Long-Term Care
Quality Award Intent to Apply "Submit-Along" Webinar
Now is the time to take the first step in the 2025 Quality Award Program! Join AHCA/NCAL’s Quality Award Team on October 17th for a "Submit-Along" webinar, where they will walk you through submitting your Intent to Apply. Read MoreEnsure Employee Safety and OSHA Compliance with AHCA/NCAL's Comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan
Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and ID/DD centers are required by OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134) to establish and maintain a respiratory protection program. To assist care providers in meeting these federal requirements, AHCA/NCAL, in collaboration with MCA Consulting, LLC, has developed a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan training and toolkit. Read MoreICYMI: Important information and resources from the Healthcare-Associated Infections Prevention Programs – Wisconsin Department of Health Services
HAI Happenings highlights new and noteworthy topics for all things related to healthcare-associated infections (HAI), including infection prevention and control (IPC), antimicrobial stewardship (AS), antimicrobial resistance (AR), surveillance, and more. You can also find links to helpful guidance and resources and learn more about current Wisconsin HAI Prevention Program activities. Read MoreAdult Long-Term Care Provider Enrollment Now Open!
Providers of home and community-based services (HCBS) for adults can now enroll with Wisconsin Medicaid through the ForwardHealth Portal. All adult long-term care (LTC) waiver services providers must use this new provider enrollment process by January 1, 2026, to continue delivering services to Medicaid members. Read MoreFinal Days to Nominate a Shining Star!
Recognize the shining stars in your community by nominating them for a 2024 Shining Star Award! Categories include Leadership, Director of Nursing, Direct Caregiver, and Support Staff. Submit your nominations by September 25th!! Read MoreGuest Column: Preparing for a Cybersecurity Incident
Tune in to the Candid Care Podcast to discover proactive strategies for fortifying your operations and enhancing resilience in the face of cyber incidents. On this episode, Sarah Sargent, a data privacy and cybersecurity attorney at Godfrey & Kahn, discusses why no healthcare organization is safe from cyber threats. Read MoreFrom the Department of Health Services– Division of Public Health – Opportunity to Secure Free COVID supplies – Application deadline is September 30th
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is inviting health care organizations, local and Tribal health departments, nonprofits, and government agencies to fill out a statewide survey to request no-cost surplus supplies from the DHS warehouse. Read MoreWisconsin Representatives of Activity Professionals – A great organization!
Wisconsin Representatives of Activity Professionals (WRAP) represents an excellent educational and networking opportunity in addition to being an outstanding employment retention and attraction tool. Learn more here. Read MoreFrom the Department of Health Services– Division of Public Health – Opportunity to Secure Free COVID supplies – Application deadline is September 30th
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is inviting health care organizations, local and Tribal health departments, nonprofits, and government agencies to fill out a statewide survey to request no-cost surplus supplies from the DHS warehouse. Read MoreFrom our national affiliate AHCA/NCAL - CMS notifies individuals of potential data breach - Please read
CMS and Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation (WPS) are notifying individuals about a potential data breach. Please read the information from our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL). Read MoreCelebrate Your Shining Stars!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2024 Shining Star Awards. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 25. Read MoreNominations Are Due September 25th!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2024 Shining Star Awards. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 25. Read MoreNew Member Benefit: The Regulatory & Clinical Support Hotline
WHCA/WiCAL, in partnership with Pathway Health, is pleased to announce the launch of a new member benefit: The Regulatory and Clinical Support Hotline. Read MoreImportant resources from Wisconsin’s Quality Improvement Organization – Superior Health Quality Alliance
We encourage all healthcare providers and facilities to take advantage of these valuable resources from Superior Health Quality Alliance. Read MoreFrom our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living, important webinar on federal Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) section 232 program – September 17th at 1:00 CDT
The AHCA/NCAL webinar, which will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. EST/1:00 CDT, titled "HUD's 232 Program-Updates in Production and Asset Management", will cover a range of topics related to HUD's Residential Care Facility Mortgage Insurance Program. Read MoreSubmit Your Intent to Apply for a 2025 National Quality Award
Last week, AHCA/NCAL announced that the 2025 National Quality Award Intent to Apply (ITA) period is now open. We encourage members who plan to apply for a National Quality Award in 2025 to submit an ITA before the deadline on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Read MoreGovernor Evers’ Task Force on the Healthcare Workforce Releases its Report
Governor Evers Task Force on the Healthcare Workforce released its Report on August 19, 2024. Rick Abrams, WHCA/WiCAL CEO, represented the Association on the Task Force. Read MoreForwardHealth Adult LTC Provider Enrollment Training Sessions: Tuesday, August 27th and Thursday, August 29th – For all Family Care participating facilities as well as facilities participating in any other Medicaid LTC waiver program
DHS is hosting early training opportunities for providers to learn how to use the ForwardHealth adult long term care waiver services provider enrollment application. Here are the details. Read MoreFor your consideration: Participation in a Wisconsin-specific employee compensation survey and subsequent report
WHCA/WiCAL will be partnering with LeadingAge Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association on a Wisconsin facility-specific compensation survey. LeadingAge has contracted with “the Management Association (MRA)”, to disseminate the survey link, collate the salary and benefit information and assemble the final report. Read MoreSubmit Your Intent to Apply for a 2025 National Quality Award
Last week, AHCA/NCAL announced that the 2025 National Quality Award Intent to Apply (ITA) period is now open. We encourage members who plan to apply for a National Quality Award in 2025 to submit an ITA before the deadline on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Read MoreA Successful and Impactful Inaugural Women of LTC Leadership Symposium
On Wednesday, August 14, the Inaugural Women of Long-Term Care Leadership Symposium brought together over 70 women leaders from across the long-term care sector, for an inspiring day of growth, connection, and empowerment. Read MoreNominate Your Shining Star TODAY!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2024 Shining Star Awards. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 25. Read MoreForwardHealth Adult LTC Provider Enrollment Training Sessions
DHS is hosting early training opportunities for providers to learn how to use the ForwardHealth adult long term care waiver services provider enrollment application. Register today. Read MoreNominate Your Shining Star TODAY!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2024 Shining Star Awards. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 25. Read MoreFrom the Department of Health Services, Division of Quality Assurance: September 12th Nurse Aide Training and Testing Forum
DQA has invited Wisconsin-approved nurse aide training program representatives and instructors to their annual in-person Nurse Aide Training and Testing Forum. The Forum will be held on Thursday, September 12 2024, from 9:00 am – 3:30 pm at Mid-State Technical College in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Read MoreA message from incoming AHCA/NCAL President and CEO, Clif Porter
As you may already know, current AHCA/NCAL President and CEO, Mark Parkinson, will be retiring at the end of 2024. Clif Porter has been selected to succeed Mark. Below please find Clif's first message to the membership. Read MoreImportant new mid-career nursing facility education and training option available
WHCA/WiCAL continues to work closely with members of the Nursing Home Administrators (NHA) Examining Board and with Department of Safety and Professional Services staff to... Read MoreEvers Administration to move forward with Family Care Fee Schedule Effective October 1st!
