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In this week’s HealthCap Weekly Wrap, we start the new year by breaking down timely updates and research that matter for senior care providers. From CMS policy shifts to clinical best practices, here’s what’s shaping the landscape as we head into 2026.

Enforcement initiatives, audits likely to follow expanding emphasis on nursing home ownership data — CMS is increasing its focus on ownership transparency, which may lead to more audits and enforcement actions in senior care communities.

CMS “Dear Doctor” Letter (PDF) — This annual letter outlines CMS’s 2026 priorities, including reducing administrative burden and promoting whole-person care across Medicare providers.

Public should see nursing homes’ agency nurse staffing stats: researchers — A study recommends making agency staffing data public, linking it to better transparency and resident care outcomes.

SLP qualifications clarified for Part B outpatient therapy services (CMS) — CMS clarified that only fully credentialed speech-language pathologists may provide and bill for Part B outpatient services, including telehealth.

Huge percentage of hospital visits by sickest nursing home patients could be avoidable, study finds — Research shows many hospital transfers among complex residents may be preventable with stronger clinical support and better advance care planning.

Group updates chronic kidney disease treatment guidelines for first time since 2012 — New guidelines emphasize earlier detection and intervention for CKD, including updated medication recommendations relevant to older adult care.