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Assisted Living

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The American Health Care Association represents assisted living providers through its National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL). NCAL is dedicated to serving the needs of the assisted living community through national advocacy, education, networking, professional development, and quality initiatives. Contact ncal@ncal.org for information.

Upcoming Webinars

  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 10/16/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This conversation will inspire a new leadership perspective, moving all leaders to be creative and tenacious in meeting the challenges of the emerging culture of AL/RCF. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 08/14/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This session provides strategies for anticipating the circumstances and events that may trigger negative interactions in a diverse community of residents, offering new thinking on how to achieve an environment of healing and recovery for today, and tomorrow. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 06/12/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This discussion offers innovative ways to improve the social culture, while offering support for the independence and autonomy that is so vital to quality of life. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 04/17/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This discussion explores the clinical and social influences to be considered in the assessment of and response to the behavioral health needs of the community. Accommodating the needs of the next generation requires an understanding of today’s customer – far more independent, outspoken and likely to march to the beat of their own drummer. Strategies for addressing issues relative to dementia and mental health, social conflicts/bullying/aggression, substance abuse, and related concerns are a focus of this conversation. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 03/20/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This presentation aims to bolster assisted living infection prevention and control programs. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member | $50 Non-members. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

HUD

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Infection Prevention

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Preventing Abuse & Neglect

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Online Dementia Care Training

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NATIONAL ASSISTED LIVING WEEK®

National Assisted Living Week® provides a unique opportunity for residents, their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and the surrounding communities to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities.

 Learn More

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HIGN's Leadership Series aims to foster leadership skills for nurses across the healthcare spectrum. The goal is to have more nurses serve as drivers of quality care for patients and residents, which ensures positive health outcomes. 

Learn More Here

Assisted Living Policy and Procedure Manual

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Podcasts

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Provider Resources for Assisted Living

  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 10/16/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This conversation will inspire a new leadership perspective, moving all leaders to be creative and tenacious in meeting the challenges of the emerging culture of AL/RCF. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

    1. Describe the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the culture of AL/RCF care relative to behavioral health, quality care, and quality of life;
    2. Apply the concept of transformational leadership and explain the benefits to workforce development;
    3. Explain the value of mastering Emotional Intelligence (EI) to improve morale, social, and work-related interactions; and
    4. Create an environment of care that speaks to the quality of life of everyone living and working in the community.

    INTENDED AUDIENCE: Leadership, Managers, Supervisors

    AL/RCF leaders are traumatized, fatigued, disillusioned and, in some cases, hopeless to recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic. With many seasoned leaders opting out of the next chapter of AL/RCF, valuable experiential knowledge and support is out of reach for a new generation of leaders. What will the AL/RCF community of tomorrow look like? Do you know where your organization is headed or how you will attract and sustain the workforce you’ll need to meet the needs of future customers? 

    This conversation will inspire a new leadership perspective, moving all leaders to be creative and tenacious in meeting the challenges of the emerging culture of AL/RCF. The concept of transformative leadership and strategies every leader should consider in creating an environment of care that speaks to the needs and satisfaction of everyone living and working in the community is the focus of this session.

    COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.  
    Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.
    Additional webinars are:  
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    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.
  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 08/14/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This session provides strategies for anticipating the circumstances and events that may trigger negative interactions in a diverse community of residents, offering new thinking on how to achieve an environment of healing and recovery for today, and tomorrow. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

    1. Describe the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic relative to quarantine and social distancing on psychosocial well-being;
    2. Develop a well-trained, culturally competent staff prepared to meet the behavioral health needs of a diverse and ever-changing population; and
    3. Implement effective interventions to anticipate and minimize the potential for aggression and altercations.

    INTENDED AUDIENCE: Appropriate to all disciplines and positions

    While there has been increasing attention to the subject of abuse prevention in long-term care, aggression between residents is rarely recognized as a significant concern. Too often, negative and aggressive physical, sexual, or verbal interactions that in any other community setting would likely be construed as unwelcome and potentially leading to physical or psychological distress are overlooked.

    The COVID-19 Pandemic has added an additional layer of stress to an already volatile environment. Heightened anxiety, depression, loneliness, and cabin fever have resulted in an increase in dissatisfaction and social unrest. This session provides strategies for anticipating the circumstances and events that may trigger negative interactions in a diverse community of residents, offering new thinking on how to achieve an environment of healing and recovery for today, and tomorrow.

    CONTENT:

    1. Review of the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the long-term care industry;
    2. Discussion on the circumstances (i.e., clinical, social) motivating social unrest and the steps
      necessary to creating an inclusive, satisfying environment; and 
    3. Strategies for proactive assessment and care planning to minimize the potential for disputes and aggressive behavior.
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. 
    Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.
    Additional webinars are: 
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    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.
  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 06/12/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This discussion offers innovative ways to improve the social culture, while offering support for the independence and autonomy that is so vital to quality of life. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to:

    1. Describe the impact of the changing demographics in assisted living on quality of life and quality of care;
    2. Explain the increasing complexity of social and ethical considerations in matters concerning socialization, productivity, and therapeutic engagement; and 
    3. Develop a culturally competent community prepared to meet the needs of a diverse population.

