New Notifications
This week’s SNF news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA’s Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities.
CURRENT EVENTS CLINICAL AND REGULATORY
- The new CMS emphasis on falls: What clinical nurse leaders need to know
- NHSN changes "up to date" definition for COVID-19 vaccination
- CMS issues memo outlining revisions to State Operations Manual – Chapters 5 and 7
- CDC launches Sepsis Prevention Assessment Tool
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin for Jan. 21 and Feb. 4
- MDS expertise without adding permanent staff
- Spring Conference | March 25-26
- Activity professionals can enter to win a free Spring Conference registration
- MDS Principles | Feb. 25-26
- Frontline Workforce Solutions - Retention, Supervision and Staffing in Long-Term Care | Feb. 26
- DON Fundamentals | March 2-3
- Dedicated LPN-IV Certification Course sessions now available
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 13, 2026
This week’s AL news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA’s Member Update specifically for assisted living communities.
CLINICAL AND REGULATORY MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE UPCOMING EDUCATION
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 13, 2026
Home care news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA’s Member Update specifically for home care providers.
CLINICAL AND REGULATORY MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE UPCOMING EDUCATION
- Spring Conference | March 25-26
- Documentation Reimagined - How AI is Reshaping Home Health Operations | March 10
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 13, 2026
This week’s clinical news
This week’s clinical news In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA’s Member Update specifically for nurses.
CURRENT EVENTS CLINICAL AND REGULATORY
- The new CMS emphasis on falls: What clinical nurse leaders need to know
- NHSN changes "up to date" definition for COVID-19 vaccination
- CMS issues memo outlining revisions to State Operations Manual – Chapters 5 and 7
- CDC launches Sepsis Prevention Assessment Tool
- Spring Conference | March 25-26
- MDS Principles | Feb. 25-26
- Frontline Workforce Solutions - Retention, Supervision and Staffing in Long-Term Care | Feb. 26
- DON Fundamentals | March 2-3
- Documentation Reimagined - How AI is Reshaping Home Health Operations | March 10
- In-person ALMC Program and AL Regulatory class in April
- Dedicated LPN-IV Certification Course sessions now available
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 13, 2026
This week's SNF news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities.
CURRENT EVENTS
- Next Wednesday: Medicare Review – 2026 Update and Operational Reality
- Spring Conference registration is now open
- SING platform update
- CMS updates Special Focus Facility Program
- The Compliance Store resource highlight: Immediate jeopardy removal plan templates
- Iowa DHHS hosts monthly infection prevention open office hours
- Everything you need for OSHA respiratory protection compliance
- Federal shutdown ends; Surveys and enforcement resume
- IHCA Day on the Hill on March 4
- Upcoming legislative town halls
- Iowa ranks third nationally for AHCA/NCAL Quality Award applications
- SNF Provider Preview Reports now available
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 6, 2026
This week's AL news
AL news from this week In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living communities. CURRENT EVENTS
CLINICAL AND REGULATORY NEW WEB RESOURCES LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT QUALITY IMPROVEMENT UPCOMING EDUCATIONPosted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 6, 2026
This week's home care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers.
CURRENT EVENTS CLINICAL AND REGULATORY LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT UPCOMING EDUCATION
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 6, 2026
This week's clinical news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for nurses.
CURRENT EVENTS
- Next Wednesday: Medicare Review – 2026 Update and Operational Reality
- Spring Conference registration is now open
- SING platform update
- CMS updates Special Focus Facility Program
- The Compliance Store resource highlight: Immediate jeopardy removal plan templates
- Iowa DHHS hosts monthly infection prevention open office hours
- Everything you need for OSHA respiratory protection compliance
- Iowa DHHS LTC Healthcare Associated Infections Office Hours – 2026
- Summary of Required Training – Assisted Living Programs
- Iowa ranks third nationally for AHCA/NCAL Quality Award applications
- SNF Provider Preview Reports now available
- IHCA's Infection Prevention and Control Series on Feb. 17-18
- MDS Principles on Feb. 25-26
- Frontline Workforce Solutions on Feb. 26
- DON Fundamentals – A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders on March 2-3
- Webinar on March 10: Documentation Reimagined – How AI is Reshaping Home Health Operations
- In-person ALMC Program and AL Regulatory class in April
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
February 6, 2026
Medicare for Home Health Boot Camp
Good morning! Annette Lee and I are working on putting together a Medicare for Home Health Boot Camp event in 2026, and we need your input! Please answer the question below. How would you prefer to attend the Medicare for Home Health Boot Camp event? Thank you!
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
February 3, 2026
SNF news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities.
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
- CMS begins SNF data validation process
- CMS releases new online provider complaint form for MA plans
- Personal Needs allowance and supplemental Personal Needs payments
- SNF QRP Provider Preview Reports now accessible in iQIES
- CMS posts updates to the Nursing Home Five-Star Quality Rating System Technical Users' Guide
- Medicare Review – 2026 Update and Operational Reality on Feb. 11
- IHCA's Infection Prevention and Control Series on Feb. 17-18
- MDS Principles on Feb. 25-26
- Frontline Workforce Solutions on Feb. 26
- LPN-IV Certification Course in Cedar Rapids starts online on April 1
- Now available on-demand: State and Federal Regulations – What is the Activity Director’s Responsibility?
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 30, 2026
Assisted living news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living communities.
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE EDUCATION
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 30, 2026
Home care news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers.
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 30, 2026
Clinical news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for nurses.
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
- January AL survey trend report now available; Insufficiency-free surveys
- Getting started with The Compliance Store
- CMS begins SNF data validation process
- Iowa Total Care Provider Alert: HCBS provider documentation needed during member visits
- CMS releases new online provider complaint form for MA plans
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 30, 2026
Time Correction: AL Provider Update Call Today (1–2 p.m.)
Hi all, We want to clarify the time for today’s Assisted Living Provider Update Call. Yesterday’s email listed the incorrect time.
Correct time: Today, Wednesday, Jan. 28 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
All other details remain the same.
Call-In Information Wednesday, Jan. 28 Time: 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Click on this link to join by computer: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88264396255
One tap mobile: +16465588656,,88264396255#,,,,*901096# US +13017158592,,88264396255#,,,,*901096# US
Meeting ID: 882 6439 6255 Passcode: 901096
Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to connecting with you this afternoon.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 28, 2026
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 28, 2026
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 28, 2026
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 28, 2026
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 28, 2026
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 28, 2026
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 28, 2026
Medicare for Home Health Boot Camp
Good morning!
Annette Lee and I are working on putting together a Medicare for Home Health Boot Camp event in 2026, and we need your input! Please answer the question below.
How would you prefer to attend the Medicare for Home Health Boot Camp event?
Thank you!
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
January 27, 2026
SNF news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. -------------------- REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
- CDC webinar next Tuesday: Preventing and Responding to Respiratory Infections and Outbreaks in LTC
- Reminder: CLIA program going paperless by March 2026
- MDRO tabletop exercises this spring
- January SNF survey trend report now available; Deficiency-free surveys
- On-demand Compliance Store demo is now available
- Reminder: CCRC annual registration due March 1
- SNF Medicare Provider Enrollment troubleshooting tip sheet
- A smarter way to manage Medicaid applications in 2026
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 23, 2026
Assisted living news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living communities. ---------------------------------------------- REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE EDUCATIONPosted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 23, 2026
Clinical news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for nurses. ---------------------------------------------- REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
- CDC webinar next Tuesday: Preventing and Responding to Respiratory Infections and Outbreaks in LTC
- Reminder: CLIA program going paperless by March 2026
- MDRO tabletop exercises this spring
- January SNF survey trend report now available; Deficiency-free surveys
- On-demand Compliance Store demo is now available
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 23, 2026
Emergency Preparedness E-039
Just a friendly reminder!
With the weather forecast today and through the weekend, this may be an appropriate opportunity to activate elements of your Emergency Preparedness Plan, if conditions warrant. Hopefully, no one experiences a serious emergency.
CMS regulations are not prescriptive about the severity of an event, nor do they require an actual disaster—only that facilities plan, respond, and evaluate based on credible scenarios or events.
If the Emergency Preparedness Plan is activated, consider reviewing the response at your next scheduled meeting, discussing what went well and what could be improved, and completing an after-action report.
This activity may be counted as one of your required annual exercises, provided it meets the intent of the regulation and is properly documented.
Stay safe!
Ryan Matheney, CFPS
Life Safety Consultant
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 23, 2026
Emergency Preparedness E-0039
Just a friendly reminder!
With the weather forecast today and through the weekend, this may be an appropriate opportunity to activate elements of your Emergency Preparedness Plan, if conditions warrant. Hopefully, no one experiences a serious emergency.
