Continuing Education Sessions
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Session 59 | Preceptor Provider Program
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Specialty Training
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
This six (6) hour Preceptor Training meets the requirements of 64B10-16.0025(2), FAC. This session will be an interactive training program to qualify attendees to become preceptors and help shape the careers of new long term care administrators. Additional registration fees are required for this program. Lunch is included.Presenters
Deborah Franklin
Senior Director of Quality Affairs | Florida Health Care Associaton
About the Presenter
Deborah Franklin is the Senior Director of Quality Affairs for the Florida Health Care Association. Deborah has a Masters of Health Administration and is a nursing home administrator with over thirty years in long term care sector. Deborah is responsible for leading the Association's internal quality department while pioneering initiatives on quality improvement in long term care. She works in conjunction with the association's Board of Directors, Quality Cabinet and associated committees to develop, plan and implement long term care quality and educational programs to support members with their pursuit of providing high-quality, person-centered care. Additionally, Deborah is the key liaison with the executive and legislative branches, state and federal health care agencies on long term care survey and regulatory issues.Caridad Smith
Chief Operating Officer
About the Presenter
Cary Smith is the Chief Operating Officer for AdventHealth Care Centers, formerly known as Adventist Care Centers. She is a graduate of Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, TN with a degree in long term care administration. Mrs. Smith has been a licensed nursing home administrator since 1989 in various States including Florida. Her breadth of experience in long term care includes marketing, customer service, training, program development and facility operations. She brings to the organization great passion and commitment to the aging population and the long term care profession.Vernon Zeger
Vice President of Operations | The Lilac Health Group
About the Presenter
Vern Zeger has been in long term care as a leader since 1997. He has led teams to receive Baldridge Quality awards, five star ratings and small business of the year for the community. Vern is Chair of the Survey and Regulatory Committee and has been actively engaged in FHCA as a board member, district president and other committees as needed. Vern has impacted many nursing home administrators as a mentor and preceptor.Susan Anderson
Director of Regulatory Affairs | Florida Health Care Association
About the Presenter
Susan Anderson currently serves as the Director of Regulatory Affairs for Florida Health Care Association. In this position, she concentrates on supporting the legislative, regulatory, and policy activities on behalf of association members for nursing centers and assisted living facilities. Ms. Anderson has experience in seniors housing and in developing public policy positions and advising on regulatory compliance. Ms. Anderson is an active member of the Florida Bar.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 58 | Conducting a Thorough Investigation
Time: 11:30 to 12:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
This presentation will provide the steps needed to conduct a thorough investigation of high-risk events within the skilled nursing environment, including root cause analysis and proactive measures to help prevent incidents.Presenters
Gregory Leoce, Ph. D.
Regional Nurse Consultant | Facility Support Company
About the Presenter
Dr. Gregory Leoce is currently a Regional Vice President with Facility Support Company, overseeing nine skilled nursing facilities from Jacksonville to Miami. He has over 30 years of experience working in the long-term care industry, and holds a Master’s Degree in Business/Health Care Administration, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. He attributes his passion for the elderly to the love he has for his late grandmother, Agnes Stratton.Billie Hankins
Regional Nurse Consultants
About the Presenter
Billie has been serving the longterm care industry for the past 22 years in different capacities. She first started serving the industry in the housekeeping and laundry department and steadily advanced her education and career to include receiving her Masters degree in Nursing.Ashley Ransom
Director of Risk Management, RN | Facility Support Company
About the Presenter
Risk Management Director, RN providing proactive services to improve resident outcomes, reduce litigation and thoroughly investigate potentially adverse events identifying the root causes to assist facilities in developing effective performance improvement plans. Also supporting 40 facilities with managing workers compensation and ensuring OSHA compliance. I'm enthusiastic about helping other professionals learn, grow and seeing those light-bulb moments.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 57 | Escaping Survival Mode: Turning Receivables into Cash Collections
Time: 11:30 to 12:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
In today’s challenging fiscal environment, skilled nursing centers need to be able to collect their outstanding receivables. We will cover real-life scenarios and offer revenue cycle best practices with practical insights and tools that you can take back and implement at your center.Presenters
Christy Beaumont
Senior Manager | FORVIS
About the Presenter
Christy is a Senior Manager with FORVIS and has over 20 years of experience in accounts receivable management specific to post-acute healthcare. Christy's broad, industry-specific knowledge includes billing process implementation and management, accounts receivable write-off controls, policy compliance, business office training, and subject matter knowledge of multiple third-party payer sources including traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage Programs, Medicaid, and managed care organizations. Prior to joining FORVIS, Christy held multiple positions within the industry related to accounts receivable process management and improvement for, including Regional Accounts Receivable Manager for a large regional skilled nursing facility chain.Juli Pascoe
Partner, CPA
About the Presenter
Juli joined FORVIS in 2004. As a member of FORVIS National Healthcare Group, she provides an array of audit and consulting services to long-term care organizations, continuing care retirement communities and assisted living facilities. She leads our Senior Living and Long Term Care industry team. Her experience includes serving as an engagement executive on senior living attest engagements and audits in accordance with Government Auditing Standards and Single Audit requirements. In addition, she assists senior living providers with strategic planning, preparation of operating budgets, Medicare and Medicaid cost report preparation and review and development of strategies to enhance reimbursement and improve operating efficiencies and profitability. Juli also is responsible for overseeing the preparation of monthly financial statements and other accounting outsourcing services provided to senior living providers. Juli is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and Missouri Society of CPAs. Juli is a 2004 summa cum laude graduate of Drury University, Springfield, Missouri, with a B.A. degree in accounting and business administration.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 56 | A Prescription for Deprescribing: Utilizing a Shared Decision Strategy to Reach Optimal Behavioral Management Without Psychotropics
Time: 11:30 to 12:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
The dilemma of polypharmacy and its implications will persist and likely grow with aging populations. It is important to consider using novel targeted interventions to address this common problem affecting most communities. This session will discuss strategies for psychotropic titration, deprescribing, and treatment optimization, implementing the Woodard five-step deprescribing framework. Participants will discover actionable non-pharmacological interventions to address the most common behavioral issues affecting residents. Participants will become familiar with a shared decision-making approach to implement systematic strategies for deprescribing and managing behavioral manifestations using non-pharmacological interventions.Presenters
Karla Pena Rosa, Ph.D.
Clinical and Business Development Consultant | Huntingdon Behavioral Health
About the Presenter
Dr. Karla Pena Rosa is a licensed clinical psychologist, specialized in geriatrics. She received her Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, in 2012. Karla has over ten years of experience in the behavioral health field as a clinical psychologist, business owner, trainer, and clinical/life coach. She currently serves Huntingdon Behavioral Health management team spearheading leadership initiatives to ensure behavioral health providers employed by Huntingdon are building skills to serve the specific demands of serving LTC facilities.Michelle King
Regional Clinical Pharmacist Specialist
About the Presenter
Michelle King, PharmD, CPh serves as the Regional Clinical Pharmacist Specialist for Huntingdon Behavioral Health. She is a licensed Consultant Pharmacist in the state of Florida and has served as a pharmacy consultant in the LTC field. She obtained her PharmD from West Virginia University in 2005. She currently guides her efforts as the Regional Pharmacist Specialist to designing strategies to overcome challenges related to the potential overuse of psychotropic medications in Florida’s elderly population.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 55 | Don’t Repeat Watergate! Ethical Considerations in Senior Living
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
This session provides practical information about ethics from a clinical perspective. The session delves into legal and common ethical issues in post-acute care/senior living and pulls from evidence and employee surveys regarding daily ethical issues, differentiating between ethical challenges, dilemmas for everyday and significant ethical issues. The session follows a case example format for various issues, including end-of-life care, dementia consent, staffing, and others, to apply ethical principles and decision-making to each. Attendees will walk away with additional case examples illustrating various ethical dilemmas and issues that can take place in senior care settings that they can use to facilitate similar training in their community.Presenters
Kathleen Weissberg
National Director of Education | Select Rehabilitation, LLC
About the Presenter
Dr. Kathleen Weissberg, (MS in OT, 1993; Doctoral 2014) in her 30 years of practice, has worked in rehabilitation and long-term care as an executive, researcher and educator. She has established numerous programs in nursing facilities; authored peer-reviewed publications on topics such as low vision, dementia quality care, and wellness; has spoken at numerous conferences both nationally and internationally, for 20+ State Health Care Associations, and for 25+ state LeadingAge affiliates. She provides continuing education support to over 30,000 therapists, nurses, and administrators nationwide as National Director of Education for Select Rehabilitation. She is a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Practitioner, Certified Fall Prevention Specialist, and a Certified Geriatric Care Practitioner. She serves as the Region 1 Director for the American Occupational Therapy Association Political Action Committee and is an adjunct professor at Gannon University in Erie, PA.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 54 | Understanding SNF Consolidated Billing
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
In this session, the presenter will cover significant CMS edits, requirements, and guidelines necessary for successful claims processing under Consolidated Billing (CB), These include payables the center receives for their Part A stay residents from hospitals, doctor offices, clinics, ambulance transportation, mobile diagnostics and more.Presenters
Amanda Wetzel
Director Of Online Services / Consolidated Billing Specialist | Consolidated Billing Services, Inc.
