NHPCO - Podcast Details

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Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 10: Communication & Education Miniseries | End Well: Engaging the Media to Shift the Cultural ConversationOn the final episode of the NHPCO Podcast, host Elyssa Katz is joined by Tracy Wheeler, Executive Director for End Well, a leading non-profit at the intersection of end-of-life and culture change with a focus on making end of life, part of life. Listeners will learn how the End Well team works to engage the media, and even Hollywood stars, in conversations around death and end of life. Listeners will also learn how to implement some of End Well’s best practices at their own organizations. Help spread the message about what true hospice and end of life care lo...2024-11-0636 min

Dr. G at the Heart of HealthcareS2: Episode 33- Recap & Highlights from NHPCO #ALC2024 w/ HealwellShow notes-Mourning Dove Medical Presents Dr. G at the Heart of Healthcare Guest-Cal Cates (they/them)-Healwell CEO founded in 2009-Serves on NHPCO committees (Diversity Advisory Council DAC, Integrative & Rehabilitative Therapies Steering) -Impacted by experience of massaging grandfather’s hand when he died Mission-Educate & Empower in three parts, helping listeners ‘SEE’ what’s needed to navigate the healthcare system. 1. Story (theme) Cal & Dr. G met at last year’s NHPCO ALC 2024. This year they...2024-10-1030 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 8: Communication & Education Miniseries | National Care at Home MonthWelcome to the third and final miniseries in this season of the NHPCO Podcast! Over the course of the last three episodes, we’ll focus on communication and education, starting with Episode 8, National Care at Home Month. Tune in as the Alliance Communications team introduces a month of recognition, celebration, and storytelling created to honor the combined membership of the new Alliance and the patients and families its members serve nationwide. Listeners will also learn about how to participate in National Care at Home Month to uplift their organizations, recognize their peers, and contribute to the national di...2024-10-0945 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 7: Regulatory & Legislative Miniseries | Top Legislative Priorities for Providers in 2025In the third and final episode of the Regulatory & Legislative miniseries, host Elyssa Katz is joined by repeat guests Logan Hoover and Madison Summers to discuss the policy priorities top of mind for the provider community and the Alliance Policy team. Listeners will learn the latest on topics from program integrity to Gerald’s Law and telehealth flexibilities, as well as how they can engage locally and nationally to advance the priorities most important to them. Stay tuned for the third and final miniseries in this season of the NHPCO Podcast kicking off in early October – Communication and...2024-09-0439 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 6: Regulatory & Legislative Miniseries | Palliative CareTune in to the second episode in the Regulatory & Legislative miniseries focusing on palliative care! Listeners will hear a brief recap of the palliative care landscape before diving into actionable tips for providers with returning guest Rory Farrand, VP of Palliative and Advanced Care for NHPCO. From operators and clinicians with an existing program to those looking to start a new service line, Farrand covers how to operate effectively in the current environment and how to prepare for what the future may hold. As always, let us know what you think by emailing podcast@nhpco.org.2024-08-2132 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 5: Regulatory & Legislative Miniseries | Hospice Special Focus ProgramDive into the first episode in our next miniseries – Regulation and Legislation – with everyone’s favorite topic: the Hospice Special Focus Program (SFP). In this episode, host Elyssa Katz is joined by Logan Hoover, NHPCO VP of Policy and Government Relations, and Patrick Harrison, NHPCO Senior Director of Regulatory and Compliance to cover background, considerations, and predictions around the SFP’s algorithm and implementation. Leave with a stronger understanding of what lies ahead for the provider community as well as practical takeaways you can use to improve and protect your organization.2024-08-0744 min

The Association Adviser Podcast#5: Driving Success with Compassionate Leadership with Jennifer McClennon of NHPCOEmpowering and motivating a team consistently can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be if you center your efforts on the human experience.In today's episode, we're joined by Jennifer McClennon, MSN, RN, CNL, CHPN, Manager of Business Strategy at the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). Jennifer, with her unique background in nursing, patient care and sales strategy, shares how she has built strong corporate partnerships to support NHPCO’s mission of delivering person-centric healthcare.We'll dive into how her nursing experience informs her work at NHPC...2024-07-1616 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 4: Quality Miniseries | DatasetsThe third episode in our Quality miniseries focuses on Datasets. NHPCO is committed to continuous quality improvement; increasingly in our technology forward environment, data collection, access, and analysis play critical roles in ensuring the provision of care that meets or exceeds national standards. Host Elyssa Katz is joined by NHPCO VP of Quality, Aparna Gupta, and NHPCO Quality Data Analyst, Tej Chana, to discuss the role of data and benchmarking, the various datasets available to providers, and how to glean practical information that your organization can apply from these datasets. Have a question you’d li...2024-07-0335 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 3: Quality Miniseries | Personalized Care for Diverse PopulationsThe second episode in our Quality miniseries, Personalized Care for Diverse Populations, focuses on how hospice is uniquely structured to care for not only our most vulnerable population – those facing the end of life – but also to meet the individual needs of diverse populations in ways other parts of the healthcare system cannot. Host Elyssa Katz is joined by two special guests to approach this topic from a variety of perspectives – Torie Ring, NHPCO Veterans Service Specialist, and India Harris-Jones, NHPCO Manager of Health Equity and Diversity. The episode provides practical tips for delivering the best possible care t...2024-06-1939 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 2: Quality Miniseries | Workforce and StaffingIn the first episode of our Quality miniseries, host Elyssa Katz is joined by NHPCO’s Senior Director of Quality, Sarah Simmons, and Manager of Public Affairs, Madison Summers to cover all things workforce and staffing in the provider community. They uncover and provide legislative and practical resource-based solutions for many of the pressing workforce challenges providers face today – competition for skilled hospice and palliative staff, creative and effective staffing models, keeping up with compensation pressures, and clinicians entering the workforce with little to no hospice and palliative care exposure. Have a question you’d like t...2024-06-0533 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 3, Episode 1: Welcome back!Over the course of 10 episodes, this season will focus on Expanding Access to Equitable, High-Quality Care, approaching the topic through three unique miniseries: Quality, Regulation and Legislation, and Communication and Education. We’ll tap into expertise from NHPCO staff and members of the broader serious-illness care community. On today’s episode, previous and current hosts – Madison Summers, Manager of Public Affairs, and Elyssa Katz, Manager of Marketing and Communications, respectively – sit down to introduce the new season, provide an overview of the three miniseries to come, and offer a sneak preview of some of NHPCO and the Hospice...2024-05-2225 min

