation by Jan. 1, 2026, or risk having enrollment suspended or revoked. CMS extended the deadline from Aug. 1, 2025, following AHCA/NCAL advocacy efforts for relief on the extensive new reporting requirements. AHCA/NCAL continues to advocate for additional relief. However, as this deadline still stands, it is important for SNF providers notified by their Medicare administrative contractor to ensure completion of the revalidation submission process by Jan. 1.
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Iowa Medicaid and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have issued IL 2717 outlining annual fraud- and abuse-prevention submission requirements for providers or entities receiving $5 million or more in Medicaid payments during a federal fiscal year. Eligible providers must maintain specific written policies and submit the required Attestation of Compliance form (470-5506) by Jan. 31, 2026. Failure to comply may result in sanctions, including suspension or termination from the Iowa Medicaid program.
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CMS has approved a one-year temporary extension and amendment of the "Iowa Wellness Plan" section 1115 demonstration. This approval allows the state to continue operating the demonstration through 2026 and sunsets the waiver of non-emergency medical transportation on Dec. 31, 2026.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) has rescheduled the joint provider-surveyor training that was originally planned for November. The hybrid training will now be hosted on Monday, Dec. 8, at the State Historical Society of Iowa. From 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., nursing facility leaders are welcome to join the training session in-person or virtually.
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CMS released an interim final rule (IFR) that repeals parts of the Biden Administration’s staffing mandate. Specifically, the IFR rescinds implementation of the 24/7 on-site registered nurse requirement, as well as the specific minimum number of nursing hours per resident per day requirements. This rule takes effect 60 days after the date of publication in the Federal Register. There is a 60-day comment period, with all comments due by Feb. 2, 2026.
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CMS has released Version 18.0 of the MDS 3.0 Quality Measures User’s Manual, including key changes to the long-stay antipsychotic medication measure and updates to the Discharge Function Score risk adjustment due to retired therapy items and new discharge item O0425. The re-specified antipsychotic measure will begin public reporting on Care Compare in January 2026 using Q3 2025 data, with resident-level results available in iQIES. Providers are encouraged to monitor Five-Star Preview reports, keep ICD-10-CM codes current and review QM package reports in iQIES to validate data accuracy.
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The December 2025 Quarterly Confidential Feedback Reports for the FY 2027 Skilled Nursing Facility Value-Based Purchasing (SNF VBP) Program are now available to download via iQIES. SNFs may submit correction requests for their measure results up to 30 days following this report being made available, until Jan. 1, 2026.
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IHCA's two-part virtual Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) Compliance Workshop - Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation is designed to strengthen your PBJ knowledge and survey readiness. Increased attention to PBJ reporting during surveys has made it essential for facility leaders to clearly understand the requirements, the data behind their submissions and how to confidently speak to both. This workshop is approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit to be held next Thursday, Dec. 4, and sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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IHCA’s December LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online this Monday, Dec. 1, and in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Dec. 16 and Dec. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
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Take your leadership and management talents to the next level with a virtual preparatory workshop for American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing's (AAPACN’s) Director of Nursing Services—Certified (DNS-CT) certification, to be held Dec. 1-4. Earning this credential validates your expertise, gives you the advantage among your peers and helps you improve quality, communication and resident care throughout your facility. This workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs and includes access to the ten DNS-CT certification exams. To earn the credential, you must be a registered nurse and pass the final exams with a score of 80% or higher.
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IHCA is offering a Bronze Quality Award Workshop this upcoming Tuesday, Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. This hybrid workshop will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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IHCA's in-person program, The ROI of Restoration – Restorative Nursing Program, to be held next Wednesday, Dec. 3, is designed to unlock the significant benefits of successful restorative nursing programs for residents, staff and facility operators alike. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to overcome common implementation hurdles, develop truly resident-centered programs and discover practical methods for simultaneously improving clinical quality metrics and maximizing revenue. This course is approved for 6.0 contact hours for administrators, nurses and physical therapists.
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CMS has issued new guidance directing state survey agencies to immediately resume all survey, enforcement and certification activities following the Oct. 1–Nov. 12 federal shutdown, including repeating certain state-only licensure surveys federally and issuing any held CMS-2567s by Dec. 12, 2025. Providers who had survey activity during the shutdown should closely monitor communications from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) and CMS, carefully review all survey reports for accuracy and promptly request corrections or clarification as needed.
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Effective Nov. 20, 2025, the October 2025 refresh of the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program data is now available on the compare tool on Medicare.gov and Provider Data Catalog.
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The November skilled nursing facility (SNF) 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. Congratulations to the IHCA SNF member facilities that recently achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey!
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Iowa Medicaid is aligning with the requirements for the coordination of benefits to ensure when a member has both Medicaid and commercial insurance (primary payer), Medicaid is the payor of last resort. Payments cannot exceed the Medicaid allowable amount or the amount paid by commercial insurance. This is known as the Lesser of Logic. This policy is effective for claims received by managed care organizations (MCOs) and dental plans on or after Dec. 1, 2025. Implementation for Fee-For-Service claims will occur at a later date and additional guidance will be provided. This logic has been applied to Medicare claims since July 1, 2017, and will be extended to commercial claims received on or after Dec. 1, 2025, for claims received by MCOs and dental plans.
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IHCA’s on-demand Certified Medication Aide (CMA) Course, sponsored by Consonus Pharmacy, provides 30 hours of online training and 30 hours of clinical experience to prepare nurse aides and CNAs to safely administer non-parenteral medications. The program emphasizes proper medication handling and resident safety across long-term care settings. Participants who complete all coursework and clinical requirements must pass a proctored online final exam administered by IHCA staff.
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As the end of the biennial renewal cycle approaches, all licensed nursing home administrators in Iowa are reminded to complete their license renewal requirements to maintain active status and continue serving their communities. The renewal period for nursing home administrator licenses in Iowa runs every two years, ending Dec. 31 of every odd-numbered year. IHCA has created a new resource that outlines the standards for continuing education completion and the process for timely renewals.
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Due to the lapse in federal appropriations, scheduled data refreshes and other routine updates were temporarily paused. With the resumption of government operations on Nov. 13, these updates are now being released. The SNF Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available. These reports contain provider performance scores for quality measures, which will be published on the compare tool on Medicare.gov and the Provider Data Catalog (PDC) during the January 2026 release. Providers have until Dec. 17, 2025, to review their performance data.
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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces major Medicaid changes that will significantly affect Iowa’s long-term care providers, including reduced retroactive coverage beginning in 2027, more frequent eligibility redeterminations and new asset and home equity limits in 2028. While the law delays the federal staffing mandate, it also adjusts how states can finance Medicaid, creating additional operational and administrative considerations for providers. Facilities will need to prepare for shorter coverage windows, increased renewal activity and upcoming eligibility rule changes.
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Iowa Medicaid’s new policy requires certain medications to be dispensed in 90-day supplies beginning Dec. 1, 2025, with a single dispensing fee and one copay per 90-day fill. Beneficiaries in long-term care facilities, residential programs and medically needy populations are excluded, and pharmacists may use an override code when medically appropriate. A full list of affected medications is available on the Preferred Drug List website.
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Missing the National Quality Award Program’s Intent to Apply (ITA) deadline doesn’t prevent organizations from applying, since the ITA is optional and full applications aren’t due until Jan. 22, 2026. IHCA is offering a final Bronze Application Workshop on Dec. 2, with in-person and virtual attendance options, plus an optional application review to help providers strengthen their submissions.
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The American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) and LTC 100 have partnered to create a new survey that gives long-term care nurses and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) the opportunity to share their voices and experiences. AAPACN and LTC 100 want to understand what contributes to job satisfaction, what challenges you face and what keeps you inspired to stay in this vital field. Survey responses are due by Sunday, Nov. 30.
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IHCA’s December LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Monday, Dec. 1, and in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Dec. 16 and Dec. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
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Take your leadership and management talents to the next level with a virtual preparatory workshop for American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing's (AAPACN’s) Director of Nursing Services—Certified (DNS-CT) certification, held Dec. 1-4. Earning this credential validates your expertise, gives you the advantage among your peers and helps you improve quality, communication and resident care throughout your facility. This workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs and includes access to the ten DNS-CT certification exams. To earn the credential, you must be a registered nurse and pass the final exams with a score of 80% or higher.
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IHCA is offering a Bronze Quality Award Workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. This hybrid workshop will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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IHCA's in-person program, The ROI of Restoration – Restorative Nursing Program, on Dec. 3 is designed to unlock the significant benefits of successful restorative nursing programs for residents, staff and facility operators alike. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to overcome common implementation hurdles, develop truly resident-centered programs and discover practical methods for simultaneously improving clinical quality metrics and maximizing revenue. This course is approved for 6.0 contact hours for administrators, nurses and physical therapists.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4, sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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This is your last chance to submit your Intent to Apply (ITA) for the 2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. All ITAs must be submitted through the Quality Award Portal no later than tomorrow, Nov. 13, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Submitting an ITA gives organizations access to discounted application fees, exclusive resources and valuable support tools to strengthen their Quality Award applications. Data from AHCA shows that participating facilities achieve stronger outcomes — including higher Five-Star ratings, improved care quality and reduced turnover — making this the ideal first step in your quality journey.
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Join IHCA for its final 2025 November District Meeting tomorrow, Nov. 13, in Atlantic. This event brings long-term care leaders together for networking, association updates and education focused on navigating today’s evolving care environment. This meeting features sessions on census growth, compliance and future-focused leadership. Sponsored by McKesson, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, HPSI Purchasing Services and VGM Education/CE Solutions, this event offers 4.0 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads.
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IHCA's ICD-10-CM - Back to Basics, held virtually next Wednesday, Nov. 19, will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, understand the structure and characteristics of ICD-10-CM codes and apply coding guidelines and conventions specific to SNFs. This virtual course is approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA is seeking member feedback through its 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey to help guide future initiatives in education, communication and member support. Members are encouraged to complete the short, 15-minute survey by this Friday, Nov. 14, using the link that corresponds with their sector. The results will help IHCA enhance the value and effectiveness of its programs and services.
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While the federal government shutdown continues, the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) continues to be restricted from conducting many important regulatory oversight functions. Although this updated CMS memo (dated Oct. 31, 2025) outlines resumption of some regulatory activity, other regulatory actions remain on hold until the government shutdown ends, such as recertification (annual) surveys and processing of pending CMS-2567s resulting from surveys where immediate jeopardy or resident harm have not been identified.
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The submission deadline for the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP) is fast approaching. All data must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. on this upcoming Monday, Nov. 17.
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Interactive, discussion-based tabletop exercises are being held across Iowa to help health care facilities identify and respond to multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) threats while fulfilling CMS emergency preparedness exercise requirements. Each four-hour session focuses on Candida auris. The next exercises will take place Wednesday, Nov. 19, in Davenport, and Thursday, Nov. 20, in Manchester. The sessions are hosted by the University of Iowa College of Public Health, Carver College of Medicine and State Hygienic Laboratory, in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Health and Human 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. IHCA is actively reviewing the new regulatory analyses and plans to make requests for modifications as necessary and communicate out important changes as they become finalized. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Oct. 15 and Oct. 29 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses related to adult day care, assisted living programs and Certificate of Need, as well as a newly noticed rule related to personal needs allowance.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has released an updated version of form 470-2115 – Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information (PHI) Form for Eligibility Verification Purposes. This form replaces the previous version of form 470-2115 – Authorization for the Department to Release Information. Effective immediately, any prior versions of form 470-2115 on file that have not yet expired cannot be honored for the release of information. Facilities and individuals must use the new form to authorize the release of information to Iowa DHHS. Providers should ensure they are using the updated form moving forward to avoid delays in eligibility verification or information requests.
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On Nov. 10, Iowa Total Care released an updated Provider News Alert regarding prior authorization (PA) requirements, originally published on Nov. 3. The revised alert includes key updates regarding additional details on behavioral health PA requirements, inclusion of a new maternal health item and code changes effective Feb. 1, 2026. Aside from these updates, the information remains consistent with the version previously issued. Providers are encouraged to review the full alert carefully to ensure compliance with the updated effective date and new requirements.
