Nursing homes are getting a much needed raise
U.S. Medicare Monday proposed a $690 million increase in payments to nursing homes. The 3.3-percent increase would go to nursing facilities that provide skilled nursing and rehabilitation care to Medicare beneficiaries, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Under the new payment schedule, called the skilled nursing facility prospective payment system, the daily rate for room, board, medical care and other expenses would be increased. Current payments are based on a 1997 market basket, but the proposal would update rates using a 2004 market basket.
Hopefully, this increase will lead to more staff who are better trained.