This week, WHCA/WiCAL learned that Governor Evers and his administration have decided to move forward on a Family Care Fee Schedule effective October 1, 2024.... Read MoreTimely and important educational resources from AHCA/NCAL
Our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), continues to develop educational resources on important long term care issues. We wish... Read MoreImportant new mid-career nursing facility education and training option available
WHCA/WiCAL continues to work closely with members of the Nursing Home Administrators (NHA) Examining Board and with Department of Safety and Professional Services staff to... Read MoreICYMI: Caregiver Background Check Fee Increase
Effective, October 1, 2024, the cost of a caregiver background check will increase from $10 - $15, a 50% increase. These checks are conducted through... Read MoreFor your consideration: Participation in a Wisconsin-specific employee compensation survey and subsequent report
WHCA/WiCAL will be partnering with LeadingAge Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association on a Wisconsin facility-specific compensation survey. LeadingAge has contracted with “the Management Association (MRA)”, to disseminate the survey link, collate the salary and benefit information and assemble the final report. Read MoreICYMI: Unlock Excellence: 2025 Quality Award Applications Are Now Available
The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living's National Quality Award Program announced the opening of the 2025 application cycle! Access the new and enhanced educational materials on the Quality Award website to set yourself on the path to success. Read MoreHelp Wanted at WHCA/WiCAL: Vice President – Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs
As we have previously reported, Jim Stoa, our Vice President for Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs, recently departed WHCA/WiCAL for a new position. We have developed a job description for Jim’s position for your review and consideration. Read MoreHelp Wanted at WHCA/WiCAL: Vice President – Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs
As we have previously reported, Jim Stoa, our Vice President for Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs, recently departed WHCA/WiCAL for a new position. We have developed a job description for Jim’s position for your review and consideration. Read MoreNew Video Available: Introducing the Adult Long-term Care Waiver Service Provider Enrollment Project
Beginning in September 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) will require all adult long-term care waiver service providers to enroll with Wisconsin Medicaid through the ForwardHealth Portal. Read MoreFacility Assessment Support and Resources
CMS mandates long-term care facilities to complete a Facility Assessment as outlined in F838 and the Minimum Staffing Standards Final Rule. Pathway Health and AHCA/NCAL have resources offering insights and practical tools to enhance your facility’s assessment processes and ensure compliance with CMS requirements. Read MoreGuest Column: Important Information Regarding Workers Compensation Rates
Effective October 1, 2024 Wisconsin Workers Compensation rates will be decreasing again for the 9th consecutive year. On average, Wisconsin will see an overall 10.5% decrease, which is the largest decrease compared to 8.39% received in 2023 and 8.46% in 2017. Senior Living providers fared even better.... Read MoreICYMI: Unlock Excellence: 2025 Quality Award Applications Are Now Available
The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living's National Quality Award Program announced the opening of the 2025 application cycle! Access the new and enhanced educational materials on the Quality Award website to set yourself on the path to success. Read MoreNew Video Available: Introducing the Adult Long-term Care Waiver Service Provider Enrollment Project
Beginning in September 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) will require all adult long-term care waiver service providers to enroll with Wisconsin Medicaid through the ForwardHealth Portal. DHS introduced this video last week to introduce providers to the basics of the project and help them understand how the project will affect providers. Read MoreImportant New Resource From Pathway Health: Nursing Facility Mandatory Minimum Staffing Rule – Expanded Facility Assessment
CMS mandates long-term care facilities to complete a Facility Assessment as outlined in F838 and the Minimum Staffing Standards Final Rule. Pathway's Facility Assessment Toolkit © offers comprehensive resources, including templates, data collection tools, policy and procedure templates, recruitment and retention plan templates, person-centered staffing interactive tools, audit tools, and staff education materials. Read MoreGuest Column: Important Information Regarding Workers Compensation Rates
Effective October 1, 2024 Wisconsin Workers Compensation rates will be decreasing again for the 9th consecutive year. On average, Wisconsin will see an overall 10.5% decrease, which is the largest decrease compared to 8.39% received in 2023 and 8.46% in 2017. Senior Living providers fared even better.... Read MoreICYMI: Unlock Excellence: 2025 Quality Award Applications Are Now Available
The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living's National Quality Award Program announced the opening of the 2025 application cycle! Access the new and enhanced educational materials on the Quality Award website to set yourself on the path to success. Read MoreICYMI: AHCA/NCAL names new President and CEO
As you may know, Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), will be retiring at the end of 2024 after a very successful 14 year tenure in the job. This week, the AHCA/NCAL Board selected Clif Porter to succeed Mark as President and CEO. Read MoreFor your consideration: Participation in a Wisconsin-specific employee compensation survey and subsequent report
WHCA/WiCAL will be partnering with LeadingAge Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association on a Wisconsin facility-specific compensation survey. LeadingAge has contracted with “the Management Association (MRA)”, to disseminate the survey link, collate the salary and benefit information and assemble the final report. Read MoreTo all licensed healthcare professionals (NHA, RN, LPN, etc.) – Please read the important message that follows from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) – Wisconsin’s professional licensing agency
This past week, LicensE account subscriptions were upgraded. This upgrade requires you to change the password associated with your LicensE account(s). Please take this necessary action to reestablish access to your LicensE account. Read MoreHelp Wanted at WHCA/WiCAL: Vice President – Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs
As we have previously reported, Jim Stoa, our Vice President for Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs, recently departed WHCA/WiCAL for a new position. We have developed a job description for Jim’s position for your review and consideration. Read MoreRegister to Attend the Women of LTC Leadership Symposium
In the United States, nearly 90% of the long-term care workforce is comprised of women. Yet, less than 20% of all long-term care leadership roles are held by women. The future stability and successes of the long-term care sector will be dependent on strong leadership. This is why it's crucial for this sector to actively support and empower its largest workforce: the women of long-term care. Read MoreLast Call for Ads for the 2024 Business Partner Showcase
We will be publishing the 2024 Business Partner Showcase on July 19th! This offers you and your business the opportunity to provide a full-page ad for FREE! Please get your ads submitted by 5:00 pm CST TODAY to be included in the showcase.