    INTENDED AUDIENCE: Appropriate to all disciplines and positions

    Social isolation and loneliness are serious yet largely unrecognized public health risks that affect significant numbers of disabled and older adults. Many of these adults are socially isolated or lonely in ways that puts their health at risk. Assisted living communities often represent a more desirable lifestyle over home care or other long-term care environments, insulating residents from the realities of dementia and more advanced physical dependency. While the community culture may be more satisfying, the independence associated with the assisted living lifestyle lends itself to diminished socialization and engagement. This discussion offers innovative ways to improve the social culture, while offering support for the independence and autonomy that is so vital to quality of life.

    CONTENT:

    1. Discussion on the changing demographics in assisted living and the effect on quality of life and quality of care; 
    2. Analysis of the increasing complexity of social and ethical considerations in matters concerning social groups and cultural integration; and
    3. Strategies for creating an environment that supports a quality existence.
    COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. 
    Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.
    Additional webinars are: 
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    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.
  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 04/17/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This discussion explores the clinical and social influences to be considered in the assessment of and response to the behavioral health needs of the community. Accommodating the needs of the next generation requires an understanding of today’s customer – far more independent, outspoken and likely to march to the beat of their own drummer. Strategies for addressing issues relative to dementia and mental health, social conflicts/bullying/aggression, substance abuse, and related concerns are a focus of this conversation. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

    1. Explain the increasing complexity and cultural influence on social and ethical considerations in matters concerning behavioral health, sexual expression, and substance use in assisted living communities;
    2. Describe the importance of understanding the symptoms and challenges associated with a diagnosis of Dementia, PTSD, Mental Disorder, or Substance Use Disorder; and
    3. Develop a well-trained, culturally competent, trauma-informed staff prepared to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse population.

    INTENDED AUDIENCE: Appropriate to all disciplines and positions

    The contemporary long-term care community is challenged to address a broad range of emerging clinical and psychosocial considerations, as the next generation of resident is far more complex. In the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, many older adults report feelings of depression and anxiety, turning to substance use, and thoughts of suicide. The numbers of people impacted by dementia continues at epidemic rates, further complicating the contemporary adult care community’s ability to create an environment that is satisfying to an increasingly diverse population.

    Understanding the symptoms of illness and the psychosocial manifestations of trauma are two critical elements to creating a livable environment. This discussion explores the clinical and social influences to be considered in the assessment of and response to the behavioral health needs of the community. Accommodating the needs of the next generation requires an understanding of today’s customer – far more independent, outspoken and likely to march to the beat of their own drummer. Strategies for addressing issues relative to dementia and mental health, social conflicts/bullying/aggression, substance abuse, and related concerns are a focus of this conversation.

    COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.
    Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount. 
    Additional webinars are:

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    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.
  • Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 03/20/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This presentation aims to bolster assisted living infection prevention and control programs. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member | $50 Non-members. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    This presentation aims to bolster assisted living infection prevention and control programs. The lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic create an opportunity to integrate infection prevention education into the community culture and ensure appropriate resources are ready when needed.  Learn to implement key practices that help prevent and reduce the spread of harmful and deadly infections. This webinar delivers practical strategies that support the assisted living preventionist role and take infection control prevention practices to the next level. 

    Objectives:

    • Understand why COVID-19 has merely highlighted the need to implement evidence-based IPC practices in long-term care.
    • Ignite your passion for reducing due to communicable and infectious diseases.
    • Implement proven preventative strategies that support creating a strong infection prevention and control (IPC) culture.
    Speaker: Dr. Buffy Lloyd-Krejci, Founder of IPCWell – www.icpwell.com
    COST: $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member | $50 Non-members.
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.
    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance.

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

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    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.
  • Contains 2 Component(s)

    OSHA is expanding its requirements to electronically submit employee injury data through its Final Rule on Improving Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses. Nearly all providers are already required to maintain OSHA 300 Logs, Form 301, and Form 300A. Employers have for the last several years submitted 300A summary data before March 2nd each year. The NEW requirement is for employers with 100 or more employees to electronically submit OSHA 300 logs and Form 301 (incident reports), in addition to the 300A summaries. Old requirements, such as continuing to maintain COVID-19 Logs, the difference between workers’ compensation and OSHA, recordkeeping best practices, and other key reminders will be presented. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    OSHA is expanding its requirements to electronically submit employee injury data through its Final Rule on Improving Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses. Nearly all providers are already required to maintain OSHA 300 Logs, Form 301, and Form 300A.  Employers have for the last several years submitted 300A summary data before March 2nd each year. The NEW requirement is for employers with 100 or more employees to electronically submit OSHA 300 logs and Form 301 (incident reports), in addition to the 300A summaries.  Old requirements, such as continuing to maintain COVID-19 Logs, the difference between workers’ compensation and OSHA, recordkeeping best practices, and other key reminders will be presented.

