IHCA Lunch & Learn Series - Are Falls with Major Injury Getting You Down?

Description

Falls with Major Injury have long been a critical focus for Skilled Nursing Facilities. In the last year, CMS has elevated its importance through significant updates to definitions in the RAI User’s Manual, the release of new hybrid Quality Measure specifications, and expanded use of the measure to help surveyors identify and prioritize Special Focus Facilities. This session will break down the updated definitions, clarify the intent behind CMS’s changes, and explore the proposed specifications for the new Quality Measure. By understanding how these updates influence documentation, coding, and survey readiness, SNFs can better position themselves for accuracy, compliance, and improved resident outcomes. 

Presenters:
Michelle Stork, M.A., CCC-SLP, RAC-CT, RAC-CTA, QCP
Vice President of Clinical Services, Elevate Therapy Consulting Group 

Michelle is a speech-language pathologist with more than 30 years of experience focused on improving communication, swallowing, and the quality of life across the lifespan. She has worked in a diverse range of settings in both the U.S. and the U.K. including acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing, pediatrics, and early intervention. Michelle is well-versed in Medicare documentation, MDS 3.0 and RAI guidelines. In her current role as VP of Clinical Services, her primary focus is assisting clientele with bridging the gap between clinical excellence, regulatory compliance, and reimbursement. 

Liz Barlow, RN, CRRN, RAC-CT, DNS-CT, QCP
Senior Director of Quality, Elevate Therapy Consulting Group 

Liz is a Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) with more than 30 years of experience in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) industry, with a strong focus on rehabilitation and post-acute care. Throughout her career, she has held a range of senior leadership roles, including Vice President of Clinical Services and Vice President of Marketing. Passionate about education, Liz has dedicated much of her professional life to teaching and mentoring healthcare professionals across the post-acute continuum. In her current role as Senior Director of Quality, she partners with clients to strengthen clinical performance through accurate MDS coding, focused attention to quality measures, and targeted education and training that support interdisciplinary collaboration and high-quality, person-centered care.