CHAPcast by Community Health Accreditation PartnerThe FY 2025 Hospice Wage Index Rule: Insights From NAHC and NHPCOTake a first look at the Fiscal Year 2025 Hospice Wage Index Rule with the unparalleled insights of industry authorities Katie Wehri (NAHC) and Patrick Harrison (NHPCO). Our conversation slices through the complexity to deliver a focused commentary on what this proposed rule signifies for hospice care providers, highlighting the rule's unexpected early release and the notable absence of anticipated program integrity proposals. We delve into the ramifications of the missing measures and the adaptability required in the wake of this development. The advent of the HOPE assessment tool is scrutinized as it transitions from a patient-centric assessment to a...2024-04-1024 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 10: NHPCO 2024 Member OfferingsWelcome back to the NHPCO Podcast! It's hard to believe that we've reached the end of season 2 already. Thank you for listening and supporting us along the way. On today's episode, Madison is joined by NHPCO's Director of Education, Sarah Bal, and Manager of Member Engagement, Carla Smith, to learn about the many offerings that members can take advantage of including webinars, MyNHPCO Chats, and IDC and ALC 2024. Until next season! For updates on the NHPCO-NAHC collaboration, please visit: https://www.nhpco.org/nahc-collaboration/ 2024-01-2424 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep 9. The Future of NHPCO and NAHCOn today's episode, Melinda Gruber, Chair of the Board of Directors for the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, and Ken Albert, Chairman of the Board for the National Association for Home Care and Hospice Chair, join the podcast to discuss the future of both organizations and the continuum of care. Tune in to learn more about the affiliation between both orgs and what next steps lie ahead in 2024. For more information, please visit: https://www.nhpco.org/nahc-collaboration/2024-01-1027 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 8: Grief During the HolidaysThe holiday season is typically seen as a time of joy, connection, and celebration of traditions with family and friends. But for many, it's also a time of grief as we reflect on those who are no longer with us. On today's episode, Madison is joined by Dora Carpenter, founder of the Institute of Professional Grief Coaching and NHPCO colleague, Elyssa Katz, to discuss the ways in which we can honor our grief and be there for others as they work through their loss during this emotional time of year. Have a topic you'd like to hear...2023-12-2030 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, EP. 7: CMS' Special Focus Program, What We KnowOn today's episode, Madison is joined once more by NHPCO's VP of Policy and Government Relations, Logan Hoover plus a new addition to the NHPCO team, Patrick Harrison, Senior Director of Regulatory and Compliance, to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing the hospice community in 2024: the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' Special Focus Program (SFP). Enacted under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the SFP aims to increase oversight of hospices which have substantially failed to meet Medicare program requirements. However, despite concerns raised by key stakeholders including members of Congress, technical expert panel participants, a...2023-12-0641 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 6: Honoring Veterans at the End of LifeNovember is recognized annually as National Veterans and Military Families Month. On today's episode, Madison sits down with Katherine Kemp, NHPCO's Senior Director of Veteran Services and NHPCO member, Shannon Pointer, to discuss the mission of the We Honor Veterans program, the many ways in which hospice providers can recognize local vets in their communities, and the importance of thanking both Veterans and their families for their sacrifice and service. 2023-11-2230 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 5: Courageous ConversationsEach November, we celebrate National Hospice and Palliative Care Month; a time to honor and recognize the importance of these types of care and engage in courageous conversations with our loved ones and peers. On today's epsiode, Madison sits down with two NHPCO members to discuss their personal hospice stories and how difficult conversations led to their current roles in the hospice field. Have a question you'd like to see answered on a future episode? Email podcast@nhpco.org 2023-11-0842 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Episode 4: Advancements in Palliative CareDescription: on today’s episode, host Madison Summers sits down with Rory Farrand, NHPCO’s VP of Palliative and Advanced Care to discuss the latest developments in the field of palliative care including the community-based demonstration model and reimbursement methods for the interdisciplinary model of care. In Rory’s words, “if you’ve seen one palliative program, you’ve seen one palliative program!” Tune in to learn more. Have a question you’d like to hear answered on a future episode? Email podcast@nhpco.org 2023-10-2528 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 3: Quality Measures to Ensure Equity and Accessibility in HospiceOn today's episode, Madison sits down with Aparna Gupta, NHPCO's VP of Quality, and Sarah Simmons, NHPCO's Director of Quality, to discuss the future of quality measures to ensure the hospice and palliative care community is as equitable and accessible as possible. Have a question that you'd like to hear discussed on an upcoming episode? Email Madison at podcast@nhpco.org 2023-10-1141 min