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Looking to strengthen your MDS systems or train new staff? IHCA Provider Solutions’ MDS and EHR Consulting Service delivers expert-level support to help your team improve accuracy, uncover missed revenue opportunities and increase efficiency.
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IHCA’s December LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Monday, Dec. 1, and in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Dec. 16 and Dec. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
Read More
Take your leadership and management talents to the next level with a virtual preparatory workshop for American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing's (AAPACN’s) Director of Nursing Services—Certified (DNS-CT) certification, held Dec. 1-4. Earning this credential validates your expertise, gives you the advantage among your peers and helps you improve quality, communication and resident care throughout your facility. This workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs and includes access to the ten DNS-CT certification exams. To earn the credential, you must be a registered nurse and pass the final exams with a score of 80% or higher.
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IHCA is offering a Bronze Quality Award Workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. This hybrid workshop will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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IHCA's in-person program, The ROI of Restoration – Restorative Nursing Program, on Dec. 3 is designed to unlock the significant benefits of successful restorative nursing programs for residents, staff and facility operators alike. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to overcome common implementation hurdles, develop truly resident-centered programs and discover practical methods for simultaneously improving clinical quality metrics and maximizing revenue. This course is approved for 6.0 contact hours for administrators, nurses and physical therapists.
Read More
IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4, sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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IHCA’s November District Meetings kicked off yesterday in Storm Lake, and tomorrow's NE District Meeting will take place in Cedar Falls. These events bring long-term care leaders together for networking, association updates and education focused on navigating today’s evolving care environment. Each meeting features sessions on census growth, compliance and future-focused leadership. Sponsored by McKesson, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, HPSI Purchasing Services and VGM Education/CE Solutions, the events offer 4.0 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads.
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Take the next step in your quality journey this Friday, Nov. 7, at IHCA’s Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC. Participants should complete the introductory webinar and come prepared with preliminary materials to use during the session. The workshop will be held at Deerfield Retirement Community in Urbandale and is approved for 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers.
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Last Friday, Oct. 31, CMS issued a final rule establishing final payment rate under the Medicare Part B Physician Fee Schedule and other policy updates for calendar year 2026. The rule will become effective for items and services beginning on Jan. 1, 2026. Also on Oct. 31, CMS issued an additional revision to a previously released memo on its contingency plans during the federal government shutdown. Per the updated memo, CMS is now allowing survey revisits for discretionary denial of payments that are in effect.
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Iowa Total Care announced updates to its prior authorization (PA) requirements effective Nov. 3, 2025, aimed at reducing administrative burden and improving access to care. The revisions include removing certain PA requirements, standardizing rules across service categories and markets and refining criteria for services. Providers are encouraged to review the updated code list and contact their provider relations specialist with any questions.
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The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is seeking professionals to serve as Silver and Gold Examiners for the 2026 award cycle, with applications due tomorrow, Nov. 6. Examiners play a key role in evaluating long-term care centers nationwide using the Baldrige Performance Excellence framework, helping improve quality systems and outcomes across the profession. Participants gain valuable experience in performance excellence, networking and professional growth while contributing to a national effort to elevate care standards.
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The 2026 National Quality Award Intent to Apply (ITA) deadline is coming up next Thursday, Nov. 13, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Submitting an ITA gives organizations access to discounted application fees, exclusive resources and valuable support tools to strengthen their Quality Award applications. Data from AHCA shows that participating facilities achieve stronger outcomes — including higher Five-Star ratings, improved care quality and reduced turnover — making this the ideal first step in your quality journey.
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The October skilled nursing facility (SNF) 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. Congratulations to the IHCA SNF member facilities that recently achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey!
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The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Carver College of Medicine and The State Hygienic Lab, in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, are hosting interactive, discussion-based exercises over the next year. These four-hour exercises help facilities identify and respond to multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) threats across the state of Iowa and fulfill CMS emergency preparedness exercise requirements, with a specific focus on C. auris. The next tabletop exercise will take place in Davenport on Nov. 19.
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IHCA's ICD-10-CM - Back to Basics on Nov. 19 will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, understand the structure and characteristics of ICD-10-CM codes and apply coding guidelines and conventions specific to SNFs. This virtual course is approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA’s December LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Monday, Dec. 1, and in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Dec. 16 and Dec. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
Read More
Take your leadership and management talents to the next level with a virtual preparatory workshop for American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing's (AAPACN’s) Director of Nursing Services—Certified (DNS-CT) certification, held Dec. 1-4. Earning this credential validates your expertise, gives you the advantage among your peers and helps you improve quality, communication and resident care throughout your facility. This workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs and includes access to the ten DNS-CT certification exams. To earn the credential, you must be a registered nurse and pass the final exams with a score of 80% or higher.
Read More
IHCA is offering a Bronze Quality Award Workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. This hybrid workshop will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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IHCA has added the 2025 Reimbursement Conference and Fall 2025 Medicare Review to its on-demand education platform, allowing members to access these trainings anytime. The Reimbursement Conference offers 3.0 administrator contact hours and covers Medicaid rebase projections, PDPM compliance and cost report benchmarking, while the Medicare Review provides 3.5 contact hours and a comprehensive overview of Medicare and Medicare Advantage payment systems. Both programs equip providers with strategies to strengthen financial performance and care coordination.
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IHCA is seeking member feedback through its 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey to help guide future initiatives in education, communication and member support. Members are encouraged to complete the short, 15-minute survey by Friday, Nov. 14, using the link that corresponds with their sector. The results will help IHCA enhance the value and effectiveness of its programs and services.
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IHCA’s November District Meetings kick off next week with events in Storm Lake and Cedar Falls, bringing long-term care leaders together for networking, association updates and education focused on navigating today’s evolving care environment. Each meeting features sessions on census growth, compliance and future-focused leadership. Sponsored by McKesson, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, HPSI Purchasing Services and VGM Education/CE Solutions, the events offer 4.0 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads.
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Designed specifically for social services professionals working in long-term and post-acute care, IHCA’s one-day, virtual LTC Social Services Conference, held next Wednesday, Nov. 5, will strengthen knowledge, skills and confidence in key areas of practice. Attendees will explore the foundational responsibilities of the social services role, practical strategies for navigating ethical challenges and effective approaches for supporting residents’ emotional well-being and successful transitions of care. This virtual conference is approved for 5.0 contact hours, including 3.0 hours of ethics, for social services staff and nursing facility administrators.
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Take the next step in your quality journey next Friday, Nov. 7, at IHCA’s Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC. With expert coaching and practical guidance, participants will break down the Silver criteria, explore how to write a strong application and gain insights on how to tell their quality improvement story effectively. This workshop will be held at Deerfield Retirement Community in Urbandale and is approved for 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. To register, please email the names of those attending from your facility to Brenda Irlbeck, VP, Regulatory Affairs, at
[email protected].
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CMS released an updated QSO memo outlining contingency plans during the federal government shutdown. The update allows revisits to prevent a mandatory denial of payment for new admissions (DPNA), pauses most survey and enrollment activities and clarifies that only revisits addressing immediate jeopardy or harm may proceed. State-funded surveys can continue but will not count as federal work until funding is restored.
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With the federal government’s ongoing shutdown, state survey agencies, such as the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL), have been directed by CMS to place all interactions related to the survey process on hold. Therefore, the joint training session for both providers and survey teams has been postponed to a later date that has not yet been finalized. When more information is available, IHCA will share registration information with members in our Clinical and Executive Updates and through the IHCA Communities communication platform.
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The 2025 Long-Term Care (LTC) Survey Manual is now available for purchase through the AHCA/NCAL Bookstore. With AHCA’s easy-to-follow table format, this manual is an essential resource for LTC facilities to quickly access federal regulations and surveyor guidance. The April 2025 edition features updates to Appendix PP, staffing requirements, infection control, psychotropic medication use, QAPI, MDS and more that went into effect April 28, 2025.
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Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions helps facilities simplify admissions and protect revenue by managing the entire Medicaid application process at no cost to the facility. Diana Roberts of Healthcare of Iowa says the service has been “night and day” for her team — reducing administrative burden, improving cash flow and enhancing the experience for residents and families. Learn more about how Enrollment Support can strengthen your facility’s financial stability and streamline your workflow.
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Is your nursing facility or assisted living program committed to delivering high-quality care and enhancing the lives of residents/tenants? The National Quality Award Program invites you to take the first step in your quality improvement journey by applying for the Bronze Award. Start your journey with the Bronze Award and showcase your organization’s commitment to quality care and performance improvement. The 2026 Intent to Apply (ITA) process is open and available through the Quality Award Portal. Submitting your ITA by Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, gives you access to exclusive resources and a discounted application fee.
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Are you passionate about improving the quality of care in long-term and post-acute settings? The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is inviting dedicated professionals to apply as Silver and Gold Examiners for the 2026 cycle. The Examiner application will close next Thursday, Nov. 6.
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IHCA's ICD-10-CM - Back to Basics on Nov. 19 will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, understand the structure and characteristics of ICD-10-CM codes and apply coding guidelines and conventions specific to SNFs. This virtual course is approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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Take your leadership and management talents to the next level with a virtual preparatory workshop for American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing's (AAPACN’s) Director of Nursing Services—Certified (DNS-CT) certification, held Dec. 1-4. Earning this credential validates your expertise, gives you the advantage among your peers and helps you improve quality, communication and resident care throughout your facility. This workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs and includes access to the ten DNS-CT certification exams. To earn the credential, you must be a registered nurse and pass the final exams with a score of 80% or higher.
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IHCA’s December LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Monday, Dec. 1, and in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Dec. 16 and Dec. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility (SNF) as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
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IHCA's eight-part Dementia Care On-Demand Training Series is crafted to address the multifaceted aspects of dementia care, encompassing not only the medical and cognitive dimensions but also the emotional, social and ethical considerations that play a vital role in providing holistic care. This training series provides the tools and insights needed to create a supportive and enriching environment for individuals with dementia, fostering dignity, respect and a sense of well-being and is approved for 8.0 contact hours for nurses, activity professionals, social services staff, environmental services staff, department heads, administrators, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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IHCA is offering a Bronze Quality Award Workshop next Tuesday, Oct. 28, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. Additionally, IHCA will host another workshop on Dec. 2. These workshops will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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Gain the insights you need to strengthen your organization’s financial performance at IHCA’s half-day Reimbursement Conference held virtually next Wednesday, Oct. 29. Expert-led sessions will explore the latest Medicaid rebase projections, Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) accuracy and compliance strategies and the impact of teamwork on revenue cycle success. Attendees will also hear how to apply Medicare cost report benchmark data to drive smarter financial decisions. Together, these sessions provide practical tools and strategies to optimize reimbursement outcomes and support long-term sustainability in today’s challenging environment. This virtual course is approved for 3.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators.
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With the federal government’s ongoing shutdown, state survey agencies, such as the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL), have been directed by CMS to place all interactions related to the survey process on hold. Therefore, the joint training session for both providers and survey teams has been postponed to a later date which has not yet been finalized. When more information is available, IHCA will share registration information with members in our Clinical and Executive Updates and through the IHCA Communities communication platform.
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Medicare's open enrollment period is here! Visit Medicare.gov/plan-compare now through Dec. 7 to compare all your coverage options.
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For nursing facilities operating on a calendar year fiscal year, this is the ideal time to evaluate and, if needed, make adjustments to your licensed bed capacity before the new year begins. Changes to certified beds must take effect on the first day of the cost reporting year or the first day of a cost reporting quarter — meaning providers who wish to update their bed capacity for the 2026 fiscal year should complete the process in time for changes to take effect by Jan. 1, 2026. Having adjustments in place by the start of the year ensures that the entire fiscal year reflects the updated capacity.
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Join fellow long-term care leaders for your district’s meeting and a day of forward-focused education designed to equip you with strategies and insights for navigating today’s evolving care environment. In addition to important association updates and networking during the district business meeting, the event will feature a general session applicable to all providers, followed by two concurrent breakout options tailored to assisted living and skilled nursing settings. These district meetings, sponsored by McKesson, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, HPSI Purchasing Services and VGM Education/CE Solutions, are approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads and begin in two weeks.
