From Senate Special Committee on Aging
Lawmakers Question Screening of Fraudulent Medicare Mental Health Claims
May 31, 2013
Citing growing fraud, U.S. Sens. Bill Nelson (D-FL) and Mary Landrieu (D-LA) have asked the inspector general of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG) to examine whether federal health regulators are adequately screening for fraudulent Medicare mental health claims.
To see the entire press release, go to: www.aging.senate.gov/record.cfm?id=342955
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Trustees Report shows reduced cost growth, longer Medicare solvency
May 31, 2013
The Medicare Trustees today projected that the trust fund that finances Medicare’s hospital insurance coverage will remain solvent until 2026, two years beyond what was projected in last year’s report.
To view the press release, go to www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Press-Releases/2013-Press-Releases-Items/2013-05-31.html
To view the report, go to http://downloads.cms.gov/files/TR2013.pdf
Also see Remarks of Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew on the Release of the Social Security and Medicare Trustees Reports, www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl1964.aspx
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Medicare Readmission Rates Showed Meaningful Decline in 2012
May 31, 2013
After years of holding steady, hospital readmission rates among fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries declined significantly in 2012. Hospital readmissions have been shown to be costly and are a common metric for assessing care quality, so the Medicare program, hospitals, and other stakeholders have made reducing re-hospitalizations a high priority.
Go to www.cms.gov/mmrr/Briefs/B2013/mmrr-2013-003-02-b01.html
From Social Security Administration
Social Security Board of Trustees: No Change in Projected Year of Trust Fund Reserve Depletion
May 31, 2013
“The Social Security Board of Trustees today released its annual report on the long-term financial status of the Social Security Trust Funds. The combined assets of the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Trust Funds are projected to become depleted in 2033, unchanged from last year, with 77 percent of benefits still payable at that time.”
To see the entire press release, go to: www.ssa.gov/pressoffice/pr/trustee13-pr.html
To view the report, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/TR/2013/
From MetLife Mature Market Institute
Metlife MMI Ceases Product of New Research and Materials
May 30, 2013
As of June1 2013, the MetLife Mature Market Institute will no longer be producing new research and materials, including the monthly newsletter QuickFacts. Much of the existing content will continue to be available for a period of time on the MMI website.
From Gerontological Society of America
Philly Conference Will Showcase Untapped Potential in the Aging Marketplace
May 29, 2013
“Healthy Aging Means Business” is a new consultative conference that will examine market opportunities across aging trends, health and longevity, and money and finances. It is scheduled for July 18 in Philadelphia and the co-hosts are The Gerontological Society of America … and NMI, an international strategic marketing consultancy.
From Reuters via Voice of America
Germany to Pay $1B for Homecare of Aging Holocaust Victims
May 29, 2013
“Germany will pay around 800 million euros ($1.03 billion) over a four-year period for homecare for the aging survivors of the Holocaust, a Jewish organization said on Wednesday. The Jewish Claims Conference, which represents Jews in negotiations on compensation for Nazi victims and their descendants, said some 56,000 Holocaust victims worldwide, over a third of them living in Israel, would benefit from the aid.”
To view the article, go to www.voanews.com/content/germany-to-pay-one-billion-dollars-for-homecare-of-aging-holocaust-victims/1671001.html
From National Senior Citizens Law Center
Continuity of Care in the Dual Eligible Demonstrations: A Tool for Advocates
May 29, 2013
“A key protection for dual eligibles who are enrolling in the financial alignment demonstration projects being undertaken by states and the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office (MMCO) is continuity of care. Individuals joining plans participating in the financial alignment demonstrations need a smooth transition without disruption in providers or services while their new plan takes over their care.”
Go to www.nsclc.org/index.php/continuity-of-care-in-the-dual-eligible-demonstrations/
From Health Affairs
Immigrants Contributed an Estimated $115.2 Billion More To the Medicare Trust Fund Than They Took Out In 2002-09
May 29, 2013
“In 2009 immigrants in the United States accounted for a net surplus of $13.8 billion paid into the Medicare Hospital Insurance Trust Fund, while native-born Americans were responsible for depleting the fund of $30.9 billion. This finding from a study being released today as a Web First by Health Affairs, suggests that immigrants heavily subsidize Medicare. This study is the first to quantify immigrants' share of contributions to this fund.”
Go to http://content.healthaffairs.org/content/32/6/1153
From American Association for Homecare
Push Back When Congress Pushes Back
May 28, 2013
Homecare advocates are in grassroots mode and are sending letters by the thousands to members of Congress asking them to support H.R. 1717, the market pricing program bill, and this is a good thing. The AAHomecare “Action Center” has recorded over 9,000 letters sent to Congress since the bill was introduced.
Go to http://blog.aahomecare.org/2013/05/push-back-when-congress-pushes-back.html
From House Energy and Commerce Committee
Committee Continues Transparent Medicare Physician Payment Reform Process – Releases Draft Legislative Framework
May 28, 2013
“House Energy and Commerce Committee leaders today unveiled draft legislation to repeal the current Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) system and replace it with a fair and stable system of physician payment in the Medicare program.”
From American Health Care Association
AHCA, Alliance Unite to Form Strong Voice for Elderly & Long Term, Post-Acute Care Community
May 27, 2013
“The American Health Care Association (AHCA) and The Alliance for Quality Nursing Home Care (Alliance) announced today that they have reached an agreement to combine their operations into one organization. The full joining of operations is expected to be complete by July 1st. The new entity will retain the AHCA name.”
From National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
Elder Justice Coordinating Council Meets to Address Elder Abuse
May 23, 2013
“The Elder Justice Coordinating Council (EJCC), an agency of the Administration on Aging, met on May 13. Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West of the U.S. Department of Justice was a member of the working group that shared recommendations for federal action to address elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.”
From Sen. Bernie Sanders
Older Americans Act Reauthorization Introduced
May 23, 2013
“Sen. Bernie Sanders, chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Primary Health and Aging, today introduced legislation to reauthorize and strengthen the Older Americans Act which supports Meals on Wheels and other critical programs for seniors.”
To view the press release, go to www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/news/?id=2692fced-9d48-4b1a-8114-2a079612ab9c
To read a fact sheet on the bill, go to www.sanders.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/OAA.Summary.pdf
To read the bill, go to www.sanders.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/KIN13221.pdf
From Administration for Community Living
HHS strengthens community-based organizations that support seniors and people with disabilities in nine states
May 23, 2013
“In a new approach, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), part of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, has selected networks of community-based organizations (CBOs) that have years of experience serving seniors and people with disabilities to receive training in marketing, contracting, and pricing their services. While local organizations know their communities and the issues their clients face daily, they may not have expertise in forming business relationships with healthcare providers.”
To view the press release, go to www.acl.gov/www.acl.gov/NewsRoom/Press_Releases/archive_ACL/2013/2013_05_23.aspx
From National Center on Elder Abuse
NCEA Seeks Info on Activities for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
May 23, 2013
The National Center on Elder Abuse seeks information from anyone holding or co-sponsoring an event or activity in observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 14).
Go to www.ncea.aoa.gov/Get_Involved/Awareness/WEAAD/WEAADform.aspx
from Penn State
Adult day services for dementia patients provide stress relief to family caregivers
May 23, 2013
“Family caregivers of older adults with dementia are less stressed and their moods are improved on days when dementia patients receive adult day services (ADS), according to Penn State researchers.” Caregivers who live with and care for someone with dementia can experience extraordinary amounts of stress," said Steven Zarit, professor and head, human development and family studies. "The use of adult day services appears to provide caregivers with a much-needed break that can possibly protect them from the negative health effects caused by chronic stress."
To view the press release, go to http://news.psu.edu/story/277739/2013/05/23/research/adult-day-services-dementia-patients-provide-stress-relief
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Long Term Services and Supports Delivered Through Medicaid Managed Care Programs
May 21, 2013
“Today the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has posted two important documents on Medicaid.gov that outline essential elements that we believe are critical to strong managed long term services and supports (MLTSS) programs. The first of the two documents includes a summary overview of each element. The second document outlines, in detail, each element and the expectations associated with each.”
