If your loved one is in hospice care in Georgia, you should know that the hospice provider is closely monitored by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This is because of recent reforms to hospice care inspections. The reforms were implemented because of concerns about the quality of care and potential abuse in hospice facilities nationwide.
Why hospice providers are being closely monitored by CMS and Medicare
One of the issues that have prompted these reforms is the prevalence of nursing home neglect in hospice care facilities. Nursing home neglect can take many forms, including the following:
- Failure to provide adequate food and water
- Not providing adequate medical care
- Physical and emotional abuse
Because hospice care often involves end-of-life care, patients may be more vulnerable to abuse and neglect, making it all the more important that hospice providers are held to the highest standards of care.
The impact of nursing home neglect on hospice care
CMS has implemented new inspection processes for hospice providers, including unannounced visits and more frequent inspections as part of these reforms. Hospice providers must also implement and follow specific quality assurance and performance improvement programs to ensure patients get the best possible care.
Changes to hospice inspections and reforms in Georgia
In addition, CMS now requires hospice providers to provide more detailed information about their services and the care they provide, including patient outcomes and satisfaction. This information is intended to help patients and their families make informed decisions about hospice care providers and hold providers accountable for their care.
If you have concerns about the care your loved one is receiving, you may want to consider contacting CMS or another government agency to report any issues. You can also contact a hospice provider directly to ask about their quality assurance and performance improvement programs and their track record for patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Ensuring quality hospice care for patients and families
While these changes may be unsettling for some hospice providers, they are important in ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care during a difficult and vulnerable time. Holding hospice providers accountable and promoting industry transparency can help ensure that all patients get the care and support they need and deserve.