CMS regulations are not prescriptive about the severity of an event, nor do they require an actual disaster—only that facilities plan, respond, and evaluate based on credible scenarios or events.
If the Emergency Preparedness Plan is activated, consider reviewing the response at your next scheduled meeting, discussing what went well and what could be improved, and completing an after-action report.
This activity may be counted as one of your required annual exercises, provided it meets the intent of the regulation and is properly documented.
Stay safe!
Ryan Matheney, CFPS
Life Safety Consultant
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
January 23, 2026
Quality Award deadline extension – Deadline now 1/29
AHCA/NCAL was made aware of a nationwide Microsoft system outage that occurred on Jan. 22, 2026. This outage may have affected some members’ ability to submit their AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award applications. To ensure that all members can submit their Quality Award applications and payments, AHCA is extending the submission deadline one week to Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Starting on Monday, January 26, members can log into the Quality Award Portal and complete their application submission.
A few helpful reminders:
- Not all applicants have been affected, and many applications have been received. To verify that your application has already been submitted, you can do one of the following:
- Confirm that you received a confirmation email titled “2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Application and Payment Confirmation” from [email protected].
- Log into the Quality Award Portal, select Current Applications and confirm the status of your 2026 application is “Submitted.”
- All applications and payments must be submitted through the Quality Award Portal.
- If you encounter any problems with the portal, the Quality Award Portal Resource Center provides a variety of help documents. You’re also always welcome to reach out to AHCA’s Quality Award team with questions.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 23, 2026
Quality Award deadline extension – Deadline now 1/29
AHCA/NCAL was made aware of a nationwide Microsoft system outage that occurred on Jan. 22, 2026. This outage may have affected some members’ ability to submit their AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award applications. To ensure that all members can submit their Quality Award applications and payments, AHCA is extending the submission deadline one week to Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Starting on Monday, January 26, members can log into the Quality Award Portal and complete their application submission.
A few helpful reminders:
- Not all applicants have been affected, and many applications have been received. To verify that your application has already been submitted, you can do one of the following:
- Confirm that you received a confirmation email titled “2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Application and Payment Confirmation” from [email protected].
- Log into the Quality Award Portal, select Current Applications and confirm the status of your 2026 application is “Submitted.”
- All applications and payments must be submitted through the Quality Award Portal.
- If you encounter any problems with the portal, the Quality Award Portal Resource Center provides a variety of help documents. You’re also always welcome to reach out to AHCA’s Quality Award team with questions.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 23, 2026
Quality Award deadline extension – Deadline now 1/29
AHCA/NCAL was made aware of a nationwide Microsoft system outage that occurred on Jan. 22, 2026. This outage may have affected some members’ ability to submit their AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award applications. To ensure that all members can submit their Quality Award applications and payments, AHCA is extending the submission deadline one week to Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Starting on Monday, January 26, members can log into the Quality Award Portal and complete their application submission.
A few helpful reminders:
- Not all applicants have been affected, and many applications have been received. To verify that your application has already been submitted, you can do one of the following:
- Confirm that you received a confirmation email titled “2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Application and Payment Confirmation” from [email protected].
- Log into the Quality Award Portal, select Current Applications and confirm the status of your 2026 application is “Submitted.”
- All applications and payments must be submitted through the Quality Award Portal.
- If you encounter any problems with the portal, the Quality Award Portal Resource Center provides a variety of help documents. You’re also always welcome to reach out to AHCA’s Quality Award team with questions.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 23, 2026
This week’s SNF news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities.
CURRENT EVENTS REGULATORY AND CLINICAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE WORKFORCE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 16, 2026
This week’s AL news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living communities.
CURRENT EVENTS REGULATORY AND CLINICAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 16, 2026
This week’s clinical news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for nurses.
CURRENT EVENTS REGULATORY AND CLINICAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 16, 2026
This week's SNF news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 12.0 contact hours for administrators and nurses
-
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, AL managers, department heads and activity professionals
-
- Approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators
- Iowa Total Care Provider Alert: Important prior authorization updates
- Wellcare Provider Alert: Medicare prior authorization requests transition from Evolent to Wellcare
- SNF data validation update
- DIAL seeking nominations for 2026 Governor's Award for Quality Care
- National Quality Award program applications due Jan. 22
- State and Federal Regulations Webinar – What is the Activity Director’s Responsibility? | Jan. 21
- Approved for 1.0 contact hours for activity professionals and administrators
- February LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Jan. 26
-
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
-
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
-
- Made for business office staff
-
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
-
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
-
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for administrators
-
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 9, 2026
This week's assisted living news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, AL managers, department heads and activity professionals
- Iowa Total Care Provider Alert: Important prior authorization updates
- Wellcare Provider Alert: Medicare prior authorization requests transition from Evolent to Wellcare
-
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 9, 2026
This week's clinical news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for nurse leaders. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, AL managers, department heads and activity professionals
-
- Approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators
- Iowa Total Care Provider Alert: Important prior authorization updates
- Wellcare Provider Alert: Medicare prior authorization requests transition from Evolent to Wellcare
- SNF data validation update
- DIAL seeking nominations for 2026 Governor's Award for Quality Care
- National Quality Award program applications due Jan. 22
- February LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Jan. 26
-
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
January 9, 2026
Invitation: Complimentary Nurse Licensure Compact Webinar
Understanding Primary State of Residence and Multistate Nursing Licensure Are you an administrator, executive director, human resource professional, or nurse leader navigating the evolving landscape of nursing licensure? We invite you to join a complimentary webinar, hosted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), to demystify the concepts of primary state of residence (PSOR) and multistate nursing licensure, and explain how they directly impact staffing, recruitment, and compliance in your organization. With the ongoing expansion of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), understanding PSOR has never been more crucial. Nurses’ primary state of residence determines their eligibility for a multistate license, which directly influences where and how they can practice. A misinterpretation of PSOR can lead to unintentional noncompliance, risking legal exposure, fines, and workforce disruptions. Recent studies and regulatory updates show that organizations with a clear grasp of PSOR and multistate licensure experience smoother onboarding, greater workforce flexibility, and reduced administrative burden. Nurse leaders who stay informed can better support their teams, maintain high standards of care, and adapt swiftly to changing practice environments. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and strategies to ensure nurses are licensed appropriately for their roles and locations. Webinar title: How Does Primary State of Residence Impact the Multistate License Date/time: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 2-3pm Click here to register.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
January 8, 2026
Invitation: Complimentary Nurse Licensure Compact Webinar
Understanding Primary State of Residence and Multistate Nursing Licensure Are you an administrator, executive director, human resource professional, or nurse leader navigating the evolving landscape of nursing licensure? We invite you to join a complimentary webinar, hosted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), to demystify the concepts of primary state of residence (PSOR) and multistate nursing licensure, and explain how they directly impact staffing, recruitment, and compliance in your organization. With the ongoing expansion of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), understanding PSOR has never been more crucial. Nurses’ primary state of residence determines their eligibility for a multistate license, which directly influences where and how they can practice. A misinterpretation of PSOR can lead to unintentional noncompliance, risking legal exposure, fines, and workforce disruptions. Recent studies and regulatory updates show that organizations with a clear grasp of PSOR and multistate licensure experience smoother onboarding, greater workforce flexibility, and reduced administrative burden. Nurse leaders who stay informed can better support their teams, maintain high standards of care, and adapt swiftly to changing practice environments. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and strategies to ensure nurses are licensed appropriately for their roles and locations. Webinar title: How Does Primary State of Residence Impact the Multistate License Date/time: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 2-3pm Click here to register.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
January 8, 2026
Invitation: Complimentary Nurse Licensure Compact Webinar
Understanding Primary State of Residence and Multistate Nursing Licensure Are you an administrator, executive director, human resource professional, or nurse leader navigating the evolving landscape of nursing licensure? We invite you to join a complimentary webinar, hosted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), to demystify the concepts of primary state of residence (PSOR) and multistate nursing licensure, and explain how they directly impact staffing, recruitment, and compliance in your organization. With the ongoing expansion of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), understanding PSOR has never been more crucial. Nurses’ primary state of residence determines their eligibility for a multistate license, which directly influences where and how they can practice. A misinterpretation of PSOR can lead to unintentional noncompliance, risking legal exposure, fines, and workforce disruptions. Recent studies and regulatory updates show that organizations with a clear grasp of PSOR and multistate licensure experience smoother onboarding, greater workforce flexibility, and reduced administrative burden. Nurse leaders who stay informed can better support their teams, maintain high standards of care, and adapt swiftly to changing practice environments. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and strategies to ensure nurses are licensed appropriately for their roles and locations. Webinar title: How Does Primary State of Residence Impact the Multistate License Date/time: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 2-3pm Click here to register.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
January 8, 2026
Invitation: Complimentary Nurse Licensure Compact Webinar
Understanding Primary State of Residence and Multistate Nursing Licensure Are you an administrator, executive director, human resource professional, or nurse leader navigating the evolving landscape of nursing licensure? We invite you to join a complimentary webinar, hosted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), to demystify the concepts of primary state of residence (PSOR) and multistate nursing licensure, and explain how they directly impact staffing, recruitment, and compliance in your organization. With the ongoing expansion of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), understanding PSOR has never been more crucial. Nurses’ primary state of residence determines their eligibility for a multistate license, which directly influences where and how they can practice. A misinterpretation of PSOR can lead to unintentional noncompliance, risking legal exposure, fines, and workforce disruptions. Recent studies and regulatory updates show that organizations with a clear grasp of PSOR and multistate licensure experience smoother onboarding, greater workforce flexibility, and reduced administrative burden. Nurse leaders who stay informed can better support their teams, maintain high standards of care, and adapt swiftly to changing practice environments. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and strategies to ensure nurses are licensed appropriately for their roles and locations. Webinar title: How Does Primary State of Residence Impact the Multistate License Date/time: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 2-3pm Click here to register.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
January 8, 2026
NF Admin Foundations starts next week
If you’re a new nursing facility administrator (3 years or less in the role), this two-day program is built specifically for you. NF Admin Foundations covers the core skills every administrator needs—leadership, HR, quality improvement, survey preparedness, risk management, and life safety—plus time to connect with peers facing the same challenges.
