CMS issues information on status determinations for total knee arthroplasty, rescinds days later

February 1, 2019
Case Management Monthly

On January 8, CMS released MLN Matters SE19002 on status determinations for total knee arthroplasty, which included guidance on how to determine proper status for patients undergoing the procedure, but CMS quickly rescinded it and announced that it is making revisions and will reissue it in the near future.

Reducing readmissions may have unintended consequences

February 8, 2019
Case Management Monthly

Is the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program leading to an increase in patient deaths? A recent study suggests that it might be.

Is the HRRP really making a difference in hospital readmission rates? New study says no

February 15, 2019
Case Management Monthly

A recent study published in Healh Affairs claims that reductions in readmission rates reported as due to the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program (HRRP) are “illusory or overstated.”  

From the Director’s Desk: Spotting the signs of depression

February 22, 2019
Case Management Monthly

Research has shown that untreated depression in hospitalized patients may affect patient outcomes, including recovery and the likelihood of readmission after discharge. Screening for depression can help spot the problem and help patients get needed treatment.

Complex case: Day after New Year’s: A case manager’s story

February 28, 2019
Case Management Monthly

A case manager returns to work at the start of the new year only to find that two of his patients’ commercial insurances had implemented new discharge planning and utilization review rules effective January 1.