Read MoreTo all licensed healthcare professionals (NHA, RN, LPN, etc.) – Please read the important message that follows from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) – Wisconsin’s professional licensing agency
This past week, LicensE account subscriptions were upgraded. This upgrade requires you to change the password associated with your LicensE account(s). Please take this necessary action to reestablish access to your LicensE account. Read MoreHelp Wanted at WHCA/WiCAL: Vice President – Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs
As we have previously reported, Jim Stoa, our Vice President for Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs, recently departed WHCA/WiCAL for a new position. We have developed a job description for Jim’s position for your review and consideration. Read MoreFacility employee education and training needs assessment
The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay is heading up an initiative to request all health care providers share their education and training needs in the areas of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. To follow you will find a link to a survey that you can complete if you wish to do so. Read MoreFrom AHCA/NCAL: Upcoming webinar series on building a long term care workforce in your facilities
This year, AHCA/NCAL will hold a webinar series focused on workforce-related matters impacting long term care (LTC) providers across the country. This series will focus on issues including: Career ladders, Getting more youth interested in the LTC field, and Hiring immigrants and refugees. Read MoreFor your consideration: Participation in a Wisconsin-specific employee compensation survey and subsequent report
WHCA/WiCAL will be partnering with LeadingAge Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association on a Wisconsin facility-specific compensation survey. LeadingAge has contracted with “the Management Association (MRA)”, to disseminate the survey link, collate the salary and benefit information and assemble the final report. Read MoreFrom our national affiliate, AHCA/NCAL: First six months of 2024 in review
Mark Parkinson, CEO, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living, provides and update on issues impacting upon the long term care sector during the first six months of 2024. Read MoreFree Nursing Home Training Opportunity – Deadline is August 31st!
WHCA/WiCAL partnered with LeadingAge Wisconsin and MetaStar on a federal grant to provide free education and training in pressure injuries and diabetic foot ulcers in August 2022. There are still training opportunities available before the grant ends on August 31st. Read MoreDirect Care Workforce Funding 2024 Payment Adjustments Due to Error
In 2022, almost 500 providers received more direct care workforce funding (DCWF) than they should have. Lakeland Care, Inc., one of the managed care organizations (MCOs) the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) relies on to confirm data used to calculate the payments, made a mistake that caused this. Read MoreImportant WHCA/WiCAL Staff News
There have been two recent staff changes at WHCA/WiCAL pertaining to Jim Stoa, Vice President – Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs and Kate Battiato, Vice President – Workforce Development. Read MoreTo all AHCA/NCAL 2024 Bronze and Silver Quality Award Recipients
Please read the message below from our national affiliate, AHCA/NCAL, regarding an Award Plaque scam. Read MoreImportant and Helpful Resources from Wisconsin’s Quality Improvement Organization: Superior Health Quality Alliance
We encourage all healthcare providers and facilities to take advantage of these valuable resources from Superior Health Quality Alliance. Read MoreImportant guidance on Legionnaire’s Disease from the Wisconsin Division of Public Health
This time of year is typically when an increase in legionellosis cases begins in Wisconsin. We need your help with diagnosing and reporting cases of Legionnaires' disease to promptly determine sources of exposure to Legionella so that we can prevent further infections. Read MoreImportant Resources from Superior Health Quality Alliance – Wisconsin’s Quality Improvement Organization (QIO)
We encourage all healthcare providers and facilities to take advantage of these valuable resources from Superior Health Quality Alliance. Read MoreWHCA/WiCAL Congratulates Wisconsin’s 24 Bronze Quality Award Winners for 2024!
Sponsored by our national partner, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the National Quality Awards Program is a progressive, quality improvement program that is based on the Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence. Participants begin their excellence journey at the Bronze level and are then eligible to progress to Silver and Gold levels. For 2024, Wisconsin has 24 Bronze Award recipients. Read MoreSNF Members: Check Your LTC Trend Tracker Top-Line Report for Minimum Staffing Data
In response to the publication of the final CMS minimum staffing requirement rule, AHCA/NCAL has issued a special edition of the LTC Trend Tracker Top-Line Report. The LTC Trend Tracker is a free service available to all AHCA/NCAL members. Read MoreSNF Members: Check Your LTC Trend Tracker Top-Line Report for Minimum Staffing Data
In response to the publication of the final CMS minimum staffing requirement rule, AHCA/NCAL has issued a special edition of the LTC Trend Tracker Top-Line Report. The LTC Trend Tracker is a free service available to all AHCA/NCAL members. Read MoreICYMI: Important Upcoming Enhanced Barrier Precautions Educational Opportunities
In last week’s Care Connection, we advised of an upcoming CDC Townhall webinar on Enhanced Barrier Precautions to take place on Wednesday May 22nd at noon central time. In addition, our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living, will be hosting CDC representatives for additional education and discussion on Wednesday, June 5th at 1:00 Central. Read MoreFrom our colleagues at the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative - Mental Health Wellness Training and Education
Amid Mental Health Awareness Month, Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative offers crucial training on Mental Health First Aid. Learn how this initiative equips individuals to recognize, support, and guide those suffering from mental health and substance abuse challenges. Read MoreICYMI: Important Educational Opportunity Discussing Enhanced Barrier Precautions
The Wisconsin Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Prevention Program invites you to a presentation on May 22nd, 12–1 p.m. Learn about multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBPs), and get answers to common questions. Read MoreU.S. Department of Labor issues final Overtime Rule update; Federal Trade Commission issues final rule prohibiting almost all Non-Compete Clauses in Employment Contracts
On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC’s) Final Non-Compete Rule and U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) Overtime Rule were released. Our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living, has done a very helpful analysis of both rules. Read MoreICYMI: ahcancalED – Education Solutions
Our national affiliate, AHCA/NCAL, shared April's ahcancalED News which highlighted the latest training and resources to help long-term care professionals improve lives by delivering solutions for quality care. Read MoreICYMI: Wisconsin Caregiver Project Training Needs Survey – Please Complete by April 19
Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) is collaborating with the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Center for Community Development, Engagement & Training (CCDET) to ensure regulated health care providers have access to education to build the needed knowledge and skills to provide the required care, treatment, and services. Your feedback is requested regarding the available training and your future training needs via this quick 8-question survey. Please complete this survey by Friday, April 19, 2024. Read MoreICYMI: Important information and education from our national affiliate, AHCA/NCAL, on changes in COVID-19 vaccine reporting to take effect on April 1
The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) will host a webinar on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. ET, providing an overview of important updates to the definition of long term care reporting for COVID-19 vaccines. Read MoreICYMI: Important education and training opportunities from Superior Health Quality Alliance, Wisconsin’s Quality Improvement Organization (QIO)
