By: NIC | March 17, 2017
Policies governing health care provisions appear to be changing yet again, as legislators in Washington continue to debate strategies and plans. But the sometimes contentious discussions often overlook a key point of agreement: the cost of care must be reduced while outcomes improve, especially for frail seniors.
Regulatory Environment | Skilled Nursing | Workforce
By: Bill Kauffman | March 15, 2017
NIC has just released its fourth quarter 2016 Skilled Nursing Data Report, which includes key monthly data points from January 2012 through December 2016. The current report is based on data collected monthly, but reported quarterly, from approximately 20 operators and 1,500 properties. The data represents national, aggregate figures. However, NIC plans to grow the data set, adding more operators and properties to produce state-level reports. NIC welcomes the participation of operators nationwide in this confidential data collection process. Participants will receive a free benchmark report every month for their contribution.
By: Beth Mace | March 10, 2017
The Labor Department reported on Friday that nonfarm payrolls increased by 235,000 positions in February, above the consensus 200,000 estimate. Revisions to December and January preliminary estimates added 9,000 more jobs than initially reported. Monthly revisions result from additional reports received from businesses since the last published estimates and from the recalculation of seasonal factors. Over the past 3 months, job gains have averaged 209,000 per month. Employment in health care rose by 27,000 in February. Over the past 12 months, the sector has added an average of 30,000 jobs per month.
Senior Housing | Skilled Nursing | Workforce
By: NIC | March 10, 2017
Today’s consumers have high expectations. They demand quality products and services delivered in a timely, cost-effective, and convenient fashion. That’s why evidence-based quality measures have become so crucial, especially in the seniors housing and care industry. Consumers want a way to judge whether they can expect to receive high-quality care in a comfortable setting. Likewise, hospitals, physician groups, payors, and even lenders want proof that the care being provided creates better outcomes at a lower cost.