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Senate Approves Scarnati Bill Establishing Independent Nursing Home AppealsWARREN - The Senate approved legislation Tuesday sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati establishing an independent and objective process for nursing homes to appeal cited deficiencies. Currently, the state Department of Health conducts its own informal dispute resolution (IDR) process for long-term care facilities, as required by federal law. Senate Bill 1095 would provide an option for long-term care facilities to either use the department's IDR process or have a Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) hear the appeal. The QIO would need to be approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and be under contract with the state in order to conduct the IDR. "This legislation will provide an important tool for long-term care facilities by ensuring an independent and objective process is in place in order for them to appeal cited deficiencies," Scarnati said. "Nursing homes will then be able to utilize the findings and recommendations to improve the quality of services it provides, benefiting their current and future residents." The change will not result in additional taxpayer costs. Any recommendations made by the independent IDR would be subject to final review and approval of the Department of Health. Senate Bill 1095 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Contact: Casey Long |
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