About the Presenter
Amanda is the Director Of Online Services and Consolidated Billing Specialist for CBSI, supporting over 3,700 Part A SNFs, nationwide. Based in West Palm Beach, Fl., Amanda volunteers on the Medicare Learning Network National Provider Education Workgroup, advocating for clarity on CMS policy and billing guidelines in relation to Part A SNF stays. She is passionate about helping SNFs to better understand Consolidated Billing and regularly provides Continuing Education sessions at various state healthcare associations.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 53 | Growing Census and the Capacity to Care for Residents with Behavioral Health Conditions
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
This session will cover effective behavioral health practices that aim to achieve better outcomes for residents and discuss pilot behavioral health programs. The demand for caring for and admitting patients with serious mental illness and substance abuse disorders is increasing, and healthcare facilities cannot keep avoiding admitting patients with behavioral health needs. This presentation aims to provide attendees with a deeper understanding of these diseases and the support required and empower healthcare facilities to feel more confident in managing this population.Presenters
Luisa Vega
CEO | Psych Health Associates
About the Presenter
Dr. Luisa Vega, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, is the CEO of Psych Health Associates and brings a wealth of experience to the table. Before pursuing her passion for psychiatric care, she was a veteran and engineer. She earned her doctorate degree from Duke University, where she specialized in cardiology and heart failure readmissions. Since 2014, she has been providing top-notch psychiatric support to post-acute facilities.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 52 | Addressing Federal Reporting Requirements for Abuse, Neglect, Misappropriation, and Exploitation to Avoid the Increasing Citations
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
FHCA’s Risk & Compliance Council members have strategically reviewed a percentage of surveys from the last three years including trends and 2567s, that have resulted in citations F600, F609, and F610. Specific trends and 2567s were reviewed. Hear about these citations and how to identify risks, specific investigation techniques, and other strategies to reduce and prevent these citations while protecting your residents.Presenters
Robin Allen
Chief Risk Officer | Lilac Health
About the Presenter
Robin received her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Florida State University in Speech Pathology. Robin’s career has focused on post-acute care initially in Therapy Services. In 2002, Robin became a Healthcare Risk Manager and has focused her efforts on proactive and response driven Risk Management. Robin is the Vice Chair of the FHCA Risk and Compliance Council. Robin is currently the Chief Risk Officer for Lilac Health Group supporting 38 Centers across Florida.Kendra Ferrero
VP Administrative Services
About the Presenter
Dr. Kendra Ferrero is currently the Vice-President of Administrative Services for Onyx Care Centers. Dr. Kendra Ferrero is a multi-state licensed RN board certified in Gerontology She also holds an active Nursing Home Administrator license in several states. She earned her MBA from Warner University and her Doctorate degree with a specialty in Health Care Administration from Northcentral University. She has worked in the post-acute environment since 1977. She has been involved in the delivery of educational presentations in skilled nursing since 1984. She is the chairperson for the Professional Development Committee for FHCA. She also sits on numerous other FHCA committees. She is a Senior Examiner for AHCA/NCAL Quality Program. She is a Certified Risk Manager and has a passion for the skilled nursing environment, ensuring quality care is provided to the residents/patients.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 51 | The Impact of a Strong IDT on PDPM Payment and Accurate Quality Measures
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
It takes a village working in unison to ensure appropriate Medicare coverage, that Medicare payment through PDPM is supported, and that your documentation supports accurate Quality Measures. When the Interdisciplinary team (IDT) works collaboratively, instead of staying in their silos, the center and the residents will benefit. As the center's leader, the administrator will benefit from encouraging their IDTs to ask questions when unsure, receive the education they need to succeed and support each other. This session will discuss the importance of communication and collaboration among the IDTs to achieve success.Presenters
Carol Maher
RN | Hansen Hunter & Co.
About the Presenter
Carol Maher is a Board certified Gerontological RN with over 30 years of long term care experience. She has worked as an MDS coordinator for large skilled nursing centers, and as director of clinical reimbursement and senior vice president of utilization for large skilled nursing facility companies. Carol has worked as one of the Gold Standard nurses for MDS 3.0, serving on the RAP workgroup to prepare the way for the CAAs for MDS 3.0, and participating on a number of technical expert panels related to MDS, Quality Measures and care planning. She is also a frequent author of articles related to the RAI process and PPS. Carol served as a member of the AANAC Board of Directors for nine years. She is presently serving as the immediate past chair of the AANAC Expert Advisory Panel and as an AANAC Master Teacher of the RAC-CT and RAC-CTA certification courses. Carol is the Director of Education for Hansen Hunter & Co.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 50 | Harnessing the power of Data for Quality Excellence
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
Do you feel like you’re doing all the right things to have the best quality outcomes, only to be disappointed when you see your CMS data results? This session will help you harness the power of data to go from feeling like a data dummy to becoming a “Data Smartie.” Join the presenters to learn how to achieve quality excellence by incorporating innovative strategies into your daily data management.Presenters
Dahlia Kroth
Vice President, Strategic Relations | Strategic Healthcare Programs (SHP)
About the Presenter
Dahlia Kroth, VP of Strategic Relations at SHP/IntelliLogix, brings expertise in performance improvement and is recognized as a trusted data expert. She collaborates with SNF organizations nationwide, using data to achieve performance excellence. Dahlia's commitment extends beyond her role at IntelliLogix and serves the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program as a Gold and Silver Quality Examiner. This invaluable expertise further enhances her ability to guide organizations towards achieving the highest standards of quality and operational excellence.Natalie Moore
Senior MDS Specialist
About the Presenter
Natalie Moore, the Senior MDS Specialist at Life Care Services, is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She leads a team of MDS Specialists, ensuring federal and state regulatory compliance related to the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process and quality measures. Natalie’s multifaceted background includes roles as a clinical consultant, mock surveyor, and clinical reimbursement specialist. She holds advanced certifications in Resident Assessment Coordination (RAC-CTA) as well as certifications in ICD-10 coding and Grief Counseling.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 49 | Navigating the October 1 MDS Changes
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
This presentation will highlight the RAI Manual changes that took effect on October 1, 2023, and information from the SNF PPS Final Rule for fiscal year 2024.Presenters
Robin A. Bleier
CEO - Regulatory & Risk Consultant | RB Health Partners, Inc.
About the Presenter
Robin A. Bleier RN, HCRM, LNC , has 40 years of health care experience, 30 of which in long term care. Robin's passion is teaching and training with a focus on risk management as a means to help improve quality and resident outcomes while increasing long term care professional's work satisfaction. Robin worked as a nursing assistant, LPN, RN, DON, regional nurse, CCO, and COO. She now owns and operates RB Health Partners, Inc. (RBHPs) a long term care consultancy firm for the past 20 years. RBHPs employs an interdisciplinary team of subject matter experts and consultants to support long term care providers meet their quality improvement goals.Katie Slier
Director of Clinical Reimbursement & Analytics
About the Presenter
Katie Slier has specialized as a Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) consultant for over 8 years and is actively advanced certified as a Resident Assessment Coordinator through AAPACN. Katie brings over a decade of focused practice in acute and long-term care. Katie is excellent in the auditing process, which includes targeted reviews of the Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM), Medicaid case-mix, Quality Measures, the Five-Star Quality Rating Program, the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP), and the Skilled Nursing Facility Value-Based Purchasing Program (SNF VBP). She is enthusiastic about staff education, specifically related to the RAI process, PDPM, and Quality Measures.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 48 | Preceptor Refresher Course
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
Florida Board of Nursing Home Administrator (BNHA) regulations pursuant to 64B10-16.0025(2), FAC, require all Florida Nursing Home Administrators with Preceptor Certification to take a two-hour Preceptor Refresher Course upon license renewal every two years. This course will meet that requirement. If you are considering becoming a Preceptor, this session will also provide an overview to help you understand the needs and expectations of AITs and Preceptors. FHCA’s Senior Director of Quality Affairs Deborah Franklin will moderate this session as experts, including current and past members of the BNHA, probable cause panel members and experienced Preceptors, share their knowledge.Presenters
Deborah Franklin
Senior Director of Quality Affairs | Florida Health Care Associaton
About the Presenter
Deborah Franklin is the Senior Director of Quality Affairs for the Florida Health Care Association. Deborah has a Masters of Health Administration and is a nursing home administrator with over thirty years in long term care sector. Deborah is responsible for leading the Association's internal quality department while pioneering initiatives on quality improvement in long term care. She works in conjunction with the association's Board of Directors, Quality Cabinet and associated committees to develop, plan and implement long term care quality and educational programs to support members with their pursuit of providing high-quality, person-centered care. Additionally, Deborah is the key liaison with the executive and legislative branches, state and federal health care agencies on long term care survey and regulatory issues.Susan Anderson
Director of Regulatory Affairs
About the Presenter
Susan Anderson currently serves as the Director of Regulatory Affairs for Florida Health Care Association. In this position, she concentrates on supporting the legislative, regulatory, and policy activities on behalf of association members for nursing centers and assisted living facilities. Ms. Anderson has experience in seniors housing and in developing public policy positions and advising on regulatory compliance. Ms. Anderson is an active member of the Florida Bar.Clara Houghton
Quality Improvement and Education Specialist | FHCA
About the Presenter
Claire Houghton serves as the Quality Improvement and Education Specialist at the Florida Health Care Association. Her work involves the development and review of educational programs and materials, project coordination, training, team building, and service to FHCA members through her work on its various committees and councils.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 47 | Stayin’ Alive with PDPM
Time: 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
This presentation will review upcoming skilled nursing center payment changes and the impact on reimbursement. The intent is to encourage center leaders to focus on processes to mitigate the risk of payment denials, including the importance of medical record documentation that supports the Health Insurance Prospective Payment System (HIPPS) codes derived from the MDS. The session will include the government agencies requesting additional documentation, the impact the requests may have on the center, and how to appeal a denial of payment.Presenters
Landa Stricklin
Director of Clinical Consulting | Richter Healthcare Consulting
About the Presenter
Landa Stricklin is responsible for leading the clinical consulting team as they provide reimbursement, operational, HER, and clinical solutions to post-acute health care providers. By keeping apprised of federal regulations and changes across the LTPAC industry, she prepares clients to proactively meet new expectations through Richter’s custom-designed services. Landa takes her position as an educator seriously, and is always eager to share the knowledge she has accumulated over the course of her 30+ year career. Her mentees appreciate her ability to take complex rules and simplify them without sacrificing any valuable details. As someone who is extremely vested in her team, her greatest accomplishments are the successful careers she has helped nurture over the years.Boris Kushnir
Shareholder
About the Presenter
Boris Kushnir is a Senior Healthcare Manager at Moore Stephens Lovelace, P.A. (MSL) and has more than 25 years of hands-on experience in management, finance, regulatory, reimbursement, operation and clinical consulting in the long term care and ICF-IID profession.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 46 | Navigating Managed Care: Learn How Providers Can Effectively Put a Stop to Bad MCO Behavior Without Jeopardizing Referrals
Time: 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