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Designed specifically for social services professionals working in long-term and post-acute care, IHCA's one-day, virtual LTC Social Services Conference will strengthen your knowledge, skills and confidence in key areas of practice. Attendees will explore the foundational responsibilities of the social services role, practical strategies for navigating ethical challenges and effective approaches for supporting residents’ emotional well-being and successful transitions of care. This virtual conference is approved for 5.0 contact hours, including 3.0 hours of ethics, for social services staff and nursing facility administrators.
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IHCA's ICD-10-CM - Back to Basics on Nov. 19 will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, understand the structure and characteristics of ICD-10-CM codes and apply coding guidelines and conventions specific to SNFs. This virtual course is approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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Since launching earlier this year, IHCA Provider Solutions’ Enrollment Support service has already made a measurable impact for participating facilities — with early results showing an average of just 36 days from first contact with a resident’s family to Medicaid approval. Early users report faster admissions, reduced administrative burden and stronger financial stability.
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held next Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 22-23, and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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In recent months, the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) had begun requesting nursing facilities remove disclaimer statements from plans of correction, per CMS directive. Upon requesting an explanation from the Kansas City Regional Office and CMS Central, it has been clarified that disclaimer statements can be included in plans of correction if the plan of correction adequately addresses any noncompliance contained in the CMS-2567 and private health information is not included. Therefore, nursing facilities may continue to include disclaimers in plans of correction.
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Accurate, timely MDS submissions are critical to your facility’s compliance and reimbursement — and IHCA Provider Solutions is here to help. Whether you’re facing temporary staffing gaps or looking to improve your current MDS workflow, our MDS Support services are designed with your needs in mind.
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Gain the insights you need to strengthen your organization’s financial performance at IHCA’s half-day Reimbursement Conference, held virtually on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Expert-led sessions will explore the latest Medicaid rebase projections, Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) accuracy and compliance strategies and the impact of teamwork on revenue cycle success. Attendees will also hear how to apply Medicare cost report benchmark data to drive smarter financial decisions. Together, these sessions provide practical tools and strategies to optimize reimbursement outcomes and support long-term sustainability in today’s challenging environment. This virtual course is approved for 3.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators.
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Join fellow long-term care leaders for your district’s meeting and a day of forward-focused education designed to equip you with strategies and insights for navigating today’s evolving care environment. In addition to important association updates and networking during the district business meeting, the event will feature a general session applicable to all providers, followed by two concurrent breakout options tailored to assisted living and skilled nursing settings. These district meetings, sponsored by McKesson, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, HPSI Purchasing Services and VGM Education/CE Solutions, are approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads.
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Designed specifically for social services professionals working in long-term and post-acute care, IHCA's one-day, virtual LTC Social Services Conference will strengthen your knowledge, skills and confidence in key areas of practice. Attendees will explore the foundational responsibilities of the social services role, practical strategies for navigating ethical challenges and effective approaches for supporting residents’ emotional well-being and successful transitions of care. This virtual conference is approved for 5.0 contact hours, including 3.0 hours of ethics, for social services staff and nursing facility administrators.
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IHCA's ICD-10-CM - Back to Basics on Nov. 19 will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, understand the structure and characteristics of ICD-10-CM codes and apply coding guidelines and conventions specific to SNFs. This virtual course is approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA has provided a breakdown of how the federal government shutdown impacts survey activity across different care settings. Please review the relevant section(s) for your organization. All providers are encouraged to stay proactive and compliant during this period to avoid future enforcement complications.
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IHCA has been made aware of delays affecting providers and Medicaid beneficiaries in the completion of level of care assessments conducted by Telligen. We have been in contact with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regarding this issue. DHHS has confirmed that it is aware of the backlog and is monitoring assessment completion rates on a weekly basis. To help address the delays, all assessments with due dates prior to July 1, 2025, will be conducted virtually. This protocol will be applied consistently across all waiver types and assessment categories.
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Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) has expanded virtual options for the written portion of the CNA competency exam, adding a second online pathway beyond the one launched in June 2025. Nurse aide candidates — regardless of training program location — can now register and complete the written exam from home or work. The skills evaluation remains in person at approved sites for now, with DIAL exploring remote skills testing; IHCA will share updates when available.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) has shared its plan to host a joint training session for providers and surveyors on Monday, Nov. 10. The training will take place at the State Historical Building in downtown Des Moines, tentatively scheduled from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. In addition, a link to participate virtually will be provided for those who are unable to attend in person. Although specific details have not been made available yet, members are encouraged to save the date and plan to attend. Once final details have been released, IHCA will share the registration link.
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A recent rule change by the Iowa Board of Pharmacy revised administrative rules regarding controlled substance registrations and has resulted in a positive outcome for nursing facilities and assisted living programs in Iowa. Effective immediately, nursing facilities, assisted living programs and residential care facilities will no longer be required to maintain controlled substance registration with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy.
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The posted final Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) User’s Manual version (v)1.20.1 and MDS item sets v1.20.1v4 have been updated to align with the revisions to item J1900 related to the coding of falls. The MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual v1.20.1 and items sets were effective beginning Oct. 1, 2025.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), in partnership with the Maximus Clinical Services Division (Maximus), will host several free, full-day in-person training events next week in Des Moines, Denison, Waterloo and Ottumwa. The Fall 2025 Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) Road Show is designed to support those who are new to PASRR while also providing updated information and insights for experienced attendees who have participated in past educational sessions.
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The University of Iowa’s Department of Family and Community Medicine invites health care professionals to join its 47th Annual Midwestern Conference on Health Care in the Older Adult, with a focus on geriatric mental health, held virtually on Friday, Jan. 30. Designed for primary care physicians, pharmacists, nurses, social workers and other health care professionals, this conference will instruct participants in the diagnosis, treatment and management of conditions common in older adults.
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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. 17 and Oct. 1 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses related to personal needs allowance, investigatory authority and procedures of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and newly noticed rules related to Medicaid enrollment, personal needs allowance and more.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) submitted the nursing facility rebasing state plan amendment (SPA) to CMS on Sept. 25, securing a retroactive effective date of July 1, 2025. Key figures include a $90.31 direct care median, $139.15 non-direct care median, and a -8.269% inflation factor, with rate sheets expected in mid-October. All QAAF payments must now be mailed to the Iowa Medicaid Minnesota lockbox.
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Telligen has been awarded a new five-year contract under CMS’ 13th Scope of Work to serve as the Midwest QIN-QIO, providing Iowa health care facilities with targeted quality improvement resources and support. Selected providers will receive individualized outreach based on CMS-defined outcomes, while tools and resources will remain publicly available on the Midwest QIN-QIO website. Participation in QIO initiatives is optional and non-regulatory, and IHCA will share additional details as the program’s work progresses.
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Examiner recruitment for the 2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award program has begun. There are significant benefits to serving as an examiner, including professional development, networking, education and more. All examiner applications must be submitted by Nov. 6, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Selection notification emails will be sent out on Dec. 4, 2025.
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CMS issued a new QSO memo announcing updates to the Civil Money Penalty Reinvestment Program (CMPRP), addressing several priorities long advocated by AHCA. The changes include streamlining the application process, raising funding caps and expanding eligibility to technology, behavioral health and workforce enhancement projects. Applicants awaiting a response do not need to resubmit, and the release of new CMPRP resources has been delayed due to the federal government shutdown.
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Thank you to those who joined us at IHCA's 2025 Convention and Trade Show! CEUs from this event have now been uploaded to your IHCA profile. Please take some time to verify that you received credit for all of the sessions you attended. If you find that you are missing any certificates, please send a list of the sessions that are missing to
[email protected].
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held Oct. 22-23 and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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Gain the insights you need to strengthen your organization’s financial performance at IHCA’s half-day Reimbursement Conference on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Expert-led sessions will explore the latest Medicaid rebase projections, Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) accuracy and compliance strategies and the impact of teamwork on revenue cycle success. Attendees will also hear how to apply Medicare cost report benchmark data to drive smarter financial decisions. Together, these sessions provide practical tools and strategies to optimize reimbursement outcomes and support long-term sustainability in today’s challenging environment. This virtual course is approved for 3.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators.
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Join fellow long-term care leaders for your district’s meeting and a day of forward-focused education designed to equip you with strategies and insights for navigating today’s evolving care environment. In addition to important association updates and networking during the district business meeting, the event will feature a general session applicable to all providers, followed by two concurrent breakout options tailored to assisted living and skilled nursing settings. These district meetings, sponsored by McKesson, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, HPSI Purchasing Services and VGM Education/CE Solutions, are approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," this Friday, Oct. 3, with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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IHCA's virtual Medicare Review program on Wednesday, Oct. 8, will offer a detailed review of Medicare, Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance coverage. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of nursing facility benefits, payment methods and strategies to improve care coordination and service quality for eligible individuals in both fee-for-service and managed care systems. This course provides the knowledge and tools necessary for health care workers to navigate the complexities of Medicare and enhance their ability to manage billing and reimbursement efficiently. This virtual program is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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Effective Oct. 1, 2025, Iowa Total Care has provided a list of manufacturers that will be terminated from the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP) and will no longer be covered. For additional information regarding the MDRP changes please email the Iowa Total Care pharmacy team at
[email protected].
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The September skilled nursing facility (SNF) 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. Congratulations to the IHCA SNF member facilities that recently achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey!
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The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Carver College of Medicine and The State Hygienic Lab, in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, will host eight interactive, discussion-based exercises over the next year. These four-hour exercises will help facilities identify and respond to multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) threats across the state of Iowa and fulfill CMS emergency preparedness exercise requirements, with a specific focus on C. auris. The next tabletop exercise will take place in Le Mars on Oct. 15.
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held Oct. 22-23 and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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IHCA's on-demand Cybersecurity Essentials Series, sponsored by CLA, will help you fortify your digital fortress by focusing on cybersecurity hygiene, ransomware resilience and defending against business email compromise. Attendees will learn to identify online behaviors that can lead to increased exposure, identify common threats, gain insights into the latest ransomware threat landscape and develop and refine incident response plans. This on-demand course is approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services, nurses, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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AHCA/NCAL, as well as IHCA, have seen instances where emails to members are being filtered or blocked by organization firewalls and spam systems. To make sure you receive important updates, publications and time sensitive notices, please ask your IT department or IT consultant to whitelist AHCA/NCAL and IHCA-related domains.
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The Midwest QIN-QIO will host a virtual event next Wednesday, Sept. 24, from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT to introduce providers to its role in CMS’s 13th Scope of Work. The webinar will review provider participation benefits, highlight new components of the SOW, introduce key contacts and explore collaboration opportunities. IHCA has requested an alternative session for members unable to attend due to the 2025 Convention and Trade Show, and if that is made possible, IHCA will share information with members.
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With the transition to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), changes have been made regarding temporary waivers for Life Safety Code deficiencies. Members should be aware of a shift in practice related to required life safety corrective actions.
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On Sept. 10, CMS published an update to QSO-25-20-NH. Revisions within this memo extend the implementation timeline for new methodology to determine the number of long-stay residents receiving antipsychotic medications. Initially set to begin in October 2025, CMS extended the rollout until January 2026.
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CMS recently noticed the expiration of several memos to nursing homes and other provider types. Although no changes to practice are required because of memo expiration, members should be aware of a few updates.
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On Jan. 1, 2026, CMS will implement new prior authorization (PA) response time requirements for all providers. With shorter response times for supporting clinical information requests, all necessary clinical information should be submitted at the time of the authorization request. Centene clinical policies and criteria can be found at Availity or on Iowa Total Care’s clinical, payment and pharmacy policies webpage.
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Turnover is on the decline across many nursing home departments, according to the newly released 2025–2026 Nursing Home Salary & Benefits Report, published by Hospital & Healthcare Compensation Service (HCS) and supported by AHCA. This national report features data from 917 nursing homes representing over 111,600 employees.