Register now: https://iowahealthcare.org/event-registration/?ill_calendar_event_id=978333
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
January 6, 2026
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT REGULATORY AND CLINICAL WORKFORCE Check out the latest additions to IHCA's Member Resource Center related to antipsychotic medication management! EDUCATION- Nursing Facility Administrator Foundations | Jan. 13-14
- Approved for 12.0 contact hours for administrators and nurses
- Leading with Purpose – The Three Cs Framework | Jan. 14
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, AL managers, department heads and activity professionals
- PBJ Compliance Workshop – Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation | Jan. 15 and 29
- Approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators
- February LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Jan. 26
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Medicare Review | Fall 2025
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Reimbursement Conference
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for administrators
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
December 19, 2025
IHCA CLINICAL UPDATE NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for nurses. MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL Check out the latest additions to IHCA's Member Resource Center related to antipsychotic medication management! EDUCATION- Nursing Facility Administrator Foundations | Jan. 13-14
- Approved for 12.0 contact hours for administrators and nurses
- Leading with Purpose – The Three Cs Framework | Jan. 14
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, AL managers, department heads and activity professionals
- PBJ Compliance Workshop – Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation | Jan. 15 and 29
- Approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators
- February LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Jan. 26
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
December 19, 2025
This week's home care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL- Home Care Provider Update Call summary from Dec. 11
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin Review for Nov. 12, Nov. 26 and Dec. 10
- Home Health Final Rule 2026 – What You Need to Know
- 1.0 contact hour for administrators and nurses
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
December 19, 2025
IHCA HOME CARE NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
- Home health Medicaid LUPA rates for July 1, 2025, now available
- Telehealth services - place of service codes reimbursement - amended
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Madeleine Claire Murphy (Digital Communications)
December 12, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities.
MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
- CMS suspends SNF provider enrollment revalidation deadline indefinitely
- Residential care facility maximum per diem rate and personal needs allowance increase
EDUCATION
- Nursing Facility Administrator Foundations | Jan. 13-14
- Approved for 12.0 contact hours for administrators and nurses
- PBJ Compliance Workshop – Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation | Jan. 15 and 29
- Approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators
- February LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Jan. 26
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
Posted by Madeleine Claire Murphy (Digital Communications)
December 12, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
- Annual submission requirements regarding prevention and detection of Medicaid fraud and abuse
- CMS approves one-year temporary extension and amendment of the Iowa Wellness Plan section 1115 demonstration
- DIAL training rescheduled to Monday, Dec. 8
- CMS issues rule repealing minimum staffing mandate
- Updated MDS 3.0 Quality Measure User’s Manual posted
- FY 2027 SNF VBP program December 2025 quarterly reports are now available
- PBJ Compliance Workshop – Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation | Jan. 15
- Approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Medicare Review | Fall 2025
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Reimbursement Conference
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for administrators
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
December 5, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
- Annual submission requirements regarding prevention and detection of Medicaid fraud and abuse
- CMS approves one-year temporary extension and amendment of the Iowa Wellness Plan section 1115 demonstration
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
December 5, 2025
Home Care news from this week
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. ______________________ CURRENT EVENTS
- Webinar next Wednesday: Home Health Final Rule 2026 – What You Need to Know
- Approved for 1.5 contact hours for administrators and nurses
- CMS releases CY 2026 Home Health Final Rule
- Notice of non-compliance related to annual payment update
- Annual submission requirements regarding prevention and detection of Medicaid fraud and abuse
- CMS approves one-year temporary extension and amendment of the Iowa Wellness Plan section 1115 demonstration
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
December 5, 2025
HCBS Enabling Technology Town Hall on Thursday, Dec. 11
The Iowa Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) team, in partnership with the managed care organizations (MCOs), invites you to join for a special Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Enabling Technology Town Hall.
- When: Thursday, Dec.11, 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Where: Virtual meeting (registration link below)
- +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose)
- +1 646 964 1167 US (US Spanish Line)
- +1 646 828 7666 US (New York)
- +1 669 216 1590 US (San Jose)
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
December 5, 2025
HCBS Enabling Technology Town Hall on Thursday, Dec. 11
The Iowa Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) team, in partnership with the managed care organizations (MCOs), invites you to join for a special Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Enabling Technology Town Hall.
- When: Thursday, Dec.11, 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Where: Virtual meeting (registration link below)
- +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose)
- +1 646 964 1167 US (US Spanish Line)
- +1 646 828 7666 US (New York)
- +1 669 216 1590 US (San Jose)
Posted by Madeleine Claire Murphy (Digital Communications)
December 5, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION UPDATE EDUCATION- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop | Dec. 2
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- IHCA Technology and Innovation Summit | Dec. 4
- Approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
November 21, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT- What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act means for long-term care in Iowa
- Pharmacy 90-day supply requirement
- Medicaid approvals in just 36 days — here’s how
- Provisional Nursing Home Administrator Guidance Tool
- Guidance for Applicants: Becoming a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in Iowa
- Guidance for Nursing Home Administrator License Renewal in Iowa
- December LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Dec. 1
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop | Dec. 2
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- The ROI of Restoration – Restorative Nursing Program | Dec. 3
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for administrators, nurses and physical therapists
- IHCA Technology and Innovation Summit | Dec. 4
- Approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Medicare Review | Fall 2025
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Reimbursement Conference
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for administrators
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
November 21, 2025
This week’s Home Care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers.
- REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
- MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT
- ASSOCIATION UPDATE
- EDUCATION
- Home Health Final Rule 2026 - What You Need to Know
- Dec. 10 | Live and on-demand options
- Approved for 1.5 contact hour for nurses and administrators
- Home Health Final Rule 2026 - What You Need to Know
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 21, 2025
Registration Now Open: Home Health Final Rule 2026 Webinar
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
November 20, 2025
Real-life impact of AI and automation on LTC
- IHCA’s Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4 will provide practical guidance on how AI, automation and emerging tech are shaping long-term care.
- Administrators, DONs, clinical leaders, IT and operations staff, compliance teams and corporate leaders are highly encouraged to attend.
- Hear from experts including Joel Prevost, Jo Ellen Whitney, Scott Murphy, Peg Stockel, Liz Kunde, and Tasha Janssen as they cover innovation in senior care, AI risks and liability, technology roadmapping, RPM and provider case studies.
- This hybrid event is sponsored by Williams and Company P.C.
- Register here: https://iowahealthcare.org/event-registration/?ill_calendar_event_id=977366
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 20, 2025
Real-life impact of AI and automation on LTC
- IHCA’s Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4 will provide practical guidance on how AI, automation and emerging tech are shaping long-term care.
- Administrators, DONs, clinical leaders, IT and operations staff, compliance teams and corporate leaders are highly encouraged to attend.
- Hear from experts including Joel Prevost, Jo Ellen Whitney, Scott Murphy, Peg Stockel, Liz Kunde, and Tasha Janssen as they cover innovation in senior care, AI risks and liability, technology roadmapping, RPM and provider case studies.
- This hybrid event is sponsored by Williams and Company P.C.
- Register here: https://iowahealthcare.org/event-registration/?ill_calendar_event_id=977366
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 20, 2025
Real-life impact of AI and automation on LTC
- IHCA’s Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4 will provide practical guidance on how AI, automation and emerging tech are shaping long-term care.