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares important learning opportunities and resources to improve care. Read MoreICYMI: NHSN Changing "Up to Date" Definition for LTC COVID-19 Vaccine Reporting
The National Healthcare Safety Network is changing the definition of "up to date" for COVID-19 vaccine reporting in long term care beginning Quarter 2 of 2024 (week of April 1, 2024). This change, which reflects the latest guidance from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), aims to ensure the most effective vaccine protection for individuals, especially those aged 65 years and older. Read MoreICYMI: Important education and training opportunities from Superior Health Quality Alliance, Wisconsin’s Quality Improvement Organization (QIO)
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares important learning opportunities and resources to improve care. Read MoreReligious and Spiritual Services in Long Term Care – Please participate
As we have previously reported, WHCA/WiCAL is partnering with Saint Mary’s College/Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana and the Transforming Chaplaincy Project on a study that will examine the extent of religious and spiritual care services in long-term care. The study’s goal is to describe, inform, and educate. Facilities received the survey link on or about March 7th. We urge your participation. Read MoreICYMI: Important update from AHCA/NCAL on Change Healthcare Cybersecurity Breach – Impact on Long Term Care Providers
As shared previously, UnitedHealth Group Inc.’s technology subsidiary Change Healthcare announced that its systems were adversely affected by a security incident a few weeks ago. CMS has taken steps to expand financial relief opportunities for impacted providers. Read MoreICYMI: U.S. House Ways And Means Committee Advances Protecting America’s Seniors’ Access To Care Act
As you are likely aware, the Protecting America's Seniors' Access to Care Act (H.R. 7513) passed out of the U.S. Ways and Means Committee yesterday morning. The most important development was that it passed out of committee on a bipartisan vote with the support of Vice Chairwoman Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL). Read MoreICYMI: Important update from AHCA/NCAL on Change Healthcare Cybersecurity Breach - Impact on Long Term Care Providers
On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, UnitedHealth Group Inc.’s technology subsidiary Change Healthcare announced that its systems were adversely affected by a security incident. AHCA/NCAL has provided an update on the impact on long term and post-acute care communities. Read MoreICYMI: From AHCA/NCAL: Important clarification to recent CDC updated respiratory guidance: Does not apply to nursing facilities settings but does apply to assisted living settings
The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) issued updated guidance for respiratory viruses in community settings. The CDC’s Respiratory Virus Guidance is intended for a general audience and community settings, including assisted living communities. It does not apply to health care settings, including nursing homes. Read MoreICYMI: Important update from AHCA/NCAL on the Change Healthcare Cybersecurity Breach
Earlier this week, AHCA/NCAL sent an email informing members that on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, UnitedHealth Group Inc.’s technology subsidiary Change Healthcare announced that its systems were adversely affected by a security incident. There may be a risk that many providers may encounter difficulties in submitting and being paid for claims through vendors that have been using Change Healthcare clearinghouse services. Read MoreICYMI: Important upcoming webinar on recently adopted U.S. Department of Labor regulation on Independent Contractor classification
Our national affiliate, AHCA/NCAL, will be hosting a live webinar on Friday, March 8th, at 12:00 PM CST regarding the recently adopted U.S. Department of Labor regulation on Independent Contractor classification. The webinar is free to all AHCA/NCAL members. Register HERE! Read MoreImportant Study on Religious and Spiritual Services in Long Term Care – Please participate
WHCA/WiCAL is partnering with Saint Mary’s College/Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana and the Transforming Chaplaincy Project on a study that will examine the extent of religious and spiritual care services in long-term care. The study’s goal is to describe, inform, and educate. You can expect to receive the survey link shortly. Each nursing home or assisted living center that completes a survey will be entered into a raffle for a $200 gift card Read MoreWelcome Corps At Work – Refugee Talent Connection
Welcome Corps At Work is a national program that matches employers in the U.S. with skilled refugees in need of resettlement. In determining whether to explore participating in Welcome Corps At Work, there are several points to consider. Read MoreICYMI: Important and Useful Resources from our partners at the Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shared a variety of useful resources for healthcare facilities and providers. These resources include clarification on the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) annual survey, COVID-19 testing kits for long term care and assisted living facilities, and much more. We encourage all healthcare providers and facilities to take advantage of these valuable resources. Read MoreNew Batch of Resumes from HSHS Closure Job Fair Available
This week, WHCA/WiCAL and WisCaregiver Careers participated in a second job fair held to assist workers soon to be displaced by the upcoming HSHS closures in Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls. Staff collected resumes from the participants which are available to members upon request. Read MoreGuest Column: Cybersecurity Strategies Tailored for Senior Living and Social Services Settings
Tune in to the Candid Care Podcast to discover proactive strategies for fortifying your operations and enhancing resilience in the face of cyber incidents. On this episode, Matt Thomson, the director of cyber liability at M3, delves into the distinct cyber threats confronting your organization. Read MoreICYMI: Important and Useful Resources from our partners at the Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shared a variety of useful resources for healthcare facilities and providers. These resources include clarification on the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) annual survey, COVID-19 testing kits for long term care and assisted living facilities, and much more. We encourage all healthcare providers and facilities to take advantage of these valuable resources. Read MoreWelcome Corps At Work – Refugee Talent Connection
Welcome Corps At Work, a national program that matches employers in the U.S. with skilled refugees in need of resettlement, will be hosting a webinar on February 22nd, 2024, at 1:00 pm CST for employers interested in learning more about the program . Read MoreReminder: AHCA/NCAL’s State of the Sector Survey Closes TODAY
AHCA/NCAL is requesting that all SNF, AL, ID/DD providers complete a brief survey to assist them with gauging your operations and and how they can prioritize key issues. The survey closes today, Friday, February 16, at 7 pm CST. Read MoreICYMI: Resources from the Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares multiple resources to improve quality of care in 2024. Additionally, if your assisted living facility, independent living facility, or senior service agency in need of a free mobile vaccination clinic, Superior Health Quality Alliance can help! Read MoreNew Family Care Enrollment Portal and Information Page
Beginning in September 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) will require all adult long-term care waiver service providers to enroll with Wisconsin Medicaid through the ForwardHealth Portal. Read MoreReminder: AHCA/NCAL’s State of the Sector Survey Closes TODAY
AHCA/NCAL is requesting that all SNF, AL, ID/DD providers complete a brief survey to assist them with gauging your operations and and how they can prioritize key issues. The survey closes today, Friday, February 16, at 7 pm CST. Read MoreWelcome Corps At Work – Refugee Talent Connection