To see the CMCS Informational Bulletin, go to: http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/USCMS/2013/05/21/file_attachments/212540/CIB-05-21-2013.pdf
From Kaiser Family foundation
Retiree Medical Expenses Fall, But They Still Exceed Most People's Expectations
May 16, 2013
A study released by Fidelity Investments estimated that a couple, who are enrolled in traditional Medicare and retiring in 2013, will need $220,000 to cover medical costs throughout their retirement.
From The United Kingdom
The UK will use its Presidency of the G8 to identify and agree a new international approach on dementia research
May 15, 2013
“The UK will use its Presidency of the G8 to identify and agree a new international approach on dementia research in recognition that the condition is fast becoming the biggest pressure on care systems around the world, Prime Minister David Cameron announced today.”
Go to https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-to-use-g8-to-target-global-effort-on-dementia
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Model 1 Open Period
May 16, 2013
The CMS Innovation Center announced an open period for additional organizations to be considered for participation in Model 1 of the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative.
Go to http://innovation.cms.gov/initiatives/BPCI-Model-1/
From Housing and Urban Development Dept.
HUD Announces Assisted Living Conversion Funding Recipients
May 15, 2013
The department announces funding recipients for the FY 2012 Assisted Living Conversion Program.
See the May 15 Federal Register, www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-05-15/html/2013-11554.htm
From CDC Prevention Research Centers
PRC Program Celebrates Older Americans Month
May 2013
May is Older Americans Month, and this year’s theme is Unleash the Power of Age
, in which we are encouraged to help our influential, wise, and vital older Americans stay positive, active, and looking forward. PRCs have partnered closely with CDC’s Healthy Aging Program, which has funded the Healthy Aging Research Network (HAN) since 2001.
Go to www.cdc.gov/prc/newsroom/index.htm
from House Ways and Means Committee
Cost of Protecting Medicare Beneficiaries from Identity Theft Far Less Than Originally Thought
May 14, 2013
“A new estimate released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reveals that, of the options available to protect Medicare beneficiaries from identity theft, the least expensive of all would be a partial removal of the Social Security Number (SSN) from the Medicare card. According to the estimate, the cost of obscuring the first five digits of the SSN is $255 million.”
Go to http://waysandmeans.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=333855
From Senate Finance Committee
Baucus Works to Repeal Broken Medicare Payment Formula This Year
May 14, 2013
“At a Senate Finance Committee hearing today, Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) said Congress must repeal the broken Medicare payment formula this year and find ways to make Medicare’s payment system more efficient. The payment formula, known as the sustainable growth rate (SGR), threatens doctors with a 25 percent reimbursement cut in 2014, which could severely limit seniors’ access to health care.”
Go to www.finance.senate.gov/newsroom/chairman/release/?id=fdd6d775-edc9-4395-81c4-d55dceaded05
From Department of Justice
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Charges 89 Individuals for Approximately $223 Million in False Billing
May 14, 2013
“Attorney General Eric Holder and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today that a nationwide takedown by Medicare Fraud Strike Force operations in eight cities has resulted in charges against 89 individuals, including doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in Medicare fraud schemes involving approximately $223 million in false billings.”
Go to www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/May/13-crm-553.html
From Caresquad
BrownRichards & Associates has launched its new Caresquad website
May 14, 2013
BrownRichards & Associates has launched its new Caresquad website (www.caresquad.com/). Caresquad helps parents and caregivers find solutions for handling the multiple stresses of family care situations by providing information and access to resources and experts. Health Benefits ABCs is a Caresquad partner and will be answering questions, doing consultations and webinars.
Go to www.caresquad.com/
From American Health Care Association
Skilled Nursing Providers Prepare for Doc Fix Proposals
May 13, 2013
“Skilled nursing providers support developing a long term solution that ensures physicians are appropriately reimbursed for their services. However, our profession strongly believes that any permanent solution for the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) must address the therapy cap exceptions process. Without a permanent therapy cap fix, Congress will put at risk the important therapy services that millions of seniors rely on.”
From Senate HELP Committee
Alexander: Sebelius’s Fundraising and Coordinating with Private Entities to Implement Health Care Law “May Be Illegal”
May 11, 2013
“U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander said today that U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius’s fundraising and coordinating with private entities to implement the new health care law “may be illegal.”
Go to www.help.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/?id=8ddbb1c7-d437-47ae-9769-93b58d5d48ba&groups=Ranking
From Physicians for a National Health Program
Private insurers' Medicare Advantage plans cost Medicare an extra $34.1 billion in 2012
May 10, 2013
“A study published online today finds that the private insurance companies that participate in Medicare under the Medicare Advantage program and its predecessors have cost the publicly funded program for the elderly and disabled an extra $282.6 billion since 1985, most of it over the past eight years. In 2012 alone, private insurers were overpaid $34.1 billion.”
From National Association of States United for Aging and Disability
Final FY13 Funding Levels Released for OAA Programs
May 10, 2013
“Earlier this week, ACL released final FY13 funding levels for all of its programs, including those administered by AoA and AIDD.”
Go to www.nasuad.org/newsroom/archive/2013/acl_funding_levels.html
From Gerontological Society of America
Insomnia May Be Linked to Future Hospitalization, Increased Health Service Use
May 10, 2013
“Having trouble falling or staying asleep? Insomnia may be an important indicator of future hospitalization among middle-aged and older adults, according to a new study published online in the Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences.”
From National Hispanic Council on Aging
NHCOA Hosts Capitol Hill Briefing to Announce the Results of a New Study on Alzheimer’s Disease in the Hispanic Community
May 9, 2013
“The National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) – the leading national organization working to improve the lives of Hispanic older adults, their families, and caregivers – hosted a Capitol Hill briefing on Tuesday, May 7, to release the findings of its new study that assesses Latino older adults’ and Latino caregivers’ attitudes and knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease.”
To view the Executive Summary of Attitudes, Level of Stigma, and Level of Knowledge About Alzheimer’s Disease Among Hispanic Elderly Adults and Caregivers, and Alzheimer’s-Related Challenges for Caregivers, go to www.nhcoa.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/NHCOA-Alzheimers-Executive-Summary.pdf
Advocates Seek Balance Currently Missing in Deficit Debate Coverage
May 9, 2013
“Contrary to the headlines and soundbites coming from America’s newsrooms, Social Security and Medicare aren’t to blame for our nation’s fiscal woes or our deficit. In fact, without these vital programs our economy would be in even worse shape and millions more American families would be threatened with economic insecurity.”
From Department of Health and Human Services
Health centers to help uninsured individuals gain affordable health insurance coverage
May 9, 2013
“Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced new funding to help more uninsured Americans enroll in new health insurance coverage options made available by the Affordable Care Act. Approximately $150 million will help community health centers provide in-person enrollment assistance to uninsured individuals across the nation.”
To see the entire press release, go to: www.hhs.gov/news/press/2013pres/05/20130509a.html
From Department of Health and Human Services
Administration offers consumers an unprecedented look at hospital charges
May 8, 2013
“Today, as part of the Obama administration’s work to make our health care system more affordable and accountable, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced a three-part initiative that for the first time gives consumers information on what hospitals charge.”
To see the entire press release, go to: www.hhs.gov/news/press/2013pres/05/20130508a.html
To view the new hospital dataset, please go to: www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/Medicare-Provider-Charge-Data/index.html
From Sen. Bernie Sanders
Summit Draws Together Supporters of Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Benefits
May 8, 2013
“Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) hosted a summit meeting today on Capitol Hill with seniors, veterans and other grassroots groups united to protect Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and veterans from budget cuts proposed by congressional Republicans and some Democrats. The event drew hundreds of opponents of a proposal by President Barack Obama to cut cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security and disabled veterans by revising how the consumer price index is calculated.”