Dr. G at the Heart of HealthcareEPISODE 27- Recap & Highlights from NHPCO #ALC2023Show notes Mourning Dove Medical Presents Dr. G at the Heart of Healthcare Guest- Lauren Templeton, DO, FAAHPM, HMDC https://www.weatherbeeresources.com s/p National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Annual Leadership Conference NHPCO #ALC2023 Mission-Educate & Empower in three parts, helping listeners ‘SEE’ what’s needed to navigate the healthcare system. 1. Story (theme) Dr. G and Dr. Templeton FINALLY met in person after virtual Weatherbee Webinars and two podcast episodes (9/10, 20). Travel has us discombobulated but the conference has us invigorated! Press release: https://lnkd.in/e-3pYDDp 2. Educate -Teaching point: HIGHLIGHTS special thanks to VITAS Healthcare https://www.vitas.com fo...2023-10-0739 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 2: 2023 Hospice Policy PrioritiesOn today's episode, Madison sits down with Logan Hoover, NHPCO's VP of Policy and Government Relations, to discuss the current policy priorities for the hospice and palliative care community. Tune in to learn more about expanding telehealth flexibilities through the CONNECT for Health Act, the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA) which would help address the growing workforce, and the Expanding Access to Palliative Care Act which aims to create a demonstration project within Medicare to allow palliative care to be covered concurrently with curative treatment. Have a question you'd like to hear addressed...2023-09-2735 min