- Administrators, DONs, clinical leaders, IT and operations staff, compliance teams and corporate leaders are highly encouraged to attend.
- Hear from experts including Joel Prevost, Jo Ellen Whitney, Scott Murphy, Peg Stockel, Liz Kunde, and Tasha Janssen as they cover innovation in senior care, AI risks and liability, technology roadmapping, RPM and provider case studies.
- This hybrid event is sponsored by Williams and Company P.C.
- Register here: https://iowahealthcare.org/event-registration/?ill_calendar_event_id=977366
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 20, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL- MDRO tabletop exercises next Wednesday and Thursday
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin review for Oct. 15 and 29
- DHHS updates authorization to disclose personal health information form
- Revision to Nov. 3 Iowa Total Care alert regarding PA updates
- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop | Dec. 2
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- IHCA Technology and Innovation Summit | Dec. 4
- Approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
November 14, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff
- Impact of government shutdown on long-term care
- SNF QRP submission deadline is this Monday
- MDRO tabletop exercises next Wednesday and Thursday
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin review for Oct. 15 and 29
- DHHS updates authorization to disclose personal health information form
- Revision to Nov. 3 Iowa Total Care alert regarding PA updates
- Unlock revenue opportunities with MDS and EHR consulting
- December LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Dec. 1
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop | Dec. 2
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- The ROI of Restoration – Restorative Nursing Program | Dec. 3
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for administrators, nurses and physical therapists
- IHCA Technology and Innovation Summit | Dec. 4
- Approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Medicare Review | Fall 2025
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Reimbursement Conference
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for administrators
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
November 14, 2025
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
November 14, 2025
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
November 14, 2025
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
November 14, 2025
Home Care Member Survey – Responses due this Friday
Please take a few minutes to complete the 2025 IHCA Member Satisfaction Survey by this Friday, Nov. 14. Survey for home care members: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GFB6NZQ Your input directly guides how we improve training, communication and member support. Thanks for helping us serve you better!
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 13, 2025
IHCA member feedback survey responses due this Friday
IHCA member feedback survey responses due this Friday
As a valued member of IHCA, your feedback plays a vital role in shaping the future of our support services, education offerings and overall member experience.
Please take a few moments to complete the 2025 IHCA Member Satisfaction Survey that corresponds with your sector below. Your input will help us strengthen the resources and services we provide to better meet your needs.
Please complete the survey by this Friday, Nov. 14. The survey should only take about 15 minutes to complete. Your feedback will directly guide IHCA’s efforts to improve member communication, training opportunities and support services. Thank you for taking the time to share your insights and help us continue to serve you better.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
November 13, 2025
SNF/NF Survey – Responses due this Friday
Please take a few minutes to complete the 2025 IHCA Member Satisfaction Survey by this Friday, Nov. 14. Survey link for SNF members: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GSXWM5G Your input directly guides how we improve training, communication and member support. Thanks for helping us serve you better!
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 11, 2025
AL Member Survey – Responses due this Friday
Please take a few minutes to complete the 2025 IHCA Member Satisfaction Survey by this Friday, Nov. 14. Click here to complete the survey for AL members Your input directly guides how we improve training, communication and member support. Thanks for helping us serve you better!
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 11, 2025
Member Survey - Responses due this Friday
Please take a few moments to complete the 2025 IHCA Member Satisfaction Survey by this Friday, Nov. 14. Survey link for care continuum provider members: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GFRVFJB Your input directly guides how we improve training, communication and member support. Thanks for helping us serve you better!
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
November 11, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Help guide IHCA’s future initiatives — Feedback due Nov. 14
- Now hiring: IHCA Digital Communications Intern
- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop | Dec. 2
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- IHCA Technology and Innovation Summit | Dec. 4
- Approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
November 7, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Important updates: Physician Fee Schedule final rule and updated CMS contingency plan memo
- Iowa Total Care prior authorization updates
- Help guide IHCA’s future initiatives — Feedback due Nov. 14
- Now hiring: IHCA Digital Communications Intern
- ICD-10-CM 101 – Back to Basics for SNF | Nov. 19
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff
- December LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Dec. 1
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop | Dec. 2
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- IHCA Technology and Innovation Summit | Dec. 4
- Approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Medicare Review | Fall 2025
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Reimbursement Conference
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for administrators
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
November 7, 2025
This week's SNF news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
- NW and NE November District Meetings are in Storm Lake and Cedar Falls next week
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- LTC Social Services Conference next Wednesday
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours, including 3.0 hours of ethics, for social services staff and nursing facility administrators
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop next Friday
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- Updated CMS memo regarding government shutdown contingency plans
- Joint provider training delayed
- Now available: 2025 Long-Term Care Survey Manual
- Elevate quality in your community by achieving Bronze Award recognition; ITA due Nov. 13
- 2026 National Quality Award Examiner applications due next Thursday
- South November District Meetings
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- ICD-10-CM 101 – Back to Basics for SNF | Nov. 19
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff
- December LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Dec. 1
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
October 31, 2025
This week's assisted living news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
- NW and NE November District Meetings are in Storm Lake and Cedar Falls next week
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop next Friday
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- Elevate quality in your community by achieving Bronze Award recognition; ITA due Nov. 13
- 2026 National Quality Award Examiner applications due next Thursday
- November District Meetings
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
October 31, 2025
This week's home care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT ASSOCIATION UPDATES ON-DEMAND EDUCATION- 2026 Home Health Final Proposed Rule and Actions
- Approved for 1.5 contact hour for nurses and administrators
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
October 31, 2025
QAPI Forms
Can someone explain and show me how to fill the QAPI forms out correctly. I have done different projects; I feel that I am not filling out the paperwork documents correctly or its not making any sense to me. Is there any cheat sheets on this or a PDF? If you can help me out in anyway I'd be so grateful. My email is [email protected]
Thank you.Posted by Destiny Ortman (Activity Director)
October 28, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT ASSOCIATION UPDATES EDUCATION- November District Meetings
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop | Nov. 7
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 24, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
- Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop on Tuesday
- Reimbursement Conference on Wednesday
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators
- November District Meetings
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- LTC Social Services Conference – Ethics, Leadership and Resident Care | Nov. 5
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours, including 3.0 hours of ethics, for social services staff and nursing facility administrators
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop | Nov. 7
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- ICD-10-CM 101 – Back to Basics for SNF | Nov. 19
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 24, 2025
This week's home care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
MANAGED CARE AND REIMBURSEMENT ASSOCIATION UPDATES ON-DEMAND EDUCATION- 2026 Home Health Final Proposed Rule and Actions
- Approved for 1.5 contact hour for nurses and administrators
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
October 24, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL WORKFORCE EDUCATION- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- November District Meetings
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop | Nov. 7
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 17, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- Virtual Reimbursement Conference | Oct. 29
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators
- November District Meetings
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- LTC Social Services Conference – Ethics, Leadership and Resident Care | Nov. 5
- Approved for 5.0 contact hours, including 3.0 hours of ethics, for social services staff and nursing facility administrators
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop | Nov. 7
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- ICD-10-CM 101 – Back to Basics for SNF | Nov. 19
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 17, 2025
Don’t Miss IHCA’s 2025 Reimbursement Conference – Oct. 29!
Don’t Miss IHCA’s 2025 Reimbursement Conference – Oct. 29!
Join us virtually for a half-day deep dive into the financial strategies and data driving Iowa’s long-term care success.
This year’s Reimbursement Conference brings together experts to help you strengthen your organization’s financial performance and plan confidently for the year ahead. Sessions will cover:
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Medicaid rebase projections and how they impact financial outcomes
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PDPM accuracy and compliance strategies to optimize reimbursement
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Teamwork in the revenue cycle and how it drives results
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Medicare cost report benchmarks and Iowa-specific data trends
📅 Wednesday, Oct. 29 | 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
💻 Virtual event – live and on demand
All participants who register before the live event will receive access to both the live and recorded sessions. Those registering after will receive on-demand access.
Gain practical tools, actionable insights and data-driven strategies to optimize reimbursement and ensure long-term sustainability in today’s challenging environment.