Go to www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/news/?id=f201718c-9295-447e-a2c3-3454df4e10f7
From Senate HELP Committee
Harkin, Schakowsky Introduce Companion Resolutions in Support of Home Health Care
Members Call for Comprehensive Strategy to Improve Long-Term Services and Supports for Consumers and Workers
May 7, 2013
“Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-9) have introduced companion resolutions in the Senate and House to express support for expanded home health care services. Long-term services and supports for seniors and individuals with disabilities are proven to be cost-effective, and they enable Americans to live and participate in their communities.”
Go to www.help.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/?id=f52953f6-953d-49f3-b53d-3180ab7e3716&groups=Chair
From Senate HELP Committee
Statement by Senator Tom Harkin On the Importance of the Prevention Fund to Save Lives and Money
May 7, 2013
“Today, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies—and author of the prevention and public health title of the Affordable Care Act—spoke on the floor of the Senate about the importance of the Prevention and Public Health fund to saving lives and money, and about his disappointment regarding the Administration's decision to raid this critical fund.”
Go to www.help.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/?id=98d8956a-8907-48f5-9547-6e98fadb618e&groups=Chair
Hastings Center Calls on Health Care Professionals and Organizations to Meet Standards for Good Care Near the End of Life
May 7, 2013
“People with chronic or life-threatening illnesses often experience problems with their care, including confusion and conflict over how to make good decisions, poor communication with care providers, inadequate pain and symptom relief, and treatments with little or no benefit. Poor care decreases patients’ quality of life, increases family stress, and adds cost but not value to health care, often with heartbreaking financial consequences for families.”
Go to www.thehastingscenter.org/News/Detail.aspx?id=6323
From The JAMA Network Journals
Study finds increase in fall-related traumatic brain injuries among elderly men and women
May 7, 2013
"Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of hospitalization, disability, and death-worldwide, and among older adults, falling is the most common cause of TBI," writes Niina Korhonen, B.M., of the Injury and Osteoporosis Research Center, Tampere, Finland, and colleagues in a Research Letter.”
Go to www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-05/tjnj-sfi050313.php
From Commonwealth Fund
Proposed 'Medicare Essential' plan estimated to save $180 billion over 10 years
May 6, 2013
“Combining Medicare's hospital, physician, and prescription drug coverage with commonly purchased private supplemental coverage into one health plan could produce national savings of $180 billion over a decade while improving care for beneficiaries, according to a new study by researchers at The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and The Commonwealth Fund published today in the May edition of Health Affairs.”
Go to www.commonwealthfund.org/News/News-Releases/2013/May/Medicare-Essential.aspx
From American Geriatrics Society
Updated Geriatrics At Your Fingertips® Debuts at American Geriatrics Society's Annual Scientific Meeting; Customizable Content Added to Portfolio of Products!
May 6, 2013
“The newly revised and expanded 2013 edition of Geriatrics At Your Fingertips® (GAYF)—the American Geriatrics Society's (AGS) compact yet comprehensive source of information essential to those caring for older adults—was released here today, during the AGS' 2013 Annual Scientific Meeting.”
Go to www.americangeriatrics.org/press/news_press_releases/id:4053
From American Geriatrics Society
American Geriatrics Society Releases New 8th Edition of Renowned Geriatrics Review Syllabus—in Print & Online
May 6, 2013
“The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) released a new and completely revised 8th edition of its Geriatrics Review Syllabus: A Core Curriculum in Geriatric Medicine (GRS8).”
Go to www.americangeriatrics.org/press/news_press_releases/id:4054
From National Eye Institute
NIH Study Provides Clarity On Supplements For Protection Against Blinding Eye Disease
May 5, 2013
“Adding omega-3 fatty acids did not improve a combination of nutritional supplements commonly recommended for treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a major cause of vision loss among older Americans, according to a study from the National Institutes of Health.”
Go to www.nih.gov/news/health/may2013/nei-05.htm
NSCLC Joins 40 Organizations Concerned with Cal MediConnect
May 3, 3013
“In a joint letter to both the Medicare-Medicaid Coordination office at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the California Department of Health Care Services, 41 organizations outlined concerns with the MediConnect program recently finalized in the Memorandum of Understanding between the federal and state agencies.”
Go to www.nsclc.org/index.php/nsclc-joins-40-organizations-concerned-with-cal-mediconnect/
From National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
NAELA Applauds Overdue Protections for Low-Income Individuals and Individuals with Disabilities
May 3, 2013
“The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys supports Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) in his dedication to improving the lives of low-income older Americans and individuals with disabilities. Rep. Grijalva recently introduced the Supplemental Security Income Restoration Act of 2013 (H.R. 1601), which includes long overdue efforts to modernize the SSI program.”
From Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General
Fraud Advisory: Beware of Identity Thieves Seeking to Redirect Your Social Security Benefits
May 3, 2013
“The Inspector General for the Social Security Administration (SSA) is warning the public, and Social Security beneficiaries in particular, to be aware of fraud scams that target personal information.”
Go to http://oig.ssa.gov/newsroom/news-releases/may3advisory
From Department of Health and Human Services
Proposed Fiscal Year 2014 Payment and Policy Changes for Medicare Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities
May 2, 2013
“On May 2, 2013, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule outlining proposed fiscal year (FY) 2014 Medicare payment policies and rates for the inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) Prospective Payment System (PPS), as well as updates and changes for the IRF Quality Reporting Program (QRP). The FY 2014 proposals are summarized below.”
See the May 8, 2013 Federal Register, www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-05-08/html/2013-10755.htm
From National Institutes of Health
NIH Awards $40 Million In Grants To Reduce Stroke Disparities In The U.S.
May 1, 2013
“Four research centers will develop high-impact culturally tailored interventions aimed at lowering stroke risk among racial and ethnic minorities in the United States. Together the centers are expected to receive $40 million in funding over five years, contingent on the availability of funds from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), part of the National Institutes of Health.”
Go to www.nih.gov/news/health/may2013/ninds-01.htm
From Center for Technology and Aging
Helping Organizations Design and Implement Connected Health Technology
May 1, 2013
“The Center for Technology and Aging’s ADOPT Toolkit will help you more quickly and easily design connected health technology-focused programs and to accelerate diffusion of proven technologies.”
Go to http://toolkit.techandaging.org/
From National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
NAELA Supports President’s Willingness to Tackle the Budget Deficit: But the health and safety of older Americans and individuals with disabilities should not be placed at risk.
April 12, 2013
“The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys commends the President for having the courage to put forward proposals that address the budget deficits by attempting to balance new revenue and cost cutting, even when many constituencies will have concerns. … One proposal that NAELA has opposed involves changes in the way the government calculates cost-of-living adjustments for federal programs such as Social Security.”
To view the entire statement, go to www.naela.org/NAELADocs/PDF/Media/Press%20Releases/2013%20Press%20Releases/Press%20Release%20-%20President%27s%20Budget.pdf
From House Energy and Commerce Committee
Responding to Seniors’ Needs and Improving Medicare Choices
April 11, 2013
“For far too long, our nation’s seniors and people with disabilities have seen their health care program used as a piggy bank to fund the creation of new programs for others. Rather than ensuring Medicare remains solvent and successful for today’s more than 50 million beneficiaries and for future generations, the Affordable Care Act diverted $716 billion from Medicare to fund the largest expansion of Medicaid in history and the creation of yet another entitlement program.”