Welcome Corps At Work, a national program that matches employers in the U.S. with skilled refugees in need of resettlement, will be hosting a webinar on February 22nd, 2024, at 1:00 pm CST for employers interested in learning more about the program . Read MoreICYMI: Resources from the Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares multiple resources to improve quality of care in 2024. Additionally, if your assisted living facility, independent living facility, or senior service agency in need of a free mobile vaccination clinic, Superior Health Quality Alliance can help! Read MoreNew Family Care Enrollment Portal and Information Page
Beginning in September 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) will require all adult long-term care waiver service providers to enroll with Wisconsin Medicaid through the ForwardHealth Portal. Read MoreNew Family Care Enrollment Portal and Information Page
Beginning in September 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) will require all adult long-term care waiver service providers to enroll with Wisconsin Medicaid through the ForwardHealth Portal. Read MoreICYMI: Resources from the Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares multiple resources to improve quality of care in 2024. Additionally, if your assisted living facility, independent living facility, or senior service agency in need of a free mobile vaccination clinic, Superior Health Quality Alliance can help! Read MoreReminder: AHCA/NCAL’s State of the Sector Survey Closes TODAY
AHCA/NCAL is requesting that all SNF, AL, ID/DD providers complete a brief survey to assist them with gauging your operations and and how they can prioritize key issues. The survey closes today, Friday, February 16, at 7 pm CST. Read MoreWelcome Corps At Work – Refugee Talent Connection
Welcome Corps At Work, a national program that matches employers in the U.S. with skilled refugees in need of resettlement, will be hosting a webinar on February 22nd, 2024, at 1:00 pm CST for employers interested in learning more about the program . Read MoreResumes from HSHS Closure Job Fair Available
WHCA/WiCAL and WisCaregiver Careers participated in a job fair held to assist workers soon to be displaced by the upcoming closure of two HSHS hospitals in Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls. Resumes were collected from the participants which are available to members upon request. Read MoreICYMI: Register for Spring 2024 Caregiver Training Project Workshops
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), Division of Quality Assurance (DQA), and the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Center for Community Development, Engagement and Training (UWO CCDET) announce workshops offered in Spring 2024. Read MoreFrom our national affiliate AHCA/NCAL: Joint Employer Rule Overview: What You Need to Know
Last year, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued the final joint employer rule that broadens the NLRB's definition of employer. It rescinds a 2020 final rule issued by the previous NLRB. Employers should prepare to comply with the new rule effective February 26, 2024. Read MoreNews and Resources from Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares the latest news and resources related to immunizations, vaccination clinics, and more. Read MoreICYMI: DQA Issues Memo 24-001: Behavioral Health Providers Non-Expiring Certificates
On January 19, 2024, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) issued DQA Memo 24-001 titled Behavioral Health Providers Non-Expiring Certificates. The purpose of this memorandum is to explain the use of non-expiring certificates for Behavioral Health programs regulated by the Division of Quality Assurance, Bureau of Assisted Living, Behavioral Health Certification Section. Read MoreICYMI: Upcoming Webinar: COVID-19 Immunization Strategies for LTC
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid will host a webinar on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. ET regarding strategies to increase immunization rates in long term care. Read MoreConference Registration is Open for Everyone!
Attendees, Exhibitors, and Sponsors - Register TODAY for the 62nd Annual Spring Conference & Expo! Read MoreAHCA/NCAL President and CEO Urges Members to Apply for a National Quality Award - 8 Days Left to Apply!
The deadline to submit a 2024 National Quality Award application is next week, Thursday, January 25 at 8 p.m. EST. AHCA/NCAL President and CEO, Mark Parkinson, sends video message urging members to continue their journey towards excellence in 2024 and apply. Read MoreICYMI: Resources from the Superior Health Quality Alliance
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares multiple resources to improve quality of care in 2024. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL National Quality Award application deadline is Thursday, January 25th at 8:00 p.m. EST – Apply now!
The National Quality Awards Program, sponsored by our national affiliate, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), is a progressive program that is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. While we encouraged WHCA/WiCAL members to file the Intent to Apply, it was not a mandatory step in the selection process. All WHCA/WiCAL member nursing facilities and assisted living centers may still submit an application by the January 25th filing deadline. Read MoreICYMI: A Message from Mark Parkinson: The Recovery Continues
The AHCA/NCAL team, led by their President & CEO, Mark Parkinson, reflect on the past year and all that has been accomplished. Read MoreInfection Rates are Rising; Vaccination rates are low; Antiviral medications are available; Please read this important information
As you know and indeed may be experiencing, Influenza, RSV and COVID-19 infection rates are rising across Wisconsin, Please take the time and share with appropriate staff this communication from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Read MoreICYMI: Resources to enhance quality of care in 2024
Superior Health Quality Alliance shares multiple resources to improve quality of care in 2024. Read MoreICYMI: HHS Issues Important Cybersecurity Notice for Health Care Operators
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center has released a notice strongly encouraging health care organizations to upgrade their devices due to a vulnerability. Known as “Citrix Bleed,” this vulnerability has been ongoing since August 2023 and could allow hackers to access private health care information by bypassing passwords and multifactor authentication. Read MoreICYMI: Nursing Home Case Mix Index Rosters Available
Case mix index (CMI) resident rosters for the picture quarter ending March 31, 2023, (based on data available as of September 30, 2023) are now available on the ForwardHealth Portal. These rosters contain Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM) case mix index values for residents. Read More45 WHCA/WiCAL members register their intent to apply for AHCA/NCAL Quality Award
November 16, 2023 marked the deadline for member nursing facilities and assisted living centers to notify AHCA/NCAL of their intent to apply for a 2024 Quality Award. WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to announced that 45 of our members have filed an intent to apply. Read MoreNew Automated Preadmission Screen and Resident Review (PASRR) Process
Last week, the Department of Health Services (DHS), announced a new process for submitting PASRR Level 1 screens. The process will now be automated, rather than on paper, and resulting reimbursement will be automatic following submission. More details are available below. Read MoreGuest Column: EEOC Strategic Enforcement Plan: Considerations for Senior Living and Social Services Providers
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently released its 2024-2028 Strategic Enforcement Plan, which calls out 6 key areas that the agency is looking to prioritize. As senior living and social services organizations start to identify areas of focus for 2024, this should be on your list to review policies, procedures, and practices related to these EEOC priorities. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Quality Award Intent to Apply applications due on November 16th
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program is a progressive program that is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. Open to all WHCA/WiCAL members, participants move from the Bronze level, to Silver, and then ultimately to the Gold. Read MoreDHS Offering at No Cost COVID Surplus Items
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is inviting health care organizations, including skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, to complete a survey to request no-cost surplus supplies from the DHS warehouse. The DHS notice is set forth below in its entirety including the link to the survey. Response deadline is Monday, November 13th at 4:00 pm Central Time. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Quality Award Intent to Apply applications due on November 16th
