Angie’s Weekly Round Up

Angie Szumlinski
|
January 31, 2025
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Singulair Lawsuits and Medication Risks
https://www.drugwatch.com/singulair/lawsuits/

Heart to Heart with HealthCap: Navigating CMS Schizophrenia Audits

Ep. 32 Navigating CMS Schizophrenia Audits: Lessons Learned & Best Practices

In this episode of Heart to Heart with HealthCap, Angie Szumlinski chats with Gwen Ryder, Vice President of Operations for Aspire Health in Ohio, about the challenges and lessons learned from navigating CMS Schizophrenia Minimum Data Set Audits.

Every week brings new developments that impact the way we care for residents, manage compliance, and navigate regulatory changes. Whether it’s lawsuits tied to medication risks, new compliance guidance, or unannounced CMS visits, these updates remind us how quickly the landscape can shift. Let’s explore these key stories and what they mean for senior living communities and healthcare providers.


Singulair Lawsuits and Medication Risks
Montelukast (Singulair), a medication commonly prescribed for asthma and allergies, is now at the center of lawsuits due to severe neuropsychiatric side effects, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Families and healthcare providers are urged to weigh these risks carefully, particularly in vulnerable populations.


OIG Releases Guidance for Nursing Facility Compliance Programs
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) has issued new guidance outlining expectations for nursing facility compliance programs. These updates emphasize fraud prevention, resident rights, and quality-of-care measures, reinforcing the importance of proactive regulatory adherence.


Unannounced CMS Site Visits Leave Providers on Edge
Senior living providers are expressing concerns over an increase in unannounced CMS site visits, which have led to compliance anxieties and operational disruptions. While intended to ensure quality care, these surprise inspections have many wondering about the long-term impact on staff and resources.


Judge Rejects Bid to Halt Nursing Home Staffing Rule
A federal judge has denied an attempt to block the new CMS nursing home staffing rule, reinforcing requirements for minimum staffing levels. While advocates argue this will improve resident care, many providers worry about the feasibility of compliance amid ongoing workforce shortages.


CDC’s Latest MMWR Highlights Health Trends for Older Adults
The CDC’s latest Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) provides key insights into health trends affecting older adults, including chronic disease prevalence and infection rates. These findings offer valuable data to guide prevention efforts and improve care planning.


Updates to CMS Guidance Document, QSO-25-12-NH
CMS has released an updated guidance document (QSO-25-12-NH) addressing regulatory clarifications and compliance expectations for nursing facilities. This update serves as a crucial resource for providers navigating evolving federal oversight.


From shifting regulations to emerging risks, staying informed is the best way to stay ahead. These updates serve as a reminder that healthcare is constantly evolving, and preparation is key to adapting while continuing to provide the best possible care.


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