To view the entire statement, go to http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/responding-seniors%E2%80%99-needs-and-improving-medicare-choices
From Center for Medicare Advocacy
The Impact of the President’s Budget on People Who Depend on Medicare and Social Security
April 11, 2013
“Yesterday, President Obama unveiled his Fiscal Year 2014 Budget. It contains significant changes to the Medicare program – including some that would strengthen the program's fiscal stability, and some that would weaken the program and shift costs to beneficiaries.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.medicareadvocacy.org/2013/04/11/the-impact-of-the-presidents-budget-on-people-who-depend-on-medicare-and-social-security/
From American Geriatrics Society
A Breakthrough in Preventing Falls, Providing Cognitive Therapy for Seniors, and Reducing Rehospitalizations … Presented at AGS Annual Scientific Meeting
April 11, 2013
“A groundbreaking intervention that prevents falls in nursing homes by improving communications; a new approach to countering cognitive loss among older patients in intensive care units; and a pilot project that sheds new light on the complexities of using health information technology (HIT) to prevent hospital readmissions will be presented at the AGS’ upcoming 2013 Annual Scientific Meeting.”
To view the entire release, go to www.americangeriatrics.org/press/news_press_releases/id:3959
from National Senior Citizens Law Center
The Chained CPI is Still a Benefit Cut
April 11, 2013
“President Obama's budget proposal released today includes an unacceptable change to Social Security's cost of living adjustments (COLAs). A switch to the chained CPI formula to determine Social Security COLA benefits is a stealth benefit cut. It will mean that several years out, the change will negatively impact Social Security beneficiaries, especially the very old, women because they live longer, as well as people with disabilities and Asian- and Hispanic-Americans because they have higher life expectancy.”
To view the entire statement, go to www.nsclc.org/index.php/statement-by-nsclcs-paul-nathanson-on-the-chained-cpi/
From Alzheimer’s Association
Legislation reintroduced to improve diagnosis of Alzheimer's and strengthen care planning
April 11, 2013
“As the world's leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research, the Alzheimer's Association applauds the reintroduction of the Health Outcomes, Planning, and Education (HOPE) for Alzheimer's Act.”
Go to www.alz.org/documents_custom/HOPE_2013_statement.pdf
From Alzheimer’s Association
Alzheimer's Association applauds Obama administration for dedication of new resources to Alzheimer's epidemic
April 10, 2013
“The Alzheimer's Association commends the Obama administration for dedicating an additional $100 million within President Barack Obama's FY 2014 budget toward the fight against Alzheimer's and the implementation of the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease.”
Go to www.alz.org/documents_custom/presidents_budget_statement_041013.pdf
From Administration for Community Living
First ACL Proposed Budget
April 10, 2013
“On April 10, the President released his FY 2014 budget: the first to feature a consolidated request for the Administration for Community Living (ACL). The total ACL request is for $2.140 billion.”
Go to http://acl.gov/NewsRoom/NewsInfo/2013/2013_04_12.aspx
From National Association of States United for Aging and Disability
President Obama Releases FY14 Budget Request
April 10, 2013
“On April 10, President Obama submitted his $3.77 trillion fiscal year (FY) 2014 budget request to Congress.”
Go to www.nasuad.org/newsroom/archive/2013/fy14_budget.html
Also see NASUAD's Draft Analysis of the President's FY14 Budget Request, www.nasuad.org/documentation/nasuad_materials/NASUAD's%20Draft%20FY14%20Budget%20Analysis.pdf
NASUAD's Draft FY14 Budget Chart, www.nasuad.org/documentation/nasuad_materials/NASUAD's%20Draft%20FY14%20Budget%20Chart.pdf
From Medicare Rights Center
Statement by Medicare Rights Center President Joe Baker on President Obama’s FY2014 Budget
April 10, 2013
“The budget released today by President Obama aims for a laudable goal—compromise that includes a mix of revenue and targeted spending cuts to reduce the nation’s deficit and restore economic prosperity. Yet, some of the Medicare-related proposals in this budget proposal demonstrate a lack of awareness of the widespread economic insecurity experienced by older adults and people with disabilities.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.medicarerights.org/newsroom/pressreleases/2013_11.html?utm_source=Medicare-Watch-email&utm_medium=e-mail&utm_term=mcw&utm_content=mcw&utm_campaign=MCW+4.11.13
From National Council on Aging
NCOA Statement on President Obama’s Proposed Budget
April 10, 2013
“President Obama’s budget proposal is a mixed-bag when it comes to America’s seniors.”
Go to www.ncoa.org/press-room/press-release/on-president-obamas-proposed.html
From Alliance for Retired Americans
President Obama Wrong to Propose Immediate Cuts to Social Security
April 10, 2013
“President Obama’s budget proposal released today includes upsetting cuts to Social Security cost of living adjustments (COLAs) and to Medicare.”
From Association of American Medical Colleges
President’s Budget Will Jeopardize Access to Care
April 10, 2012
“America’s medical schools and teaching hospitals see good news and bad news in President Obama’s proposed budget. We are encouraged by the president’s continued support for medical research as reflected in the modest increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). However, we are deeply concerned that the cuts to Medicare in the president’s proposal will have serious consequences on the health of the nation.”
Go to https://www.aamc.org/newsroom/newsreleases/333008/041013.html
From Center for Medicare Advocacy
The President's Budget: Good News and Concerns for Medicare and Social Security
April 10, 2013
“On the one hand, it offers some serious improvements to strengthen Medicare’s financial footing, including proposals that allow Medicare to pay lower prices for prescription drugs without harming beneficiaries, and that help ensure private Medicare Advantage plans are not paid more than traditional Medicare.”
From AARP
Social Security benefits should not be cut to reduce the deficit; health care cost savings must be sought system-wide.
April 10, 2013
“ … “AARP is deeply dismayed that President Obama would propose cutting the benefits of current and future Social Security recipients, including children, widows, veterans and people with disabilities, to reduce the deficit. Social Security is a self-financed program that doesn’t contribute to the deficit, so it shouldn’t be cut to reduce it.”
To view the entire statement, go to www.aarp.org/about-aarp/press-center/info-04-2013/AARP-on-White-House-Budget-Proposal.html
From Medicare Rights Center
Statement by Medicare Rights Center President Joe Baker on President Obama’s FY2014 Budget
April 10, 2013
“The budget released today by President Obama aims for a laudable goal—compromise that includes a mix of revenue and targeted spending cuts to reduce the nation’s deficit and restore economic prosperity. Yet, some of the Medicare-related proposals in this budget proposal demonstrate a lack of awareness of the widespread economic insecurity experienced by older adults and people with disabilities.”
Go to www.medicarerights.org/newsroom/pressreleases/2013_11.html
From National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare
President’s Budget Reneges on Promise to Middle Class Americans
April 10, 2013
“Federal budgets are far more than just numbers on a page. They represent national priorities for our fiscal future. That’s why so many middle-class Americans are stunned to see President Obama’s budget priorities include cutting benefits to millions of seniors, retired veterans and people with disabilities.”
From Brown University via EurekAlert
1 in 5 seniors on risky meds; more in US South
April 10, 2013
“More than 1 in 5 seniors with Medicare Advantage plans received a prescription for a potentially harmful "high risk medication" in 2009, according to a newly published analysis by Brown University public health researchers. The questionable prescriptions were significantly more common in the Southeast region of the country, as well as among women and people living in relatively poor areas.”
To view the press release, go to www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-04/bu-1i5041013.php
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Contract Suppliers Selected Under Medicare Competitive Bidding Program
April 9, 2013
“The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services today announced that 799* suppliers have been awarded contracts as part of Round 2 of the Medicare Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program to provide certain medical equipment and supplies (such as scooters, wheelchairs and oxygen) to beneficiaries in 91 communities across the country?