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IHCA will host Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp on Oct. 1-2, led by nationally recognized Life Safety expert Kenneth Daily, LNHA. This two-day, hands-on training will cover the 2012 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99), with practical guidance, real-world survey scenarios and tools to strengthen compliance in skilled nursing centers. Participants will gain strategies to meet evolving inspection, testing and maintenance requirements, reduce deficiencies and prepare for surveyor expectations. The course is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," on Oct. 3 with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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IHCA's virtual Medicare Review program on Oct. 8 will offer a detailed review of Medicare, Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance coverage. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of nursing facility benefits, payment methods and strategies to improve care coordination and service quality for eligible individuals in both fee-for-service and managed care systems. This course provides the knowledge and tools necessary for health care workers to navigate the complexities of Medicare and enhance their ability to manage billing and reimbursement efficiently. This virtual program is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held Oct. 22-23 and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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IHCA's on-demand education, Mastering Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) - Best Practices and Strategies for Challenging Citations, discusses the IDR process and how to gather and present information that can be beneficial to present during an IDR. The session includes a mock-IDR where attendees can watch and learn about best practices for an IDR presentation. This on-demand course is approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators and nurses.
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The 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting will be held Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown during the IHCA Convention and Trade Show. Members will hear the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Provider Cabinets, gain updates on key legislative and regulatory issues, and earn 1.0 CEU for attending. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, the meeting is an opportunity to help shape the association’s direction and celebrate shared achievements.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," tomorrow, Sept. 11, with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention & Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is officially sold out! A limited first-come, first-served waitlist is available for those who wish to attend but have not yet registered. Along with top-notch education and a packed trade show, IHCA's Convention offers plenty of ways to connect and celebrate — from receptions and networking to Casino Night, Music Bingo, free headshots and more.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Nursing Home Infection Preventionist (IP) Training on CDC TRAIN will launch an updated version on Sept. 15, 2025; anyone currently enrolled should finish all modules by 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 14, as the current course will expire and registrations will not carry over. IHCA notes that regulations at F882 do not require IPs to retake or renew training — previous completion remains compliant — though additional training may be appropriate if a facility’s population or scope of care changes.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released the 2025-2026 influenza vaccine recommendations in its Morbidity and Mortality Week Report (MMWR). Routine annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons aged ≥6 months without a contraindication to vaccination to protect against influenza and its complications. Full details, including updates from the 2024-2025 season, timing and selection of vaccine are outlined in the MMWR report and in the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) summary of recommendations.
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AHCA's Behavioral Health Guide is now available on ahcancalED and is free to IHCA members. The guide aims to assist long-term care providers in developing and maintaining effective behavioral health programs, with a focus on regulatory compliance with F740 related to behavioral health services.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) has released their final live education events schedule. The COE-NF grant is ending Sept. 29, 2025. After this date, technical assistance and live training events will no longer be available. The COE-NF team will continue to accept new requests for support until next Monday, Sept. 15.
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IHCA Provider Solutions offers Remote MDS Services to help facilities manage temporary staffing gaps and ensure timely, accurate MDS submissions. Expert consultants complete MDS assessments remotely, develop care plans, provide PDPM scoring feedback and offer guidance to improve quality measures. Additional MDS support and consulting services are available to help providers optimize reimbursement and streamline operations.
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IHCA will host Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp on Oct. 1-2, led by nationally recognized Life Safety expert Kenneth Daily, LNHA. This two-day, hands-on training will cover the 2012 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99), with practical guidance, real-world survey scenarios and tools to strengthen compliance in skilled nursing centers. Participants will gain strategies to meet evolving inspection, testing and maintenance requirements, reduce deficiencies and prepare for surveyor expectations. The course is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
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IHCA's virtual Medicare Review program on Oct. 8 will offer a detailed review of Medicare, Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance coverage. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of nursing facility benefits, payment methods and strategies to improve care coordination and service quality for eligible individuals in both fee-for-service and managed care systems. This course provides the knowledge and tools necessary for health care workers to navigate the complexities of Medicare and enhance their ability to manage billing and reimbursement efficiently. This virtual program is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held Oct. 22-23 and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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All IHCA members are encouraged to attend the 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, this event will feature the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Cabinets. All disciplines can earn 1.0 CEU for attending, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, engage and help shape the future of Iowa’s long-term and home care sector.
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Join IHCA next Monday for "Preparing for the 2025 MDS Changes," a timely webinar offering practical guidance on the MDS updates going into effect Oct. 1, 2025. Led by nationally recognized MDS expert Jessie McGill, RN, BSN, RAC-MT, RAC-MTA, of AAPACN, the session will explore how these changes impact care planning, documentation and reimbursement. Participants will walk away with actionable tools to support accurate coding and compliance. This live webinar will not be recorded and is approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA's DON Fundamentals - A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders, held next Tuesday, Sept. 9 and Wednesday, Sept. 10, is a comprehensive, two-day training designed to provide new directors of nursing (DONs) and nurse leaders with the essential skills, strategies and knowledge to excel in their leadership roles within nursing facilities. This program equips nurse leaders with a playbook for success, offering practical tools to navigate the challenges they’ll face in their day-to-day work. Through expert led sessions, participants will learn how to effectively manage time and performance, mitigate risks, drive quality improvement initiatives and ensure survey preparedness. This program will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually, and is approved for 10.0 contact hours for nurses and nursing facility administrators.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," next Thursday, Sept. 11, with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 22–24 in downtown Des Moines. Along with more than 40 education sessions and a bustling trade show, the convention features special events including receptions, networking activities, entertainment and exclusive member gatherings. Seats are filling quickly — reserve your spot today.
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The August 2025 skilled nursing facility (SNF) 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. Congratulations to the IHCA member facilities that recently achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey!
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The final Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) User’s Manual version (v)1.20.1 is now available in the downloads section on the MDS 3.0 RAI Manual page on the CMS website. The MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual v1.20.1 will be effective beginning Oct. 1, 2025.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) is offering a series of free virtual training events in September for all nursing facility staff. Topics include National Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) standards, trauma-informed care, Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) essentials, addiction 101 and more. Additionally, details on the end of the COE-NF grant and where to find resources after the grant end date of Sept. 29 are now available.
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IHCA will host Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp on Oct. 1-2, led by nationally recognized Life Safety expert Kenneth Daily, LNHA. This two-day, hands-on training will cover the 2012 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99), with practical guidance, real-world survey scenarios and tools to strengthen compliance in skilled nursing centers. Participants will gain strategies to meet evolving inspection, testing and maintenance requirements, reduce deficiencies and prepare for surveyor expectations. The course is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
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IHCA's virtual Medicare Review program on Oct. 8 will offer a detailed review of Medicare, Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance coverage. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of nursing facility benefits, payment methods and strategies to improve care coordination and service quality for eligible individuals in both fee-for-service and managed care systems. This course provides the knowledge and tools necessary for health care workers to navigate the complexities of Medicare and enhance their ability to manage billing and reimbursement efficiently. This virtual program is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held Oct. 22-23 and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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IHCA's on-demand webinar, "Effective Strategies for Successful Surveyor Interactions," provides tips and practices for dealing with surveyors, including how to handle surveyor requests and allegations. Additionally, a panel of experts share experiences for handling difficult surveyors and survey situations. This on-demand webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services staff, nurses and social services.
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All IHCA members are encouraged to attend the 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, this event will feature the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Cabinets. All disciplines can earn 1.0 CEU for attending, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, engage and help shape the future of Iowa’s long-term and home care sector.
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IHCA’s two-part Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, kicks off with a virtual webinar this Friday, Aug. 29, followed by an in-person session on Nov. 7. Designed for Bronze Award recipients ready to advance, the workshop offers expert coaching on completing the Silver Award application and leveraging the Baldrige-based criteria for quality improvement. This two-part course offers 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers and is held in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC.
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Nominations for IHCA's 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils are due by this Friday, Aug. 29. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 22–24 in downtown Des Moines. Along with more than 40 education sessions and a bustling trade show, the convention features special events including receptions, networking activities, entertainment and exclusive member gatherings. Seats are filling quickly — reserve your spot today.
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IHCA is marking its 75th anniversary with a member-exclusive trivia contest sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support. Three winners will each receive a free full registration to the 2025 IHCA Convention & Trade Show, Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines. Members can enter by completing the IHCA 75th Anniversary Trivia Quiz by this Friday, Aug. 29. Winners will be notified via email by Sept. 5.
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IHCA member Ruthven Community Care Center has been honored with the 2025 Governor’s Award for Quality Care, recognizing its exceptional commitment to resident well-being, compassionate caregiving and community engagement. The 46-bed facility in Ruthven was praised for creating a warm, family-like environment, delivering individualized care and fostering strong connections with residents, families and the broader community. Congratulations to Ruthven Community Care Center on this well-deserved achievement!
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) has notified IHCA that survey report processing may be delayed due to issues with the new Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). DIAL is working with CMS to resolve system glitches, but high ticket volumes have slowed response times. While the department is striving to meet the 10-day delivery requirement, occasional delays may occur, and providers are asked for patience during this transition.
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CMS has published a new frequently asked questions (FAQ) document to help skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) prepare for the upcoming data validation process. This process, scheduled to begin in fall 2025, will apply to the FY 2027 Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (QRP). In addition to the FAQ, CMS has released supplementary training and educational materials to further support SNFs as they prepare.
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The University of Iowa, in partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, will host a series of complimentary tabletop exercises this fall to help hospitals and long-term care facilities strengthen emergency response plans. These interactive, discussion-based sessions will focus on responding to multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), with an emphasis on Candida auris. Events will be held in Le Mars, Mason City, Davenport, Manchester and Ames, with additional spring dates to be announced.
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The final Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) User’s Manual version (v)1.20.1 is now available in the downloads section on the MDS 3.0 RAI Manual page. The MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual v1.20.1 will be effective beginning Oct. 1, 2025.
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In recent months, federal and state regulators have demonstrated an increased attention on Minimum Data Set (MDS) practices. AHCA has provided some reminders on key requirements for MDS roles and responsibilities, as well as resources for providers.
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CMS has announced plans to modernize the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) program by moving to a fully electronic system. By March 1, 2026, nursing homes performing lab testing must transition to email notifications, electronic fee coupons and electronic CLIA certificates, as paper versions will no longer be available. Facilities can make the switch by notifying their state agency in writing or updating their CMS-116 application form.
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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 Aug. 6 and Aug. 20 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include updates on nursing home administrator licensure, enrollment and reenrollment, conditions of eligibility, the long-term care ombudsman and more.
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CMS is overhauling its Medicare Advantage (MA) Risk Adjustment Data Validation (RADV) audit program, expanding reviews to all 500+ MA plans, increasing record samples to 200 per plan and adding 2,000 coders by September 2025 with artificial intelligence support. Audits for payment years 2018–2024 are slated for completion by early 2026. Long-term and post-acute providers may face increased record requests, tighter turnaround times and potential clawbacks through MA contracts, as AHCA continues urging CMS to address system-wide impacts.
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Iowa Medicaid will host its 2025 Annual Medicaid Provider Training this fall, with sessions offered in person on Sept. 30 in Des Moines and virtually on Oct. 14. Providers must register by Sept. 19 to participate, choosing either the in-person or virtual option. The training offers an opportunity to connect with Iowa Medicaid, ask questions and learn about program updates impacting providers. Additionally, Iowa Medicaid now offers competency-based training and technical assistance for long-term care providers and case managers, with resources available for a wide range of services.
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IHCA's DON Fundamentals - A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders, held Sept. 9-10, is a comprehensive, two-day training designed to provide new directors of nursing (DONs) and nurse leaders with the essential skills, strategies and knowledge to excel in their leadership roles within nursing facilities. This program equips nurse leaders with a playbook for success, offering practical tools to navigate the challenges they’ll face in their day-to-day work. Through expert led sessions, participants will learn how to effectively manage time and performance, mitigate risks, drive quality improvement initiatives and ensure survey preparedness. This program will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually, and is approved for 10.0 contact hours for nurses and nursing facility administrators.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," on Sept. 11 with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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IHCA is offering Bronze Quality Award Workshops this fall on Sept. 16, Oct. 28 and Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. These workshops will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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IHCA will host Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp on Oct. 1-2, led by nationally recognized Life Safety expert Kenneth Daily, LNHA. This two-day, hands-on training will cover the 2012 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99), with practical guidance, real-world survey scenarios and tools to strengthen compliance in skilled nursing centers. Participants will gain strategies to meet evolving inspection, testing and maintenance requirements, reduce deficiencies and prepare for surveyor expectations. The course is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
Read More
IHCA's virtual Medicare Review program on Oct. 8 will offer a detailed review of Medicare, Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance coverage. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of nursing facility benefits, payment methods and strategies to improve care coordination and service quality for eligible individuals in both fee-for-service and managed care systems. This course provides the knowledge and tools necessary for health care workers to navigate the complexities of Medicare and enhance their ability to manage billing and reimbursement efficiently. This virtual program is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff.