Understanding how Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) are overseen by CMS and states, i.e., why and how they can be cited and sanctioned by each agency, gives providers a road map to remedying MCO bad behavior and protecting their revenue. In thi ssession, presenters will discuss how attendees should be negotiating new MCO Provider agreements. Learn which provisions MCOs rely on to avoid paying every claim, how to recoup alleged overpayments without a hearing, pass on rate decreases without notice, etc. Knowing these provisions and pushing back before signing off will increase revenue and decrease write-offs.Presenters
Chad Bogar
Founder, Managing Partner | sb2
About the Presenter
Chad Bogar, JD, is the Founder and Managing Partner of sb2, a firm focused exclusively on Medicaid/Medicare eligibility & reimbursement (MMER) and related regulatory matters—representing LTC providers, SNFs, third-party fiscal agents, healthcare associations and related entities nationwide. Mr. Bogar has created several legal strategies, which have revolutionized how providers see MMER. Currently, his firm is applying those strategies to MCOs, MAPs, and a growing number of states attempting to recoup vital revenue from providers.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 45 | Lava Lamps to Computer Vision: Implementing AI in Long Term Care
Time: 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
This session will start with a basic understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and proceed to discovering practical insights on implementing AI in long term care settings, from overcoming adoption challenges to real-world success stories. Presenters will highlight effective strategies and examples demonstrating AI's impact in enhancing resident care. Attendees will learn how to measure the Return on Investment (ROI) of AI technology to ensure it delivers both economic value and improved operations, aligning with the evolving needs of long term care facilities.Presenters
Edwin Rojas
Consultant | Emmaus Healthcare Consulting, LLC
About the Presenter
Edwin Rojas has over 30 years of experience in the long-term care profession. His extensive experience in operations, finance and business development has led to several roles within the industry from Administrator, Director of Operations, Vice President of Operations and Consultant. In 2023, Edwin formed Emmaus Healthcare Consulting. Edwin holds a bachelor's degree in health services administration and a master's in business administration. He is a Preceptor in the State of Florida and holds multiple state licenses as an Administrator.Michael Alicea
CIO
About the Presenter
Michael Alicea has over 30 years of experience integrating emerging technologies into business. His last 20 years include working with long-term care systems, cybersecurity, privacy, and compliance. Michael's history of working on artificial intelligence (AI) projects started in the 1990s and continues today. He holds numerous healthcare and technology certifications and volunteers as a 405(d) Task Group Member with HHS in support of efforts to strengthen the cybersecurity posture of the US Healthcare sector.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 44 | The Importance of Medication Management and Best Practices in Transitions of Care
Time: 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
This presentation will review the background and purpose of Transitions of Care (TOC) and discuss the differences in how meds are managed in the inpatient and outpatient settings. This session will explore the most common medication discrepancies seen during care transitions, as well as review some best practices to consider for building support around care transitions with your interdisciplinary team. This session will cover the common barriers to care transitions, particularly reviewing that key transition from hospital to center and the opportunities to develop TOC programs.Presenters
Alan Obringer
President | Guardian Pharmacy
About the Presenter
Alan Obringer is the president and owner of Guardian Pharmacy of Orlando. Alan is licensed as a pharmacist and consultant pharmacist in Florida and holds a faculty position with the University of Florida, College of Pharmacy as an Assistant Clinical Professor, since the fall of 2002. He became a Certified Geriatric Pharmacist in 2012 and serves as a preceptor for pharmacy students, offering both a Geriatric and Long-term Care practice site. Alan earned his pharmacy degree from the University of Rhode Island and he is a strong advocate for the profession of pharmacy in long-term care and is very involved in the changes that affect our industry.Michael Samarkos
Regional Director of Clinical and Consultant Services
About the Presenter
Michael has more than 20 years of experience in pharmacy. Michael began his career as a Retail Pharmacist before transitioning 14 years ago to Clinical Pharmacy. In the clinical setting, Michael is a preceptor for 3rd and 4th year Pharmacy students and works with them in the long-term care setting. Michael is currently the Regional Director of Clinical and Consultant Services for Guardian Pharmacy Orlando where he works daily to ensure each resident receives the best clinical services Guardian can provide. He is also a managing partner in Envision Health Consulting, which works to advance education for long-term care providers. He works daily to expand the role of pharmacists and is especially interested in the Pharmacist’s role in the Transitional Care setting.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 43 | Happy Days!! Handling Difficult Customers Like a Pro
Time: 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
In this session, participants will begin by completing a brief self-scored inventory to identify the personality traits that apply to them. This trait score will facilitate a better understanding of themselves and how they best relate with others of similar or different personalities. This session will address the 10 different “difficult” personalities and offer specific skills and strategies to address each type to bring out the best in people, even at their worst. Participants will be offered real-time strategies they can utilize in their daily work to heighten awareness of customer service with the end goal of improving satisfaction and outcomes.Presenters
Kathleen Weissberg
National Director of Education | Select Rehabilitation, LLC
About the Presenter
Dr. Kathleen Weissberg, (MS in OT, 1993; Doctoral 2014) in her 30 years of practice, has worked in rehabilitation and long-term care as an executive, researcher and educator. She has established numerous programs in nursing facilities; authored peer-reviewed publications on topics such as low vision, dementia quality care, and wellness; has spoken at numerous conferences both nationally and internationally, for 20+ State Health Care Associations, and for 25+ state LeadingAge affiliates. She provides continuing education support to over 30,000 therapists, nurses, and administrators nationwide as National Director of Education for Select Rehabilitation. She is a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Practitioner, Certified Fall Prevention Specialist, and a Certified Geriatric Care Practitioner. She serves as the Region 1 Director for the American Occupational Therapy Association Political Action Committee and is an adjunct professor at Gannon University in Erie, PA.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 42 | Circle of Excellence Award Luncheon & Officer Installation: Becoming An Idea Factory: How To Turn Yourself (And Your Organization) Into An Innovation Machine
Time: 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Type/Topic: Mega Session
Room Location: Gatlin B
Session Summary
Join us as we celebrate excellence, success and significant achievements in long term care as the 2024 prestigious Walter M. Johnson Jr. Circle of Excellence Award is presented and the 2024-25 FHCA Board of Directors is installed. If there’s one belief that is holding you back from getting the most out of your team, it’s this one: some people are creative, and some people aren’t. That belief is based on outdated ideas about what creativity means, where it comes from, and who gets to harness it. The truth is, creativity is a skill like any other: it can be learned. In the same way that we teach employees how to track expenses, process invoices, and jiggle the lock just right to get into the supply closet, we can teach them how to be more creative, how to have better ideas, and how to build a culture where innovation is a natural byproduct.Presenters
Kyle Scheele
Author, Speaker, Champion of Crazy Ideas |
About the Presenter
Kyle Scheele has been called "the patron saint of crazy ideas.” Whether he's having a Viking funeral for the regrets of 21,000 people, hosting the world's first fake marathon, or gaining a million TikTok followers in just 25 hours, Kyle is always on the lookout for crazy ideas that produce wildly outsized outcomes. Over the last decade, his projects have been featured in outlets like Fast Company, WIRED, The Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, UpWorthy, Goalcast, and more. His videos have been viewed over 250 million times, and he has spoken to hundreds of thousands of audience members across the United States. More than anything, Kyle hopes that his story can inspire others to chase their own crazy ideas and become the people they were meant to be.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 41 | Keep on Truckin’ through QAPI - Can You Dig It?!
Time: 10:15 to 11:45
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
Get your Tie Dye on and "Get Ready" for a "Groovin" hour of funk and fun. Put on your QAPI crown, as by the end of this session, you can be the QAPI Queen (or King) for your center! Learn the steps and see new tools to help you identify areas for improvement and Root Cause Analysis that "Bridge Over Troubled Waters." QAPI doesn't have to be "A Long and Winding Road," so "Get Ready" and "Don't Stop til You Get Enough" Data. "Lean on me" for these simple steps for improved surveys, QMs, and Star ratings and help streamline your Quality award applications because... "WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS."Presenters
Melissa Fijalkowski
Administrator | Aspire at Big Bend
About the Presenter
Experienced NHA to include Regional Positions and licensure in 4 states. Successful Preceptor for 7 AITs. Successful Survey management and improved Star ratings using comprehensive QAPI programming. Prior experience includes Music Therapy, Activities, Social Services, Admissions, AP and Payroll. Facility AHCA Bronze Award Winner and Past ACHCA Facility Leadership Award Winner. Six Sigma Yellow belt and currently pursuing CPHQ (Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality).« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 40 | Stayin’ Alive Through the Medicaid PPS Rebasing
Time: 10:15 to 11:45
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
This session will focus on the results of the 2024 budget and other legislative outcomes impacting Medicaid skilled nursing center reimbursement. The session will also address the upcoming rebasing process for October 2024 rates and its impact on rates effective October 1, 2024. Participants will learn how to improve their rates by monitoring direct and indirect care spending, increasing the quality of care, and maintaining or improving their Fair Rental Value (FRV) rate component. Participants will learn the steps they need to take now to ensure they are prepared to compete in the future.Presenters
Lorne Simmons
Healthcare Manager | MSL, P.A.
About the Presenter
Lorne Simmons is a member of the Firm's Senior Housing and Long-Term Care Practice Groups. Lorne has over 30 years of accounting experience, 22 years in senior housing, and health insurance. Before joining Moore Stephens Lovelace, P.A. (MSL), Lorne held positions with Life Care Services (LCS) management company and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. Lorne's focus at MSL is on reimbursement consulting, spending reviews and reimbursement rate analyses, cost structuring, cost report preparation, cost report audits, and appeal issues for Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement. He also handles financial statement projections, prospective financial analyses, and Certificate of Need financial forecasts. Lorne is a member of the FHCA Reimbursement Committee and Legislative Committee and has presented staff webinars and training sessions on Florida's Medicaid reimbursement system and 11 previous sessions at FHCA events.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 39 | Healthcare at a Crossroads: Navigating the Perils of Ransomware
Time: 10:15 to 11:45
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
This session will examine the increasing threat of ransomware in healthcare environments, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities and consequences that healthcare institutions face. Attendees will leave with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their organizations from the devastating effects of ransomware, ensure the safety and privacy of patient data, and maintain uninterrupted healthcare services.Presenters
Robert Napoli
Chief Information Officer | The Nu-Age Group
About the Presenter
Robert is a nationally recognized healthcare technology leader with over 30 years of experience in acute care and ambulatory environments. He co-developed one of the industry’s first computerized medical dictation and transcription systems and has been recognized by Computerworld as a Premier 100 Technology Leader. Robert also led the deployment of a mobile health app that won CIO Magazine's "CIO 100" Award. He holds a Master of Science in Information Technology Management from Franklin Pierce University, where he is an Adjunct Professor. Robert has held Certified Healthcare CIO (CHCIO), Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), and LEAN Six Sigma certifications.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 38 | Ten of the Most Confusing MDS Questions Answered
Time: 10:15 to 11:45
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
MDS items inform person-centered care planning, MDS 3.0 Quality Measures impacting Five-Star Quality Rating and Florida supplemental payment, and PDPM payment. The October 1, 2023, changes brought many new MDS items and changed the coding instructions for others. With the RAI User's Manual now more than 1,700 pages long, many MDS questions are confusing and frequently coded incorrectly. This presentation will highlight 10 of the most confusing MDS questions/items with step-by-step instructions for coding these items correctly.Presenters
Carol Maher
RN | Hansen Hunter & Co.