To view the press release, go to www.cms.gov/apps/media/press/release.asp?Counter=4578&intNumPerPage=10&checkDate=&checkKey=&srchType=1&numDays=3500&srchOpt=0&srchData=&keywordType=All&chkNewsType=1%2C+2%2C+3%2C+4%2C+5&intPage=&showAll=&pYear=&year=&desc=&cboOrder=date
From Senate Finance Committee
Baucus Calls On Tavenner to Focus on Strengthening Medicare and Insurance Marketplaces as CMS Administrator
April 9, 2013
“At a Senate Finance Committee hearing today to consider Marilyn Tavenner’s nomination to be the administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) said that as administrator, Tavenner must work to strengthen Medicare and Medicaid for the future, combat fraud to protect taxpayer dollars, and have the new health insurance marketplaces ready to launch this fall.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.finance.senate.gov/newsroom/chairman/release/?id=41f1630e-dc35-4ff7-938c-6464ab5ef505
From Senate HELP Committee
Alexander, Burr, Johanns, Coburn, Cornyn Call on Obama Administration to Reexamine Plan to “Undermine Care” by Raising the Cost of In-home Companion Care
April 8, 2013
“U.S. Senators Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Mike Johanns (R-Neb.), Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today urged the administration to reexamine its plan to raise the cost of in-home companion care and perform “a more accurate analysis” to determine the “the actual cost that the proposed rule would have on recipients and caregivers.”
To view the press release, go to www.help.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/?id=57d2fbae-4a13-47b3-9901-667539dbe001&groups=Ranking
From Gerontological Society of America
Posture Provides Clue for Future Disability
April 8, 2013
“The shape of an individual’s spinal column may predict his or her risk for nursing home admission or need of home assistance in old age, according to a new article published online in the Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences.”
To view the entire press release, go to
From JAMA Internal Medicine
Study Suggests Elder Abuse Associated With Increased Rates of Hospitalization
April 8, 2013
“A study by XinQi Dong, M.D., M.P.H., of Rush University Medical Center, and Melissa A. Simon, M.D., M.P.H., of Northwestern University Medical Center, Chicago, suggests elder abuse is associated with increased rates of hospitalization. (Online First)”
To view the press release, go to http://media.jamanetwork.com/news-item/study-suggests-elder-abuse-associated-with-increased-rates-of-hospitalization/
From National Institute on Aging
NIH-supported study finds U.S. Dementia care costs as high as $215 billion in 2010
April 3, 2013
“The costs of caring for people with dementia in the United States in 2010 were between $159 billion to $215 billion, and those costs could rise dramatically with the increase in the numbers of older people in coming decades, according to estimates by researchers at RAND Corp. and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The researchers found these costs of care comparable to, if not greater than, those for heart disease and cancer.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.nih.gov/news/health/apr2013/nia-03.htm
To view the abstract in the New England Journal of Medicine, go to www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMsa1204629
From Rand Corp.
Dementia costs top those for heart disease or cancer, study finds
April 3, 2013
“The monetary cost of dementia in the United States ranges from $157 billion to $215 billion annually, making the disease more costly to the nation than either heart disease or cancer, according to a new RAND Corporation study.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.rand.org/news/press/2013/04/03.html
From American Academy of Ophthalmology
Ophthalmologists urge early diagnosis and treatment of age-related macular degeneration
April 3, 2013
“Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) continues to be the leading cause of visual impairment in the United States for people over age 65, according to a study recently published online in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. AMD is a potentially blinding disease that affects more than 9.1 million Americans. This study, which tracked vision loss in relation to eye disease and treatment response in nearly 5,000 patients over a 20-year period, showed that despite the recent discovery of sight-saving drugs and advances in disease prevention, AMD still causes severe vision loss in approximately 15 percent of Americans 85 and older.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.aao.org/newsroom/release/20130403.cfm
From JAMA Internal Medicine
Study Examines Lack of Communication Between Health Care Staff, Elderly Patients and Their Families About Advanced Care Plan
April 1, 2013
“A study by Daren K. Heyland, M.D., M.Sc., of Kingston General Hospital, Ontario, Canada and colleagues examined elderly patients’ advance care planning activities before hospitalization and preferences for care from the perspectives of patients and family members.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://media.jamanetwork.com/news-item/3450/
From Kaiser Health News
IG Report Slaps Medicare For Not Recouping More Overpayment For Equipment
April, 1, 2013
“Medicare has made nearly $70 million in overpayments to suppliers of consumers’ medical equipment, and more than half of that money is unlikely to be recovered, according to a new report from the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General.”
to view the article, go to http://capsules.kaiserhealthnews.org/index.php/2013/04/ig-report-slaps-medicare-for-not-recouping-more-overpayment-for-equipment/
To view the OIG report, go to https://oig.hhs.gov/oei/reports/oei-03-11-00350.pdf
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
CMS Ensures Greater Value For People In Medicare Drug And Health Plans
April 1, 2013
“Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued the 2014 rate announcement and final call letter for Medicare Advantage (MA) and prescription drug benefit (Part D) programs. The announcements set a stable path for Medicare Advantage and implement a number of policies designed to improve payment accuracy.”
To view the entire press release, go to www.cms.gov/apps/media/press/release.asp?Counter=4568&intNumPerPage=10&checkDate=&checkKey=&srchType=1&numDays=3500&srchOpt=0&srchData=&keywordType=All&chkNewsType=1%2C+2%2C+3%2C+4%2C+5&intPage=&showAll=&pYear=&year=&desc=&cboOrder=date
From Gerontological Society of America
New Centers Will Lead to Enhanced Geriatric Social Work Training
March 27, 2013
"The Hartford/GSA National Center on Gerontological Social Work Excellence has chosen the Boston College and the University of Michigan as the locations of the first two Hartford Academic Centers of Excellence in Geriatric Social Work."
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.geron.org/About%20Us/press-room/Archived%20Press%20Releases/82-2013-press-releases/1649-new-centers-will-lead-to-enhanced-geriatric-social-work-training
From Sen. Bernie Sanders
Senate Shows Support for Older Americans Act
March 23, 2013
“The Senate early this morning approved an amendment to the budget resolution backing the Older Americans Act, the landmark law that supports Meals on Wheels and other programs for seniors.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/news/?id=a2c5faf8-964f-4625-9fa8-bab7d12b299f
From Administration for Community Living
Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Program Standardized Data Collection
March 20, 2013
“The Administration on Aging (AoA), Administration for Community Living is announcing a proposed collection of information submitted to the Office of Management and Budget. The “Empowering Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities through Chronic Disease Self-Management Education (CDSME) Programs: cooperative agreement program is financed through 2012 Prevention and Public Health Funds. The proposed data collection is necessary for monitoring grant program operations and outcomes. AoA proposes to gather information to monitor grantee progress, record location of sites where workshops are held which will allow mapping of the delivery infrastructure, and document participant attendance and demographic and health characteristics. The proposed Participant Survey requests the participants' gender, zip code and birthdate to allow for potential Medicare claims matching and an analysis of changes in health care utilization post participation.”
To view the entire notice, see the March 20 Federal Register, p. 17214, or go to http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-03-20/html/2013-06390.htm
From National Senior Citizens Law Center
Settlement of IHSS Lawsuit Will Prevent Devastating Cuts to Home Care Services
March 20, 2013
“Lawyers representing IHSS consumers, unions and the State of California have reached a settlement that will prevent the implementation of devastating cuts to In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). The settlement resolves a federal lawsuit, David Oster et al. v. Lightbourne (formerly V.L. v. Wagner). The settlement also resolves a second lawsuit challenging wage reductions for IHSS providers.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.nsclc.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Oster-settlement-press-release-final-3-19-13-4-2.pdf
From HealthDay News via MedlinePlus
A Third of U.S. Seniors Die With Dementia, Study Finds
March 19, 2013
"There's more troubling news for America's aging population: A new report finds that one in every three seniors now dies while suffering from Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.
In many cases, dementia is the cause of death or contributes to it, the Alzheimer's Association study finds."
To view press release, go to http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_135068.html
From Administration on Aging
Older Americans Month Website Updated for 2013
March 18, 2013
“Each May our Nation celebrates Older Americans Month. To help communities get ready for this year’s celebration—now in its 50 year—the Administration for Community Living (ACL) has updated its Older Americans Month website, www.olderamericansmonth.acl.gov, for 2013.”
