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Proposed California Budget Calls for Prior Authorization for Hospice in Medicaid

Hospice News

The proposed California budget would require prior authorizations for hospice care within the states Medicaid program. Currently, Medicaid managed care plans who provide coverage through the states Medicaid system, Medi-Cal, may not perform prior authorizations for hospice. Californias Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) indicated in a 2025-2026 budget revision that this could save $25 million over the next two years and more than $50 million in the long term.

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Caring for the caregiver: 25 ways to support a family caregiver

HopeHealth

Caregivers often dont ask for help or know how. This list offers 25 ways to offer support someone whos focused on caring for someone else. The post Caring for the caregiver: 25 ways to support a family caregiver appeared first on HopeHealth.

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Hospice Pet Therapy Programs Can Boost Patient, Staff Satisfaction

Hospice News

Improved quality is among the potential returns on investment for pet therapy programs. But hospices need to vet and train human and animal volunteers to sustain these services. Hospices offer a variety of volunteer-based programs such as art, aroma, massage and music therapy, with some providers increasingly integrating animals into their mix of services.

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“We show up with compassion”: A hospice nurse reflects on 20 years of care

HopeHealth

It is very much a calling. Meet Annie Green, a hospice nurse of 20 years whose story is rooted in compassion, community and her grandmothers legacy. The post We show up with compassion: A hospice nurse reflects on 20 years of care appeared first on HopeHealth.

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The Essential Guide to Secure Messaging in Healthcare

Discover everything healthcare providers need to know about secure messaging. Covering essential topics like HIPAA compliance, communication efficiency, and patient privacy protection, this resource is indispensable for professionals, caregivers, and administrative staff alike.📱 💬 Whether managing sensitive patient data, coordinating care teams, or streamlining workflows, discover actionable insights to implement secure messaging solutions effectively.

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Dementia Diagnosis? Here’s How to Plan Ahead and Get Support

Aging Life Care Association

Dementia Diagnosis Are Rising Heres How Aging Life Care Managers Are Helping Families Cope As more families across the country face the reality of a dementia diagnosis, support from an Aging Life Care Manager is becoming increasingly essential. According to a recent survey conducted by the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA), more than … Continue reading Dementia Diagnosis?

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ICU Nurse Angel Toney on Teamwork, Purpose, and Why ‘Together’ Is Her Real Superpower

Minority Nurse

When it comes to the power of nurses, Angel Toney, BSN, RN, is the real deala critical care force fueled by compassion, community, and the drive to pay it forward. As an ICU nurse at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center , Toneys superpower isnt just handling high-stakes moments but weaving humanity into every heartbeat of her day. Her journey into nursing was born from personal heartache.

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“Hospice means enjoying the time you have”: A Mother’s Day story of care, comfort and love

HopeHealth

Karas mom made her promise to chase her dreams. This Mothers Day, Kara is honoring that promise and giving back to her moms hospice team. The post Hospice means enjoying the time you have: A Mother’s Day story of care, comfort and love appeared first on HopeHealth.

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Why choice matters in end of life care for seriously ill children

Together for Short Lives

One of the main things that shocked me when I started working in the childrens hospice sector three years ago was the lack of choice available to families. Particularly when it comes to end of life care for a child or young person, and the option to be at home. This isnt because families dont […] The post Why choice matters in end of life care for seriously ill children appeared first on Together for Short Lives.

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The Ostomy MacGyver: How Linda Concepcion is Healing Patients (and Spirits) One Creative Solution at a Time

Minority Nurse

When it comes to wound and ostomy care, Linda Concepcion isnt just skilledshes legendary. Known around Holy Cross Health as The Ostomy MacGyver, Concepcions superpower lies in managing the toughest, most complex cases with creativity, compassion, and a signature dash of humor. I secure the pouch and save the shift, she says with a smile. One grateful patient even crowned her The G.O.A.T.a title Concepcion wears with pride.

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National Women's Health Week

Today's Caregiver

Every May, beginning on Mother's Day, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office on Women's Health (OWH) leads National Women's Health Week (NWHW).

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3 Reasons to Retire Pagers from Healthcare Settings

Let's discuss the trusty pager—an old favorite that’s losing its shine in hospitals and clinics. While once a staple in hospitals and clinics, pagers now present significant limitations that hinder rather than facilitate communication among healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals are constantly on the move, and they need communication tools that can keep up with their fast-paced lives.

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National Alliance: Medicaid Cuts Would Adversely Impact Home-, Community-Based Services

Hospice News

A tax bill currently before Congress could lead to Medicaid cuts that would inhibit access to home- and community-based services (HCBS). The bill, which promises sweeping tax and spending cuts, currently is undergoing a reconciliation process. The amount of tax cuts could reach $4.5 trillion, with spending cuts in the area of $4.5 billion, with a significant portion coming from Medicaid.