Reach out to me if you have any questions! Brandon Hagen- [email protected]
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
October 17, 2025
Home Health Care Acuity Reimbursement Survey
Home Health Care Acuity Reimbursement Home Health Care Providers Iowa Medicaid and the Managed Care Organizations are seeking your responses to the use of the Acuity Reimbursement Program. Please complete this survey and return to Becki Wedemeier at [email protected] by October 31, 2025. What barriers have prevented your company from submitting claims for the High Acuity Reimbursement? o ____ Amount of the reimbursement o ____ No patients meet the qualifications o ____ Cost to configure the billing system o ____ Timeline to configure the billing system o ____ Compliance requirements with a recoupment risk o ____ Other comments: ____________________________________________ We would appreciate knowing who/what agency is submitting this survey, but if you identify the need to stay anonymous, we will respect that. Name: __________________________________________________ Company: _______________________________________________ Contact information: _______________________________________ I would appreciate meeting with Iowa Medicaid: ____ Yes ____ Not at this time I would appreciate meeting with MCOs/CareBridge: ____ Yes ____ Not at this time
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
October 17, 2025
This week's home care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. Regulatory + Clinical
- Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
- Federal government shutdown impacts to home health
- Level of care assessment delays
- Virtual CNA testing option expanded
- Home Care Provider Update Call summary from Oct. 2
- Registration now open for University of Iowa's 47th Annual Midwestern Conference on Health Care in the Older Adult on Jan. 30
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin review for Sept. 17 and Oct. 1
- 2026 Home Health Final Proposed Rule and Actions
- Approved for 1.5 contact hour for nurses and administrators
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
October 10, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. REGULATORY AND CLINICAL
- Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
- Level of care assessment delays
- Virtual CNA testing option expanded
- Save the date: DIAL surveyor/provider joint training on Nov. 10
- Iowa Board of Pharmacy rule impacts controlled substance registrations
- MDS changes; Coding tips
- Fall 2025 Iowa PASRR Road Show starts next week
- Registration now open for University of Iowa's 47th Annual Midwestern Conference on Health Care in the Older Adult on Jan. 30
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin review for Sept. 17 and Oct. 1
- Insight into Midwest QIN-QIO Work Plan
- AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program seeks examiners for 2026 application cycle
- Convention CEUs now available
- MDS Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 | Oct. 22-23
- Approved for 12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- Virtual Reimbursement Conference | Oct. 29
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators
- November District Meetings
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop | Nov. 7
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 10, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 24.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
-
- Approved for 7.0 contact hours for nurses, assisted living managers and administrators
- Now accepting nominations: AL Quality Improvement Advisory Council
- Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
- Level of care assessment delays
- Virtual CNA testing option expanded
- Registration now open for University of Iowa's 47th Annual Midwestern Conference on Health Care in the Older Adult on Jan. 30
- Iowa Administrative Bulletin review for Sept. 17 and Oct. 1
- AL Involuntary Discharge Guidance for Assisted Living Program Leaders (AL)
- AL Involuntary Discharge Notice Template (AL)
- Convention CEUs now available
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- November District Meetings
- NW District Meeting | Nov. 4
- NE District Meeting | Nov. 6
- SE District Meeting | Nov. 11
- SW District Meeting | Nov. 13
- Approved for 4.0 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, nurses and department heads
- Silver Quality Award Application Workshop | Nov. 7
- Approved for 6.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 10, 2025
Clarification on Survey activity during Government shutdown
Good afternoon,
- Complaint Investigations Alleging Harm: Complaints that are triaged as credible allegations of immediate jeopardy or harm to an individual should continue to be assessed and investigated according to standard CMS protocols.
- Certain Federal Enforcement Actions: Enforcement actions that result from surveys that indicate a finding of immediate jeopardy or actual harm or there is a need to address patient safety.
- Revisit Surveys: Approved by Exception and Necessary to Prevent Termination.
- Immediate Threats to Life or Safety: (Emergencies and Natural Disasters)
- Orderly Shutdown of Other Tasks.
- Standard Surveys: Including statutorily mandated surveys such as home health agencies, with the exception of hospice mentioned above.
- Certain Revisit Surveys: That are not required to prevent termination of Medicare participation within the subsequent 45 days shall not be conducted. Among those that should not be conducted are revisits (related to establishing regulatory compliance) that would end a per-day civil monetary penalty or denial of payment for new admissions.
- Initial Surveys: No Medicare initial surveys shall be performed, unless otherwise permitted with the allowed activities.
- Initial Certification via Deemed Status.
- Certain Complaint Investigations: No Medicare complaint investigations should be performed, except those alleging immediate jeopardy or actual harm to individuals.
- Minimum Data Set (MDS) or Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS): No MDS or OASIS activities should be conducted except those necessary to maintain provider reporting
- Informal Dispute Resolutions (IDRs): No IDRs or Independent IDRs should be conducted except those associated with complaint surveys resulting in immediate jeopardy.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
October 6, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
- Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters webinar today
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals
- Virtual Medicare Review next Wednesday
-
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- September SNF survey trend report now available; Deficiency-free surveys
- New MDRO tabletop exercises
- Considerations for Cannabis and its Derivatives in Iowa's Long-Term Care Settings
- Sex Offender Screening and Abuse Prevention
- Not a member of IHCA's provider network? Here's what you're missing
- Iowa Total Care Provider News Alert: Manufacturer termination from the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program
- MDS Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 | Oct. 22-23
- Approved for12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
- Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters webinar today
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals
- Considerations for Cannabis and its Derivatives in Iowa's Long-Term Care Settings
- Sex Offender Screening and Abuse Prevention
- Iowa Total Care Provider News Alert: Manufacturer termination from the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program
- Not a member of IHCA's provider network? Here's what you're missing
- Assisted Living Management Certification Program | Oct. 14-17
- Approved for 24.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- Assisted Living Regulatory Class | Oct. 16
- Approved for 7.0 contact hours for nurses, assisted living managers and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
This week's home care news
Here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers. CURRENT EVENTS
- Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters webinar today
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals
- Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy Workshop on Monday and Tuesday
- Approved for 14.0 contact hours for nurses and social workers
- Home health telehealth face-to-face flexibilities ended yesterday, Sept. 30
- Expanded HHVBP Model: Preliminary CY 2025 Annual Performance Reports (APRs) are available in iQIES
- Iowa Total Care Provider News Alert: Manufacturer termination from the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program
- Not a member of IHCA's provider network? Here's what you're missing
- Considerations for Cannabis and its Derivatives in Iowa's Long-Term Care Settings
- Sex Offender Screening and Abuse Prevention
- 2026 Home Health Final Proposed Rule and Actions
- Approved for 1.5 contact hour for nurses and administrators
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
October 3, 2025
Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
Good afternoon, Care Continuum Providers,
I wanted to share some clarification on survey activity as it relates to the shutdown of the federal government.
Because assisted living programs and residential care facilities are not federally regulated, no changes to survey activity schedules will occur for ALPs and RCFs in Iowa. Monitoring surveys will continue as usual for assisted living programs and residential care facilities.
This memo contains a breakdown of the survey activity contingency plan in skilled nursing facilities. (For facilities that are state licensed only, the content of the memo does not apply.)
In addition, the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing shared the following message about the processing of survey reports (statements of deficiencies) until further direction from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is received:
“As you are aware the federal government shutdown on October 1, and with that can come the potential for some uncertainty. The staff at DIAL are continuously monitoring the situation as well as any updates from our federal partners. As part of that, we are identifying essential functions that align with CMS guidance on approved activities during the shutdown and facilitating an orderly shutdown of activities. After meeting with our federal partners, the shutdown will impact providers awaiting standard level survey results.
Statements of deficiencies will not be processed during this time unless there are deficiencies related to harm or immediate jeopardy. We strongly encourage providers to continue to take action on plans of correction. When DIAL resumes survey activity, we can verify the date of compliance as written per the plan of correction. Please reach out to DIAL if you have questions, but note that paperwork will be on hold until regular work resumes.
We appreciate your patience as we navigate CMS' direction during this time.”
Based upon the above, skilled nursing facilities who recently experienced a survey and are awaiting a 2567 should take immediate action to correct any known concerns identified upon exit by the survey team. Failure to do so may result in potential extensions of enforcement remedies where applicable. In addition, those facilities awaiting revisits should continue to focus efforts on maintaining compliance and carrying out any actions identified in the plan of correction. When revisits commence, the identified date of correction will continue to apply; therefore, maintaining compliance until a revisit is completed must remain a priority.