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IHCA's Minimum Data Set (MDS) Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 will be held Oct. 22-23 and is for MDS coordinators or nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) starting their careers in MDS. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to ensure successful and accurate implementation of MDS 3.0 data elements while coding the MDS 3.0. This course will be offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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All IHCA members are encouraged to attend the 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, this event will feature the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Cabinets. All disciplines can earn 1.0 CEU for attending, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, engage and help shape the future of Iowa’s long-term and home care sector.
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IHCA’s Single Facility Conference will take place next Tuesday, Aug. 26, in a hybrid format, allowing attendees to join either in person or virtually. Tailored for independently owned and operated nursing facilities, the event will explore key topics like Medicaid rebase projections, cost management, advocacy and industry disruption. Sponsored by Williams & Company, Brighton Consulting Group, HPSI Purchasing Services, NuCara Long-Term Care Pharmacy, Blue Stone Therapy, IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support and Assured Partners, the conference is approved for 4.0 contact hours for administrators and department heads. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies and connect with peers navigating similar challenges.
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IHCA’s two-part Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, kicks off with a virtual webinar next Friday, Aug. 29, followed by an in-person session on Nov. 7. Designed for Bronze Award recipients ready to advance, the workshop offers expert coaching on completing the Silver Award application and leveraging the Baldrige-based criteria for quality improvement. This two-part course offers 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers and is held in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC.
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Nominations for IHCA's 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils are due by next Friday, Aug. 29. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 22–24 in downtown Des Moines. Along with more than 40 education sessions and a bustling trade show, the convention features special events including receptions, networking activities, entertainment and exclusive member gatherings. Seats are filling quickly and registrations are expected to sell out soon — reserve your spot today.
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IHCA is marking its 75th anniversary with a member-exclusive trivia contest sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support. Three winners will each receive a free full registration to the 2025 IHCA Convention & Trade Show, Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines. Members can enter by completing the IHCA 75th Anniversary Trivia Quiz by next Friday, Aug. 29. Winners will be notified via email by Sept. 5.
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CMS has posted final versions of updated MDS 3.0 item sets, which will become effective Oct. 1, 2025, to its Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Manual page.
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In recent months, federal and state regulators have demonstrated an increased attention on Minimum Data Set (MDS) practices. AHCA/NCAL has provided some reminders on key requirements for MDS roles and responsibilities, as well as resources for providers.
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The CDC’s Project Firstline and the National Infection Prevention Forum (NIPF) will hold their next Open Office Hours next Wednesday, Aug. 27. Designed specifically for infection preventionists, the session will feature subject matter experts answering both pre-submitted and live questions. Participants are encouraged to submit questions by Aug. 20, and sessions are not recorded.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) August 2025 newsletter is now available. Topics in this issue include details on the end of the COE-NF grant in September, resources for International Overdose Awareness Day, nursing facility guidance updates, upcoming office hours, new COE-NF resources, upcoming virtual education events and more.
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CMS has announced a temporary pause in updates to the Nursing Home Care Compare website, effective July 30, 2025. This pause is part of CMS’s transition to a new cloud-based data system to record and manage survey outcomes and is intended to ensure the accuracy and reliability of publicly reported nursing home quality information. Regular updates to the site are expected to resume in October 2025. Despite the pause in public data updates, nursing homes are still required to post their most recent survey findings — the CMS-2567 Statement of Deficiencies — in a visible area within the facility.
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Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions manages the entire Medicaid enrollment process from start to finish. That includes application submission, recertifications, real-time tracking and more. It also features an all-in-one platform for verifying eligibility, payor sources and generating electronic admission agreements.
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Some of the most meaningful advocacy outcomes are the structural changes that help providers plan and succeed long-term. With support from Iowa Health PAC and active engagement from IHCA members, 2025 brought several future-focused reforms.
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IHCA's DON Fundamentals - A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders, held Sept. 9-10, is a comprehensive, two-day training designed to provide new directors of nursing (DONs) and nurse leaders with the essential skills, strategies and knowledge to excel in their leadership roles within nursing facilities. This program equips nurse leaders with a playbook for success, offering practical tools to navigate the challenges they’ll face in their day-to-day work. Through expert led sessions, participants will learn how to effectively manage time and performance, mitigate risks, drive quality improvement initiatives and ensure survey preparedness. This program will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually, and is approved for 10.0 contact hours for nurses and nursing facility administrators.
Read More
IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," on Sept. 11 with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by BCG, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
Read More
IHCA is offering Bronze Quality Award Workshops this fall on Sept. 16, Oct. 28 and Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. These workshops will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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IHCA’s October LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Wednesday, Oct. 1. In-person lab days will take place in Cedar Rapids at Guardian/Right Dose Pharmacy Offices on Oct. 16 and Oct. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
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IHCA will host Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp on Oct. 1-2, led by nationally recognized Life Safety expert Kenneth Daily, LNHA. This two-day, hands-on training will cover the 2012 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99), with practical guidance, real-world survey scenarios and tools to strengthen compliance in skilled nursing centers. Participants will gain strategies to meet evolving inspection, testing and maintenance requirements, reduce deficiencies and prepare for surveyor expectations. The course is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
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IHCA’s recently updated on-demand Nutritional/Feeding Assistant – Train-the-Trainer program certifies RNs to teach the state-approved training program for feeding assistants in skilled nursing facilities. This course equips RNs with the tools to plan and deliver training, meet state and federal requirements and ensure compliance with AHCA guidelines. Approved for 2.0 contact hours, the program is now available for on-demand access to nurses and administrators.
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IHCA's on-demand LTC Technology Summit brings together cutting-edge solutions for the long-term care industry, focusing on how innovative technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT can transform operations, improve care and streamline compliance. This on-demand course is approved for 4.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and nurses.
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IHCA’s Single Facility Conference will take place on Aug. 26 in a hybrid format, allowing attendees to join either in person or virtually. Tailored for independently owned and operated nursing facilities, the event will explore key topics like Medicaid rebase projections, cost management, advocacy and industry disruption. Sponsored by Williams & Company, BCG Research, HPSI Purchasing Services, NuCara Long-Term Care Pharmacy, Blue Stone Therapy, IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support and Assured Partners, the conference is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators and department heads. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies and connect with peers navigating similar challenges.
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Congratulations to IHCA member Briarwood Health Care Center in Iowa City on receiving the 2025 Governor’s Award for Quality Care in Health Care Facilities. Chosen from among several nominees, Briarwood was recognized for its warm, home-like environment, long-tenured staff and exceptional commitment to residents’ health, dignity and quality of life. The family-owned, 62-bed skilled nursing facility stood out for its community engagement, unique activities and strong clinical partnerships, earning high praise from residents, families and state leaders alike.
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Providers must submit Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data for April 1 – June 30, 2025, by tomorrow, Aug. 14. Providers are encouraged to submit data early so that they have sufficient time to review the PBJ CASPER Reports and make any necessary corrections prior to the deadline. As a reminder, CMS does not accept late PBJ submissions. IHCA and CMS both have resources available to support providers with PBJ.
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AHCA has released a new toolkit to support skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and post-acute care (PAC) providers preparing for the Transforming Episode Accountability Model (TEAM). Additional data on hospital discharge patterns and episodic trends will be available in mid-September on LTC Trend Tracker. Additionally, AHCA will host a webinar on TEAM for providers on Thursday, Sept. 25 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. CDT.
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AHCA has released a recording of its webinar with President and CEO Clif Porter and AHCA staff on the Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Final Payment Rule, available to members with a log-in. A detailed summary of key provisions and member impacts is also available online.
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IHCA Provider Solutions offers Remote MDS Services to help facilities address temporary staffing gaps and ensure timely, accurate MDS submissions. Expert consultants complete MDS assessments remotely, develop aligned care plans, and provide guidance to maximize PDPM scoring and quality measure outcomes. These services are designed as short-term support, with additional options for on-site assessments and MDS/EHR consulting to optimize reimbursement and operational efficiency.
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IHCA’s two-part Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, kicks off with a virtual webinar on Aug. 29, followed by an in-person session on Nov. 7. Designed for Bronze Award recipients ready to advance, the workshop offers expert coaching on completing the Silver Award application and leveraging the Baldrige-based criteria for quality improvement. This two-part course offers 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers and is held in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC.
Read More
IHCA is offering Bronze Quality Award Workshops this fall on Sept. 16, Oct. 28 and Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. These workshops will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
Read More
IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines, will celebrate the association’s 75th anniversary with three days of education, networking and recognition. Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., the event will feature more than 40 education sessions, nationally renowned keynote speakers and a bustling trade show with over 90 vendors. Attendees can earn up to 15.0 CEUs and participate in special events like Casino Night and Music Bingo. Highlights include keynotes from Chris Norton, Danny Goldberg and Dan Gable.
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IHCA is marking its 75th anniversary with a member-exclusive trivia contest sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support. Three winners will each receive a free full registration to the 2025 IHCA Convention & Trade Show, Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines. Members can enter by completing the IHCA 75th Anniversary Trivia Quiz by Aug. 29. Winners will be notified via email by Sept. 5.
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IHCA’s October LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Wednesday, Oct. 1. Please note in-person lab days will take place in Cedar Rapids at Guardian/Right Dose Pharmacy Offices on Oct. 16 and Oct. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility (SNF) as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
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IHCA will host Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp on Oct. 1-2, led by nationally recognized Life Safety expert Kenneth Daily, LNHA. This two-day, hands-on training will cover the 2012 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99), with practical guidance, real-world survey scenarios and tools to strengthen compliance in skilled nursing centers. Participants will gain strategies to meet evolving inspection, testing and maintenance requirements, reduce deficiencies and prepare for surveyor expectations. The course is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
Read More
IHCA is now accepting nominations for its 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. All nominations must be submitted by Aug. 29, 2025, to be considered. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA is now accepting nominations for its 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. All nominations must be submitted by Aug. 29, 2025, to be considered. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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CMS recently issued the final rule for the skilled nursing facility (SNF) prospective payment system (PPS) fiscal year (FY) 2026. AHCA has reviewed the final rule and developed a summary outlining key provisions and impacts on members. Additionally, AHCA will host a webinar tomorrow, Aug. 7, at 2:30 p.m. where AHCA President and CEO Clif Porter and AHCA team members will provide details on what you need to know about the payment rule.
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The August 2025 Performance Score Reports (PSRs) for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 Skilled Nursing Facility Value-Based Purchasing (SNF VBP) Program are now available to download via the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). SNFs may submit requests for corrections to their performance score and ranking up to 30 days following this report being made available, until Aug. 31, 2025.
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Providers must submit Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data for April 1 – June 30, 2025, by Aug. 14, 2025. Providers are encouraged to submit data early so that they have sufficient time to review the PBJ CASPER Reports and make any necessary corrections prior to the deadline. As a reminder, CMS does not accept late PBJ submissions. IHCA and CMS both have resources available to support providers with PBJ.
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CMS has officially ended the Focused Infection Control (FIC) survey type, originally implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Going forward, infection control will be reviewed through standard survey processes during annual recertification and complaint surveys. Although FICs were optional in FY 2024, many still occurred in Iowa nursing homes. Members are encouraged to review the critical element pathway surveyors use when assessing infection control compliance.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) is offering a series of free virtual training events in August for all nursing facility staff. Topics include trauma-informed care, behavioral health integration, culturally and linguistically appropriate services (CLAS), empathy and compassion in caregiving and opioid stewardship. Each session provides 1.0 NAB and ACCME credit and includes practical strategies to enhance quality of care and support staff well-being.
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The 2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Intent to Apply (ITA) is now open! All applicants who plan to apply for an AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award are encouraged to submit an ITA by logging into the Quality Award portal before the deadline on Nov. 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. While not mandatory, applicants who submit an ITA will get a discounted application fee and receive dedicated emails with access to exclusive resources – including webinars with helpful tips, best practices and reminders to assist you in your application writing process.