Alliance PodcastSeason 2, Ep. 1: The Evolution of the Hospice BenefitWelcome back to the NHPCO Podcast! After a hiatus, we are back with a new season and a new host, Madison Summers. Over the course of 10 episodes, this season will focus on the evolution of the Hospice Benefit, tapping NHPCO staff and members for their expertise in the field and at the national level. On today's episode, Madison sits down with NHPCO COO and Interim CEO, Ben Marcantonio, to discuss the origin of the benefit and where we're headed next as a community including program integrity efforts, changes in the prognosis and models of care, an...2023-09-1333 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 123: Year-End ReflectionsAs 2021 comes to a close, Jon sits down with Edo Banach and Tarrah Lowry, NHPCO board member and COO of Trustbridge. Jon, Edo, and Tarrah discuss the challenges of the past year as well as the successes and what the field will face in 2022. Tarrah also provides valuable insight into how leaders can re-center themselves in the mission of hospice and palliative care.2021-12-2122 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 121: The Role of AdvocacyJon sits down with Lori Bishop and a new member of the NHPCO team: Logan Hoover, Director of Legislative Affairs. NHPCO and the Hospice Action Network (HAN) work together closely to ensure the needs and concerns of providers are brought to Congress, and grassroots advocacy is a key piece of the puzzle. Learn how your involvement can make a difference for the field and help NHPCO and HAN get you the tools and resources you need.2021-11-1629 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 120: Quality ConnectionsNHPCO's Quality Connections program is about to wrap up its inaugural year. NHPCO's Jennifer Kennedy and Hope Fost provide an overview of Quality Connections and its value for providers as we move toward a fee-for-performance model. Special guest Sarah Simmons from Calvert Hospice talks about her experience in the Quality Connections program and how Calvert Hospice became the first program to earn all four rings. And we end with a grateful farewell to Jennifer before she begins the next step of her career.2021-11-0231 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 119: Palliative Care Core Screening ToolsLater this month, NHPCO will be releasing Palliative Care Core Screening Tools. This resource is designed for hospice and palliative care teams to use with partners, such as primary care physicians and specialists, to help determine when a patient is seriously ill and may benefit from additional support. NHPCO's Lori Bishop talks with Dr. Bernice Burkarth and Dr. Tim Jessick about how these and other resources can create evidence and a shared vision of recommendations for patients across medical disciplines.2021-10-1942 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 118: Improving CAHPS ScoresJon R sits down with NHPCO's Jennifer Kennedy and special guest Natalie McNeal, Executive Director of WellStar Community Hospice in Georgia. Jennifer provides an update on the latest news from CMS related to the CAHPS survey, and Natalie shares how her hospice adapted their practices in a COVID world to maintain their scores. Hear some practical tips of how your hospice can address low scoring topics in innovative ways.2021-10-0527 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 117: DEI in Hospice and Palliative CareIn this month's podcast, NHPCO's summer Diversity, Equity and Inclusion intern Lauren Wallace interviews Nicole McCann-Davis, chair of NHPCO's Diversity Advisory Council. Learn more about why DEI is so important in health care and how NHPCO's Diversity Advisory Council is working to support providers in their journey to provide equitable care 2021-09-2138 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 116: FY22 Final RuleIn this month's podcast, JR talks with NHPCO's Judi Lund Person and Jennifer Kennedy about the FY22 Hospice Wage Index Final Rule. Along with basic information about the wage index values and rates, Judi and Jennifer take a deeper dive into how the final rule will affect providers - from regulatory areas of interest for CMS to changes in public reporting and data. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast FY22 Hospice Wage Index Final Rule Resources for NHPCO Members NHPCO Quality Connections Deprescribing Toolkit (under "Deprescribing Medications" header) 2021-08-1732 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastWhy You Should Attend the NHPCO IDC 2021, Heartbeat Episode 252There’s a great virtual learning opportunity from the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization at the IDC 2021! The Interdisciplinary Conference 2021 brought together by NHPCO will offer some highly valuable education to hospice and palliative care professionals on September 20-22, 2021. It’s all virtual this year, eliminating the cost of lodging and travel. The IDC is a great way to get your required CE/CMEs for license and certification renewal. Because it’s being offered virtually, attendees will be able to access the content through December 31, 2021. According to the NHPCO website, the Conference “is designed for professionals in the hosp...2021-08-1315 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 115: Rural Palliative CareThis episode features NHPCO's Lori Bishop along with two special guests - Karla Weng and Janelle Shearer from Stratis Health. Karla and Janelle share their experiences working with rural communities to address the gap of palliative care services, from developing a framework to keeping it sustainable. They have also developed a toolkit that contains guidance and links to a comprehensive set of resources to build capacity to offer palliative care services. 2021-07-1928 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 114: Opportunities in ContractingThis episode features NHPCO's Lori Bishop, Annie Acs, and special guest Dave Ault, Counsel at Fagere Drinker. Lori, Annie and Dave provide an update on CMMI's models and demos and discuss contracting opportunities for providers, especially for community-based palliative care. Even if you’re comfortable in the situation you’re in, Dave encourages providers to think about how healthcare payment is moving and that it’s moving very quickly, but you don’t need to be left behind because there are so many different ways to participate. The podcast references a blog from NHPCO and NORC at the Univ...2021-06-1527 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 113: Rebuilding Your Volunteer ProgramIn this week's episode, Jon R. welcomes NHPCO's Judi Lund Person along with Stacy Groff, Vice President of Specialized Services at Tidewell Hospice. CMS is encouraging hospice programs to start rebuilding their volunteer programs in anticipation of the end of the public health emergency (and the 1135 waivers) on or around December 31, 2021. Judi and Stacy discuss what programs should be doing now to prepare, how leaders can empower their volunteer management staff as they work toward the 5% requirement, and utilizing MyNHPCO for support.2021-06-0130 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 111: FY22 Proposed RuleIn this week's podcast, Jon talks with NHPCO's Judi Lund Person and Jennifer Kennedy about the FY22 Hospice Wage Index Proposed Rule. Listen to hear about both the regulatory and quality focused aspects of the proposed rule, including rebasing of rates, the importance of accurate cost reports, how 2022 quality data will impact 2024 payments, and more. Jon also shares NHPCO's participation in the HHS "We Can Do This" campaign.2021-05-0425 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 110: Model Updates and Palliative Care OpportunitiesIn this week's podcast, JR talks with NHPCO's Annie Acs and Lori Bishop. Annie gives an update on CMMI models and demos, and Lori connects the dots between these models, medical group practices, and opportunities to provide palliative care. Listen to learn more and hear how these opportunities, along with free resources from NHPCO, can also help you better serve underserved populations. And hear about a Disney film that surprised JR.2021-04-2036 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 109: Important HQRP UpdatesIn this week's podcast, NHPCO's Lori Bishop and Jennifer Kennedy provide an update on HQRP. Listen in to learn more about Hospice Visits in the Last Days of Life (HVLDL), the Hospice Care Index, value-based reimbursement, the HOPE tool, and how NHPCO's Quality Connections can help you be prepared for what's to come.2021-04-0621 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 108: COVID Year in ReviewIn this week's podcast, Jennifer Kennedy sits down with Christine Nidd of Hospice of the Northwest and Natalie McNeal of Wellstar Community Hospice, advisors on the NHPCO Quality and Standards Committee. Christine and Natalie reflect on the past year of the COVID-19 public health emergency and share surprises, lessons learned, and emergency preparedness practices they'll continue using even as COVID-19 infections begin to subside. Listen in for practices that could be useful for your program.2021-03-1629 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 107: Survey ReadinessIn this week's podcast episode, JR sits down with NHPCO's Judi Lund Person and Kim Skehan, Director of Compliance, Regulatory and Quality from Simione Healthcare Consultant to discuss survey readiness. Learn more about the changes Kim and Judi have noticed in surveyors and the survey process in the last year, and take away concrete things your organization can be doing now to be ready for future surveys.2021-03-0231 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 106: A Medical Director's Key Message about Serious Illness CareIn this episode of the podcast, JR talks with Lori Bishop, NHPCO's Vice President of Palliative and Advanced Care, and Balu Natarajan, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Seasons Healthcare Management and chair of NHPCO's Palliative Care Council. Lori and Balu discuss the future of community-based palliative care, how that can integrate into CMS models and demos, and why "we can't stand still" when it comes to the future of serious illness care.2021-02-1644 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 105: DeprescribingThe MyNHPCO Pharmacist Community, in collaboration with the MyNHPCO Physician/Advanced Practice Provider Community and numerous hospice professionals, released the NHPCO Deprescribing Toolkit for NHPCO members. In this episode of the podcast, JR talks with Judi Lund Person and Jason Kimbrel, Vice President of Hospice Services for Optum and MyNHPCO Pharmacist Community Leader. Learn how to approach deprescribing with your interdisciplinary team and how the new toolkit can help. NHPCO members, log in and visit the Regulatory > Drugs & Medications page to download the toolkit.2021-02-0225 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 102: The Business Care for ResiliencyThe importance of self-care and burnout has long been prominent in our field but this year has put more of an emphasis on it than ever before. Jon R. sits down with Carla Cheatham of the Carla Cheatham Consulting Group, LLC, and NHPCO COO, Ben Marcantonio to discuss concrete takeaways for leaders to manage their teams and themselves as mindfully as possible. As Dr. Cheatham tells us in this episode, providers not prioritizing self-care makes you "ineffective at best and dangerous at worst".2020-12-1528 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 101: An Innovation in QualityProviding quality care has never been more important, and it is quickly becoming a necessity for your business operations. After two years of consulting with national experts and examining member needs, NHPCO is launching the Quality Connections program in January 2021. We have developed this program to help providers navigate not just the COP's but all components of quality that will give them a competitive edge and national recognition.2020-12-0130 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 100: A 2020 Post-Election DiscussionOur post election episode from 2016 has been one of our most popular and we are excited to bring you this discussion to mark our 100th episode. Jon R. sits down with NHPCO's Director of Legislative Affairs, Mark Slobodien and Andrew Woods, Chairman of the Liberty Partners Group. Hear a discussion on what we know now and some things to expect over the next four years.2020-11-1723 min