About the Presenter
Carol Maher is a Board certified Gerontological RN with over 30 years of long term care experience. She has worked as an MDS coordinator for large skilled nursing centers, and as director of clinical reimbursement and senior vice president of utilization for large skilled nursing facility companies. Carol has worked as one of the Gold Standard nurses for MDS 3.0, serving on the RAP workgroup to prepare the way for the CAAs for MDS 3.0, and participating on a number of technical expert panels related to MDS, Quality Measures and care planning. She is also a frequent author of articles related to the RAI process and PPS. Carol served as a member of the AANAC Board of Directors for nine years. She is presently serving as the immediate past chair of the AANAC Expert Advisory Panel and as an AANAC Master Teacher of the RAC-CT and RAC-CTA certification courses. Carol is the Director of Education for Hansen Hunter & Co.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 37 | Elevating Emotional Energy to Conquer Overwhelm, Stress and Exhaustion
Time: 10:15 to 11:45
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
This session presents a transformative approach to conquering stress and exhaustion, centering on the pivotal role of emotional energy in driving employee engagement. Participants will be taken on a journey filled with inspiring stories, lighthearted humor, and a mix of proven best and worst practices to create emotional connections to fill team members' Emotional Energy Tanks. Attendees will learn how to harness their innate Superpower to forge deep emotional connections and create team unity...not through additional work, but by effectively focusing on Hearts before Habits, We before Me, and Effort before Excellence. By skillfully managing their time and attention, leaders can cultivate a workplace culture where team members feel recognized and a sense of belonging. In such an environment, they will become fully engaged and empowered problem-solvers, actively involved in collaborative decision-making, and unified around shared purpose and priorities.Presenters
Bruce Berlin
Chief Experience Officer | Prioriteams
About the Presenter
With over 35 years' experience leading diverse teams in the hospitality & senior living industries across the country, Bruce is an expert in employee engagement & building high-performance teams that have consistently achieved high levels of resident & employee satisfaction, clinical outcomes, and operating margins. Bruce holds bachelor's degrees in business management from Santa Clara University & Hotel Management from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator & Certified Dementia Practitioner.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 36 | Mega Session: AHCA Update
Time: 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
Type/Topic: Mega Session
Room Location: Gatlin B
Session Summary
Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Kim Smoak, Assistant Deputy Secretary/ State Survey Agency Director, Agency for Health Care Administration, for this Mega Session. In the past, this session was standing room only, so get there early for a good seat and hear about the state of affairs, current regulations and survey trends impacting Florida’s long term care profession.Presenters
Kim Smoak
Assistant Deputy Secretary/State Survey Agency Director | Agency for Health Care Administration
About the Presenter
Kim Smoak has been with the Agency for Health Care Administration since August 1995. She is the Deputy Secretary of the Division of Health Quality Assurance. The Division licenses and/or certifies and regulates 40 different providers, including, hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Ms. Smoak is also the State Survey Agency Director for the State of Florida. She holds a Master of Science in Health with the program emphasis in Aging Studies and is also a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP). In 2009 and 2017, she received Survey & Certification Achievement Awards, presented by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for her work in Survey and Certification.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 35 | American Pie-deologies About Your Workplace and Employment Law
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
“A long, long time ago,” understanding labor and employment law was as easy as “pie.” Now, “bad news is on the doorstep,” and numerous changes to Wage and Hour, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, National Labor Relations Board, and other laws can lead to costly litigation and disastrous remedies. Labor and employment counsel and peers will discuss recent employment law issues, provide practical strategies, and offer a checklist to help you say “bye-bye” to some common HR pain points.Presenters
Megan Janes
Partner | Fisher Phillips
About the Presenter
Megan is a partner based in Fisher Phillips’ Fort Lauderdale office. She represents healthcare employers, including long term care, assisted living, and home health, among others with both litigation and counseling needs. Her day-to-day includes situations involving alleged discrimination, denial of leave, wage and hour matters, or restrictive covenants, both at the administrative level and in court. She also counsels employers on ways to reduce litigation risks, presents trainings on employment law compliance, and assists with drafting policies and contracts.Jack West, Jr
VP of Human Resources
About the Presenter
35 years of HR Experience in multiple industries. 16 years in long term care.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 34 | AI-Powered Post-Acute Care: Implementation for Efficiency and Efficacy
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising solution to drive both efficiency and efficacy in post-acute care settings. This informative session delves into the critical topic of implementing AI in the context of post-acute care, emphasizing the tangible steps and strategies that ensure successful integration. The session will explore why AI is becoming a necessity and how to implement AI, and by the end, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the practical elements and the ability to measure its impact effectively. The knowledge and insights gained will empower healthcare professionals to optimize their AI-powered solutions and, most importantly, improve the care they deliver to their residents.Presenters
Daniel Zhu
VP of Product Management, Data, Analytics, and AI/ML Products | MatrixCare
About the Presenter
Daniel comes from a diverse background of clinical experience and technology. At various organizations, he has lead engineering teams, product teams, and founded his own natural language processing organization in the clinical research space. Today he has joined the MatrixCare team, to lead the evolution of the EHR through AI and Machine learning capabilities.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 33 | Recognition Science: A Strategic Driver of Resilience, Retention and Recruitment
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
The cost of turnover is unsustainably high – running to 50-75% of a person’s average salary. The impact is stunning in the healthcare industry, where turnover rates range from 25.9% at hospitals to 94% at nursing centers. All told it’s a major crisis of retention where nurse turnover alone costs the average hospital as much as $9 million every year. The drivers of turnover are work overload, lack of control, insufficient reward and breakdown of community. Some recognition programs are more effective than others. In this session, you’ll learn best practices in the science of recognition, how to build programs that have credibility and stand the test of time, and how to measure the impact of your recognition and engagement program on employee retention and patient satisfaction.Presenters
Nate Hamme
President | Ceca Foundation
About the Presenter
Nate Hamme is President of Ceca Foundation, a non-profit helping care communities improve human experiences in healthcare by recognizing and rewarding exceptional caregivers. He’s an entrepreneur and start up specialist, and an industry leader in employee engagement. Nate has written and spoken extensively on staffing and retention issues facing healthcare communities, including features in McKnight’s Senior Living and Homecare Magazine, interviews on ABC News7, and presentations to AHCA state affiliates, LeadingAge, and other national groups.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 32 | Mega Session: Quality Award and Scholarship Ceremony/Legislative Update
Time: 3:45 to 5:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Mega Session
Room Location: Gatlin B
Session Summary
Please join us for a combined session designed to both inform and honor attendees. The FHCA Government Affairs team will provide a recap of Florida’s 2024 legislative session and the impact it will have on long term care providers across the state. The team will also discuss the upcoming election and its impact on providers at the state and federal level, expectations for the 2025 session, and the advocacy initiatives needed for success. In addition to the legislative update, we will recognize our distinguished care centers who have received national and state awards and celebrate their remarkable accomplishments as they take center stage.Presenters
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Session 31 | Life Safety Requirements in Skilled Nursing Facilities
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
This session will teach administrators and maintenance directors a high-level overview of life safety requirements in Florida's skilled nursing centers. The session will detail the differences between the CMS and Florida-adopted editions of the NFPA Life Safety Code and some details of the most often cited life safety deficiencies.Presenters
Clinton Slier
Life Safety Code Advisor | Integrity Health Care Systems, Inc.
About the Presenter
Clinton Slier is an NPFA Certified Life Safety Specialist for Health Care, a certified health care safety professional, and a consultant with Integrity Health Care Systems. He is passionate about life safety and assisting others to understand the life safety codes and standards.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 30 | The Disco of Compliance: Grooving through Nursing Home Reimbursement Compliance
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
The 2023 CERT report has been released, and Florida has seen a rise in error rates for Medicare claims, most of which are due to a lack of documentation. Presenters will embark on a nostalgic journey through the effervescent 1970s disco era while navigating the intricate landscape of Medicare Part A and B compliance audits in nursing center reimbursement. This dynamic session will blend disco's infectious energy with compliance's complexities, unveiling the striking parallels between the two. This engaging session will shed light on the contemporary challenges in adhering to Medicare Part A and B regulations. Practical strategies and best practices that empower administrators and the interdisciplinary team to navigate the intricate web of regulations effectively will be explored. Through an interactive approach, incorporating audience polling and real-world examples, attendees will not only groove to the disco rhythm, but also gain actionable insights and best practices to enhance their compliance practices within Medicare Part A and B. Don't miss this opportunity to disco dance your way through compliance history!Presenters
Alicia Cantinieri
VP of MDS Policy and Education | Zimmet Healthcare Services Group, LLC
About the Presenter
Alicia Cantinieri is the VP of MDS Policy and Education at Zimmet Healthcare Care Services Group, LLC, and has been with the firm for over 13 years. Ms. Cantinieri has over 27 years of experience in long-term care reimbursement and clinical consulting. She is an expert and speaker on the Minimum Data Set (MDS), care planning, and clinical reimbursement and compliance. She is an AAPACN Resident Assessment Coordinator-Master Teacher (RAC-MT). She has earned the Resident Assessment Coordinator Advanced (RAC-CTA), QAPI Certified Professional (QCP), and Director of Nursing (DNS-CT) certifications. Alicia earned her MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport and her BS in Nursing from Wright State University.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 29 | Beyond the Chart: Enhancing the Resident Journey in Post-Acute Care
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
Amidst the complex landscape of financial, operational, and compliance challenges that post-acute care providers encounter, the ability to guide residents and their families through a seamless care journey is a critical litmus test for resident satisfaction. How can care teams adeptly coordinate care, emphasize resident choices, foster trust, ensure compliance, and maximize reimbursement, all while enriching the resident experience? This presentation will provide a practical roadmap for leveraging technology’s transformative potential to optimize and elevate the resident journey within care communities. Attendees will receive practical strategies for integrating technology and automation, enabling scalable, time-efficient, cost-effective solutions that align with the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.Presenters
Terry Wall
CEO | Carefeed
About the Presenter
Terry Wall is a seasoned software executive with a career in companies that digitize paperwork and automate antiquated processes. As the Founder/CEO of Carefeed, Terry leads a growing technology company offering an effective platform helping providers from across the care continuum facilitate seamless care journeys for their residents. Before launching Carefeed, Terry held leadership positions leading large national teams as Senior Vice President in the Hospital Division of Patient Point, and Regional Vice President for hibu. Terry has been responsible for a wide range of strategic aspects, including sales, recruitment, marketing initiatives, and P&L management. Terry oversaw a portfolio of hospital technology solutions designed to improve clinical outcomes, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Terry earned an MBA in Management Information Systems (MIS) from Xavier University - Williams College of Business in 2002. He holds a BSBA in Marketing from Xavier University.John Vander Meer
Regional Director Of Business Development
About the Presenter
Over a career spanning more than two decades, John Vander Meer has held roles across diverse sectors, including media, government, association management, post-acute care, and the business world. John served as the President and CEO of the Wisconsin Health Care Association and the Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living. He worked as a newspaper reporter, communications director, legislative aide, and chief of staff for various political figures. Additionally, he held the role of Director of Business Development for a multi-state skilled nursing and assisted living provider. Currently, John is the Director of Business Development at Carefeed, a software platform for providers. He holds an undergraduate degree from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI, and a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison’s Robert M. LaFollette School of Public Affairs.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 28 | Aging Skin: Pressure Injury and Wound Care Considerations
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
There is a dearth of robust evidence on aging skin care, yet care settings are increasingly faced with the challenges of providing skin care for aging patients. As with other standard disease processes in the geriatric population, the incidence of pressure injuries and chronic skin conditions related to diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and mobility issues occur with increasing frequency as we age. This session aims to address the etiology, assessment, and treatment options for the most frequently encountered types of chronic skin breakdown and pressure injuries in the aging population. Although the goal may be complete wound healing, palliation, and achieving management of chronic wounds as alternate goals will be discussed.Presenters
Karen Lerner
RN | Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare
About the Presenter
Karen is an RN, wound care, long term care & rehab specialist with > 40 years’ experience. She has extensive experience as a public speaker, educating clinicians & the post-acute community on a variety of topics. She began her career as a Critical Care Clinical Specialist in major teaching hospitals from Florida to NJ. And since 2013, Karen has worked as the Clinical VP for Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 27 | Leadership Outside of your Comfort Zone- Can You Dig It?