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How to Qualify for Medicaid Without Losing Your Life Savings

Elder Care Matters

Learn how Medicaid planning strategies, such as asset transfers, trusts, and annuities, can help seniors qualify for Medicaid without losing their life savings. Preserve your wealth while securing long-term care. The post How to Qualify for Medicaid Without Losing Your Life Savings appeared first on Elder Care Directory - ElderCareMatters.com.

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Supporting Mental Health

AT Home Care & Hospice

Supporting Mental Health & Independence at Home with Home Health Care The Connection Between Mental Health & Home Health Care Mental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, especially for seniors. Depression, anxiety, grief, and PTSD – especially among Veterans – are often overlooked in aging populations. Many individuals struggle in silence, unaware that The post Supporting Mental Health appeared first on AT Home Care & Hospice.

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Finding Your Voice: Empowering the Shy and Introverted Nurse

Diversity Nursing

Nursing is a profession built on care, compassion, and advocacy. We are the eyes and ears for our patients, the vital link between them, their families, and the medical team. But what happens when the very nature of our personality, a tendency towards shyness or introversion feels like a hurdle in effectively communicating and advocating? If you identify as a shy or introverted Nurse, know this, your inherent qualities are not weaknesses.

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The Ultimate Guide to Improving Caregiver Engagement & Retention

Want to learn how to retain your caregivers & improve caregiver retention X3? The home care industry is experiencing turnover rates of over 80%. How are you ensuring your agency is retaining caregivers? This FREE eBook from Smartcare Software is packed with industry secrets needed to keep your caregivers happy, engaged, and retained, unlocking the full potential of your agency.

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Blue Ridge Hospice Brings Services Under New Unified Brand

Hospice News

Blue Ridge Hospice is rebranding under the name Blue Ridge Care to signify its expanded mission and scope of services. The new brand brings all of the companys business lines together in a single, cohesive identity. This includes Blue Ridges hospice and palliative care programs, its Center for Hope & Healing bereavement center and its subsidiary Blue Ridge Independence at Home Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).

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Dementia Communication: Tips for Caregivers

Community Home Health Care

Meaningful communication is the foundation of our closest relationships, but when you are caring for a loved one with dementia , connecting can become increasingly difficult. As the condition progresses, verbal and cognitive abilities can decline, making it harder to connect in familiar ways. According to Alzheimers Society , dementia can affect how a person communicates and the language they use.

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You Heal. We Help

Adobe Hospice & Home Health

You Heal. We Help. Together, We Make Miracles Happen. Happy National Hospital Week! To all the incredible healthcare heroes, we see you. We appreciate you. And if coffee ran on gratitude, you’d never need another cup! We’re always here to extend the care you provide beyond the hospital walls – helping patients recover safely and The post You Heal.

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Veterans Benefits for Senior Care: What You Need to Know

Elder Care Matters

If youre a veteran or a family member of one, understanding the Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits available for senior care is crucial. This article covers the important VA benefits, including Aid & Attendance, eligibility requirements, and how to apply. The post Veterans Benefits for Senior Care: What You Need to Know appeared first on Elder Care Directory - ElderCareMatters.com.

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The Evolution of Communication in Healthcare Settings

Healthcare communication has evolved from handwritten notes and paper charts to digital tools like EHRs, telemedicine, and AI-powered platforms. This blog explores how these advancements improve patient outcomes, streamline care delivery, and enhance provider collaboration. Learn about the role of mobile health (mHealth) apps, secure messaging, and social media in bridging communication gaps.

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Fostering a culture of research: Lessons from advisory sessions with nursing students

Evidence-Based Nursing - BMJ blogs

This weeks blog is by members of the Research and Innovation Hub: Dr Sharon Mutare ( s.mutare@herts.ac.uk) , Dr Rebecca Hadley ( r.hadley3@herts.ac.uk ) and Dr Lisa Whiting (all from the University of Hertfordshire) and Dr Phillip Smith and Fiona Smith (Heads of Research and Innovation, Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB). The Research and Innovation Hub team (left to right): Dr Phillip Smith (Head of Research and Innovation, H&WE ICB), Dr Lisa Whiting (Associate Professor, University of Hertf

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California Hospice Owner Receives 12-Year Prison Sentence in Fraud Case

Hospice News

Petros Fichidzhyan, 44, of Granada Hills, California, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a mulit-year scheme to defraud Medicare of more than $17 million. Fichidzhyan committed the fraud through sham hospice companies and a home health company that he owned, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

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One last time

Rehab Realities by Renee Kinder

I have a high school senior this year. Deep breath. I find myself in a sea of one last times these days. Last lacrosse game, last official day of school, last time helping me give his siblings a ride home, last time he stayed up way too late finishing a project, one more bedtime story… you get the idea. These experiences have me reflecting on the last times we didnt fully cherish or realize in the moment.