The Post-Acute POVHospice and palliative care in a COVID-19 world with Edo Banach, President and CEO, NHPCOIn this episode of the MatrixCare podcast, Navin Gupta, SVP of the Home and Hospice Division at MatrixCare, sits down with Edo Banach, President and CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), to chat about the impacts of the pandemic on hospice and palliative care and where he believes the industry is headed. During a time when so much is unknown for care providers, we discuss the need to provide pre-acute care, balancing telehealth and in-person visits, and how we can support those who have been most impacted by COVID-19. Listen in as Edo...2020-10-2827 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 96: Hospice Data You Can UseJon R. sits down with Annie Acs to analyze NHPCO's 2020 Facts and Figures Report. This report is the only report of its kind that is available free-of-charge to the public and provides an overview of hospice care delivery in the U.S. with specific information on hospice patient characteristics, location and level of care, Medicare hospice spending, hospice provider characteristics, and more. Learn what hospices can do with this information and why it's so important to understand the bigger picture of who we're serving. 2020-09-1522 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 94: National Data Set, Why It Matters 2020-09-0323 min

HPM TALK023 - Getting PublishedDrs Burkarth and Baumrucker discuss the ins and outs of publishing your research, case studies, literature reviews and even poetry in this month's episode. Check out the companion article: The 4-Step Guide That Will Get Your Research Published 2020-08-2829 min

HPM TALK022 - Telemedicine vs Telehealth- Some AnswersJoin Dr. Steven Baumrucker, Medical Director of Ballad Health Palliative Medicine Associates and Associate Editor in Chief of the American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, as he speaks with Debbie Voyles, Corporate Director of Virtual Health for Ballad Health System about telemedicine in the age of COVID-19.2020-08-0720 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastConnection Moment with Judi Lund-Person of NHPCO, Episode 21Judi Lund-Person hears the stories of hospice agencies from all over the country in her work with NHPCO. She wants those end of life professionals to feel supported by their leaders in the industry. As an advocate for the hospice industry working closely with CMS, Judi helps to ensure that agencies can bring compassion and quality to the work they do. In today’s Connection Moment, Judi voices her gratitude for the work that interdisciplinary teams are doing to care for seriously ill patients. You’ll find ways to connect with Judi and the resources that the National Hospice and Pall...2020-06-2009 min

HPM TALK021 - Enhanced Family Communication in the Age of COVID-19Dr. Baumrucker discusses an innovative program for virtual visitation during the coronavirus lockdown with Jordan Harrington, from Ballad Health system.2020-06-1918 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastConnection Moment with Edo Banach of NHPCO, Ep.18Edo Banach of NHPCO spends his days supporting hospice agencies in the U.S. Today he reminds us this season of uncertainty and isolation will pass, with better times ahead for the end of life industry. Edo believes hospice teams shine in times like this. We’re built for care of patients and families when grief and hurt seem overwhelming. He also acknowledges the post traumatic stress issues that healthcare workers are facing, and will continue to experience in the future. Hospice professionals know what that’s like - it’s what we do on a daily basis. Edo reminds en...2020-06-1317 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastConnection Moment with Missy Ring of NHPCO, Episode 17Working as the Director of Quality and Compliance at NHPCO gives Missy Ring a unique perspective on hospice care. Recalling her own field experience with patients, she reminds us to simply breathe during this stressful time. Missy also tells us not to forget about the care of ourselves while we’re caring for seriously ill patients and their families. Every discipline included in end of life teams is focused on providing quality care. We need to give ourselves and our team members the same care. This is what we do in hospice care - guiding people through hard times and gri...2020-06-1018 min