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
This session is for more experienced leaders and will teach participants how to move your teams onward with creative leadership skills while staying ahead of the curve. A fun interactive session with a 70s hip vibe!Presenters
Julie Morris
VP of Operations | Aston Health
About the Presenter
Julie Morris is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator with over 25 years’ experience. With extensive knowledge in long term care and geriatric administration. She is highly qualified in regulations and operational functions in the long term care facility. Julie is an effective strong communicator with problem-solving skills. Dedicated advocate for our Seniors with a professional attitude and prospective. Julie has been a member of FHCA since 2005 starting at the District level and has increased her involvement with committees. Co-Chair and Chair of Annual Conference, Survey and Regulatory, ByLaws, Professional Development, Budget, and now Workforce Chair. Julie previously was Region II VP until running for Secretary of the Executive Committee and currently serves as the Sr. VP of FHCA Board.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 26 | Mega Session: Membership Meeting and Election of Officers: AHCA/NCAL National Update
Time: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Mega Session
Room Location: Gatlin B
Session Summary
Join your colleagues for more Long Term Care Achievement Award presentations, committee reports and the election of officers for 2023-24, followed by a keynote presentation by AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Governor Mark Parkinson and NCAL Executive Director LaShuan Bethea. We are honored to have American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living President and CEO, Governor Mark Parkinson, and National Center for Assisted Living Executive Director, LaShuan Bethea, join us for on overview of national legislation, regulations and developments impacting the profession and the latest initiatives that are helping to enhance quality care.Presenters
Governor Mark Parkinson
President and CEO | AHCA/NCAL
About the Presenter
The Honorable Mark Parkinson is the president and chief executive officer of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living, which represents more than 12,000 for- and not- for-profit nursing homes, assisted living residences, and centers for the care of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Before leading AHCA/NCAL, the native Kansan was a successful businessman, state legislator, and most recently served as the 45th Governor of the State of Kansas. In 1996, Parkinson focused on a new passion—helping to enhance seniors’ quality of life by providing first-class, elder care centers. His experience as founder and CEO of centers offering skilled nursing care, assisted living, and dementia-related care has given Parkinson a perspective that spans the continuum of care.LaShuan Bethea
Executive Director LaShuan Bethea.
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Session 0 | Nursing Home Administrator 101
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Type/Topic: Specialty Training
Room Location: Conway
Session Summary
This six-hour training is for new administrators with five years or less experience and is designed to motivate and develop the skills needed to become a great leader. Attendees will also make valuable connections through the program's networking opportunities. The training will focus on leadership, financial, legal and regulatory, life safety, survey readiness and quality improvement skills. Hear from long term care leaders as they discuss best practices and tools for the administrator to be successful. Nursing home administrators are responsible for leading the team to ensure regulations are met and quality of care is of the highest standard. This course will provide a foundation for new administrators and serve as a refresher for seasoned administrators. Registration includes lunch, breaks, a resource reference manual and 6 CEUs.Presenters
Deborah Franklin
Senior Director of Quality Affairs | Florida Health Care Associaton
About the Presenter
Deborah Franklin is the Senior Director of Quality Affairs for the Florida Health Care Association. Deborah has a Masters of Health Administration and is a nursing home administrator with over thirty years in long term care sector. Deborah is responsible for leading the Association's internal quality department while pioneering initiatives on quality improvement in long term care. She works in conjunction with the association's Board of Directors, Quality Cabinet and associated committees to develop, plan and implement long term care quality and educational programs to support members with their pursuit of providing high-quality, person-centered care. Additionally, Deborah is the key liaison with the executive and legislative branches, state and federal health care agencies on long term care survey and regulatory issues.Clinton Slier
Life Safety Code Advisor
About the Presenter
Clinton Slier is an NPFA Certified Life Safety Specialist for Health Care, a certified health care safety professional, and a consultant with Integrity Health Care Systems. He is passionate about life safety and assisting others to understand the life safety codes and standards.Amina Dubuisson
Vice President of Clinical Services | Ventura Services
About the Presenter
Amina Dubuisson has been a nurse for over 24 years. She earned an Associate of Science degree in nursing from Miami Dade College and become a Registered Nurse. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing, Business Administration and Healthcare Management from the University of Phoenix; and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University. She is currently the Vice-President of Clinical Services at Ventura Services of Florida, Inc. She is the Vice Co-Chair of the Senior Clinicians Council from the Florida Health Care Association. She received the Florida Health Care Association Rising Star in Nursing Award and was recognized as an emerging nurse leader who has demonstrated excellence in nursing and person-centered care practices. She was recognized by Greystone Healthcare Management for her volunteer works in the community. Amina's biggest achievement has been her ability to give back to the community through volunteering and providing care to the underserved population through various Medical Missions and Health Fairs. Every year, she travels to Haiti at least twice in Medical Missions. She believes that everyone has a purpose in life and her purpose is to help people.Julie Ann Kemman
CEO | Health Care Professional Consulting Services, Inc.
About the Presenter
Julie Ann Kemman has over 30 years of experience in long term care operations and reimbursement and is a Certified Professional Compliance Officer. She is currently the President of Health Care Professional Consulting Services, Inc. and has a passion for serving our profession.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 25 | Mega Session: Kick-Off Membership Meeting
Time: 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Type/Topic: Mega Session
Room Location: Gatlin B
Session Summary
At this official kick off for the 2024 Annual Conference & Trade Show, FHCA members gather to hear exciting FHCA business, enjoy an uplifting keynote presentation and celebrate winners of the Long Term Care Achievement Awards. Candidates for the 2024-25 FHCA offices will also be announced. James talks about the incredible power of hope and teamwork. He speaks about accountability, both to yourself and to your team. He shows his audience how to remove excuses from their own lives in order to unlock more ability. In one of the most moving sections of Redefine Impossible, James reflects on his time with Dayton Hayward, a boy with Cerebral Palsy who loved to feel the wind in his face. James teamed up with Dayton and pulled, pushed, and carried him through an entire Ironman race. During that race, despite the increased physical demands, James gained a deeper understanding of perspective and privilege. As James shares in his presentation, “I remember looking at him many times that day, thinking Dayton can’t swim, he can’t bike, he can’t run…but I get to swim today, I get to ride today, I get to run today. Despite the pain, all of that is a privilege.”
Presenters
James Lawrence
The Iron Cowboy |
About the Presenter
Known as The Iron Cowboy for the signature cowboy hat he wears while running races so his five kids can see him coming from far away, James Lawrence is an ultra-endurance athlete who has pushed himself beyond what many doctors previously believed to be physiologically possible. In so doing, he has redefined both mental toughness and physical endurance. Originally a high school wrestler, James spent a decade in the mortgage and finance business before losing it all in the financial crisis of 2008. At rock bottom, his career as the greatest endurance athlete on the planet started quite humbly, struggling to complete a local 4-mile fun run with his wife, Sunny. Inspired by that experience, on that day he learned a lesson that has served him well ever since. You’ve surely heard of an Ironman; 2.4-mile swim + 112-mile bike + 26.2-mile run. In 2012, James did 30 of those in one year. That put him in the Guinness Book of World Records. In 2015, he went further. He completed The 50-50-50; 50 Ironman distance triathlons, in 50 consecutive days, in 50 different states…all while raising money to combat childhood obesity. That astounding accomplishment is the subject of the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime documentary; "Iron Cowboy | The Story of the 50.50.50." But that wasn’t enough. In 2021, he did the unimaginable. This time, he completed The CONQUER 100, 100 Ironman distance triathlons, in 100 consecutive days! That’s 140.6 miles per day, every day, for 14 straight weeks, for a total of 14,060 miles! This time he raised money to combat sex trafficking. The documentary of the Conquer 100 debuts in December of 2022. In between his triathlon feats of strength, James has summited Mt. Kilimanjaro on a bicycle, completed the Fiji Eco-Challenge, the Race Across America, and Norseman World Championship, as well as a 235-mile run across Greece. Today, James is one of the most dynamic, inspiring, larger-than-life keynote speakers in the world, having shared his astonishing story in 50 different countries across the globe reaching millions of people. He is a best-selling author and the subject of a critically acclaimed feature film. He continues to redefine the impossible in his own life, while teaching audiences around the world to do the same in their own lives.
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Session 24 | Agency Top Ten Deficiencies and Updates
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Assisted Living
Room Location: Conway
Session Summary
Hear from the Agency for Health Care Administration update on the top-ten assisted living facility citations and survey updates. Case studies will also be prepared to help increase your awareness of items to avoid, along with items to review in your facilities to increase awareness and compliance.
Presenters
Anne Sosiak
Registered Nurse Consultant | Agency for Health Care Administration
About the Presenter
Anne Sosiak has worked at the Agency for Health Care Administration for 14 years, starting as a nurse surveyor based in the Delray Beach office. She has survey experience in assisted living and long term care facilities as well as ambulatory surgery centers. Currently, Anne is a Registered Nurse Consultant with the Survey and Certification Support Branch, Bureau of Field Operations and her responsibilities include quality assurance, surveyor training and surveying for unlicensed assisted living activity.
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Session 23 | Work Hard and Smart to Manage Advance Directives in Skilled Nursing Facilities
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
The best way to lower advance directive citations is to work hard and smart. This session will discuss considerations and facts to lower citations related to DNRs and advance directives and will focus on nurses, both newly-hired and agency, having accurate and adequate training on policies and procedures. This session will also analyze the causes of the rise in IJ citations related to advance directives.
Presenters
Karen Goldsmith
FHCA's Regulatory Counsel |
About the Presenter
Karen Goldsmith currently serves as Florida Health Care Association's Regulatory Counsel and previously served as the association's Legal Counsel since 1980. She represents a number of providers of nursing home and assisted living facilities. She is active on the American Health Care Association Legal Committee and served as its chairman for two terms. She is active in the American Health Lawyers Association. She speaks often on health care and legal issues and has written numerous articles.
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Session 22 | Audit Readiness: How to Get Prepared
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
This session provides a brief overview of the financial reporting requirements within Florida, including the effective date and optional extensions, electronic submission due dates and extension options, and audit requirements, including the option to submit consolidated financial statements. In addition, presenters will discuss how organizations can take advantage of the option to present consolidated financial statements and will walk through the technical requirements that permit the presentation of consolidated statements. Key elements of a consolidated financial statement, including the independent auditors’ report, the required presentation of financial information, and key footnote disclosures will also be discussed along with best practices for preparing for your audit and getting your accounting team ready for audit requests.
Presenters
Keegan DeBoer
Senior Manager | Plante Moran
About the Presenter
Keegan has over 14 years of experience serving healthcare clients as a member of Plante Moran’s assurance practice. As one of the firm’s healthcare industry technical specialists, Keegan serves as a technical consultant to Plante Moran's healthcare engagement teams and performs engagement quality reviews of financial statements for compliance with professional standards. Keegan is a member of the AICPA. Keegan received his B.A. in finance and M.S. in accounting from Michigan State University.