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program is a progressive program that is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. Open to all WHCA/WiCAL members, participants move from the Bronze level, to Silver, and then ultimately to the Gold. Read More72nd Annual Fall Convention & Expo Recap
On October 18, members, partners, and post-acute care professionals gathered for the 72nd Annual Fall Convention & Expo at the beautiful Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Quality Award Intent to Apply applications due on November 16th
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program is a progressive program that is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. Open to all WHCA/WiCAL members, participants move from the Bronze level, to Silver, and then ultimately to the Gold. Read MoreICYMI: Salmonella Outbreak from Diced Onion Products Distributed in Long Term Care Settings
The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued a food safety alert regarding a Salmonella outbreak linked to Gills Onions brand fresh diced onion products. These products have been distributed to long term care facilities. Read MoreICYMI: CMS Updates MDS Manual to Correct Errors
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has posted errata updates to the Minimum Data Set Resident Assessment Instrument (MDS-RAI) Manual, version 1.18.11 on the MDS 3.0 RAI Manual page effective October 1, 2023. Provider MDS nurses and staff responsible for completing the specific sections of the MDS or Care Area Assessment (CAA) requirements impacted by this errata update should review and implement it as soon as possible. Read MoreCall for Nominations: 2024-25 AHCA Committees
Until October 19th, WHCA/WiCAL members will have the opportunity to nominate themselves and/or a colleague for service on an American Health Care Association (AHCA) committee. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Elects Board of Governors and Directors at Annual Convention
This week AHCA/NCAL, our national affiliates, held its 74th Annual Convention. The highlight and culmination of the annual convention was the election of a leadership slate for AHCA’s Board of Governors and NCAL’s Board of Directors. Read MoreGuest Column: Your Guide to Hiring Minors in Healthcare, Senior Living & Social Services
Labor shortage is an employer issue that spans across industries, but has especially impacted the healthcare, senior living, and social services industry. Many have avoided hiring minors in the past due to strict regulations that placed limitations on the tasks they are legally able to perform. These same employers are now turning to a minor workforce to fill the staffing gaps they are experiencing. Read MoreCall for Nominations: 2024-25 AHCA Committees
Until October 19th, WHCA/WiCAL members will have the opportunity to nominate themselves and/or a colleague for service on an American Health Care Association (AHCA) committee. Read MoreCongratulations to the 2023 Leadership Academy Graduates!
We are delighted to congratulate the exceptional individuals who have successfully graduated from the 2023 Leadership Academy. We will be honoring them for their outstanding achievement at our 72nd Annual Fall Convention & Expo, during our awards ceremony on October 19th at The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, WI. Read MoreCOVID-19 cases on the rise – Ensuring access to anti-viral medications
As members may have read and/or experienced, COVID cases are on the rise around the country. Given this concerning information, we followed up with the Department of Health Services, COVID-19 Therapeutics Team to confirm the process for obtaining Paxlovid and other anti-virals and to ensure that there was amply supply within Wisconsin. The Therapeutics Team has replied to Rick Abrams, WHCA/WiCAL CEO. Read MoreCall for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More Funding Opportunity to Upskill Your Workforce in Rural Counties
Are you located in a rural part of the state and struggling to recruit new employees for your facilities? At WisCaregiver Careers, we are always looking for creative opportunities to help our employer partners address workforce training challenges. While our grant funding is restricted solely to CNA training, we have recently partnered with another community organization, Collaboration of Wisconsin Rural Investment (COW), that offers additional funding aimed to expand the career training ladder for your workforce and recruit new individuals willing to work in targeted rural counties. Read MoreMedicaid to Implement Rate Reductions for Outstanding Cost Report Checklist Items
The Division of Medicaid Services (DMS) has expressed their intent to begin reducing rates, by 25%, beginning on September 1st for facilities who have not yet submitted the newly required checklist items. Read MoreOctober 1, 2023 changes to MDS/RAI: September 13th DQA Educational Forum
The Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) will be hosting a free educational forum on the upcoming changes to the MDS/RAI to take place on Wednesday, September 13th from 1-2 pm Central Time. Forum details are set forth below. Read MoreCall for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More Medicaid to Implement Rate Reductions for Outstanding Cost Report Checklist Items
The Division of Medicaid Services (DMS) has expressed their intent to begin reducing rates, by 25%, beginning on September 1st for facilities who have not yet submitted the newly required checklist items. Read MoreICYMI: Submit Your 2024 National Quality Award Intent to Apply Today!
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award program team announced that the 2024 National Quality Award Intent to Apply (ITA) is now open! Applicants who plan to apply for a National Quality Award in 2024 are encouraged to submit an ITA before the deadline on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Read MoreNominate Your Shining Star TODAY!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2023 Shining Star Awards. Shining Stars will be awarded in the following categories: Leadership, Director of Nursing, Direct Caregiver, and Support Staff. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 15. All members and partners are encouraged to submit nominations under any category and multiple nominations from a facility are welcomed! Read MoreDHS Issues CMI Adjustments and Interim Rate Information
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is announcing changes to the patient driven payment model prospective payment system case mix index (PDPM PPS CMI). This implements the parity adjustments from CMS. The parity adjustment is tied to CMS final rule 1765 and results in reduced CMIs for direct care. DHS has increased the nursing services base and other direct care supplies and services base to offset this reduction in CMIs. Read MoreResearch Participation Opportunity for South Central Wisconsin Nursing Facilities
The Crnich Research Team at the University of Wisconsin – Madison is looking to partner with skilled nursing facilities on an infectious disease study that currently studies how COVID-19 spreads within nursing homes and will eventually focus on other types of transmissible respiratory infections like influenza and RSV. They are looking for interested facilities within a 60-minute drive from Madison. Nursing homes that choose to participate will receive a modest contribution to the facility education/development fund. Read MoreCall for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More Nominate Your Shining Star TODAY!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2023 Shining Star Awards. Shining Stars will be awarded in the following categories: Leadership, Director of Nursing, Direct Caregiver, and Support Staff. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 15. All members and partners are encouraged to submit nominations under any category and multiple nominations from a facility are welcomed! Read MoreFree N95 Fit Testing Kits available for a limited time and in limited quantities
The Wisconsin Department of Health’s Healthcare-Associated Infections Prevention Program has made available a limited supply of N95 Fit Testing Kits. The information that follows provides direction on how to request the kits. A limited supply is available. Orders will be filled on a first come – first served basis. Read MoreNominate Your Shining Star TODAY!