HPM TALK020 - Hospice Medical Director CertificationDr Baumrucker discusses hospice medical director certification with Dr Tommie Farrell from the HMDCB.2020-02-2821 min

HPM TALK019 - Journal Club - Intractable SingultusJoin Dr. Steve Baumrucker as he reviews the literature and solutions to chronic hiccoughs. Be sure to listen in – there may be something to that “spoon full of sugar”!2020-01-2414 min

HPM TALK018 - Capacity Evaluation - Part 2This is Part 2 of a two-part series on the Aid to Capacity Evaluation instrument, capacity evaluation in general, and surrogacy.2019-12-2116 min

HPM TALK017 - Capacity Evaluation - Part 1This is Part 1 of a two-part series on the Aid to Capacity Evaluation instrument, capacity evaluation in general, and surrogacy.2019-12-1317 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastGet the Help You Need From the NHPCO HelpLine, Heartbeat, Episode 166It’s hard to know which hospice agency will provide the best care for you or someone you love. When you’re having to hospice shop, using the Helpline from the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization is a great way to find an agency in your area. The NHPCO website can help you ask the right questions to partner with an agency that will be a good fit. Read more about finding a hospice agency that’s right for you at https://www.nhpco.org/patients-and-caregivers/about-hospice-care/choosing-a-hospice/ or calling 1-800-568-8898. The Heart of...2019-11-2210 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastA Hospice Journey with Jennifer Kennedy of NHPCO, Episode 049Meet Dr. Jennifer Kennedy, Senior Director of Regulatory and Quality for the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization! Jennifer sat down with Helen and Jerry to share her hospice journey, and talk about what we’re doing right in end of life care. According to her bio on the NHPCO website, Jennifer has “more than 30 years of diverse healthcare experience with consistently increasing responsibilities in management, education program development, program operation, staff development, continuous quality improvement, regulatory compliance, utilization management, outcomes analysis, public speaking, and program development and implementation. Jennifer has earned a BSN, a duel Master in Ca...2019-11-151h 25

The Heart of Hospice PodcastTalking All Things Hospice with Judi Lund Person of NHPCO, Episode 048To kick off National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, we’re talking with Judi Lund Person, BA, MBH, CHC, NHPCO’s Vice President, Regulatory and Compliance. Judi is the voice of NHPCO and hospice providers across the U.S. in discussions with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. According to the NHPCO website, Judi “develops updated tools for hospice providers, including guides to hospice payment rates and wage index values. She works daily with hospice providers and state hospice organizations on the ever-increasing array of regulatory and compliance issues and translates complex regulatory language into actionable ‘plain Engl...2019-11-011h 19

HPM TALK016 - Hospice Benefit PeriodsJoin Dr. Amjad Riar as he reviews the hospice benefit periods and live discharges.2019-10-2525 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 74: Next Generation LeadershipHospice and palliative care leaders often face intergenerational communication challenges - both within the IDT and in working with patients and families. In this episode originally recorded in April 2019, Kendra Buchanan and Jennifer Kennedy of NHPCO talk with Ryan Klaustermeier, Administrator of Heartland Hospice and chair of NHPCO's Next Generation Leadership Council. We thank the sponsor of Podcast Episode: Simione Healthcare Consultants Quick Links mentioned in this podcast: 2019 Interdisciplinary Conference and Preconference 2019-10-1730 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 72: If hospices do not take advantage of all opportunities available and learn to think outs Program SustainabilityIf hospices do not take advantage of all opportunities available and learn to think outside the Hospice Medicare box, they will miss out on developing the skills and expertise that are likely to be essential in our healthcare future. NHPCO Edge consultant, Khue Nguyen with Emprise Health talks about these issues to further remind providers that we must prepare for inevitable change that ultimately will contribute to sustainability.2019-09-1819 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 71: Palliative Care Opportunities and EducationPalliative care continues to be one of the greatest areas of opportunity for providers today. NHPCO offers a variety of options that can help, whether you are in the beginning phases of planning and implementation or have a well established program. JR sits down with Lori and talks about some of the specific tools that have been developed by the Palliative Care Council, such as the Palliative Care vs. Hospice resource. Then, Jennifer Ballentine with CSU joins to discuss some of CSU's professional development offerings that NHPCO members can take advantage of at a discount.2019-09-0432 min

HPM TALK015 - Face to Face Visits and Physician NarrativesJoin Dr. Riar as he discusses the face to face encounter visits and the physician narrative in the hospice recertification process.2019-08-1656 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 67: Valuation and MeasurementWe announce an upcoming offering addressing valuation and measurement. Lori Bishop sits down with Kathleen Kerr and Brian Cassell to discuss the details of this opportunity and how it pertains to program growth, quality improvement, and accountability. NHPCO is offering a Metric Intensive Workshop as a pre-con at 2020 LAC.2019-07-1629 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 67: About Our Facts and Figures ReportEvery year NHPCO produces it's report, Facts and Figures which provides a snapshot of who is accessing care, who is providing care, CMS expenditures, and more. Lori, Jennifer, Don Sievert talk with JR about some key findings of the data and changes you will see this year's re-envisioned report.2019-07-0323 min