Questions about this notice can be directed to IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP of Regulatory Affairs.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
Good afternoon, Iowa ALP Community, I wanted to share some clarification on survey activity as it relates to the shutdown of the federal government. Because assisted living programs and residential care facilities are not federally regulated, no changes to survey activity schedules will occur for ALPs and RCFs in Iowa. Monitoring surveys will continue as usual for assisted living programs and residential care facilities. However, if your organization is connected to a skilled nursing facility, the information in this memo applies to surveys in skilled nursing facilities. Questions about this notice can be directed to IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP of Regulatory Affairs.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
Good afternoon, Care Continuum Providers, I wanted to share some clarification on survey activity as it relates to the shutdown of the federal government. Because assisted living programs and residential care facilities are not federally regulated, no changes to survey activity schedules will occur for ALPs and RCFs in Iowa. Monitoring surveys will continue as usual for assisted living programs and residential care facilities. This memo contains a breakdown of the survey activity contingency plan in skilled nursing facilities. (For facilities that are state licensed only, the content of the memo does not apply.) In addition, the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing shared the following message about the processing of survey reports (statements of deficiencies) until further direction from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is received: “As you are aware the federal government shutdown on October 1, and with that can come the potential for some uncertainty. The staff at DIAL are continuously monitoring the situation as well as any updates from our federal partners. As part of that, we are identifying essential functions that align with CMS guidance on approved activities during the shutdown and facilitating an orderly shutdown of activities. After meeting with our federal partners, the shutdown will impact providers awaiting standard level survey results. Statements of deficiencies will not be processed during this time unless there are deficiencies related to harm or immediate jeopardy. We strongly encourage providers to continue to take action on plans of correction. When DIAL resumes survey activity, we can verify the date of compliance as written per the plan of correction. Please reach out to DIAL if you have questions, but note that paperwork will be on hold until regular work resumes. We appreciate your patience as we navigate CMS' direction during this time.” Based upon the above, skilled nursing facilities who recently experienced a survey and are awaiting a 2567 should take immediate action to correct any known concerns identified upon exit by the survey team. Failure to do so may result in potential extensions of enforcement remedies where applicable. In addition, those facilities awaiting revisits should continue to focus efforts on maintaining compliance and carrying out any actions identified in the plan of correction. When revisits commence, the identified date of correction will continue to apply; therefore, maintaining compliance until a revisit is completed must remain a priority. Questions about this notice can be directed to IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP of Regulatory Affairs.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
Good afternoon, Iowa SNF Community. I wanted to share some clarification on survey activity as it relates to the shutdown of the federal government. This memo contains a breakdown of the survey activity contingency plan in skilled nursing facilities. For facilities that are state licensed only, the content of the memo does not apply. In addition, the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing shared the following message about the processing of survey reports (statements of deficiencies) until further direction from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is received: “As you are aware the federal government shutdown on October 1, and with that can come the potential for some uncertainty. The staff at DIAL are continuously monitoring the situation as well as any updates from our federal partners. As part of that, we are identifying essential functions that align with CMS guidance on approved activities during the shutdown and facilitating an orderly shutdown of activities. After meeting with our federal partners, the shutdown will impact providers awaiting standard level survey results. Statements of deficiencies will not be processed during this time unless there are deficiencies related to harm or immediate jeopardy. We strongly encourage providers to continue to take action on plans of correction. When DIAL resumes survey activity, we can verify the date of compliance as written per the plan of correction. Please reach out to DIAL if you have questions, but note that paperwork will be on hold until regular work resumes. We appreciate your patience as we navigate CMS' direction during this time.” Based upon the above, facilities who recently experienced a survey and are awaiting a 2567 should take immediate action to correct any known concerns identified upon exit by the survey team. Failure to do so may result in potential extensions of enforcement remedies where applicable. In addition, those facilities awaiting revisits should continue to focus efforts on maintaining compliance and carrying out any actions identified in the plan of correction. When revisits commence, the identified date of correction will continue to apply; therefore, maintaining compliance until a revisit is completed must remain a priority. Questions about this notice can be directed to IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP of Regulatory Affairs.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
Clarification on survey activity during government shutdown
Good afternoon, Iowa SNF Community. I wanted to share some clarification on survey activity as it relates to the shutdown of the federal government. This memo contains a breakdown of the survey activity contingency plan in skilled nursing facilities. For facilities that are state licensed only, the content of the memo does not apply. In addition, the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing shared the following message about the processing of survey reports (statements of deficiencies) until further direction from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is received: “As you are aware the federal government shutdown on October 1, and with that can come the potential for some uncertainty. The staff at DIAL are continuously monitoring the situation as well as any updates from our federal partners. As part of that, we are identifying essential functions that align with CMS guidance on approved activities during the shutdown and facilitating an orderly shutdown of activities. After meeting with our federal partners, the shutdown will impact providers awaiting standard level survey results. Statements of deficiencies will not be processed during this time unless there are deficiencies related to harm or immediate jeopardy. We strongly encourage providers to continue to take action on plans of correction. When DIAL resumes survey activity, we can verify the date of compliance as written per the plan of correction. Please reach out to DIAL if you have questions, but note that paperwork will be on hold until regular work resumes. We appreciate your patience as we navigate CMS' direction during this time.” Based upon the above, facilities who recently experienced a survey and are awaiting a 2567 should take immediate action to correct any known concerns identified upon exit by the survey team. Failure to do so may result in potential extensions of enforcement remedies where applicable. In addition, those facilities awaiting revisits should continue to focus efforts on maintaining compliance and carrying out any actions identified in the plan of correction. When revisits commence, the identified date of correction will continue to apply; therefore, maintaining compliance until a revisit is completed must remain a priority. Questions about this notice can be directed to IHCA’s Brenda Irlbeck, VP of Regulatory Affairs.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
October 3, 2025
7/1/25 NF Rebase and QAAF Payment Updates
Nursing Facility Rebasing and QAAF Payment Process Updates
Nursing Facility Rebasing
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services submitted the state plan amendment (SPA) for nursing facility rebasing to CMS on Thursday, Sept. 25. This submission met the Sept. 30 deadline to secure a retroactive effective date of July 1, 2025.
Key details for providers:
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Direct Care median: $90.31
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Non-Direct Care median: $139.15
-
Inflation factor (12/31 FYE providers): -8.269%
Rate release timeline:
-
The first batch of rate sheets is expected the third week of October. This will include providers with fiscal year ends prior to Dec. 31 (around 90 providers), as well as approximately 100 providers with a Dec. 31 FYE.
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Rate release depends on provider responses to adjustment questions. A timely reply will move providers back into the processing queue faster.
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After finalizing adjustments via the Rep letter, the department will send a cost PPD summary, which will be used for rate determination. Rate sheets will follow shortly thereafter.
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This year’s release will include both the July 1, 2025, and Jan. 1, 2026, rate sheets.
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MCOs have up to 60 days to load rates into their systems.
QAAF Payment Process Update
Effective immediately, HHS/PCA will no longer accept QAAF certified mail at the Hoover or Lucas offices. All QAAF payments (repayment and quarterly) must be directed to the Minnesota lockbox.
Mailing address:
Iowa Medicaid
PO Box 850280
Minneapolis, MN 55485-0285
For certified mail or overnight packages requiring a signature:
Iowa Medicaid
Lockbox Services – #310280
1801 Parkview Dr. 1st Floor
Shoreview, MN 55126
Let us know if you have any questions!
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
October 2, 2025
7/1/25 NF Rebase and QAAF Payment Updates
Nursing Facility Rebasing and QAAF Payment Process Updates
Nursing Facility Rebasing
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services submitted the state plan amendment (SPA) for nursing facility rebasing to CMS on Thursday, Sept. 25. This submission met the Sept. 30 deadline to secure a retroactive effective date of July 1, 2025.
Key details for providers:
-
Direct Care median: $90.31
-
Non-Direct Care median: $139.15
-
Inflation factor (12/31 FYE providers): -8.269%
Rate release timeline:
-
The first batch of rate sheets is expected the third week of October. This will include providers with fiscal year ends prior to Dec. 31 (around 90 providers), as well as approximately 100 providers with a Dec. 31 FYE.
-
Rate release depends on provider responses to adjustment questions. A timely reply will move providers back into the processing queue faster.
-
After finalizing adjustments via the Rep letter, the department will send a cost PPD summary, which will be used for rate determination. Rate sheets will follow shortly thereafter.
-
This year’s release will include both the July 1, 2025, and Jan. 1, 2026, rate sheets.
-
MCOs have up to 60 days to load rates into their systems.
QAAF Payment Process Update
Effective immediately, HHS/PCA will no longer accept QAAF certified mail at the Hoover or Lucas offices. All QAAF payments (repayment and quarterly) must be directed to the Minnesota lockbox.
Mailing address:
Iowa Medicaid
PO Box 850280
Minneapolis, MN 55485-0285
For certified mail or overnight packages requiring a signature:
Iowa Medicaid
Lockbox Services – #310280
1801 Parkview Dr. 1st Floor
Shoreview, MN 55126
Let us know if you have any questions!