Jason Giha
Partner
About the Presenter
As the leader of our firm’s senior care audit practice, I enjoy helping organizations that help others. I have over 25 years of experience in providing audit and advisory services to an array of nationally and regionally based healthcare organizations. I focus on skilled nursing facilities, continuing care retirement (life plan) communities, home health, hospice, ancillary service providers, and affordable housing organizations.My clients appreciate the fact that I work with many others like them and share years of lessons learned so that they don’t have to do things the hard way when it comes to accounting and operational issues. I share actionable industry insights and benchmarking data to help clients make informed decisions for their organizations. I’ve always enjoyed guiding and teaching others, and I routinely share my knowledge by giving presentations to state and national industry associations. I have an active role in supporting our firm’s healthcare professional services team which serves as the technical leaders of our healthcare assurance practice. I pride myself on keeping our group—and our clients—current on any changes which impact our healthcare organizations operationally, strategically, or financially. I’m also the chair of the finance committee and a member of the board of directors and audit committees of Directions for Youth & Families. I’m a member of the AICPA and the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, and I hold a B.S.B.A. from Ohio State University.
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Session 21 | Top 5 Cybersecurity Concerns for Long Term Care in 2024
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
In this session, participants will gain an understanding of the current cybersecurity challenges, learn strategies to mitigate insider threats and receive ideas for enhancing employee training regarding cybersecurity. Presenters will also discuss regulatory compliance and cloud security related to long term care. This session aims to provide “real-life” scenarios and what all canters should consider to protect themselves and their residents.
Presenters
Jennifer Ziolkowski
Director, Healthcare Services
About the Presenter
jenniferz@q3hc.com
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Session 20 | What Does the NHA Need to Know About C. auris?
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
C. auris is an emerging threat, and cases continue to increase in Florida. Infections caused by C. auris can lead to longer hospital stays and mortality, and centers need to be prepared to prevent the spread. This session will address what this bacterium is, how it is transmitted, and what actions need to be taken to care for residents who may be infected or colonized with C. auris.
Presenters
A.C. Burke
VP of Healthcare Quality | RB Health Partners, Inc.
About the Presenter
A.C. Burke, MA, CIC, is the Vice President for Healthcare Quality for RB Health Partners, Inc. and is the primary author for the Nursing Home Infection Prevention Program (NIPP©), NIPPing Infections in the Bud. She holds a master’s degree in health management and is Board Certified in Infection Control (CIC) by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology. Her 20 years of experience includes creating, implementing, and managing programs that have achieved national recognition, partnership building, meeting facilitation, consensus building, and developing competency- based training curricula for healthcare workers across the continuum of care. AC has worked in public health preparedness and response roles, served as the manager of the Healthcare-associated Infection Prevention Program for the Florida Department of Health as well as the Director of Infection Prevention for Mayo Clinic Florida.
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Session 19 | Qualified Medication Aides: What You Need to Know
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
A Qualified Medication Aide is a CNA who takes additional training and can administer routine medications to nursing center residents. This new workforce initiative frees up nurses to focus on higher-level caregiving and offers a career ladder to CNAs. Learn the foundations of the 2023 legislation, the new rule and practical applications and how to successfully integrate the QMA role into your nursing centers.
Presenters
Susan Anderson
Director of Regulatory Affairs | Florida Health Care Association
About the Presenter
Susan Anderson currently serves as the Director of Regulatory Affairs for Florida Health Care Association. In this position, she concentrates on supporting the legislative, regulatory, and policy activities on behalf of association members for nursing centers and assisted living facilities. Ms. Anderson has experience in seniors housing and in developing public policy positions and advising on regulatory compliance. Ms. Anderson is an active member of the Florida Bar.
Robin A. Bleier
President/CEO
About the Presenter
Robin A. Bleier RN, HCRM, LNC , has 40 years of health care experience, 30 of which in long term care. Robin's passion is teaching and training with a focus on risk management as a means to help improve quality and resident outcomes while increasing long term care professional's work satisfaction. Robin worked as a nursing assistant, LPN, RN, DON, regional nurse, CCO, and COO. She now owns and operates RB Health Partners, Inc. (RBHPs) a long term care consultancy firm for the past 20 years. RBHPs employs an interdisciplinary team of subject matter experts and consultants to support long term care providers meet their quality improvement goals.
Jen Lawrence
Chief Nursing Officer | Aston Health
About the Presenter
Jen has devoted an almost thirty-year career to serving our geriatric population from her beginnings as a high school volunteer, then as a Certified Nursing Assistant, then as a Licensed Practical Nurse, to a Masters prepared Registered Nurse, and also as a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator. Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing as well as a dual Master’s Degree in Business Administration and in Nursing. Jen’s experience spans all the geriatric continuums of care with positions including Risk Manager, Director of Nursing, Regional Nurse, Nursing Home Administrator, Assisted Living Administrator, Regional Director of Operations, VP of Clinical Services, and Chief Nursing Officer. She has extensive experience in Florida as well as multiple other states. She is focused on positive patient experiences and outcomes citing a strong compassionate team as the foundation for success. Jen is an active member/presenter with the Florida Health Care Association serving as the Vice-Chair for the Senior Clinician’s Committee as well as an item writer for the NAB exams.
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Session 18 | Food at the Root of Wellness: Amplify Your Wellness Brand
Time: 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Assisted Living
Room Location: Conway
Session Summary
The concept of wellness is surfacing as a top strategy for overall health and cost management. Savvy organizations are exercising their muscles to build strong wellness offerings for their residents. In this session, we will share real-life ideas to inspire Food Service Teams to lead the way with nutrition-related activities to amplify your wellness brand.
Presenters
Nancy Rhoades
Non-Commerical Business Solutions Specialist | Gordon Food Service
About the Presenter
Nancy obtained her B.S. degree in Dietetics from Miami University, M.S. degree in Kinesiology from the University of Michigan, and completed her dietetic internship at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. Nancy is currently the Non-Commercial Business Solutions Specialist with Gordon Food Service, serving the Florida and Southeast Divisions. Nancy has served on a number of committees affiliated with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Georgia Dietetic Foundation, and Association of Nutrition and Food Service Professionals. She is passionate about food, nutrition, and wellness and enjoys playing golf, shopping at farmer's markets, attending local wine tastings, and practicing yoga. Nancy resides in Atlanta.
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Session 17 | Home Dialysis and Infection Prevention
Time: 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
According to the National End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Census Data1, as of September 2023, there are 519,471 patients on dialysis within the United States. Of those patients, 4,097 receive dialysis nationally in a skilled nursing center. These numbers are estimated to increase over the next decade due to the increase in patients diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently updated guidance for home dialysis services within a skilled nursing center. With an estimated 15 percent of the dialysis population projected to reside within a skilled nursing center at some point during a calendar year, the number of long term care facilities providing on-site dialysis services is also increasing. This presentation will discuss the unique infection prevention challenges within hemodialysis units and the best infection prevention practices of contracted dialysis companies to protect residents.
Presenters
Chantel Emery
Dialysis Infection Prevention Lead | Florida Department of Health
About the Presenter
Chantel Emery is the Dialysis Infection Prevention Lead with the Healthcare Associated Infection Prevention Program at the Florida Department of Health. Within this role, she serves as the dialysis and injection safety subject matter expert for the state of Florida. She supports the infection prevention efforts of outpatient hemodialysis facilities as well as long-term care and correctional institution dialysis units. Chantel is board-certified in Infection Control by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology. Chantel has worked in various clinical roles in her career, including cardiac, hospice, and clinical research. However, infection prevention is her passion, particularly among the kidney community. Ms. Emery earned her Bachelors of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience from Northeastern University, a Master of Science in Health Care Administration from Regis College, and a Bachelors in Nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Studies. She is currently in her first year of the DNP-Adult Gerontology/Occupational Nurse Practitioner program at University of South Florida. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Florida Professionals in Infection Control.
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Session 16 | Super Star Discharge Planning Through Maximizing Patient-Managed Care Benefits
Time: 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
Effective discharge planning involves thoroughly understanding the patient's managed care benefits which includes coordinating with insurance providers to ensure all eligible services are utilized. Proper discharge planning will reduce financial burden, improve outcomes, and position your center as a valuable community partner and is crucial for ensuring patients' well-being and successful transition back to a lower level of care. This session will present key points to create a DY-NO-MITE discharge plan.
Presenters
Nanette Johnson-Smith
Managed Care Liaison | Managed Care Consultants of America
About the Presenter
Nanette has 10+ years in the Managed Care Consulting industry and is a former nursing home administrator. Prior experience includes helping clients navigate managed care plans by educating providers on how to optimize their contracts for financial success while remaining compliant with the health plan requirements.
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Session 15 | Bridging the Gap: Tech-Powered Care Transition Strategies
Time: 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
Providers are at the center of a complex web of patient care coordination in the ever-evolving healthcare ecosystem. They encounter many challenges as they work to ensure seamless care transitions within many care settings and among numerous stakeholders. This session addresses these intricate challenges and underscores the pivotal role of technology in creating comprehensive care networks. As the healthcare industry adapts to meet residents' changing needs, technology has become a linchpin in optimizing care delivery. This session will explore the critical role of technology in streamlining care transitions and promoting patient-centered, cost-effective care while providing actionable strategies providers can implement today to enhance care coordination, boost patient outcomes, and gain a competitive edge. This session is your opportunity to discover how tech-powered care transition strategies transform how healthcare providers operate and, most importantly, how they improve resident care across the board.
Presenters
Nick Knowlton
Vice President, Business Development | ResMed SaaS
About the Presenter
As Vice President of Business Development across MatrixCare and Brightree, Nick Knowlton leads strategic initiatives, including partnership development and healthcare interoperability efforts. Nick has over twenty years of business experience and has held sales, marketing, product, and strategy positions for technology and health information technology businesses. Prior to joining MatrixCare, Nick ran strategic initiatives for Greenway Health, a market leader in the physician practice EHR space. Nick has a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry from the University of Notre Dame.
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Session 14 | The New Restorative Era: An Operational Approach to Restorative Services
Time: 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
Restorative nursing services are vital in providing care in senior communities - specifically in skilled nursing. This session will provide tools and best practices to help create a successful operational model that encompasses the requirements from an RAI/CMS perspective. A patient-centered approach that focuses on consistent care and delivery of the restorative program will have clinical benefits, marketability, and a possible financial opportunity. Attendees will walk away with a better understanding of the requirements within PDPM to see a possible financial return for providing restorative services on top of the clinical benefits that residents will receive.