HPM TALK014 - The Role of the Medical DirectorJoin Dr. Amjad Riar as he embarks on the first in a series of discussions reviewing the roles and responsibilities of the Hospice Medical Director and Hospice Physician in the setting of the Hospice Medicare Benefit.2019-06-2129 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 65: Drug DisposalThe SUPPORT Act was signed into law in late 2018 and includes provisions allowing certain hospice employees to handle controlled substances and assist families with onsite disposal at home. While we still are waiting for specific guidance from the federal government, NHPCO has been working to clarify what providers need to be doing – and what they shouldn’t be doing.2019-06-0432 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 64: Addressing Your Palliative Care Challenges NHPCO released the first several chapters of the new Palliative Care Playbook last month. The playbook was created to help providers address the issues and challenges faced by starting or sustaining a community-based palliative care program. Hear a discussion with JR, Lori Bishop and Kathy Brandt and learn how you can utilize the playbook to improve your program. 2019-05-2129 min

HPM TALK013 - Present and Future of Palliative MedicineJoin Bernice Burkarth as she as she speaks with Dr. Balu Natrajan, CMO of Season’s Hospice and the Chair of the Palliative Care Council. Dr. Natrajan highlights what the Palliative Care Council has been doing since it’s inception.2019-05-1714 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 63: FY2020 Hospice Wage Index Proposed RuleIt's that time of the year again, CMS released the FY2020 Hospice Wage Index Proposed Rule. Team NHPCO breaks it down and lets you know the components that will have the biggest implications on providers, the importance of providing feedback and opportunities to do so. JR is very excited to make a classic movie/hospice analogy...and does not let it go.2019-05-0730 min

HPM TALK012 - Pain in Dementia - Terminal DyspneaEpisode 12 - Pain in Dementia - Terminal Dyspnea Steve and Laura discuss assessment of pain in patients with cognitive deficits, and review current concepts in terminal dyspnea management.2019-04-1925 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 61: Visits at the End of LifeCMS implemented the Service Intensity Add-on to incentivize visits during the last 7 days of life, however data has shown nearly 50% of patients do not receive a skilled visit during this time. Jennifer sits down with Jon R. to discuss why it is so important for providers to ensure this care is happening. Jon starts out with news on the upcoming NHPCO rebrand and new website.2019-04-0217 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 60: Medicare Advantage Follow Up DiscussionNHPCO Is committed to helping the field understand ongoing issues of importance, one example is Medicare Advantage in hospice. Building on our collaboration with the Better Medicare Alliance, Edo Banach sits down with BMA President and CEO, Allyson Y. Schwartz to discuss opportunities and concerns on all sides of the issue. In June, our two organizations will hold a second invite only convening to further this conversation.2019-03-1932 min

HPM TALK011 - No Episode this Month!There will be no HPM Talk this month, but please head on over to the Physician/Advance Practice Practitioner myNHPCO community site to see a presentation of Easy Opioid Conversion, presented by Dr. Steven Baumrucker, MD, FAAFP, FAAHPM. Also, visit the MyNHPCO Physician/ Advance Practice Provider Community (NHPCO member sign-in required)2019-03-1400 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 58: Opportunities in Community-Based Palliative CareJon R. sits down with Lori Bishop and Dr. Balu Natarajan for a conversation on palliative care. We know there are so many opportunities in community-based palliative care but there are also difficulties that remain in making it work. From distinguishing between hospice and palliative care, to appropriate scaling to reimbursement, this episode dives into what one program has done to be successful and what NHPCO is doing to help. And JR discusses his love of muffins.2019-02-1924 min

HPM TALK010 Methadone (Part 3 of 3) Episode 10: This is the final of 3 in the series on the use of methadone in Palliative medicine brought to you by the HPM Talk host, Dr. Steve Baumrucker and Laura Hutchinson, the lead Nurse Practitioner from Wellmont Hospice. 2019-02-1514 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 56: An Internal Hospice ExperienceFor the first of our more broad, leadership based topics we are discussing the recent hospice experience of NHPCO's COO, John Mastrojohn. He sits down with Jon R. and Lori Bishop to discuss the perspective of being on the other side of care and improvements all providers could consider. In this episode, JR says nothing funny.2019-01-2222 min

HPM TALK009 Methadone (Part 2 of 3) Episode 9: This is part 2 of 3 in the series on the use of methadone in Palliative medicine brought to you by the HPM Talk host, Dr. Steve Baumrucker and Laura Hutchinson, the lead Nurse Practitioner from Wellmont Hospice. 2019-01-1824 min

HPM TALK008 Methadone (Part 1 of 3) Episode 8: This is part 1 of 3 in a series on the use of methadone in Palliative medicine. Join our host, Dr. Steve Baumrucker as he discusses the use of methadone in Palliative medicine with Laura Hutchinson, the lead Nurse Practitioner for Wellmont Hospice. 2018-12-1417 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 53: Top Issues for ProvidersImagine Judi Lund Person and 1000 hospice professionals all in one hotel. In November, NHPCO welcomed many to the IDC in New Orleans. Jon asks Judi about the most frequent questions and observations from when she was onsite. From opioid disposal issues to some surprising takeaways. And hear JR fail in a role play as a family caregiver.2018-12-0425 min