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IHCA’s Single Facility Conference will take place on Aug. 26 in a hybrid format, allowing attendees to join either in person or virtually. Tailored for independently owned and operated nursing facilities, the event will explore key topics like Medicaid rebase projections, cost management, advocacy and industry disruption. Sponsored by Williams & Company, BCG Research, HPSI Purchasing Services, NuCara Long-Term Care Pharmacy, Blue Stone Therapy, IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support and Assured Partners, the conference is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators and department heads. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies and connect with peers navigating similar challenges.
Read More
IHCA’s two-part Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, kicks off with a virtual webinar on Aug. 29, followed by an in-person session on Nov. 7. Designed for Bronze Award recipients ready to advance, the workshop offers expert coaching on completing the Silver Award application and leveraging the Baldrige-based criteria for quality improvement. This two-part course offers 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers and is held in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC.
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Join IHCA on Sept. 8 for "Preparing for the 2025 MDS Changes," a timely webinar offering practical guidance on the MDS updates going into effect Oct. 1, 2025. Led by nationally recognized MDS expert Jessie McGill, RN, BSN, RAC-MT, RAC-MTA, of AAPACN, the session will explore how these changes impact care planning, documentation and reimbursement. Participants will walk away with actionable tools to support accurate coding and compliance. This live webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA's DON Fundamentals - A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders, held Sept. 9-10, is a comprehensive, two-day training designed to provide new directors of nursing (DONs) and nurse leaders with the essential skills, strategies and knowledge to excel in their leadership roles within nursing facilities. This program equips nurse leaders with a playbook for success, offering practical tools to navigate the challenges they’ll face in their day-to-day work. Through expert led sessions, participants will learn how to effectively manage time and performance, mitigate risks, drive quality improvement initiatives and ensure survey preparedness. This program will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually, and is approved for 10.0 contact hours for nurses and nursing facility administrators.
Read More
IHCA is offering Bronze Quality Award Workshops this fall on Sept. 16, Oct. 28 and Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. These workshops will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
Read More
IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines, will celebrate the association’s 75th anniversary with three days of education, networking and recognition. Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., the event will feature more than 40 education sessions, nationally renowned keynote speakers and a bustling trade show with over 90 vendors. Attendees can earn up to 15.0 CEUs and participate in special events like Casino Night and Music Bingo. Highlights include keynotes from Chris Norton, Danny Goldberg and Dan Gable.
Read More
IHCA’s October LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online Wednesday, Oct. 1. Please note in-person lab days will take place in Cedar Rapids at Guardian/Right Dose Pharmacy Offices on Oct. 16 and Oct. 30. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility (SNF) as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3). This course is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs.
Read More
IHCA, in collaboration with Kenneth Daily, is offering a two-day intensive training focused on the Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and the Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99) as they apply to skilled nursing centers on Oct. 1-2. Designed to equip you and your team with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively manage your facility’s life safety program, this course ensures you’re prepared to meet compliance expectations — both now and as standards continue to change. This education event is approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff.
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IHCA's Business Office Manager Training Series, sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, is designed to equip business office managers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the intricate financial and administrative landscape of long-term care facilities. Experienced industry professionals will guide participants through best practices and strategies which will allow for effective implementation in your facility’s daily operations.
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IHCA Nurse Connect is offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. This grant is for IHCA member nurses only. To apply for a grant, submit the grant application form by tomorrow, July 31. Selected individuals will be contacted via email in August.
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IHCA’s August LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online this Friday, Aug. 1. In-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines at the IHCA - BCG Education Center on Aug. 14 and Aug. 29. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours.
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IHCA is thrilled to announce that University Park Assisted Living has successfully appealed the initial decision and will be recognized as a 2025 Bronze recipient in the National Quality Award Program! With this addition, IHCA's members achieved a total 46 Bronze awards in 2025. This prestigious honor is a testament to the hard work, dedication and unwavering commitment of our members to providing high quality care and continuous performance improvement.
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Congratulations to IHCA member Briarwood Healthcare Center in Iowa City on receiving the 2025 Governor’s Award for Quality Care! The award will be presented on Aug. 6 by Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing Director Larry Johnson, Jr. This honor recognizes Briarwood’s exceptional commitment to resident care and innovative practices that enhance quality of life.
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CMS is providing notifications to facilities that were determined to be out of compliance with the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP) requirements for CY 2024, which will affect their FY 2026 Annual Payment Update (APU). Non-compliance notifications are being distributed by the Medicare Administrative Contractors and were placed into facilities’ My Reports folders in the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) on July 21, 2025. Facilities that receive a letter of non-compliance may submit a request for reconsideration to CMS via email no later than 11:59 p.m., Aug. 26, 2025.
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CMS implemented key updates to the Five-Star rating system with the July 2025 Care Compare refresh, including the removal of COVID-19 vaccination data, the addition of nursing home chain performance averages and a revised method for calculating health inspection ratings using only the two most recent recertification surveys. While most providers will see little change, around 20% may experience a shift — half improving and half declining. IHCA encourages members to review their updated data and offers continued support as CMS prepares additional changes to quality measures. An updated Five-Star Technical User’s Guide is also now available.
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The Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available. These reports contain provider performance scores for quality measures, which will be published on the compare tool on Medicare.gov and the Provider Data Catalog (PDC) during the October 2025 release. Providers have until Aug. 14, 2025, to review their performance data.
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Providers must submit Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data for April 1 – June 30, 2025 by Aug. 14, 2025.
Providers are encouraged to submit data early so that they have sufficient time to review the PBJ CASPER Reports and make any necessary corrections prior to the deadline. As a reminder, CMS does not accept late PBJ submissions. IHCA and CMS both have resources available to support providers with PBJ.
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MercyOne has changed its discharge process and will no longer provide signed physician orders upon patient transfer to post-acute settings, instead offering unsigned After Visit Summaries and Transfer Summaries. This shift, driven by risk management concerns and the transition to Epic, requires nursing facilities to update their admission workflows to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations requiring signed physician orders upon admission. IHCA recommends proactive coordination with hospitals, pharmacies and medical directors, along with staff training, to maintain safe and compliant care transitions. While state regulators are aware of the change, they have not found it to be a regulatory violation but will inform surveyors of varying admission processes.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) will reach the end of its three-years of funding on Sept. 29, 2025. After that date, technical assistance consultations and live training events will no longer be available. The COE-NF training and resources will be accessible on the CMS website after the grant concludes. Further details on how to access these materials will be provided soon.
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AHCA/NCAL’s free LTC Workforce Webinar Series offers long-term care providers practical, expert-led strategies to address recruitment, retention and workforce development challenges. The nine-part series includes sessions on apprenticeships, career ladders, refugee partnerships, upskilling, resiliency and more — with additional webinars continuing into 2026. Upcoming sessions in August and September will focus on engaging youth and promoting careers in long-term care. Recordings are available to AHCA/NCAL members who register.
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IHCA’s Single Facility Conference will take place on Aug. 26 in a hybrid format, allowing attendees to join either in person or virtually. Tailored for independently owned and operated nursing facilities, the event will explore key topics like Medicaid rebase projections, cost management, advocacy and industry disruption. Sponsored by Williams & Company, BCG Research, HPSI Purchasing Services, NuCara Long-Term Care Pharmacy, Blue Stone Therapy, IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support and Assured Partners, the conference is approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators and department heads. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies and connect with peers navigating similar challenges.
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IHCA’s two-part Silver Quality Award Workshop, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy, kicks off with a virtual webinar on Aug. 29, followed by an in-person session on Nov. 7. Designed for Bronze Award recipients ready to advance, the workshop offers expert coaching on completing the Silver Award application and leveraging the Baldrige-based criteria for quality improvement. This two-part course offers 6.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers and is held in partnership with Geoffrey Calhoun of Calhoun Consulting Partners, LLC.
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Join IHCA on Sept. 8 for "Preparing for the 2025 MDS Changes," a timely webinar offering practical guidance on the MDS updates going into effect Oct. 1, 2025. Led by nationally recognized MDS expert Jessie McGill, RN, BSN, RAC-MT, RAC-MTA, of AAPACN, the session will explore how these changes impact care planning, documentation and reimbursement. Participants will walk away with actionable tools to support accurate coding and compliance. This live webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA's DON Fundamentals - A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders, held Sept. 9-10, is a comprehensive, two-day training designed to provide new directors of nursing (DONs) and nurse leaders with the essential skills, strategies and knowledge to excel in their leadership roles within nursing facilities. This program equips nurse leaders with a playbook for success, offering practical tools to navigate the challenges they’ll face in their day-to-day work. Through expert led sessions, participants will learn how to effectively manage time and performance, mitigate risks, drive quality improvement initiatives and ensure survey preparedness. This program will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually, and is approved for 10.0 contact hours for nurses and nursing facility administrators.
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IHCA is offering Bronze Quality Award Workshops this fall on Sept. 16, Oct. 28 and Dec. 2, sponsored by Blue Stone Therapy and Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy. These workshops will guide participants through the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award application process while providing expert coaching and strategies for driving organizational performance. This workshop offers 5.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers. New this year, participants can opt for a one-time application review by IHCA’s quality experts for personalized feedback before submission.
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Join us Sept. 22–24 for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show as we celebrate 75 years of empowering members and improving lives. Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., this milestone event will feature inspiring keynote speakers including Dan Gable, Chris Norton and Danny Goldberg. Attendees can expect expert-led education, a robust trade show and special anniversary celebrations honoring the strength and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care community.
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This year, IHCA Nurse Connect is offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. Please note, this grant is for IHCA member nurses only. To apply for a grant, submit the grant application form by next Thursday, July 31. Selected individuals will be contacted via email in August.
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IHCA’s August LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online next Friday, Aug. 1. In-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines at the IHCA - BCG Education Center on Aug. 14 and Aug. 29. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours.
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Earlier this week, the IHCA Foundation awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to 74 IHCA members seeking to further their health care education in the long-term care sector. The recipients include current long-term care workers, high school students, first-generation college students and individuals from rural communities. 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. The IHCA Foundation is grateful for its generous donors and applauds this year’s recipients for their dedication to this essential field.
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The July 2025 skilled nursing facility (SNF) 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. Congratulations to the IHCA member facilities that recently achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey!
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The SNF Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available. These reports contain provider performance scores for quality measures, which will be published on the compare tool on Medicare.gov and the Provider Data Catalog (PDC) during the October 2025 release. Providers have until Aug. 14, 2025, to review their performance data. Only updates/corrections to the underlying assessment data before the final data submission deadline will be reflected in the publicly reported data on Medicare.gov and Provider Data Catalog.
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AHCA has received notice from CMS that the agency is extending the deadline for the mandatory skilled nursing facility (SNF) provider enrollment off-cycle revalidation from Aug. 1, 2025, to Jan. 1, 2026. This extension does not eliminate the reporting requirement, but does allow more time for providers to work through the various data collection and data submission processes.
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Iowa Medicaid's Annual Provider Training will take place in person on Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Iowa State Historical Museum in Des Moines. The event is open to all provider types and will include sessions on fee-for-service billing, provider enrollment and updates from MCOs. A virtual session will be available later this fall for those unable to attend in person. Registration opens next month, and providers are encouraged to submit topic suggestions or questions in advance.
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Medicaid enrollment doesn’t have to be a bottleneck. IHCA Provider Solutions now offers Enrollment Support – a service designed to streamline the Medicaid application process, simplify admissions and reduce reimbursement delays, all at no out-of-pocket cost to your facility.
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Increase your knowledge of clinical assessment and care planning, completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), the regulations surrounding the Resident Assessment Index (RAI)/MDS process and managing the Patient-Driven Payment Model by attending the American Association of Post Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Resident Assessment Coordinator—Certified (RAC-CT) Certification Workshop, held virtually Aug. 19-21. This RAC-CT Certification Workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs.
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Get ready to celebrate a monumental milestone — IHCA’s 75th anniversary — at the 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.! With the theme “Diamond Resilience,” this year’s event promises to honor the strength, brilliance and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care professionals.
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IHCA's on-demand Activity Professionals Qualification Course, sponsored by the Iowa Council of Activity Professionals, meets the State of Iowa’s Department of Inspection, Appeals and Licensing requirements for activity professionals. Completion of this course qualifies one to direct an activities program in a nursing facility or residential care facility. This course is approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals.