Presenters
Stephen Brown
National Director of Training & Customer Support-Wellness | Aegis Therapies
About the Presenter
Stephen Brown has been working in the wellness industry for over 10 years. He is the Senior National Director of Wellness Services for Aegis Therapies EnerG which offers activities, wellness, and restorative programming for the senior population. Aegis Therapies specializes in rehabilitation, recovery care, and wellness services. Stephen has provided services in a wide range of communities: skilled nursing, independent & assisted living, outpatient, memory care, hospitals, & adult day programs. Stephen has been working with the restorative nursing program since 2018, creating operational processes that allow communities to maximize their clinical and financial opportunity by providing restorative services.
Emily Ridgely
National Director of Training and Customer Support, Wellness Services
About the Presenter
Emily Ridgely is the National Director of Training and Customer Support for Aegis Therapies. She has an academic background in Kinesiology from the University of Arkansas and is a Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine. She has seven years of activities, wellness, and restorative experience working with seniors in various care settings. Emily is driven by her passion for fitness and implementing creative initiatives for seniors throughout all stages of life.
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Session 13 | Empowering Nurse Leaders: A Guide to Coaching, Mentoring, and Managing for Success
Time: 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
In this enlightening presentation, presenters will explore the critical distinctions between coaching, mentoring, and managing in nursing leadership. Based upon the Q3 Strategic Leadership Collaborative curriculum, which deploys the Baldrige Framework for Performance Excellence and Tresane’s leadership model and team development framework, attendees will learn valuable insights to empower nursing managers to navigate their dynamic roles clearly and confidently. Leveraging hands-on practical experience in operations and clinical improvement, nurses will understand why proactive staff management and team building are crucial to managing teams effectively, improving operational efficiency, and delivering high-quality care.
Presenters
David Baumgartner
CEO | Tresane, LLC
About the Presenter
David Baumgartner, PCC, ITCA, SHRM-SCP, has worked with healthcare leaders and teams for nearly 3 decades. He has been recognized as an invaluable resource when leaders face significant challenges. He has supported mergers and acquisitions, turnaround efforts, cultural alignment, and leadership changes. His approach has earned him a reputation as a trusted mentor and colleague. David was among the first people in the world to receive advanced team coaching accreditation and is a published author.
Wendy LaBate
RN Consultant
About the Presenter
Recognized SNF Clinical and Operations leader with extensive experience in nursing leadership, team building, QAPI, quality measures and outcome improvement. With over 35+ years in post-acute settings serving in operations, nursing, and quality leadership roles. Currently supporting center leaders in care area specialty and systems design, regulatory compliance, nursing model redesign, resident satisfaction improvement, and team engagement.
Kelly Smith
Director, Healthcare Services | Q3 Healthcare Consulting, a Division of Saltmarsh, Cleaveland and Gund
About the Presenter
Dr. Kelly Smith holds a doctoral degree in Aging Studies, is a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality, and holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification. Through her knowledge of quality improvement methodologies and professional experience, Dr. Smith focuses on quality and process improvement across the long term care continuum. Recently, Q3 joined forces with Saltmarsh, Cleaveland and Gund to leverage their combined expertise, resources, and capabilities to better serve their clients evolving needs.
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Session 12 | ALF Administration 101: Compliance Confidence is Cool
Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Assisted Living
Room Location: Conway
Session Summary
Assisted Living administrators work across broad and varied domains of practice that require specialized operational, administrative, and executive knowledge. This session will move quickly through several key areas, focusing on high-level regulatory expectations and timelines for maintaining personal credentials, the Agency for Health Care Administration survey process, adverse incident reporting, facility licensure, reporting abuse, neglect, exploitation, and criminal history screening. Changes like the ALF’s new Comprehensive Emergency Management Planning Criteria will also be summarized. Whether a less experienced administrator or one who wants to revisit the how-tos for foundational, recurring responsibilities, attendees will leave with updated, helpful information for compliance confidence, refreshing policies, and training staff.
Presenters
Lee Ann Griffin
President and Core Trainer | Laurel Senior Living Education, LLC
About the Presenter
Lee Ann Griffin has served the senior living care and services community in Florida for more than 20 years. Through her work with leading associations and her advocacy within the provider community, Lee Ann has developed extensive expertise in rules, laws, and policy affecting assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Lee Ann is President and Core Trainer for Laurel Senior Living Education (www.lsledu.com), delivering approachable self-directed eLearning using the latest features in instructional design.
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Session 11 | Jump on The Baldrige Bandwagon and Bring Your Strategic Plan to Life
Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
Strategic planning and implementation are crucial components to operational success. Using principles from the Baldrige Framework for Performance Excellence, this session provides foundational knowledge of creating, monitoring, achieving, and sustaining organizational results through systematic strategic development and implementation. Leveraging decades of experience in the industry, best practices will also be shared to empower leaders to bring their strategic plans to life.
Presenters
Kelly Smith
Director, Healthcare Services | Q3 Healthcare Consulting, a Division of Saltmarsh, Cleaveland and Gund
About the Presenter
Dr. Kelly Smith holds a doctoral degree in Aging Studies, is a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality, and holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification. Through her knowledge of quality improvement methodologies and professional experience, Dr. Smith focuses on quality and process improvement across the long term care continuum. Recently, Q3 joined forces with Saltmarsh, Cleaveland and Gund to leverage their combined expertise, resources, and capabilities to better serve their clients evolving needs.
Jennifer Ziolkowski
Director, Healthcare Services
About the Presenter
Jennifer Ziolkowski has over 28 years of experience in the long term care profession. Her extensive knowledge of business operations and finance led her to serve in various roles such as senior vice president of finance and president in highly respected long term care companies. Jennifer holds a Masters in Business Administration and a Yellow Belt in Lean Six Sigma. In 2021, Jennifer along with two partners founded Q3 Healthcare Consulting to share her knowledge with others in the long term care profession. Recently, Q3 joined forces with Saltmarsh, Cleaveland and Gund to leverage their combined expertise, resources, and capabilities to better serve their clients evolving needs.
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Session 10 | The Ins and Outs of Managed Care & Medicaid Managed Care
Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
This session will inform attendees of the various nuances of navigating the managed care environment. This including various Medicaid plans and differences in Medicare Advantage coverages. The presenters will discuss authorization and eligibility requirements, plan coverage, and trends for skilled nursing facilities. In addition, this session will review the Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage (NoMNC) advance requirements, Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for expedited appeals, and a brief overview of levels versus the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) for Medicare Advantage. Attendees will learn about denial management and appeals to achieve reduced AR along with a brief review of contracting credentialing and prebilling check for first pass clean claims.
Presenters
Julie Kemman
CEO | Health Care Professional Consulting Services, Inc.
About the Presenter
Julie Ann Kemman has over 30 years of experience in long term care operations and reimbursement and is a Certified Professional Compliance Officer. She is currently the President of Health Care Professional Consulting Services, Inc. and has a passion for serving our profession.
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Session 9 | Technology Optimization and Cybersecurity Risks
Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
Many healthcare organizations face challenges related to the technology they utilize. Increased costs, technological inefficiencies, lack of end-user training, continued reliance on manual processes, and cybersecurity are some of the most prevalent challenges. The presenters will show practical actions for organizations to limit the risk and impact of these roadblocks. This session will incorporate a case study to show how optimizing technology and assessing cybersecurity risks can benefit an organization’s operating model and improve patient care.
Presenters
Ben Owings
Director of IT Risk & Compliance | FORVIS
About the Presenter
Ben is a Director of IT Risk & Compliance at FORVIS. He has more than 14 years of experience providing general IT, risk management, compliance, and cybersecurity services to Healthcare clients. Before joining FORVIS, Ben worked for a large health system leading IT projects and key compliance initiatives, including Electronic Medical Record (EMR) implementations and Meaningful Use attestations.
Ray Baxter
Director of IT Risk and Compliance
About the Presenter
Ray is a director of IT Risk & Compliance at FORVIS. He has more than 18 years of experience providing companies with IT and cyber operations, auditing, and consulting services. Ray brings more than 14 years of public accounting experience, including nine years with Big 4 accounting firms. He also worked at a large healthcare provider as a senior director of information security and interim chief information security officer. Ray is a security and compliance leader with expertise in building world-class teams and delivering security solutions that enable business growth and profitability. He has expertise in leading transformational outcomes by optimizing people, processes, and technologies. Ray has worked with client service engagements serving global and U.S. Fortune 500 companies specializing in Healthcare over internal audit efforts over IT and cyber control design and governance to support multiple regulations. He is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). He is a member of ISACA, Project Management Institute, (ISC)², and Cloud Security Alliance.
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Session 8 | Fine Tuning the Facility Assessment: Understanding the Enhancements made to the Facility Assessment and how to Meet the New Requirements
Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
Skilled Nursing Facilities have been completing Facility Assessments for several years. However, with the release of the CMS Minimum Staffing Rule, April 22, 2024, the Facility Assessment requirements we enhanced significantly. Changes were made to several aspects of the facility assessment and this session will walk through the changes made, and how to complete an effective assessment. Furthermore, the session will outline areas of the assessment that define day-to-day operations of the facility and establishing competencies based on the assessment.Presenters
Hawley Hunt
Director of Regulatory and Quality Services | American Health Care Association
About the Presenter
Hawley Hunt is the Director of Regulatory and Quality Services for AHCA. Prior to joining AHCA, she was an Administrator for many years in a skilled nursing facility in Raleigh, North Carolina. Hawley has a Bachelor’s degree in Health Services Management, and a dual Master’s in Health Care Administration and Master’s in Business Administration from Pfeiffer University. Hawley has a passion for the long-term care, especially quality improvement and caring for residents with dementia diagnoses.« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 7 | Why Baldrige?
Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
The National Quality Awards, based on the Baldrige Excellence Framework, allow nursing centers to evaluate their strengths, identify critical areas for improvement, and implement a plan to be stronger, more resilient, and more successful than ever before. The three-level program evaluates long term care organizations’ capabilities against nationally-recognized standards for excellence, making it one of the most comprehensive and cost-effective performance assessments available to providers. This session will walk attendees through the Baldrige journey - what it is, what it can do to strengthen your organization, and what it takes to set it in motion.
Presenters
Deborah Brazill
About the Presenter
Debbie was the owner/operator of Villages Rehab and Nursing Center for the last 10 years and an administrator for 34 years. While at Villages Rehab she was one of 3 facilities in Florida to achieve Gold level status for the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award in the history of the award. During her tenure as an adminsitrator she had numerous employees who followed her through her career and worked with her for more than 30 years.
Deborah Franklin
Senior Director of Quality Affairs
About the Presenter
Deborah Franklin is the Senior Director of Quality Affairs for the Florida Health Care Association. Deborah has a Masters of Health Administration and is a nursing home administrator with over thirty years in long term care sector. Deborah is responsible for leading the Association's internal quality department while pioneering initiatives on quality improvement in long term care. She works in conjunction with the association's Board of Directors, Quality Cabinet and associated committees to develop, plan and implement long term care quality and educational programs to support members with their pursuit of providing high-quality, person-centered care. Additionally, Deborah is the key liaison with the executive and legislative branches, state and federal health care agencies on long term care survey and regulatory issues.