WHCA/WiCAL is pleased to continue the tradition of celebrating the amazing work and steadfast dedication of Wisconsin’s long-term care providers with the 2023 Shining Star Awards. Shining Stars will be awarded in the following categories: Leadership, Director of Nursing, Direct Caregiver, and Support Staff. Submit your Shining Star nominations by September 15. All members and partners are encouraged to submit nominations under any category and multiple nominations from a facility are welcomed! Read MoreGuest Column: Important Information Regarding Workers Compensation Rates
Effective October 1, 2023 Wisconsin Workers Compensation rates will be decreasing again, with an overall decrease in Wisconsin by an average of 8.39%. Senior Living providers fared even better... Read MoreCall for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More Family Care Survey Due August 1
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is renewing the Family Care and Family Care Partnership waivers. A waiver is a special set of rules that allows for Medicaid programs like Family Care. The waivers must be renewed every five years. DHS is asking that providers complete a survey to help make Family Care and Family Care Partnership better between 2025 and 2030. Read MoreFamily Care Survey Due August 1
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is renewing the Family Care and Family Care Partnership waivers. A waiver is a special set of rules that allows for Medicaid programs like Family Care. The waivers must be renewed every five years. DHS is asking that providers complete a survey to help make Family Care and Family Care Partnership better between 2025 and 2030. Read MoreFamily Care Survey Due August 1
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is renewing the Family Care and Family Care Partnership waivers. A waiver is a special set of rules that allows for Medicaid programs like Family Care. The waivers must be renewed every five years. DHS is asking that providers complete a survey to help make Family Care and Family Care Partnership better between 2025 and 2030. Read MoreCall for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More Call for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More Family Care Survey Open for Providers
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is renewing the Family Care and Family Care Partnership waivers. A waiver is a special set of rules that allows for Medicaid programs like Family Care. The waivers must be renewed every five years. DHS is asking that providers complete a survey to help make Family Care and Family Care Partnership better between 2025 and 2030. Read MoreWisCaregiver Careers Hosted an Employer Touchbase on Website and Email Enhancements
This week, WisCaregiver Careers hosted an Employer Touchbase webinar on June 29thto share exciting changes to the public-facing website and candidate lead email system. We unveiled our new website, described the new candidate lead email system, and shared how employers can benefit from the plethora of resources provided to you in the Employer Portal. Read MoreCall for WHCA Board Member and WiCAL Council Member Nominations
Interested in serving the long term care profession by serving in a leadership position with the Wisconsin Health Care Association (WHCA) or the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living (WiCAL)? WHCA/WiCAL currently has vacancies on its two governing bodies.
Read More New WiCAL member benefit: Reduced tuition on Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course!
As announced at April’s Spring Conference, we have worked with our colleagues at the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA) on a great WiCAL member tuition discount on WALA’s Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course. Read MoreFINAL REMINDER! SIGN UP FOR JUNE 29th - WisCaregiver Careers Employer Touchbase NEW Employer Portal, Website Updates & More
his is a final reminder about the upcoming WisCaregiver Careers Employer Touchbase Webinar! WisCaregiver Careers will host this webinar to share exciting news as we launch our new website, employer portal, and candidate lead email system after gathering valuable input from our employers.Please share with your staff and join us for this webinar, June 29th from 10:00am to 11:00am to learn about the launch of these resources and to hear about our exciting new website and auto-email enhancements. There will be a Q & A at the end of the presentation to answer any questions you may have about WisCaregiver Careers. The date is quickly approaching, so register below today! Read MoreFrom DQA and UW-Oshkosh: Staff Training Resources
The Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) continues to collaborate with the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Center for Community Development, Engagement & Training (CCDET) to ensure regulated healthcare and homecare providers have access to education to build knowledge and skills to provide exceptional care, treatment, and services. Read MoreImportant resources to help navigate the infection prevention and control regulatory environment
With the end of the Public Health Emergency on May 11th, navigating the infection prevention and control regulatory environment within your facilities can get pretty confusing. To help navigate your way through successfully, we wanted to remind members of two very helpful resources. Read MoreWHCA/WiCAL congratulates Wisconsin’s five 2023 Silver Quality Award Winners!
Sponsored by our national partner, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the National Quality Awards Program is a progressive, quality improvement program that is based on the Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence. It is with great pleasure that WHCA/WiCAL congratulates and presents Wisconsin’s 5 2023 Silver Quality Award recipients! Read MoreWHCA/WiCAL congratulates Wisconsin’s five 2023 Silver Quality Award Winners!
Sponsored by our national partner, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the National Quality Awards Program is a progressive, quality improvement program that is based on the Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence. It is with great pleasure that WHCA/WiCAL congratulates and presents Wisconsin’s 5 2023 Silver Quality Award recipients! Read MoreFrom DQA and UW-Oshkosh: Staff Training Resources
The Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) continues to collaborate with the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Center for Community Development, Engagement & Training (CCDET) to ensure regulated healthcare and homecare providers have access to education to build knowledge and skills to provide exceptional care, treatment, and services. Read MoreImportant resources to help navigate the infection prevention and control regulatory environment
With the end of the Public Health Emergency on May 11th, navigating the infection prevention and control regulatory environment within your facilities can get pretty confusing. To help navigate your way through successfully, we wanted to remind members of two very helpful resources. Read MoreFINAL REMINDER! SIGN UP FOR JUNE 29th - WisCaregiver Careers Employer Touchbase NEW Employer Portal, Website Updates & More
his is a final reminder about the upcoming WisCaregiver Careers Employer Touchbase Webinar! WisCaregiver Careers will host this webinar to share exciting news as we launch our new website, employer portal, and candidate lead email system after gathering valuable input from our employers.Please share with your staff and join us for this webinar, June 29th from 10:00am to 11:00am to learn about the launch of these resources and to hear about our exciting new website and auto-email enhancements. There will be a Q & A at the end of the presentation to answer any questions you may have about WisCaregiver Careers. The date is quickly approaching, so register below today! Read MoreREMINDER SAVE THE DATE JUNE 29TH - WisCaregiver Careers Employer Touchbase
This is a reminder about the upcoming WisCaregiver Careers Employer Touchbase. Please share with all of your staff who engage on the CNA Training or WisCaregiver Careers program at your facility! WisCaregiver Careers will be hosting a webinar to share exciting news as we launch our new employer website portal and email system after gathering critical employer feedback. Join WisCaregiver staff for a webinar June 29th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. to learn about the launch of the new employer portal full of helpful employer resources and to hear about the exciting new website and candidate lead auto-email enhancements. Read MoreMedication Aide Certification Requirements
One of our business partners, Healthcare Workforce Training Institute, recently brought to our attention a misunderstanding by some nursing facilities of what constitutes appropriate medication aide certification training for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) in a nursing facility setting. Some facilities believe that the 14 hours of training required in the Community Based Residential Facility (CBRF) setting is sufficient for the nursing facility. This is incorrect. Read MoreWHCA/WiCAL’s most recent quarterly meeting with the Division of Quality Assurance – What you need to know
WHCA/WiCAL staff recently met with the Department of Health Services, Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) staff for its regularly scheduled quarterly meeting. Read more to find important meeting highlights. Read MoreNew WiCAL member benefit: Reduced tuition on Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course!