Go to http://acl.gov/NewsRoom/NewsInfo/2013/2013_03_18.aspx
From National Senior Citizens Law Center
Long Term Care Commission Should Right the Imbalance in How Medicaid Pays for Long Term Services and Supports
March 15, 2013
“President Obama has recently appointed the final members of the Commission on Long Term Care. We congratulate the 15 members on their appointment and wish them luck with the work ahead. Over the next six months, the Commission must accomplish one objective: develop a plan for the establishment, implementation and financing of a comprehensive, coordinated, and high-quality system that ensures the availability of long-term services and supports (LTSS) for individuals who need LTSS."
To view the article, go to http://www.nsclc.org/
To view the policy brief, go to http://www.nsclc.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/LTCCommissionBrief-031913.pdf
From National Council on Aging
A Ray of Hope Amid a Grim Forecast for Mature Workers
March 14, 2013
“The latest job statistics show a grim outlook for the nation’s mature workers, but an initiative from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) aims to improve older adults’ likelihood of securing training, jobs, and financial support.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.ncoa.org/press-room/press-release/a-ray-of-hope-amid-a-grim.html
From National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare
Leading Seniors Group Supports “Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act”
March 14, 2013
“Millions of Medicare beneficiaries are transferred from hospitals to skilled nursing facilities (SNF) each year; however, current Medicare rules have left too many seniors trapped in a coverage gap resulting in huge out of pocket costs. That’s why the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare supports legislation introduced by Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), Rep. Tom Latham (R-IA) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) to allow hospital “observation stays” to satisfy Medicare’s skilled nursing eligibility requirements.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.ncpssm.org/PressRoom/NewsReleases/Release/ArticleID/1112/Leading-Seniors-Group-Supports-%e2%80%9cImproving-Access-to-Medicare-Coverage-Act%e2%80%9d
From Senate Finance Committee Ranking Minority Member
Hatch Calls on President to Work with Congress, Find Bipartisan Solutions to Address Entitlement Crisis
March 14, 2013
“Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) today urged President Obama to work with Congress to find bipartisan solutions to reform the nation’s entitlement programs to put the nation on a sound fiscal course. In a letter Hatch gave to the President today during a meeting with Senate Republicans, Hatch outlined five bipartisan structural reforms to the Medicare and Medicaid programs that he put forward earlier this year.”
To view the press release, go to www.finance.senate.gov/newsroom/ranking/release/?id=d3198a88-4c8f-4292-97cf-a52d3b8efdbf
From Senate Finance Committee Ranking Minority Member
Senate Democrats’ Budget Fails to Deliver on Entitlement Reform
March 14, 2013
“While America’s three entitlement programs – Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security – are set to cost $24 trillion and reach just over 12 percent of the size of America’s economy over the next ten years, Senate Democrats’ budget includes only a net $56 billion in Medicare and Medicaid savings – while doing nothing to Social Security.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.finance.senate.gov/newsroom/ranking/release/?id=00ea03fa-7387-420a-a86a-c2f7fd576ed6
From Alliance for Retired Americans
Alliance Activist Issues Warning at Wednesday Event: Paul Ryan Budget Cuts Medicare
March 13, 2013
“House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan unveiled a Republican budget on Tuesday that once again proposes privatizing Medicare and turning it into a voucher system, while lowering tax rates on the wealthy and corporations.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.retiredamericans.org/newsroom/press-releases/view/2013-03-alliance-activist-issues-warning-at-wednesday-event
From Alzheimer's Association
Alzheimer's Association CEO represents Alzheimer's community at appropriations subcommittee hearing
March 13, 2013
“At a Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations hearing. Alzheimer's Association President and CEO Harry Johns outlined the dramatic human suffering caused by Alzheimer's and the enormous strain the disease places on the health care system and the federal budget.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.alz.org/documents_custom/hearing_statement_031313.pdf
From American Health Care Association
AHCA Offers Solutions to Caregiver Shortage in Immigration Hearing
March 13, 2013
“The American Health Care Association (AHCA) today will voice its support for comprehensive immigration reform and offer solutions to the nation-wide mid-level caregiver staffing crisis before a House Education & Workforce Subcommittee on Workplace Protections.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.ahcancal.org/News/news_releases/Pages/AHCA-Offers-Solutions-to-Caregiver-Shortage-in-Immigration-Hearing.aspx
From University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston via EurekaAlert
1 in 4 colonoscopies in Medicare patients found to be potentially inappropriate
March 13, 2013
“Colonoscopy is one of the most effective cancer screening procedures available. Colon cancer grows very slowly and can be treated if caught early through screening. But, perhaps because of this success, older Americans are undergoing screening colonoscopies despite recommendations against screening in adults aged 76 and older. A new study by researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston published online today in JAMA Internal Medicine shows that one out of four colonoscopies paid for by Medicare is potentially inappropriate under current screening guidelines set forth by the United States Preventive Services Task Force.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-03/uotm-oif031313.php
From Democratic Policy and Communications Center
DPCC Releases National And State-By-State Data Detailing The Gop Budget’s Disastrous Impact On Seniors
March 13, 2013
“Today, the Democratic Policy and Communications Center (DPCC) detailed the devastating effects of the new Republican budget in a series of state-by-state reports.”
To view the press release, go to http://democrats.senate.gov/2013/03/13/dpcc-releases-national-and-state-by-state-data-detailing-the-gop-budgets-disastrous-impact-on-seniors-millions-would-pay-more-for-rx-drugs-preventive-care/
from Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America via EurekAlert
Antibiotic-resistant strain of E. coli increasing among older adults and residents of nursing homes
March 12, 2013
“Antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) continues to proliferate, driven largely by expansion of a strain of E. coli know as sequence type ST131. A new study points to hospitals and long-term care facilities (LTCF) as settings in which this antibiotic-resistant strain is increasingly found. The study is published in the April issue of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, the journal of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-03/sfhe-aso031213.php
From American Society on Aging
2013 MindAlert Awards Honor 3 Regional Programs that Keep Aging Brains Fit
March 12, 2013
The American Society on Aging, in collaboration with MetLife Foundation, announces three winners of the 2013 ASA-MetLife Foundation MindAlert Awards.
To view the winners, go to http://www.asaging.org/sites/default/files/files/2012%20MindAlert%20Award%20National%20Press%20Release.doc
From AARP
Budget Proposal Shifts Costs To Seniors Rather Than Reducing Costs Throughout Health Care System
March 12, 2013
“AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond today released the following statement in reaction to House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan’s newly announced budget proposal.”
To view the statement, go to http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/press-center/info-03-2013/AARP-Budget-Proposal-Shifts-Costs-To-Seniors-Rather-Than-Reducing-Costs-Throughout-Health-Care-System.html
From Medicare Rights Center
Statement by Medicare Rights Center President Joe Baker on Representative Paul Ryan’s House Budget Proposal
March 12, 2013
“The budget released today by Representative Ryan repeats on an old theme—forcing people with Medicare to pay more for less health security. The Ryan budget would end Medicare as we know it, replacing guaranteed health benefits with a voucher (or premium support) that seniors and people with disabilities would use to purchase health coverage.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.medicarerights.org/newsroom/pressreleases/2013_07.html
From AARP
Budget Proposal Shifts Costs To Seniors Rather Than Reducing Costs Throughout Health Care System
March 12, 2013
“Chairman Paul Ryan's proposed budget fails to address the high costs of health care and instead shifts costs onto seniors and future retirees. Removing the Medicare guarantee of affordable health coverage seniors have contributed to through a lifetime of hard work is not the answer.”
