May 3, 2023
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The Latest News
CMS Announces Ending of COVID Staff Vaccine Requirement, Other Protocols

Monday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a new regulatory memo QSO-23-13-ALL entitled Guidance for Expiration of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023. The memo outlines each waiver CMS put into place during COVID-19 and how the end of the PHE will affect those waivers. Additionally, the memo outlined timelines for certain regulatory requirements issued through the PHE. This memo applies to Long Term Care, Intermediate Care Facilities, and other provider types.
The guidance affects:
  • Reporting to residents, representatives and families on COVID-19
  • Staff COVID-19 vaccine requirements
  • Several other requirements and waivers

Click here for more details.

Click here for additional information from AHCA on F885 and F888 Regulatory Relief

Related Reports:
Bloomberg Law - Nursing Homes Prepare For End Of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
McKnight’s Long-Term Care News - Providers Applaud Biden Administration’s Move To Revoke Health Care COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate
12th issue of the Semmelweis Times, a newsletter from the KDHE HAI/AR Section

Click here for more details.
In Case You Missed It
Clinical Update from KHCA Consultant Linda Farrar

Based on recent survey results in both LTC/SNF, and Assisted Living Centers there is an alarming increase in the number of facilities being cited for drug diversion or inappropriate reconciliation of drugs. And remember, if you discover a discrepancy in your medication reconciliation, you MUST contact local law enforcement in addition to reporting to the state agency and you must complete an investigation even if the facility replaces the diverted drugs.

The National Institute of Health defines diversion as: “the transfer of a controlled substance from a lawful to an unlawful channel of distribution or use…any criminal act involving a prescription drug”.

Note the words: “unlawful” and “criminal”. Not only will the person diverting the drugs be held legally liable, but the facility will also be found non-compliant with regulations related to exploitation of resident property. READ MORE
The Office of the State Fire Marshal Webinar Recording: Fire Safety Book

This session went over the importance and layout of a Fire Safety Book in your facilities. 

Click here for the recording.
Senior Living Advocates Call For Greater Funding To Improve HCBS Access

McKnight’s Senior Living (5/1, Bonvissuto) reports, "Senior living advocates are applauding steps announced by the federal government to ensure equitable access to home- and community-based services provided via the Medicaid program, but they say that funding remains a sticking point for success." On Thursday, CMS "proposed two new rules that would make some HCBS quality measures mandatory, as well as place new performance and reporting responsibilities on states and managed care plans." But "senior living organizations...said they have concerns about inadequate provider reimbursements." According to the article, "The National Center for Assisted Living applauded CMS for ‘taking significant steps’ to ensure equitable access to health care, especially for Medicaid HCBS beneficiaries." NCAL Executive Director LaShuan Bethea said, "We support the agency’s efforts to promote quality assurance, person-centered planning, better pay for direct caregivers and address wait lists for HCBS. ... However, in order to achieve these goals, the linchpin is ensuring that Medicaid is properly funded." 
Education Spotlight
Nurse Leadership Conference

6/13/2023 11:00AM - 6/14/2023 4:00PM

This special Nurse Leadership Conference is an opportunity for nurses working in the Long-Term Care setting to strengthen their leadership skills. Building strong leaders through education is essential to promoting a better quality of life for our residents. Meet new vendor partners and spend time networking and getting to know others that are doing the same valuable work that you’re doing.

Education Topics Include:
  • A Nurse Leaders role in Creating Culture for Staff and Residents
  • Leading the Charge
  • Resident and Family Grievances
  • Nurse Advisory Committee Meeting
  • Rebuilding After Burnout
  • The Regulatory Crosswalk
  • Advance Directives
  • Fraud, Waste, Abuse and Identity Theft
  • Regulatory Hot Topics

Click here for more details.
Upcoming Education
Spring Sale! Required In-Service Bundles

Assisted Living In-Service Bundle was $157.50 now $65! Click here for more details.

SNF In-Service Bundle was $165 now $99! Click here for more details.
Two On Demand Webinars focusing on Social Services



Access the new learning platform by clicking here. 

Questions about education can be directed to Polly Berkley VP of Operations and Education.
Webinar: Deep Dive Into Federal Regulations in a Year: §483.24 Quality of Life Requirements

5/9/2023 1:30PM - 3:00PM

Click here for more details.
Webinar: Mission Possible: SNF Department Head Briefing - Designs Well-Rounded Dietary Departments

5/23/2023 1:30PM - 2:30PM

Click here for more details.
Assisted Living Lunch and Learn: A Deeper Look at FCS/NSA and HSP

6/9/2023 10:00AM - 2:00PM
Click here for more details.
MDS - RAI Changes Workshop

6/12/2023 9:00AM - 4:00PM

Click here for more details.
Nurse Leadership Conference

6/13/2023 11:00AM - 6/14/2023 4:00PM

Click here for more details.
Administrator in Training (AIT) Program

We are excited to announce our new AIT Program! Click here for more details.

Questions? Email Teresa Keating at tkeating@khca.org
Kansas Health Care Association and the Kansas Center for Assisted Living
1100 SW Gage Blvd. | PO Box 4770 | Topeka, KS 66604
PH: 785-267-6003 FAX: 785-267-0833