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Join us Sept. 22–24 for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, celebrating 75 years of empowering Iowa’s long-term care professionals. This year’s “Diamond Resilience” event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., features expert-led sessions, anniversary celebrations and keynote speakers including Dan Gable, Chris Norton, Angie Gray and Danny Goldberg. This year, attendees may choose from more than 40 education sessions and earn up to 15.0 CEUs! Early bird registration ends this Friday, July 18 — don’t miss your chance to save!
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CMS recently issued an alert about a fraud scheme that uses phishing fax requests, which falsely claim to be from CMS staff, to obtain medical records and documentation for auditing purposes. CMS does not initiate audits by requesting medical records via fax, and if you receive a suspicious request, do not respond.
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Understanding the process of root cause analysis (RCA) has assisted many centers in identifying and reducing risks to assist in preventing negative outcomes. HealthCap offers a free 60-minute webinar that walks through the RCA process.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) July 2025 newsletter is now available. Topics in this issue include nursing facility assessment guidance, information and resources to help nursing facility residents experiencing psychosis, tips to implement substance use recovery support in nursing facilities, upcoming office hours, complimentary education and more.
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Looking to strengthen your MDS systems or train new staff? IHCA Provider Solutions’ MDS and EHR Consulting Service delivers expert-level support to help your team improve accuracy, uncover missed revenue opportunities and increase efficiency.
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IHCA’s August LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Friday, Aug. 1. In-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines at the IHCA - BCG Education Center on Aug. 14 and Aug. 29. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours.
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Increase your knowledge of clinical assessment and care planning, completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), the regulations surrounding the Resident Assessment Index (RAI)/MDS process and managing the Patient-Driven Payment Model by attending the American Association of Post Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Resident Assessment Coordinator—Certified (RAC-CT) Certification Workshop, held virtually Aug. 19-21. This RAC-CT Certification Workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs.
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Join IHCA tomorrow, July 10, at 1:00 p.m., for its live webinar, Discharge Function Score Essentials – What Every SNF Should Know. Attendees will identify the discharge function score components, analyze accurate Minimum Data Set (MDS) documentation and coding on discharge assessments, review quality reports that include discharge function scores and discuss discharge planning processes to improve resident outcomes. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA is offering two valuable education events – the LTC Quality Symposium and the LTC Regulatory Symposium, next Tuesday and Wednesday. These symposiums are designed to provide long-term care professionals with targeted insights, tools and strategies to improve quality outcomes, stay compliant with regulatory requirements and navigate the evolving landscape of long-term care in Iowa. Attendees can choose to attend one or both symposiums, with a discounted rate available for those who register for both. Each symposium will be hosted in Jefferson and Cedar Rapids on alternating days, making it easy to select the date and location that best fits your schedule. Each symposium is approved for 5.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and department heads.
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CMS has released updates to the Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) Manual and FAQ, including key clarifications on daily hour limits, required meal break deductions and on-site work requirements. The FAQ also addresses surveyor guidance on RN coverage, reporting rules for salaried employees and new information on PBJ audit processes. Providers are encouraged to review the updated manual and FAQs in full.
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The Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) data submission deadline for Q3 is Aug. 14, 2025, and providers are strongly encouraged to submit early to avoid delays. The iQIES Nursing Home Survey and Certification launch on July 14 is expected to increase support center traffic, potentially leading to longer wait times. Submit your PBJ files before July 14 if possible, and use only one method of contact when requesting assistance. All submissions must be received by 10:59 p.m. CDT on Aug. 14.
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AHCA’s April 2025 Long-Term Care (LTC) Survey Manual is now available for pre-order and includes key CMS updates issued in late 2024 and early 2025. With changes to Appendix PP, staffing, infection control, psychotropic medications, QAPI, MDS, and more now in effect, the manual is a vital tool for compliance and survey readiness. Pre-order now to ensure prompt delivery when it becomes available this summer.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will implement the new cloud-based iQIES survey tool on July 14, 2025, as part of a national CMS effort to modernize long-term care survey technology. While the platform upgrade improves data security and system efficiency, providers are not expected to notice changes in the survey process. Surveyor training is already underway to support a smooth transition.
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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 25 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include updates on the long-term care ombudsman, Office of the Public Guardian and the Department of Aging Transition, as well as uniform waiver standards.
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Skilled nursing facility (SNF) providers must complete a mandatory mid-cycle Medicare enrollment revalidation by Aug. 1, 2025, or risk suspension or revocation. CMS has begun issuing reminders to those who have not yet submitted, and AHCA/NCAL continues to advocate for relief from the expanded reporting requirements. To support providers, IHCA offers an on-demand training course — available through July 30 — that walks through the process and highlights common challenges. Additional resources are available from AHCA/NCAL and CMS.
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The federal reconciliation bill signed July 4, 2025, excludes skilled nursing facility (SNF) Medicaid programs from harmful funding cuts and places a 10-year moratorium on the federal staffing mandate. The bill does contain major cuts to other provider tax programs which help fund Medicaid for other providers like hospitals. In an underfunded system, these cuts are misguided and will create material challenges for every state’s Medicaid budget – including Iowa’s – in the coming years, which will make competition for scarcer Medicaid resources even more fierce than before.
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During the 2025 legislative session, IHCA helped defeat 13 harmful bills that would have imposed new costs and restrictions on long-term care providers. These advocacy wins were made possible by strong IHCA member engagement and Iowa Health PAC support.
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Updated “Your Top-Line” reports are now live in AHCA/NCAL’s LTC Trend Tracker, offering facility-specific snapshots of key quality and safety metrics drawn from the most recent data. This edition also models the projected impact of CMS’s new Five-Star calculation changes, with a second refresh planned after the July Care Compare update. LTC Trend Tracker is free to IHCA members and lets you benchmark your performance against regional and national peers to drive targeted quality improvement efforts.
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Join us Sept. 22–24 for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, celebrating 75 years of empowering Iowa’s long-term care professionals. This year’s “Diamond Resilience” event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., features expert-led sessions, anniversary celebrations and keynote speakers including Dan Gable, Chris Norton, Angie Gray and Danny Goldberg. Early bird registration ends next Friday, July 18 — don’t miss your chance to save!
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Voyce interpretation services help members comply with the final rule titled Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities, under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. With the touch of a button, Voyce connects you to a live, medical interpreter in 240+ languages, including American Sign Language (ASL).
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Congratulations to Accura HealthCare of Cascade, Accura HealthCare of Ogden, Midlands Living Center and Norwalk Nursing & Rehabilitation Center on receiving the prestigious 2025 Silver – Achievement in Quality Award from AHCA/NCAL! These four IHCA members have demonstrated outstanding commitment to continuous improvement and high-quality care. We celebrate their dedication to excellence and their impact on Iowa’s long-term care community.
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Join IHCA next Thursday, July 10, for its live webinar, Discharge Function Score Essentials – What Every SNF Should Know. Attendees will identify the discharge function score components, analyze accurate Minimum Data Set (MDS) documentation and coding on discharge assessments, review quality reports that include discharge function scores and discuss discharge planning processes to improve resident outcomes. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA is offering two valuable education events – the LTC Quality Symposium and the LTC Regulatory Symposium, on July 15-16. These symposiums are designed to provide long-term care professionals with targeted insights, tools and strategies to improve quality outcomes, stay compliant with regulatory requirements and navigate the evolving landscape of long-term care in Iowa. Attendees can choose to attend one or both symposiums, with a discounted rate available for those who register for both. Each symposium will be hosted in Jefferson and Cedar Rapids on alternating days, making it easy to select the date and location that best fits your schedule. Each symposium is approved for 5.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and department heads.
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Earlier this year, OSHA issued a memorandum announcing an immediate suspension, or “stay,” of its COVID-19 recordkeeping and reporting requirements under 29 CFR 1910.502. This change, effective until further notice, relieves nursing homes, assisted living communities, hospitals and other health care settings from maintaining a dedicated COVID-19 log or reporting COVID-19 fatalities and hospitalizations as previously required.
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As summer temperatures rise, IHCA reminds members of the importance of proactive communication in the event of air conditioning failure or elevated indoor temperatures. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) has received complaints related to heat in long-term care settings, some of which have prompted investigations. Prompt, transparent communication with residents, families, and staff — along with proper documentation — can help maintain compliance and reduce the likelihood of regulatory action.
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The June 2025 skilled nursing facility (SNF) 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. Congratulations to the IHCA member facilities that recently achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey!
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will implement the new cloud-based iQIES survey tool on July 14, 2025, as part of a national CMS effort to modernize long-term care survey technology. While the platform upgrade improves data security and system efficiency, providers are not expected to notice changes in the survey process. Surveyor training is already underway to support a smooth transition.
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Candida auris (C. auris) is a serious, multidrug-resistant fungal infection that has emerged as a significant threat in health care settings, particularly in long-term care and post-acute care facilities. It spreads easily between people and via contaminated surfaces or equipment, and it can cause invasive infections with high mortality. Iowa has noted an increase in both clinical and screening cases in 2025, with a cumulative total of 29. (There were four in 2024.) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and CMS urge all long-term care providers to take proactive steps to identify, isolate and prevent the spread of C. auris.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has reported a rise in confirmed measles cases within the state. Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that poses significant risk in congregate care settings, especially among immunocompromised individuals and unvaccinated staff or visitors. Long-term care facilities, assisted living programs, residential care facilities and home health/care agencies should consider taking steps to protect residents/tenants/patients, staff and visitors from potential exposure.
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CMS has identified a fraud scheme targeting Medicare providers and suppliers. Per a recent MLN Connects Newsletter, scammers are impersonating CMS and sending phishing fax requests for medical records and documentation, falsely claiming to be part of a Medicare audit. To protect your organization’s and your residents' financial and health information, if you receive a suspicious request, don’t respond.
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On Saturday, June 28, the Senate released its updated version of the “big, beautiful” budget reconciliation bill. On Tuesday, July 1, the Senate approved their version of the reconciliation bill. While AHCA/NCAL continues to review the revised language, there are several important updates for members regarding Medicaid provider taxes, retroactive coverage and the staffing mandate.
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Join us Sept. 22–24 for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, celebrating 75 years of empowering Iowa’s long-term care professionals. This year’s “Diamond Resilience” event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., features expert-led sessions, anniversary celebrations and keynote speakers including Dan Gable, Chris Norton, Angie Gray and Danny Goldberg. Early bird registration ends July 18 — don’t miss your chance to save!
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Join us tomorrow, June 26, for IHCA's Serving Up Excellence in Long-Term Care – Dietary Conference, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. Held at Scottish Rite Park, this event will offer 4.0 CEUs for dietary staff, administrators and assisted living managers. Explore innovative, resident-centered strategies to improve nutrition, safety, hydration and dining experiences in long-term care through interactive sessions, hands-on learning and a facility tour.
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IHCA’s four districts are offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. Applications are due by this Monday, June 30.
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CMS released QSO-25-20-NH on June 18, 2025, to describe updates coming to Nursing Home Care Compare. In the memo, CMS notes several changes to how items are displayed on the website related to performance data for nursing home chains, standard survey cycles for the inspection rating, updated long-stay antipsychotic measures and removal of the COVID-19 vaccine measures.
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The June 2025 skilled nursing facility life safety/fire safety and emergency preparedness survey report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited life safety and emergency preparedness tags from Iowa facilities, as well as compliance tips.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Publications On Demand service is ending. After September 2025, the CDC will no longer offer print materials through the CDC Publications On Demand service, and supplies will not be restocked. As part of the ongoing commitment to quality care and safety, now is the time to stock up on these free print resources before they’re gone for good. Facilities are encouraged to order large quantities now to support future trainings, infection prevention campaigns and regulatory readiness.
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IHCA reminds members that the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) recently announced that certified nursing assistant (CNA) candidates can now complete the written portion of their competency exam remotely, as of June 2. This expansion aims to reduce common barriers such as travel, childcare and scheduling delays, making the path to CNA certification more accessible and affordable. While DIAL and its contracted testing vendors work to establish a remote skills demonstration option, candidates will be required to complete the skills exam at an approved testing facility, all of which are currently provided by community colleges.