Clara Houghton
Quality Improvement and Education Specialist | FHCA
About the Presenter
Claire Houghton serves as the Quality Improvement and Education Specialist at the Florida Health Care Association. Her work involves the development and review of educational programs and materials, project coordination, training, team building, and service to FHCA members through her work on its various committees and councils.
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Session 6 | Partnering with an ISNP - How Your Residents (and You) Can Benefit
Time: 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Assisted Living
Room Location: Conway
Session Summary
Understanding the needs of your Medicare-enrolled residents is invaluable and your knowledge of various Medicare plans, including specialized plans for those requiring extra care, empowers you to advocate for their well-being. While Medicare can be a labyrinth, especially regarding managed care plans, there's a beacon of hope for residents needing more extensive care The Institutional Equivalent Special Needs Plan (IE-SNP) caters specifically to individuals who require an institutional level of care but can thrive in the comfort of their own homes or their community. This session will help attendees navigate these plans.
Presenters
Stephanie Plana
Vice President of Medicare | Florida Community Care (Independent Living Systems)
About the Presenter
Stephanie Plana began her legal career focused on civil defense litigation before pursing her current field, health care law. Stephanie presently serves as the Vice President of Medicare at Independent Living Systems, LLC (ILS) where she has devoted her legal skills to the business aspect of improving health outcomes and reducing costs. Today, she is responsible for the Compliance, Operations and Sales departments of FC2. Stephanie’s passion for the health care field has contributed towards the success of the new Florida Complete Care plan.
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Session 5 | Make your QAPI Plan DY-NO-MITE!
Time: 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Operations/Regulatory/Legal Compliance
Room Location: Butler
Session Summary
This session will review the elements necessary for a strong QAPI program and walk attendees through each process step, from reviewing data, an effective Root Cause Analysis (RCA), implementing a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP), and tracking their progress. At the end of the session, attendees will have an example from start to finish to reference once back at their center.
Presenters
Renee DelMonico
State Quality Manager-Florida | Alliant Health Solutions
About the Presenter
Renee DelMonico is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator who has worked 30 years in LTC and 22 years as an Administrator in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida. With a passion for Reiki and making a difference in the lives of residents, she incorporated a Reiki program which decreased pain in residents, sun downing, as well as assisted COPD residents with energy conservation. Currently she is the Florida State Quality Manager with Alliant Health Solutions, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization where she collaborates with nursing facilities, hospitals, and community coalitions to improve the outcomes of Medicare Beneficiaries.
Melinda Jones
Please Provide
About the Presenter
Melinda Jones is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the healthcare industry for 47 years. She has worked in multiple settings including acute care, home health, quality improvement, long term care and healthcare informatics. Currently, she is the Florida Quality Advisor with Alliant Health Solutions, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization, where she collaborates with nursing facilities to improve patient safety and improve clinical quality
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Session 4 | We Will Survive - Understanding and Surviving Medicaid Eligibility, Post Unwinding, and Legal Implications of the Changing Medicaid Climate
Time: 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Finance and Reimbursement
Room Location: Galin A-4
Session Summary
Providers have now had several months to settle into the unwinding of the Public Health Emergency. In this question and answer session, the presenters and attendees will roundtable on specific reimbursement issues they see daily and develop proactive action plans to avoid financial disasters. This session will deliver insight on reimbursement topics, including timely Medicaid application and eligibility, Medicaid Managed Care claims payment, and private billing practices, and educate providers on federal and state Medicaid policies and best practices to avoid denials, increase cash velocity, and ensure claims are paid on time. Attendees will learn practical and legal strategies to avoid and/or work through Medicaid appeals, guardianships, and discharge for non-payment. Participants will become skilled resources not only for their company, but also for residents and family members.
Presenters
Rebecca Hewitt
Senior Long-Term Care Reimbursement Specialist | Hall Booth Smith, P.C.
About the Presenter
Rebecca Hewitt has worked in medical reimbursement for over 23 years, specifically in the long term care industry for 20 years. She has worked at the facility level as a Business Office Manager and at the operations level as a Regional Consultant to Admissions, Marketing, and Business Office staff. Currently, she is the Regional Long-Term Care Reimbursement Specialist with Hall Booth Smith, P.C. assisting our clients with all their reimbursement needs and quickly becoming recognized as the Medicaid expert in the long term care industry in multiple states and throughout the Southeast region. She provides onsite audits and education to our clients related to financial best practices and Medicaid policies. Since joining the firm in 2011, she has assisted facilities in Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida to recover millions dollars each year in Medicaid revenue.
Brittany Cone
Partner
About the Presenter
Brittany H. Cone, CHC is a Partner in the Hall Booth Smith, P.C. firm’s Atlanta office. She focuses her practice on regulatory, administrative, and litigation matters in health care. Ms. Cone received her JD from Georgia State University College of Law. At Georgia State, she was a member of the Law Review and served as associate symposium editor and associate editor for student notes. Ms. Cone also served as an extern for the Honorable A. Harris Adams of the Georgia Court of Appeals. Ms. Cone is certified in Health Care Compliance by the Health Care Compliance Association. Ms. Cone has specific experience in the day-to-day operations issues faced by providers, from Medicare, Medicaid, and third-party payors, to corporate and regulatory compliance, to administrative hearings and appeals. As the amount of denials or under-reimbursement received from payors, including Medicare Advantage Organizations and private insurance companies increase, much of her recent experience includes representing medical providers seeking reimbursement for or defending against the denial of claims submitted to various payers.
James Maskowitz
Partner | Hall Booth Smith, P.C.
About the Presenter
James “JJ” Maskowitz is a Partner in the Hall Booth Smith, P.C. Tampa Bay, Florida office, and specializes in defending physicians, hospitals and insurers in all aspects of aging services, medical malpractice and general liability lawsuits. James has more than a decade of legal experience, and was previously a Partner at a Tampa firm where he represented nursing homes, hospitals and physicians before courts, arbitration panels and in mediation. He has extensive experience in managing litigation from inception through trial, including motions, pleadings, discovery demands and responses, and trying cases to verdict or judgment.
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Session 3 | What Really Happens Overnight in Memory Care and How Technology Can Provide Actionable Insights
Time: 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Technology and Quality Innovations
Room Location: Gatlin A-3
Session Summary
In light of the rebuke of the industry's safety record (Washington Post, December 2023), this session will focus on quantifying the extent of safety risks and identifying tech-based solutions that can improve outcomes, providing better resident safety, family peace of mind, staff support, and quality assurance for operators and their insurers. Learn how Artificial Intelligence camera technology is helping to improve safety in dementia settings, resulting in a reduction in falls, elopements, and intrusions; decrease operator liability claims; lower costs to the health care system that is fueling funding for such tech solutions; and positively impact family satisfaction, community reputation, and occupancy.
Presenters
Aaron D'Costa
SVP of Sales & Marketing | EyeWatch LIVE
About the Presenter
Over his 30+-year career, Aaron has held operations and marketing positions with national operators and also worked on the capital side buying communities. He has consulted domestically and internationally, and has served in numerous industry associations. He recently helped startup a n AI-powered tech company dedicated to keeping seniors safer.
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Session 2 | Shifting Paradigms: Revolutionizing Mental Health Care for Serious Mental Illness in Long Term Care Settings
Time: 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Clinical/Person-Centered Care Practices
Room Location: Gatlin A-2
Session Summary
This presentation will guide attendees through an insightful analysis of the historical shifts of mental health care in long term care settings, with particular attention on individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). Patients with SMI require comprehensive and collaborative mental health care, distinguishing this topic as crucial within the long term care landscape. This session surpasses routine discussions, presenting a compelling exploration into addressing the unique needs of SMI patients in long term care settings.
Presenters
Anthony Nedelman, Ph.D.
Director of Psychology Services | Mindcare Solutions/Psych360
About the Presenter
Dr. Anthony Nedelman is an esteemed clinical psychologist based in Ohio and is recognized for his expertise in addressing mental health concerns across the lifespan. Renowned for his impactful presentations, Dr. Nedelman has shared his insights at conferences nationwide. With a commitment to both leadership and clinical excellence, Dr. Nedelman continues to make significant contributions to the field of psychology.
Tana Whitt
Senior VP of Operations
About the Presenter
Tana Whitt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by craft and currently holds the position of Senior Vice President of Operations at Mindcare/Psych360. Her professional journey is characterized by a deep commitment to leadership, with a focus on strategic planning, operational efficiency, evidence-based practice, quality patient care, and fostering employee satisfaction and optimization. Tana's educational background includes a Master of Science degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice from Kent State University. Since 2017, she has been actively involved in clinical leadership, playing a pivotal role in the growth of Ohio's largest long-term care mental health platform (Psych360). This platform, now part of Mindcare, delivers evidence-based, patient-focused mental health treatment to individuals in long-term care, outpatient, corrections, PACE programs, and various hospital-based settings throughout the United States.
Charissa Duffy
Director of Clinical Affairs | MindCare Solutions/Psych360
About the Presenter
Dr. Charissa Duffy, is a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the Director of Clinical Affairs at MindCare/Psych360. Her education background includes a Master in Science from Kent State University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Walsh University. She shapes clinical vision, oversees operations, and ensures top-tier care standards. She focuses on evidence based practice resulting in quality patient care, employee satisfaction and operational effectiveness. Dr. Duffy has played a key role in the expansion of Ohio’s premier mental health platform in long term care settings. She leads the Clinical Residency program that fosters the development of future psychiatric clinicians. Dr. Duffy is a staunch advocate for mental health and is committed to positve changes in the field.
« Back to Continuing Education Sessions
Session 1 | Drama-Free Teams in Healthcare
Time: 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Type/Topic: Leadership / Workforce
Room Location: Gatlin A-1
Session Summary
Leading a high-trust, high-performance team without putting in more hours that gets results is possible. Creating an ownership culture free of drama, victim mentalities, and blame-assigning helps leaders utilize their most valuable asset - their team members. This interactive workshop will give you the practical skills you need to eliminate the excuses from your team and create a drama-free environment.
Presenters
Dennis McIntee
CEO | Leadership Development Group
About the Presenter
Dennis McIntee, a business consultant, gifted keynote speaker, executive coach and author, travels across the world speaking at leadership summits, management training events and healthcare conferences, to name a few. His three-decade career included stints in Africa, Poland, Germany, and throughout greater Europe where he coached and consulted with growing leaders. Through his experience, Dennis developed a systematic approach to helping his clients reach their goals through coaching, speaking, courses, and teaching techniques that enact transformational change. Ultimately, Dennis is passionate about helping leaders create high-trust, high-performance cultures while becoming the best version of themselves they can be. Dennis is also the author of The 8 Qualities of Drama Free Teams, The Power of Pursuit, and Drama Free Teams in Healthcare. He has been married to his wife, Lisa, for over 30 years and together they have four children. Dennis is an avid runner and enjoys training for races.