The countdown begins: PDPM is set to debut in six short months | SpecialtyRx
March 28, 2019
Prepare for PDPM in 3 easy steps

 

The countdown begins: PDPM is set to debut in six short months

Get your three-step roadmap for smooth transitioning

Over the past year, SpecialtyRx has brought you the latest developments related to PDPM, or the new Patient-Driven Payment Model spearheaded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. It’s a dramatic change sure to rock the industry.

A new way to pay

According to the agency, the initiative is a “case-mix classification system for classifying skilled nursing facility (SNF) patients in a Medicare Part A covered stay into payment groups under the SNF Prospective Payment System.” Instead of payments being based on volume or intensity of therapies (as in the current system), the new program will determine payment using patient’s unique characteristics, goals and needs.

In other words, you will need to step up your game and ensure patients are put at the center of care. And if you don’t? Be prepared to pay the consequences.

While this huge culture change has many facilities scrambling to restructure, most recognize its wonderful benefits and have been slowly implementing modifications since last summer. Aſter all, PDPM not only supports patient outcomes—it also alleviates administrative burden on the part of skilled-nursing providers.

So, whether you’re late to the party or simply in need of some last-minute inspiration, check out these 3 tips for a successful shiſt to PDPM.

Reflect patients in your care plans

All too oſten, residents’ rights are ignored in the course of long-term care. As seniors continue to age under your watch, advocates stress the importance of honoring their unique preferences and personalities. You can do so by integrating the Seven Domains of Well-Being into your care plans, and by finding concrete ways to measure staff’s application. Here’s your Eden Alternative® refresher:

Identity – having personhood, individuality and a history
Growth – continued development, enrichment & expansion
Autonomy – liberty, self-governance and freedom of choice
Security – freedom from anxiety, doubt, fear & uncertainty
Connectedness – feeling engaged and a sense of belonging
Meaning – feeling significance, heart, purpose and value
Joy – happiness, delight, contentment and enjoyment

Pay attention to caregivers’ attitudes

When assessed under PDPM, your staff will have to exhibit all the person-centered values discussed above. For individuals working in the industry for years, habits can be tough to break. How can you help staff refocus their energies and improve patient interactions?

  • Never administer care without patient acknowledgment
  • Have staff introduce themselves by name and job title
  • Tell patients about the details of their therapies Remind caregivers to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.

Invest in ongoing education

The new model isn’t going to introduce itself! Remember that there will be a learning curve, and both current and new staff will require formal instruction to help them embrace the new model’s person-centered approach. In addition to formal trainings, go above and beyond to encourage and reward staff for their efforts.

  • Give incentives, or even small ‘thank you’ notes of acknowledgment, when staff go out of their way to serve a patient with dignity and respect.
  • Start a recognition program in your facility to further establish your commitment to patient-centered care.
  • Facilitate one-on-one time with patients and staff outside of regular care, such as an interactive activity during team members’ initial orientation.