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
October 2, 2025
Impact of Federal Government Shutdown
As you may have seen in the news, Congress was unable to pass a government spending package by its deadline of midnight Tuesday, September 30, resulting in a government shutdown. Fortunately, at this time, we anticipate minimal impact on long term care. Medicare and Medicaid are mandatory health program payments that continue even during a lapse of appropriations. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has a contingency plan to maintain necessary staffing and funding for certain programs during this time. This includes continuing Medicare and Medicaid payments to providers and states. There may be slight delays in payments, waiver approvals, and technical assistance due to fewer federal staff available to do this work, but we do not anticipate serious disruptions. The same is true for HUD programs, such as section 232 loan servicing. If the government shutdown is prolonged, we will keep you posted. Given the reduction in federal staff, rule-making and other policy development may be delayed. CMS survey and certification surveys will focus on serious, complaint investigations, and other survey activities (recertification, initial and less serious complaint investigations) by federal staff will be suspended. See a summary of CMS activities during a lapse in appropriations. See a QSO Memo on CMS contingency plans for State Survey and Certification Activities. Additionally, the CDC’s final recommendations for the COVID vaccine this season may also be delayed due to the shutdown. While the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices released their recommendations earlier this month, the CDC must issue its final recommendations. Furthermore, some residents may have telehealth access reduced due to waivers that expired on September 30. This may require rescheduling visits to in-person until the budget issues are resolved. CMS has also directed all Medicare Administrative Contractors to implement a temporary telehealth claims hold, which is standard practice during a partial shutdown. Providers may continue to submit claims during this period, but payment will not be released until the hold is lifted. For more information, please check out this fact sheet and visit https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/telehealth. AHCA/NCAL is part of a coalition of providers and consumer groups advocating to extend—and make permanent—these telehealth flexibilities. We will continue to encourage lawmakers to reach a swift resolution and restore telehealth access. As additional updates are provided, IHCA will provide more information to members.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
October 1, 2025
Maintenance Therapy for Parkinsons and MS
Wondering if anyone does maintenance PT for Parkinsons and MS patients? Would you be willing to share documentation standards?
Posted by Kim Lambert (Administrator)
September 24, 2025
Wellsky EVV aggregate
Anyone using the Wellsky EVV aggregate willing to talk to us about how billing is going?
Posted by Kim Lambert (Administrator)
September 24, 2025
Help Inform our Pre-Conference Session
Good morning! Angie Gray, our presenter for the pre-conference session, has requested some insight from members to help her tailor her session to our attendees. Please take a few minutes to fill out the form below. This is, of course, completely optional; but will help make sure this session is as relevant and purposeful as possible. https://forms.gle/RfUPgLGnMCcKGqKr7 Thank you!
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
September 16, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL ASSOCIATION UPDATES FOR SALE EDUCATION- Assisted Living Management Certification Program | Oct. 14-17
- Approved for 24.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- Assisted Living Regulatory Class | Oct. 16
- Approved for 7.0 contact hours for nurses, assisted living managers and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
September 12, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
REGULATORY AND CLINICAL- CDC Infection Preventionist Training update
- CDC releases 2025-26 influenza vaccine recommendations
- Now available: A comprehensive behavioral health resource from AHCA's Clinical Practice Committee
- The Center of Excellence releases final live education events
- Remote MDS services are available to help your facility
- October LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Oct. 1
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp | Oct. 1-2
- Approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff
- Virtual Medicare Review | Oct. 8
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- MDS Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 | Oct. 22-23
- Approved for12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- IHCA’s updated Feeding Assistant –Train-the-Trainer program available on-demand
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
September 12, 2025
National Background Check
Hi All, I am wondering if there is a national background check that providers do not have to pay monthly for as a service? Or, would a provider who utilizes this service be willing to run a background check for me with the applicant's permission? We can reimburse for the charge that is incurred! Thank you! Lindsay
Posted by Lindsay Remick (Administrator)
September 9, 2025
LAST CALL: Activity Advisory Council
Good afternoon! This is the LAST CALL for anyone who is interested in being a part of the 2026 Activity Advisory Council. The online form has been taken down, but if you are interested in participating, email [email protected] to express interest! Thank you!
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
September 9, 2025
Nurse Connect Reception at Convention
Good morning, Heading to IHCA’s 2025 Convention? Don’t miss the special one-hour reception designed just for nurses! Take a break, recharge and connect with peers while enjoying complimentary refreshments and appetizers. Sunday, Sept. 21 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. | Presidential Suite at the Marriott Sponsored by: Consonus Pharmacy We hope to see you there! Kimber
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
September 8, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for skilled nursing facilities. CURRENT EVENTS
-
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, nursing facility administrators and social services staff
- DON Fundamentals – A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders on Tuesday and Wednesday
- Approved for 10.0 contact hours for nurses and nursing facility administrators
- Webinar on Thursday featuring Jerald Cosey: Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals
- IHCA’s 2025 Convention is 3 weeks away – reserve your spot today!
- Approved for up to 16.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- August 2025 SNF survey report now available; Deficiency-free surveys
- Now available: Final MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual version 1.20.1
- Final COE-NF trainings
- October LPN-IV Certification Course | Begins Oct. 1
- Approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs
- Code Compliance in Action – Nursing Facility Life Safety Boot Camp | Oct. 1-2
- Approved for 10.0 contact hours for administrators, department heads and environmental services staff
- Virtual Medicare Review | Oct. 8
- Approved for 3.5 contact hours for administrators, nurses and social services staff
- MDS Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0 | Oct. 22-23
- Approved for12.0 contact hours for nurses, social services staff and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- AAPACN DNS-CT Certification Virtual Workshop | Dec. 1-4
- Approved for 22.5 contact hours for nurses
- IHCA’s updated Feeding Assistant –Train-the-Trainer program available on-demand
- CMS Mid-Cycle Revalidations On-Demand Course
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nursing facility administrators
- Activity Professional Qualification Course
- Approved for 50.0 contact hours for activity professionals
- Board Member Training
- Made for board members
- Business Office Manager Training Series
- Made for business office staff
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care
- Approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- CMS Revised Guidance – Behavioral and Mental Health Support
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar; up to 3.0 CEUs available for all disciplines
- Survey Success: Navigating Compliance and Resilience in Nursing Homes
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for administrators, activity professionals, dietary staff, department heads, environmental services, nurses and social services staff
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
September 5, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for assisted living providers. CURRENT EVENTS
- Webinar on Thursday featuring Jerald Cosey: Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals
- IHCA’s 2025 Convention is 3 weeks away – reserve your spot today!
- Approved for up to 16.0 contact hours for all disciplines
- Assisted Living Management Certification Program | Oct. 14-17
- Approved for 24.0 contact hours for nurses, administrators and assisted living managers
- Assisted Living Regulatory Class | Oct. 16
- Approved for 7.0 contact hours for nurses, assisted living managers and administrators
- Bronze Quality Award Workshop
- AL Management Certification Course
- Approved for 23.0 contact hours for assisted living managers and nurses
- AL Medication Manager Course
- 16-hour course to become a certified medication manager
- Certified Medication Aide Course
- Made for nurse aides and certified nursing assistants
- CNA In-Service Training
- Made for certified nursing assistants and direct care workers
- Focus on Dementia Care In-Service Training Series
- 10-part on-demand training series
- Mental Health Webinar Series
- Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults
- When Self Care Isn’t Enough
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for each webinar
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
September 5, 2025
This week's IHCA home care news
In case you missed it, here are a few of the key updates from this week’s IHCA Member Update specifically for home care providers.
Current Events
- Webinar on Thursday featuring Jerald Cosey: Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters
- Approved for 1.0 contact hour for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals
- IHCA’s 2025 Convention is 3 weeks away – reserve your spot today!
- Approved for up to 16.0 contact hours for all disciplines
Managed Care + Reimbursement
Association Updates
Education
- Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy Workshop | Oct. 6-7
- Approved for 14.0 contact hours for nurses and social workers
On-Demand Education
- 2026 Home Health Final Proposed Rule and Actions
- Approved for 1.5 contact hour for nurses and administrators
- Home Health Star Ratings
- 1.0 contact hour for HH nurses and administrators
- HH In-Service Training Series
- 12-part on-demand training series
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
September 5, 2025
Convention photo submissions due today
Happy Friday, Activity Professionals! This is a friendly reminder to submit photos of your facility/community by end of day today, Friday, Sept. 5, to be included in the slide show shown before general sessions at IHCA’s Convention and Trade Show. Please email your snapshots to [email protected]. We want to showcase as many member communities as possible – thank you for helping us highlight your great work!
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
September 5, 2025
Convention photo submissions due today
Happy Friday, Education Council! This is a friendly reminder to submit photos of your facility/community by end of day today, Friday, Sept. 5, to be included in the slide show shown before general sessions at IHCA’s Convention and Trade Show. Please email your snapshots to [email protected]. We want to showcase as many member communities as possible – thank you for helping us highlight your great work!
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
September 5, 2025
Convention photo submissions due tomorrow
Happy Thursday, Activity Professionals!
This is a friendly reminder to submit photos of your facility/community by tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 5, to be included in the slide show shown before general sessions at IHCA’s Convention and Trade Show.
Please email your snapshots to [email protected] by end of day tomorrow. We want to showcase as many member communities as possible - thank you for helping us highlight your great work!