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Improving Your Balance Might Just Be the Key to a Longer Life

Responsive Home Care

When thinking about how to age gracefully and live a long, vibrant life, most people prioritize things like exercise routines, healthy eating, and regular check-ups. And those things certainly matter. But theres one piece of the puzzle that often gets overlooked: physical balance. Not the metaphorical kind between work and play, but your bodys actual, […] The post Improving Your Balance Might Just Be the Key to a Longer Life appeared first on Responsive Home Care.

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The Role of Technology in Remote Patient Monitoring

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is transforming healthcare by enabling providers to track patient health outside traditional clinical settings. This blog explores the role of technology in RPM, including wearable devices, mobile apps, and connected medical tools that collect and share real-time data. Discover how RPM expands care access, improves outcomes, enhances patient engagement, and reduces costs by shifting from reactive to proactive care.

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Celebrating Our Hospital Heroes

AT Home Care & Hospice

Celebrating Our Hospital Heroes: Partners in Compassionate Care During National Hospital Week, we extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated doctors, nurses, case managers, and healthcare professionals who go above and beyond every day. Your tireless efforts provide healing, comfort, and hope to those in need – especially when life’s journey requires the highest level The post Celebrating Our Hospital Heroes appeared first on AT Home Care & Hospice.

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Celebrating the Heartbeat of Healthcare: A Tribute to Nurses

Diversity Nursing

As the calendar turns towards May, a special week shines a spotlight on the very heart and soul of healthcare: our Nurses. National Nurses Week, celebrated each year from May 6th to May 12th, is not merely a marked period on the healthcare calendar; it is a precious opportunity to pause, reflect, and deeply cherish the unwavering dedication, boundless compassion, and exceptional skills Nurses bring into our lives every single day.

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Covering the Costs of Palliative Care Via Medicaid

Hospice News

While community-based palliative care is important for many patients, many providers may consider it to be a financial challenge. Community-based palliative care programs are often reimbursed through privately managed care plans, and to date, only five states include community-based palliative care in their Medicaid programs: California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine and Oregon.

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Five kids, one nursing home and a deck of cards

Rehab Realities by Renee Kinder

This summer, many of you who dedicate your time to skilled nursing will also be juggling another full-time role: parenting. Camps are expensive, grocery bills are eye-popping (seriously, how are they always hungry?), and finding meaningful ways to engage our children during the long summer days can feel like a second job. However, what if I told you theres a way to blend your personal and professional lives in a manner that benefits everyone, staff, residents and children alike?

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Real-Life Examples of HIPAA Violations and How to Avoid Them

Speaker: Jack Clough, Chief Growth Officer

Download our 30-minute webinar where we delve into real-life examples of HIPAA violations and preventative measures every organization should know! You will learn: The critical factors that lead to HIPAA violations and how to identify them. Three compelling real-life cases of organizations that faced severe HIPAA penalties. Proven strategies to safeguard YOUR organization against HIPAA violations.

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From Nursing Rookie to Real-Life Elastigirl: How Susan Grant Powers a Stronger Future for Nurses

Daily Nurse

When it comes to nursing superpowers, Susan Grant, DNP, RN, FAAN, has one that stretches across every corner of healthcare: the ability to connect deeply with individuals. It’s no wonder a former colleague once nicknamed her “Elastigirl” from The Incrediblesbecause when someone needs support, Grant always reaches out. Today, as Chief Clinical Officer at Symplr , Grant’s mission is clear: lift nurses up , help them realize their full potential, and create better outcomes f

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The Best Strategies for Effective Caregiver Scheduling

CareTime

Caregiver scheduling is critical for timely client care and efficient caregiver management. This article explains its importance, outlines essential strategies, and shares best practices for managing schedules effectively.

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You Know You’re a Nurse When…

Diversity Nursing

It's Nurses Month and today we're diving into the wonderfully weird world that only us healthcare workers truly understand. Nursing is a unique blend of compassion, resilience, and a whole lot of moments that would make anyone else say, "Nope!" So, grab your lukewarm coffee (because let's be honest, it's never hot), settle in, and get ready to nod along with these realities, straight from the trenches (aka, the hospital floor)!

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Under the Radar Challenges for Hospice Nurses

Hospice News

Hospice leaders may have a narrow view around the hidden daily challenges experienced by nurses both at the bedside and operationally. More providers are peeling back the layers of the largest nursing workforce obstacles to strengthen their retention strategies. Rising demand and widespread staffing shortages have given way to a difficult state of the hospice nursing workforce.

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Best Practices for Sharing Protected Health Information (PHI)

Explore essential topics in this ebook, including what constitutes PHI and how to identify it using 18 indicators. Gain insights into the importance of safeguarding PHI to protect patient privacy and learn about the severe consequences of HIPAA violations. Discover practical strategies for securely exchanging PHI within your healthcare organization, including assessing risks and implementing effective safeguards.