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Join IHCA on July 10 for its live webinar, Discharge Function Score Essentials – What Every SNF Should Know. Attendees will identify the discharge function score components, analyze accurate Minimum Data Set (MDS) documentation and coding on discharge assessments, review quality reports that include discharge function scores and discuss discharge planning processes to improve resident outcomes. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff.
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IHCA is offering two valuable education events – the LTC Quality Symposium and the LTC Regulatory Symposium, on July 15-16. These symposiums are designed to provide long-term care professionals with targeted insights, tools and strategies to improve quality outcomes, stay compliant with regulatory requirements and navigate the evolving landscape of long-term care in Iowa. Attendees can choose to attend one or both symposiums, with a discounted rate available for those who register for both. Each symposium will be hosted in Jefferson and Cedar Rapids on alternating days, making it easy to select the date and location that best fits your schedule. Each symposium is approved for 5.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and department heads.
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Registration is now open for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc. Held Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines, this milestone event will celebrate IHCA’s 75th anniversary with expert-led education, a robust trade show and special anniversary programming. Discounted hotel accommodations are available at the Des Moines Marriott, with a non-refundable deposit required at booking.
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Join us for IHCA's Serving Up Excellence in Long-Term Care – Dietary Conference, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., next Thursday, June 26. Held at Scottish Rite Park, this event offers 4.0 CEUs for dietary staff, administrators and assisted living managers. Explore innovative, resident-centered strategies to improve nutrition, safety, hydration and dining experiences in long-term care through interactive sessions, hands-on learning and a facility tour.
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IHCA members are invited to join Wellpoint's Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Health Care Networks team during its dedicated office hours. Wellpoint will be available to answer general questions and offer guidance on locating resources on its provider website, as well as Availity.
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Medicaid enrollment doesn’t have to be a bottleneck. IHCA Provider Solutions now offers Enrollment Support – a service designed to streamline the Medicaid application process, simplify admissions and reduce reimbursement delays, all at no cost to your facility.
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The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) June 2025 newsletter is now available. Topics in this issue include Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month resources, trauma informed care guidance, upcoming office hours, complimentary virtual education events and more.
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IHCA is offering two valuable education events – the LTC Quality Symposium and the LTC Regulatory Symposium, on July 15-16. These symposiums are designed to provide long-term care professionals with targeted insights, tools and strategies to improve quality outcomes, stay compliant with regulatory requirements and navigate the evolving landscape of long-term care in Iowa. Attendees can choose to attend one or both symposiums, with a discounted rate available for those who register for both. Each symposium will be hosted in Jefferson and Cedar Rapids on alternating days, making it easy to select the date and location that best fits your schedule. Each symposium is approved for 5.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and department heads.
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Get ready to celebrate a monumental milestone — IHCA’s 75th anniversary — at the 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., happening Sept. 22-24! With the theme “Diamond Resilience,” this year’s event promises to honor the strength, brilliance and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care professionals. Additionally, IHCA’s four districts are offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. To apply for a grant, complete the grant application form by Monday, June 30. Selected individuals will be contacted via email in July.
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IHCA’s Rooted to Rise – Women in Long-Term Care Conference held next Wednesday, June 18, is a full-day event designed to inspire, empower and connect women across all roles in the long-term care profession. The conference will feature sessions on leadership, wellness, communication and resilience, including speakers such as former Iowa House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst and mental health advocate Lyndsey Fennelly. Approved for 6.0 CEUs, the event will offer valuable takeaways for personal and professional growth, capped off with networking and a floral bouquet bar.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services have released guidance on applying for Nursing Facility Infrastructure Funding (NFIF), with requests due by June 30, 2025. Eligible facilities must have completed significant infrastructure projects — such as full replacements, HVAC upgrades, new construction or Life Safety Code improvements — and may apply for reimbursement through either a capital cost per diem add-on, an enhancement of the non-direct care component or both.
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Accurate, timely MDS submissions are critical to your facility’s compliance and reimbursement — and IHCA Provider Solutions is here to help. Whether you’re facing temporary staffing gaps or looking to improve your current MDS workflow, our MDS Support services are designed with your needs in mind.
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CMS has announced the launch of the 13th Scope of Work for the Quality Improvement Organizations (QIO) program, running from May 2025 through May 2030, in alignment with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative. Seven Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organizations (QIN-QIOs), including Telligen for Iowa, will provide direct support to health care providers to improve care quality and safety for Medicare beneficiaries. Focus areas include chronic disease management, patient safety, behavioral health, emergency preparedness and workforce challenges. IHCA will share additional details as they become available.
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IHCA has launched its new QAPI Foundations Workshop, an on-demand, team-based training designed to help long-term care providers build a stronger, more sustainable quality improvement program. The workshop includes five engaging modules that break down the essential components of Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI), equipping providers with the tools and strategies needed to strengthen systems, use data more effectively and improve resident outcomes.
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CMS recently added four new Quality in Focus (QIF) videos to its Quality, Safety and Education Portal (QSEP). The video modules address commonly cited deficiencies in long-term care related to food safety requirements, infection prevention and control and developing a plan of correction. These videos are available on demand, 24/7.
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AHCA/NCAL has alerted IHCA to a scam in which an individual posing as an AHCA representative is contacting 2025 Bronze Quality Award recipients to fraudulently solicit credit card information.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was recently notified that three letters were sent to Smiths Medical customers with corrected use instructions for certain computerized ambulatory delivery device (CADD)-Solis Ambulatory Infusion Pumps and CADD-Solis VIP Ambulatory Infusion Pumps. The FDA also posted a recall notice for Amneal Pharmaceutical LLC sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg only. The company is recalling three lots of these tablets, distributed nationwide to wholesalers/distributors between Dec. 4, 2024, and May 15, 2025, as they may exhibit black spots on the tablet surface due to microbial contamination.
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IHCA’s August LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Friday, Aug. 1. In-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines at the IHCA - BCG Education Center on Aug. 14 and Aug. 29. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours.
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Increase your knowledge of clinical assessment and care planning, completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), the regulations surrounding the Resident Assessment Index (RAI)/MDS process and managing the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) by attending the American Association of Post Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Resident Assessment Coordinator—Certified (RAC-CT) Certification Workshop held virtually Aug. 19-21. This RAC-CT Certification Workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs.
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IHCA's Serving Up Excellence in Long-Term Care – Dietary Conference on June 26, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will offer a holistic approach to enhancing nutritional care and food service delivery in long-term care. Sessions will highlight interdisciplinary collaboration, safety and resident-centered dining. Attendees will explore innovative strategies for improving texture-modified diets, optimizing hydration, elevating food presentation and identifying systemic challenges within dietary operations. Interactive discussions, a facility tour from IHCA member Scottish Rite Park and hands-on learning will equip participants with valuable tools to support both clinical excellence and an enhanced quality of life for their residents. This conference is approved for 4.0 CEUs for dietary staff, administrators and assisted living managers.
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IHCA’s four districts are offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. To apply for a grant, complete the grant application form by Monday, June 30. Selected individuals will be contacted via email in July.
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IHCA's eight-part Dementia Care On-Demand Training Series is crafted to address the multifaceted aspects of dementia care, encompassing not only the medical and cognitive dimensions but also the emotional, social and ethical considerations that play a vital role in providing holistic care. This training series provides the tools and insights needed to create a supportive and enriching environment for individuals with dementia, fostering dignity, respect and a sense of well-being. This on-demand training series is approved for 8.0 CEUs for nurses, activity professionals, social services staff, environmental services staff, departments heads, administrators, assisted living managers and home care professionals.
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Nominations are currently being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA Board of Trustees. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must submit a nomination form by no later than July 4, 2025.
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Forty-five IHCA members have earned the 2025 Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award from AHCA/NCAL, placing Iowa second in the nation for the number of Bronze-level recipients — a major achievement for Iowa’s long-term care community. This recognition is a significant accomplishment and reflects the strong commitment of Iowa providers to quality improvement and person-centered care.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) has announced that certified nursing assistant (CNA) candidates can now complete the written portion of their competency exam remotely, starting June 2. This expansion aims to reduce common barriers such as travel, childcare and scheduling delays, making the path to CNA certification more accessible and affordable. While the skills exam must still be completed at an approved testing facility, IHCA applauds DIAL for this step forward and encourages members to share this flexible option with prospective CNAs.
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Effective June 4, 2025, the Iowa Board of Nursing’s (IBON's) continuing education requirements for licensed nurses will change. As noticed in ARC 9162C, licensees will have additional latitude to choose where to obtain required continuing education. Although the total number of continuing education hours will not change, licensees will no longer be restricted to obtaining CE contact hours from IBON-approved providers, as this provision has been removed from the rules.
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CMS recently posted the updated Appendix PP of the State Operations Manual (SOM) as outlined in QSO-25-14-NH. As noted in the QSO memo, the updates provide significant changes to the surveyor’s guidance in assessing compliance with federal regulations in long term care facilities. These revisions became effective April 28, 2025. Members are encouraged to review the updated resources to familiarize themselves with new guidance.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will implement the new cloud-based iQIES survey tool on July 14, 2025, as part of a national CMS effort to modernize long-term care survey technology. While the platform upgrade improves data security and system efficiency, providers are not expected to notice changes in the survey process. Surveyor training is already underway to support a smooth transition.
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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 14 and May 28 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses, newly noticed rules, adopted and filed rules and new informational letters.
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CMS recently updated the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Billing Reference educational tool to help SNF billers identify where to submit claims when prescription drugs are furnished during a SNF short- or long-stay.
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IHCA is excited to announce the launch of Enrollment Support, a new service offered through IHCA Provider Solutions, designed to help long-term care providers streamline Medicaid enrollment, reduce administrative burden and improve cash flow — at no cost to the facility.
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Some skilled nursing facilities are adopting the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) to improve safety for residents requiring texture-modified diets. A free webinar hosted by AHCA/NCAL and Incite Strategic Partners on June 17 at 1:00 p.m. will guide providers through effective IDDSI implementation, including food preparation, resident-centered care and QAPI integration. The session is approved for 1 CE credit for certified dietary managers. Registration is open, and a recording will be shared with all registrants.
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Governor Reynolds recently signed two bills to support and expand access across Iowa’s health care system, which include several provisions aimed to assist nursing facilities in addressing staffing shortages, promoting strong quality care and enhancing workplace safety, particularly in rural areas.
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IHCA’s Rooted to Rise – Women in Long-Term Care Conference on June 18 is a full-day event designed to inspire, empower and connect women across all roles in the long-term care profession. The conference will feature sessions on leadership, wellness, communication and resilience, including speakers such as Iowa House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst and mental health advocate Lyndsey Fennelly. Approved for 6.0 CEUs, the event will offer valuable takeaways for personal and professional growth, capped off with networking and a floral bouquet bar.
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IHCA's Serving Up Excellence in Long-Term Care – Dietary Conference on June 26, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will offer a holistic approach to enhancing nutritional care and food service delivery in long-term care. Sessions will highlight interdisciplinary collaboration, safety and resident-centered dining. Attendees will explore innovative strategies for improving texture-modified diets, optimizing hydration, elevating food presentation and identifying systemic challenges within dietary operations. Interactive discussions, a facility tour from IHCA member Scottish Rite Park and hands-on learning will equip participants with valuable tools to support both clinical excellence and an enhanced quality of life for their residents. This conference is approved for 4.0 CEUs for dietary staff, administrators and assisted living managers.
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IHCA’s August LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Friday, Aug. 1. In-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines at the IHCA - BCG Education Center on Aug. 14 and Aug. 29. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours.
Read More
Increase your knowledge of clinical assessment and care planning, completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), the regulations surrounding the Resident Assessment Index (RAI)/MDS process and managing the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) by attending the American Association of Post Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Resident Assessment Coordinator—Certified (RAC-CT) Certification Workshop held virtually Aug. 19-21. This RAC-CT Certification Workshop is approved for 22.5 CEs.
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IHCA's Activity Professionals Workshop, sponsored by the Iowa Council of Activity Professionals, is officially sold out. IHCA is now offering a waitlist for those who were unable to secure a spot. Interested individuals are encouraged to email
[email protected] to be added to the waitlist.
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IHCA’s four districts are offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. To apply for a grant, complete the grant application form by Monday, June 30. Selected individuals will be contacted via email in July.
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