This
section contains information and links related to important political
and regulatory issues impacting the Long-Term Care environment, including:
Pennsylvania Liability Reform Legislation: The Pennsylvania Medical Society maintains extensive and up to date information on this important topic. Check their Liability Reform Action Center for more information.
Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act of 1996: CMS maintains an up to date reference on this important and confusing topic. Many private consulting firms also offer extensive information and consulting services examples include Phoenix Health Systems HIPAAdvisory, Quadrameds HIPAAiq, and Siemens HIPAA Central.
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987: The Nursing Home Reform Act which was part of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 mandated a checklist of requirements for nursing home facilities known as the Resident's Bill of Rights:
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The right to freedom from abuse, mistreatment, and neglect;
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The right to freedom from physical restraints;
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The right to privacy;
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The right to accommodation of medical, physical, psychological, and social needs;
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The right to participate in resident and family groups;
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The right to be treated with dignity;
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The right to exercise self-determination;
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The right to communicate freely;
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The right to participate in the review of one's care plan, and to be fully informed in advance about any changes in care, treatment or change of status in the facility; and
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The right to voice grievances without discrimination or reprisal.
This is important to know each of these rights and implement them fully in our daily resident care activities not only because they embody good patient care but also they serve as the basis for many lawsuits being brought against facilities and providers today.
Policy issues currently being addressed by PMDA: Please click here to view a full list of current issues.
How to contact our state and federal legislators:
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PO Box 8820
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8820
Phone: 717-558-7868 | Fax: 717-558-7841
Email: pmda@pamedsoc.org