As announced at April’s Spring Conference, we have worked with our colleagues at the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA) on a great WiCAL member tuition discount on WALA’s Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course. Read MoreWHCA/WiCAL congratulates Wisconsin’s 11 2023 Bronze Quality Award Winners!
Sponsored by our national partner, American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the National Quality Awards Program is a progressive, quality improvement program that is based on the Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence. It is with great pleasure that WHCA/WiCAL congratulates and presents Wisconsin’s 11 2023 bronze Quality Award recipients! Read MoreICYMI: Save the Dates: DQA’s 2023 FOCUS Conference, November 15-16, 2023!
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), Division of Quality Assurance (DQA), is hosting the 23rd annual FOCUS Conference for health care providers and DQA staff on November 15th and 16th, 2023. The 2-day conference will be held at the Kalahari Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells. The Focus 2023 Conference is being developed in collaboration with the Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long Term Care, health care providers, and provider association representatives. Read MoreCMS Final Rule Removes COVID-19 Testing and Staff Vaccination Requirements
On May 31, 2023, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a final rule, “Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Policy and Regulatory Changes to the Omnibus COVID-19 Health Care Staff Vaccination Requirements; Additional Policy and Regulatory Changes to the Requirements for Long-Term Care (LTC) Facilities and Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities (ICFs-IID) to Provide COVID-19 Vaccine Education and Offer Vaccinations to Residents, Clients, and Staff; Policy and Regulatory Changes to the Long Term Care Facility COVID-19 Testing Requirements.” Read MoreYou are not in this alone: remember, WHCA/WiCAL is here to help!
Dear members: Your association serves many functions, encapsulated in the three pillars of WHCA/WiCAL: Advocacy, Education, and Excellence. The last two are critically important, and we are always thriving to provide current, useful Educational opportunities, as well has working with providers (SNF and AL) to advance high standards of Excellence for the care and services you provide. Read MoreSupply Chain Sources for COVID Testing Supplies and NHSN Reporting Post Public Health Emergency
Wisconsin’s Quality Improvement Organization, Superior Health Quality Alliance/Metastar, continues to be a valuable and free resource to members. Superior will be offering a series of “office hour” sessions focused on National Health Safety Network (NHSN) reporting post-Public Health Emergency. Additionally, Navigator can be a partner to supply you with COVID testing and related supplies. Read MoreICYMI: From the Department of Health Services: Guidance on Converting an existing building or structure to a Community-Based Residential Facility.
On May 5, 2023, the Division of Quantity Assurance (DQA) released memo 23-001 titled CBRF: Requirements for Newly Licensed Existing Structures. This memo replaced DQA Memo 14-007 with updated direction and contacts. The purpose of this memo is to provide the regulatory requirements regarding the conversion of an existing building or structure to a newly licensed CBRF. Read MoreNew WiCAL member benefit: Reduced tuition on Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course!
As announced last week at the WHCA/WiCAL Spring Conference, we have worked with our colleagues at the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA) on a great WiCAL member tuition discount on WALA’s Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course. Read MoreMasking Resource: Post-COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Effective May 11, 2023, the federal COVID-19 public health emergency ended. The use of source control (masking) is no longer tied to community transmission levels. To help clarify when source control is appropriate in health care settings, Superior Health Quality Alliance developed this Source Control Assessment: Guide for Mask Use in Health Care Settings. Your health care setting can use this resource when making decisions about source control for residents, patients, visitors and health care workers. Read MoreWisCaregiver Careers Funding Continues Beyond End of Emergency Health Order
The federal government announced the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency ended on May 11. The end of the Public Health Emergency did not end funding for WisCaregiver Careers though. WisCaregiver Careers funding will continue into 2024. Our ever-growing network of 270+ skilled nursing home facility partners will continue to qualify for reimbursements for CNA training, certification, and retention at least through April 30, 2024. Read MoreNew WiCAL member benefit: Reduced tuition on Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course!
As announced last week at the WHCA/WiCAL Spring Conference, we have worked with our colleagues at the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA) on a great WiCAL member tuition discount on WALA’s Chapter 83 CBRF Administrator Training Course. Read MoreCNA Training Lockout Fix Reintroduced in Congress
Bipartisan legislation to address a critical shortage of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) has been reintroduced in Congress. Reps. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) and Gerry Connolly (D-Virginia) introduced the Ensuring Seniors' Access to Quality Care Act, which would allow nursing homes that have been forced to suspend in-house CNA training programs after receiving a certain level of penalties to resume those programs once quality standards are met. Read MoreICYMI: Long-Time LeadingAge WI CEO Retires, New CEO Named
Jim Orheim accepted the role of President/CEO with LeadingAge Wisconsin and officially joined their team on May 1st. Read MoreShellie Sonnentag honored with Impact Award
We are pleased to report that Shellie Sonnentag, DNP, AGPCNP, CD, NHA, RAC-CTA, WCC, QCP, was recently honored with the Impact Award at the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Annual Conference. Read MoreICYMI: U.S. State Department Freezes Visa Petitions Impacting International Nurses
In case you missed it, last week in its May Visa Bulletin, the State Department indicated a green card freeze impacting international nurses, at a time when the long term care profession desperately needs more nurses.
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