Posted by Elly Cabral (Lead Developor)
September 4, 2025
Convention photo submissions due tomorrow
Happy Thursday, Education Advisory Council!
This is a friendly reminder to submit photos of your facility/community by tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 5, to be included in the slide show shown before general sessions at IHCA’s Convention and Trade Show.
Please email your snapshots to [email protected] by end of day tomorrow. We want to showcase as many member communities as possible - thank you for helping us highlight your great work!
Posted by Elly Cabral (Lead Developor)
September 4, 2025
Fewer than 30 Spots Left – Register Now for Convention!
-
Success in Today’s Home Care Environment? Show Me the Data!
-
VBP Shift Ahead – Prepare now to Maximize Your TPS!
-
Home Health MythBusters
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
September 4, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 29, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 29, 2025
This week's home care news
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
August 29, 2025
This week's home care news
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
August 29, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 22, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 22, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 22, 2025
This week's IHCA Home Care news
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
August 22, 2025
This week's IHCA Home Care news
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
August 22, 2025
Posted by Cameron Cox (Activities Coordinator)
August 20, 2025
Share Your Socials!!
A new discussion has been added to Activity Professional Community.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
August 19, 2025
Nominations are open for IHCA Cabinets, Committees and Councils. Sign up before the 8/29 deadline!
A new discussion has been added to Public Policy Committee.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
August 18, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 15, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 15, 2025
Cabinet, Committee, & Council Nominations Now Open
A new discussion has been added to Care Continuum Providers Committee.
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
August 15, 2025
PASRR traning alert
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
August 14, 2025
ICAP Quarterly Call
A new discussion has been added to Activity Professional Community.
Posted by Julie Winterboer (Activities)
August 13, 2025
New Comment
Hello, Heather!
The association has now added me to the Nursing board as well- thank you!
So if the patient was admitted prior to 7/1- and not Medicare or Medicaid- you do not have to submit OASIS. If you wanted to- they would exempt that assessment (allow, but exempt) because it wasn’t a current patient from SOC at the time they started mandating other payers- which is 7/1 or after.
The state does not mandate that you do a new SOC for a payer change- but if it is TO Medicare- they do mandate it. Anyone else it is up to your policy- (and frankly the EMR pain!) 🙂
Hope this helps!
Annette
Posted by Annette Lee (Owner)
August 12, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 8, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 8, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 8, 2025
Cabinet, Committee, & Council Nominations Now Open
A new discussion has been added to Activity Professional Community.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
August 7, 2025
Cabinet, Committee, & Council Nominations Now Open
A new discussion has been added to Activity Professional Community.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
August 7, 2025
Non-skilled to skilled episode Clarification
A new discussion has been added to IHCA Nurse Connect.
Posted by Heather Miculinich (Clinical Manager)
August 7, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 1, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 1, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
August 1, 2025
CCDI - Who has a successful unit?
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Rachael Marshall (Administrator)
July 26, 2025
CCDI - Who has a successful unit?
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Elly Cabral (Lead Developor)
July 26, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 25, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 25, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 25, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Elly Cabral (Lead Developor)
July 25, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 18, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 18, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 18, 2025
Single Facility Conference Topics
A new discussion has been added to Education & Competency Advisory Council.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
July 16, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 11, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 11, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
July 11, 2025
Don't miss thsi one! LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
July 8, 2025
New Comment
Here is the link you need to learn more and register.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
July 8, 2025
Don't miss this one! LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
July 8, 2025
Don't miss this one! LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
July 8, 2025
Don't miss this one! LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
July 8, 2025
Don't miss this one! LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
July 8, 2025
IHCA SNF news from this week
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
July 4, 2025
Assisted living news from this week
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
July 4, 2025
Home care news from this week
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
July 4, 2025
LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Improvement Advisory Council.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
June 30, 2025
LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Improvement Advisory Council.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
June 30, 2025
LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to IHCA Nurse Connect.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
June 30, 2025
LTC Quality and Regulatory Symposium
A new discussion has been added to IHCA Nurse Connect.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
June 30, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
June 27, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
June 27, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Dana Anderson (VP, Marketing)
June 27, 2025
New Comment
Good afternoon,
I wanted to provide a reminder of our Home Health Acuity Add-on Call Part 2, which is scheduled for 8:30am tomorrow morning. I have attached a Q&A document from Part 1 that I received from DHHS this week. Call details for tomorrow are below-
Part Two Call-In Information
Friday, June 27
Time: 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Click on this link to join by computer:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82587171981
Meeting ID: 825 8717 1981
Password: 288974
Acuity questions 06.13.2025 Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
June 26, 2025
HH Acuity Add-on Call Part 2- Moved to June 27th
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
June 23, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 20, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 20, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 20, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 20, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 20, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 13, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 13, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 13, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 6, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 6, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
June 6, 2025
IMPORTANT ALP Update: DIAL Announces LPN Practice Allowance
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
June 3, 2025
New Comment
Here is the official letter from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
June 3, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 30, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 30, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 30, 2025
Last chance: IHCA Foundation scholarship applications are due this Saturday, May 31.
A new discussion has been added to IHCA Nurse Connect.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 29, 2025
New Comment
Links are here:
Care Initiatives NEW DON Scholarship: 2025 Care Initiatives New DON Scholarship Application Form – Iowa Health Care Association
Care Initiatives DON Leadership Scholarship: 2025 Care Initiatives Director of Nursing (DON) Leadership Scholarship – Iowa Health Care Association
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 29, 2025
Save the Date- IHCA Public Policy Committee Meeting- July 17
A new discussion has been added to Public Policy Committee.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
May 27, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 23, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 23, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 23, 2025
New Comment
Thank you Hannah! Tia Hovatter is an excellent speaker! I encourage everyone to attend the Activity Professionals Workshop if you are able. The Advisory Council (formerly the Steering Committee) uses ICAP funds to help offset the cost, bringing an affordable education session to our members. Hope to see you there!
Posted by Julie Winterboer (Activities)
May 22, 2025
ICAP Call Follow-Up
A new discussion has been added to Activity Professional Community.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
May 20, 2025
IHCA HC NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HC Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 16, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 16, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 16, 2025
Event Reminder - June 4th
A new discussion has been added to Care Continuum Provider Member Community.
Posted by Peggy Stockel (President/CEO)
May 15, 2025
New Comment
Here are the event details:
Care Continuum Providers Conference – Funding the Future of Care
June 4, 2025
8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
On With Life, 715 SW Ankeny Rd, Ankeny, Iowa
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
May 15, 2025
Nurse Connect Call Tomorrow 5/16 at Noon
A new discussion has been added to IHCA Nurse Connect.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 15, 2025
Education and Competency Advisory Council Meeting - Friday, May 16th
A new discussion has been added to Activity Professional Community.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
May 14, 2025
HC Member Community
A new group has been added.
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
May 13, 2025
IHCA SNF NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 9, 2025
IHCA AL NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 9, 2025
IHCA HH NEWS FROM THIS WEEK
A new discussion has been added to HH Member Community.
Posted by Natalie Thompson (Communications Director)
May 9, 2025
Welcome to the Care Continuum Providers Committee Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to Care Continuum Providers Committee.
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
May 9, 2025
Welcome to the Care Continuum Provider Member Community Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to Care Continuum Provider Member Community.
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
May 9, 2025
Activity Professional Community
A new group has been added.
Posted by Elly Cabral (Lead Developor)
May 9, 2025
Welcome to the AL Member Community Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to AL Member Community.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 8, 2025
Welcome to the Assisted Living Quality Improvement Advisory Council Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to Assisted Living Quality Improvement Advisory Council.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 8, 2025
Welcome to the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Improvement Advisory Council Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Improvement Advisory Council.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 8, 2025
Welcome to the IHCA Nurse Connect Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to IHCA Nurse Connect.
Posted by Kimber Larson (MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director)
May 8, 2025
Welcome to the Iowa SNF Member Community Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to SNF Member Community.
Posted by Brenda Irlbeck (Vice President of Regulatory Affairs)
May 8, 2025
Welcome to the Activity Professional Community Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to Workforce Committee.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
May 7, 2025
Welcome to the HH Community Discussion Group
A new discussion has been added to HH Member Community.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
May 7, 2025
Welcome to the Public Policy Committee Discussion Group
A new discussion has been added to Public Policy Committee.
Posted by Brandon Hagen (SVP, Reimbursement & Policy Advisor)
May 7, 2025
Welcome to the Education & Competency Advisory Council Discussion Group!
A new discussion has been added to Education & Competency Advisory Council.
Posted by Hannah Freund (Education Director)
May 7, 2025
Care Continuum Provider Member Community
A new group has been added.
Posted by Megan Stoulil (CFO)
May 7, 2025