HPM TALK007 Medical MarijuanaFor episode 7, at the recent NHPCO Interdisciplinary Conference in New Orleans Dr. Bernice Burkarth had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Ronald Crossno about medical marijuana.2018-11-1917 min

HPM TALK006 - Nurse Practioner Interview Kelli Nelson, ARNPEpisode 6: Join Bernice Burkarth MD and Kelli Nelson ARNP in an interview exploring the role of the nurse practitioner in a community based palliative care program.2018-10-1911 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 49: A Discussion on MA and HospiceWe welcome special guest, Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, President and CEO of the Better Medicare Alliance who sits down with Edo Banach about the complex issue of Medicare Advantage in hospice. NHPCO is working with BMA to more fully explore issues that we as a provider community need to be familiar with. MA is a polarizing topic for many, but regardless all hospice providers should be informed because if we're proactively talking about this others will be doing this for us.2018-10-0241 min

HPM TALK005 - Long Length of Stay DocumentationEpisode 5: Join Dr. Robert Crook MD as he discusses documentation supportive of ongoing hospice eligibility in patients with long lengths of stay 2018-09-2110 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 48: Regulatory Relief, Congressional and CMS ActivitiesWe keep hearing about the federal government wanting to reduce red tape and regulatory burden but what does that really mean and what has actually been happening? Judi and Jon R. sit down to discuss the progress that has been made toward this goal and what issues specific to hospice are being looked at. Hear how NHPCO has been involved in some of these discussions of what’s an ongoing priority of this administration. JR also tries to redeem himself and his cinematic preferences after last podcasts' admission.2018-09-1823 min

HPM TALK004 - Documentation-hospice-eligibilityEpisode 4: Hear Robert Crook MD review tips for documentation supportive of hospice eligibility.2018-08-1708 min

HPM TALK003 - Cancer-Cirrhosis-ESRD-DementiaEpisode 3: Hear Robert Crook MD discuss the factor of advanced age in prognostication as well as prognostication in the setting of Cancer, End Stage Liver Disease, End Stage Renal Disease, and Dementia.Dr. Crook shares with us the use and application of the MELD score, the ADEPT tool, and the Mortality Risk Index Score.2018-07-2012 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 43: Valuable Resources- STAR and Your PeopleThe Survey of Team Attitudes and Relationships is the only employee satisfaction tool created for hospice professionals - a benefit of NHPCO membership. Kristi Dudash explains to Jon R. how STAR works and what it offers. Board Member, Darren Bertram also discusses the value of employee engagement and education and recognizing that your people are your most valuable asset.2018-07-0318 min

HPM TALK002 - CHF-and-COPD-PrognosisEpisode 2: Join Robert Crook MD as he discusses prognostication in the setting of COPD and heart failure.2018-06-1514 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastEpisode 024, Interview with Edo Banach of NHPCOWhen Edo Banach became the president and CEO of the National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) in 2017, he began touring the country and visiting with hospice providers so that he could learn from them what's good about hospice, and what needs to change. We had the privilege of spending some time with Edo, and listening to him share his thoughts on what hospice is doing right here in America, and what are some of the things that needs to change so that hospice can provide even better care for those with life-limiting illnesses. In this epi...2018-06-011h 10

HPM TALK001 - Prognostication from a General StandpointEpisode 1: Hear Robert Crooks MD discuss prognostication from a general standpoint. 2018-05-1717 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 38: Serious Illness CareWith our nation's aging demographics all signs point to the fact that serious illness care is going to be critically important in the not too distant future. As hospice providers, we must understand the current regulatory definition and potential implications if our community is going to become the logical providers of this type of essential care. Hear from Judi and NHPCO's new Vice President of Palliative and Advanced Care, Lori Bishop as she shares her thoughts and experience from the field at Sutter Health and UnityPoint Health. And the team gives a shout out to hospice volunteers.2018-04-1723 min

Alliance PodcastSpecial Feature: Policy Outlook 2018NHPCO President and CEO Edo Banach talks with Vice President of Health Policy Sharon Pearce about the policy outlook in Washington, right now and for the future. From a possible government shut down to extenders that may be attached to Medicare legislation in Congress right now, Edo and Sharon offer some thoughts that might be helpful to the hospice and palliative care community. They acknowledge change can happen quickly and it’s important for all hospice advocates to keep informed.2018-02-0721 min

Alliance PodcastEpisode 31: Hospice Nursing ServicesHospice nursing services made it on the CMS list of deficiencies again in 2016 and is one of the common questions Jennifer receives from the field. Hear Jennifer and Jon R. discuss the basics of nursing supervision. NHPCO President and CEO also joins us for a discussion on the organization in 2018 and an exciting upcoming partnership.2018-01-0922 min

The Heart of Hospice PodcastEpisode 017 - Interview with Jon Radulovic of NHPCONovember is National Hospice & Palliative Care Month in the United States. The theme for 2017 is "It's about how you live." To recognize the significance of hospice & palliative care we had the opportunity to interview Jon Radulovic, VP of Communication from the National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization. Jon has worked with hospice organizations for over 20 years, and he shared his observations of the changes that have taken place during those years, and the opportunities that are still ahead. Jon's personal story of how he came to work in the hospice industry is unique, and yet there are...2017-11-011h 00