CMS to Use Data Analytics to Protect Nursing Home Residents

The federal government is going to start keeping a closer eye on nursing homes in Mississippi and other states, according to a recent announcement by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The action is designed to reduce incidents of nursing home neglect and abuse nationwide.

The administrator for CMS says that the agency is beginning to use new technologies and innovative strategies to improve the safety of nursing homes. One of those technologies is data analytics, which can synthesize information collected from various sources and identify possible problems and solutions. For example, a review of data from Medicare claims, artificial intelligence, and text mining could help CMS provide better nursing home oversight. In addition, data analysis could help the agency identify and remove nursing home employees who have abused residents in the past.

Meanwhile, CMS is also analyzing information on nursing home staffing data and payrolls to identify possible staffing issues. In addition, the agency says it may start conducting after-hours and weekend inspections to identify potential staffing problems during these times. CMS also recently began making more nursing home information available to the public. This information includes lists of nursing homes that have been terminated by CMS for providing poor quality of care and reports on health and safety violations at specific nursing homes. The agency believes these actions will help improve the overall safety and quality of care of nursing home residents.

Families who suspect that their loved ones are suffering from nursing home abuse might turn to an attorney for assistance. The attorney may explain how to properly document incidents of neglect or abuse and recommend the best course of action. For example, it may be advisable to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for damages, including pain and suffering, medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.