To view the entire statement, go to http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/press-center/info-03-2013/AARP-Budget-Proposal-Shifts-Costs-To-Seniors-Rather-Than-Reducing-Costs-Throughout-Health-Care-System.html
From National Council on Aging
House FY14 budget resolution poses more harm to seniors programs
March 12, 2013
“House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) has released the House Republicans’ proposed FY 2014 budget resolution, which seeks to balance the federal budget in 10 years through $4.6 trillion in cuts and various accounting mechanisms.” Among the House Republican budget items highlighted by NCOA are:
- Convert Medicaid into a block grant and tie future spending to inflation and population growth
- Repeal the Affordable Care Act
- Convert Medicare into a defined contribution, or “premium support,” system
- Shore up the Social Security Trust Fund
- Convert the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) into a block grant
- Repeal the Senior Community Service Employment Program
- Further reduce spending on discretionary programs beyond the cuts imposed by the Budget Control Act and sequester. “Nondefense discretionary spending on programs like the Older Americans Act, LIHEAP, and Section 202 Housing for the Elderly is projected to reach historic lows.”
To view the article, go to http://www.ncoa.org/public-policy-action/policy-news/house-fy14-budget-resolution.html
From White House
President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts
March 12, 2013
Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to appoint the following individuals to key Administration posts:
- Henry Claypool – Member, Commission on Long-Term Care
- Julian Harris – Member, Commission on Long-Term Care
- Carol Raphael – Member, Commission on Long-Term Care
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/12/president-obama-announces-more-key-administration-posts
From Senate Appropriations Committee
Summary: The Consolidated And Further Continuing Appropriations Act Of 2013
March 11, 2013
The Senate Appropriations Committee released highlights of legislation to fund the federal government through September 30, 2013. Provisions include:
- Section 1520 rescinds $200 million of $500 million appropriated in the Affordable Care Act for the Community Care Transitions program, which is intended to move high-cost Medicare participants out of hospitals and into home-based care. The costs of this program have been lower than expected.
- Section 1521 continues two funding rescissions from the fiscal year 2012 Labor-HHS appropriations bill.
Go to http://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news.cfm?method=news.view&id=729722e4-2b84-4651-ae53-cad2b62e548e (link may not work with Internet Explorer browser)
From American Medical Directors Association
National Quality Forum Board Approves AMDA Quality Measures on Dementia
March 11, 2013
“AMDA – Dedicated to Long Term Care Medicine (AMDA) is proud to announce the Board of the National Quality Forum (NQF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of health care nationwide, has approved two nursing home quality measures submitted by AMDA. The measures, “Persistent Indicators of Dementia without a Diagnosis – Long Stay” and “Persistent Indicators of Dementia without a Diagnosis – Short Stay,” are designed to be used by facilities as standards to set goals and pursue performance improvement for persons with dementia.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.amda.com/news/releases/2013/NQF_Approves_AMDA_Quality_Measures.pdf
From Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Deficit Reduction Should Not Increase Poverty and Hardship If Low-Income Programs Are Targeted, Consequences Could Be Widespread and Long-Lasting
March 11, 2013
“With President Obama and lawmakers of both parties vowing to achieve further deficit reduction, the stakes are high for low- and moderate-income Americans. If policymakers heavily target programs that serve vulnerable Americans, they will run the risk of increasing poverty and hardship and reducing opportunity for those on the lower rungs of the economic ladder, limiting their future educational and employment prospects.”
To view the report, go to http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=3918
From American Medical Directors Association
A Few Words Have a Big Impact for Dying Patients
March 9, 2013
“A few words – 11, to be precise – can go a long way toward giving patients and their loved ones peace at the end of life: Please forgive me. I forgive you. Thank you. I love you. Author and educator Dr. Ira Byock has identified these simple statements as the “four things that matter most.” In an interview, he said that he believes they are “powerful tools for improving your patients’ relationships and their lives,” especially during serious or terminal illness.”
To view the entire article, go to http://www.caringfortheages.com/single-view/a-few-words-have-a-big-impact-for-dying-patients/a3fe3ecd08d53e6112eb4c589b25ef9d.html
From American Geriatrics Society
American Geriatrics Society Names Diane E. Meier, MD, the 2013 Edward Henderson Award Winner
March 9, 2013
“The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) is pleased to announce that Diane E. Meier, MD, will receive its 2013 Edward Henderson Award in recognition of her many invaluable contributions to the field of geriatrics.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.americangeriatrics.org/press/news_press_releases/id:3864
From American Medical Directors Association
Numbers Confirm Rising Acuity Level in Assisted Living
March 8, 2013
“While physicians’ and direct-care workers’ eyes tell them that an increasing number of today’s assisted living residents are acutely ill, experts speaking at a national conference had the data to prove it. Kathleen Cameron, BS Pharm., a technical expert at the management firm JBS International in Bethesda, Md., said that 40% of assisted living residents currently have three or more limited activities of daily living.”
To view the entire article, go to http://www.caringfortheages.com/single-view/numbers-confirm-rising-acuity-level-in-assisted-living/a58118994dac45f74dea5578f10cdd60.html
From Coalition for Quality Care
Coalition Releases ‘Stakeholder Perspectives on Nursing Home Survey Effectiveness’
March 8, 2013
“The Coalition for Quality Care is an umbrella organization of state and regional long term care citizen advocacy groups from across the country. It has issued a brief report presenting the results of a national survey of groups and individuals representing nursing home residents and their families on their perspectives of and experiences with nursing home surveys (inspections) in their communities.”
To view the report, go to http://www.coalitionqualitycare.org/lettersandreports/surveyonursinghomesurveys2013_2.pdf
from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
CMS Announces 2% Medicare Fee-for-Service Cuts under Sequestration
March 8, 2013
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has released a memo explaining that sequester cuts mean Medicare fee-for-service payments will be reduced by 2% for services/discharges and durable medical equipment/supplies dated April 1 and later. It also said, “Though beneficiary payments for deductibles and coinsurance are not subject to the 2 percent payment reduction, Medicare’s payment to beneficiaries for unassigned claims is subject to the 2 percent reduction.”
To see the entire document, go to: http://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Outreach/FFSProvPartProg/Downloads/2013-03-08-standalone.pdf
From Administration for Community Living
Estimates of Sequester Impact for State Formula Grant Programs Under the Older Americans Act
March 7, 2013
“For state formula grant programs, the 5.0 percent cut is applied at the program level by taking the FY 2013 Continuing Resolution (CR) level (FY 2012 enacted plus 0.612 percent) and then reducing it for the sequester.”
To view the document, go to http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/AoA_Programs/OAA/Aging_Network/State_Allocations/docs/OAA_Formula_Grant_Estimates.pdf
From Sen. Bernie Sanders
Sanders, Reid, DeFazio Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Social Security
March 7, 2013
“Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today introduced legislation cosponsored by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) to strengthen Social Security by making the wealthiest Americans pay the same payroll tax that nearly everyone else already pays.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/news/?id=3d71f1ec-9ff5-4443-9e1f-efc735f1bb38
From American Geriatrics Society
American Geriatrics Society Identifies Five Things That Healthcare Providers and Patients Should Question
March 7, 2013
“Given the American Geriatrics Society's commitment to improving health care for older adults by, among other means, educating older people and their caregivers about their health and healthcare choices, the AGS was delighted when, in late 2011, the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation invited the Society to join its “Choosing Wisely®” campaign. Choosing Wisely is designed to engage patients, healthcare professionals, and family caregivers in discussions about the safety and appropriateness of medical tests, medications, and procedures.”
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.12226/full
from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
HHS Announces 2013 Agenda To Bring Down Costs And Improve Quality Of Care
March 6, 2013
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Acting Administrator Marilyn Tavenner and the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Farzad Mostashari, M.D., today announced HHS’s plan to accelerate health information exchange (HIE) and build a seamless and secure flow of information essential to transforming the health care system.
From University of Rochester Medical Center
Involving other providers in palliative care may help meet growing demand
March 6, 2013
As baby-boomers age and the number of people with serious chronic illnesses continues to rise, the demand for experts in palliative medicine is sure to outstrip the supply, according Timothy E. Quill, M.D., professor of Medicine, Psychiatry and Medical Humanities in the Center for Ethics, Humanities and Palliative Care at the University of Rochester Medical Center. In a perspective published in today's New England Journal of Medicine, Quill, who serves as president of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM), suggests that arming generalists and other specialists with primary palliative care skills is a practical, cost-effective and sustainable way to expand the delivery of palliative care.
To see the entire press release, go to: http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/index.cfm?id=3766
From MetLife Mature Market Institute
Simple and Low Cost Ways for Communities to Assess Their Livability and “Aging in Place” Status
March 5, 2013
“Communities in the U.S. can follow a relatively simple and low cost initial set of indicators to determine if their services meet the needs of an aging population. These indicators can be measured using information that is readily available and adaptable to local governments, providing a low-cost way for local governments to begin to examine the specific needs of their aging populations.”
To view the press release, go to https://www.metlife.com/assets/cao/mmi/publications/mmi-pressroom/2013/mmi-livable-communities-pr.pdf
From University of California - San Francisco
New clinical tool assesses health risks for older adults
March 5, 2013
A UC San Francisco team has developed a tool that can help determine – and perhaps influence – senior citizens' 10-year survivability rates. The simple checklist helps doctors assess health risks that influence the longevity of older adults, and according to the authors, could be an opportunity for seniors to really engage with their primary care provider in having informed discussions about their health care maintenance. … Their findings will be published Tuesday, March 5, in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
To see the entire press release, go to: http://www.ucsf.edu/news/2013/03/13614/new-clinical-tool-assesses-health-risks-older-adults
From House Energy & Commerce Democratic Press Office
GAO Report Reiterates that More Accurate Payments to Medicare Advantage Plans Could Save Billions
March 4, 2013
“Ways and Means Ranking Member Sander Levin and Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Henry A. Waxman today released a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report revealing that the Medicare Trust Fund could save billions of dollars if the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) adjusts payments for Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to more accurately reflect the health of MA enrollees.”
To view the press release, go to http://democrats.waysandmeans.house.gov/press-release/gao-report-reiterates-more-accurate-payments-medicare-advantage-plans-could-save
To view the GAO report, Medicare Advantage: Substantial Excess Payments Underscore Need for CMS to Improve Accuracy of Risk Score Adjustments, go to http://democrats.energycommerce.house.gov/sites/default/files/documents/GAO-Medicare-Advantage-Risk-Score-Adjustments-2013-1.pdf
National commission calls for phasing out of fee-for-service pay within 5 years
March 4, 2013
“The National Commission on Physician Payment Reform issued a report today detailing a series of sweeping recommendations aimed at reining in health spending and improving quality of care by fundamentally changing the way doctors are paid. … [It] calls for eliminating stand-alone fee-for-service payment by the end of the decade.”
To view the entire release, go to http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-03/bc-ncc030413.php
From Mount Sinai Medical Center
Medicare Patients Who Use Hospice Receive Better Care at a Lower Cost to the Government
March 4, 2012
“Medicare patients who enrolled in hospice received better care at a significantly lower cost to the government than those who did not use the Medicare hospice benefit. The data indicate that annual savings to Medicare could amount to $2.4 million to $6.4 million, if 1,000 additional Medicare beneficiaries chose to enroll in hospice 53-105 days before death, or 15-30 days prior to death.”
To view the release, go to http://icahn.mssm.edu/about-us/news-and-events/medicare-patients-who-use-hospice-receive-better-care-at-a-lower-cost-to-the-government
From House Appropriations Committee Majority
Chairman Rogers Introduces Continuing Resolution to Prevent Government Shutdown, Protect National Defense and Veterans
March 4, 2013
“House Appropriations Chairman Hal Rogers today introduced a Continuing Resolution (CR) to prevent a government shutdown and continue government operations until the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2013 (H.R. 933).”
To view the press release, go to http://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=321979
From House Appropriations Committee Minority
Lowey Statement on 2013 Continuing Resolution
March 4, 2013
Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Appropriations, today issued the following statement regarding the House majority's introduction of a Continuing Resolution for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2013 along with FY2013 Defense and Military Construction-VA Appropriations bills: "More than five months after the beginning of Fiscal Year 2013, I am pleased the Republican majority is finally advancing the long-delayed appropriations process. I am disappointed, however, the proposal would lock most of the federal government into outdated plans and spending levels.”
To view the entire statement, go to http://democrats.appropriations.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1059:lowey-statement-on-2013-continuing-resolution&catid=3:press-releases&Itemid=120&Itemid=4
Also see committee democrats fact sheet: http://democrats.appropriations.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1060:fact-sheet-on-2013-continuing-resolution&catid=3:press-releases&Itemid=120&Itemid=4
From Senate HELP Committee Minority
Top Republicans on HELP, Appropriations, Finance Committees Question Administration Plans to Selectively Cut Programs for “Vulnerable Populations” in Sequester
March 1, 2013
“Senior Senate Republicans on committees overseeing labor, health and education programs today sought details from the administration on the methodology behind its sequestration plans, which appear designed to “dramatically cut funding for programs that serve some of the most vulnerable populations.”
To view the entire press release, go to http://www.help.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/?id=bc9667e7-2b0b-47eb-81f7-eb860a828169&groups=Ranking
from Gerontological Society of America
Sequestration Impasse Carries Steep Price for Seniors, Science
March 1, 2013
“The Gerontological Society of America — the nation’s largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to the field of aging — is warning that federal budget sequestration will not only diminish many programs and services that older adults need in the near future, but also medical research vital to all Americans’ well-being across their lifespan. … It appears that FY 2013 funding will see cuts totaling $85.3 billion, with $31.4 billion in cuts from domestic discretionary programs and $11.2 billion in cuts to Medicare providers. Even though Congress exempted Medicaid and veterans’ health benefits from sequestration, numerous Older Americans Act programs will see a significant decrease in funding.”
To view the press release, go to http://www.geron.org/About%20Us/press-room/Archived%20Press%20Releases/82-2013-press-releases/1645-sequestration-impasse-carries-steep-price-for-seniors-science
From American Public Health Association
Drastic budget cuts put public’s health at risk, says APHA
March 1, 2013
"The American Public Health Association expressed grave concern over drastic across-the-board budget cuts, known as sequestration that takes effect today. This law raises the risks to our health by undermining many of the public health protections we have in place today.”
To view the entire statement, go to http://www.apha.org/about/news/pressreleases/2013/sequestration+release.htm
From American Academy of Dermotology
Studies demonstrate need for older men to screen themselves for skin cancer
March 1, 2013
“Unlike other cancers such as breast, colon, prostate and cervical cancers where there are specific age recommendations for diagnostic screenings, there are no specific age recommendations for skin cancer screenings. For that reason, dermatologists have long advised men and women of all ages to regularly examine their skin for early signs of skin cancer and to report a suspicious mole or lesion to a dermatologist. Now, new studies are finding that men 50 and older are not always heeding this advice.”
To view the entire article, go to http://www.aad.org/stories-and-news/news-releases/studies-demonstrate-need-for-older-men-to-screen-themselves-for-skin-cancer-
From SeniorJournal.com
White and Black Grandmothers Have Different Responses to Raising Grandchildren
March 1, 2013
“Caregiving is a bigger burden on white grandmothers than it is on black grandmothers, according a recent study published in the September 2002 issue of the Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences. The study by Rachel A. Pruchno and Dorothy McKenney of Boston College looked at the psychological well-being of 867 grandmothers raising grandchildren in households that did not include either of the grandchild's parent.”
To view the article, go to http://www.seniorjournal.com/NEWS/Grandparents/2-09-12Whate-Black.htm
From Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health via SeniorJournal.com
Researchers Set Stage for Possible Treatment of Early Stage Alzheimer’s Disease
March 1, 2013
“Researchers at the University of Florida and The Johns Hopkins University have developed a line of genetically altered mice that model the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This model may help scientists identify new therapies to provide relief to patients who are beginning to experience symptoms. “
To view the article, go to http://www.seniorjournal.com/NEWS/Alzheimers/2013/20130301-Researhers_Set_Stage.htm
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