    Learning Objectives

    Upon completion, participants will be able to:

    • Determine the OSHA recordkeeping and reporting requirements pertaining to their operations.
    • Plan how to electronically submit OSHA 300 logs, 300A data, and Form 301s.
    • Evaluate their measures to comply with privacy concerns and public availability of information.
    • Avoid the mistakes, such as submitting alternatives to Form 301, that will not be accepted.
    • Review compliance of the broader recordkeeping rule
    • Recall FAQs and common OSHA recordkeeping citations.
    • Prepare to meet compliance deadlines.
    Presenter: Brad Hunt, Chief Risk Officer at Leverity Insurance Group, Inc., an Acrisure Agency
    AHCA Resources
    • Navigating OSHA Recordkeeping: Introduction, Insights, and NEW Regulation Continued (link).
    • How to Interact with an OSHA Inspector (link).
    • OSHA Compliance Roadmap (coming soon).
    COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member 
    A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.

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    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.
  • Contains 36 Component(s)

    CMS Mandates Extra Training to Qualify as an Infection Preventionist. IPCO Delivers that Training! Become a specially trained and qualified Infection Preventionist by completing the American Health Care Association’s Infection Preventionist training. The course is open to AHCA/NCAL members for $450 and non-members for $650. If you are not sure of your member status, please email educate@ahca.org before making payment.

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    Welcome!

    AHCA/NCAL’s Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO) is recommended for individuals responsible for infection prevention and control in all long term care settings and is specifically tailored to train Infection Preventionists (IPs)  in nursing facilities.  

    CMS mandates that every nursing facility have a designated and specially trained Infection Preventionist who is running a comprehensive infection prevention and control program. AHCA recommends that nursing facilities train at least two clinical staff members as IPs should one IP leave or be unavailable.  

    The comprehensive IPCO training covers:
    • COVID-19
    • Other common pathogens
    • Multidrug-resistant organisms
    • Antibiotic stewardship
    • Water management and more
    About the online training:
    • Flexible and self-paced (take up to 12 months to complete)
    • Online learning 24/7
    • 9 course modules
    Cost:  AHCA/NCAL members for $450 and non-members for $650.  

    Group purchase with discount structure is available for groups of five or more. There are no refunds and no transfers. Visit the FAQs to know more about the discount offered. 

    Objectives

    Individuals who successfully complete this course will learn how to: 

    • Demonstrate how to effectively manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program within a nursing or assisted living facility
    • Convey to staff effective strategies to prevent infections
    • Implement practices and procedures to mitigate infections
    • Evaluate practices and policies related to infection prevention
    • Provide on-going education to others including staff, residents and families

    Individual module objectives are found in the module resource tab within the module presentations and in the User Guide.  Participants must complete all training modules and successfully pass module quizzes and final test with a grade of 80 or above to receive a certificate of completion from AHCA that is valid for three years.  

    Accredited Continuing Education

    In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by University of Nebraska Medical Center and American Health Care Association. University of Nebraska Medical Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. 

    NURSES/NURSE PRACTITIONERS

    The University of Nebraska Medical Center designates this activity for 24.5 ANCC contact hours. Nurses should only claim credit for the actual time spent participating in the activity.

    Certificates

    Three certificates will be awarded upon successful completion of the program:

    1. UNMC CON CNE will provide a certificate awarding 24.5 contact hours.
    2. AHCA will provide a Specialized Training Completion certificate, valid for 3 years.  
    3. 24.5 hours of continuing education credit for Nursing Home Administration and Residential Care/ Assisted Living Administration. 
    Certificates Renewal - specialized training completion certificates are valid for 3 years. Click here for information about renewing your AHCA IPCO Certificate

    If you are not sure of your member status, please email educate@ahca.org before making payment. 


    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. All Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO) materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

    Holly Harmon, RN, MBA, LNHA, FACHCA

    Associate Vice President, Quality & Clinical Affairs, AHCA

     Holly Harmon, RN, MBA, LNHA, FACHCA brings both passion and a wealth of practical, real-world, clinical and operational experience to her role as Senior Director of Clinical Services at AHCA. Her extensive service in a wide array of settings including post-acute care, long term care, residential care, assisted living, independent living, a psychiatric hospital and occupational health have provided her with insights, knowledge, skills and innovative ideas which she exuberantly shares with others.

    In addition to her vast clinical experience, Ms. Harmon has put her dynamic energy into leading the statewide Maine Culture Change Coalition/LANE as President, the Maine Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes as Co-Chair, Vice-President of American College of Health Care Administrators, Maine Chapter and the Maine LANE Co-Convener for the national Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes Campaign. She also served as the Director of Quality Improvement & Regulatory Affairs at the Maine Health Care Association.

    She puts her boundless energy and warm and energetic personality into training, education and presenting both, nationally and locally. She has made simplifying the complex world of long term and post-acute care policy and practice an art.

    David Gifford, MD, MPH

    Chief Medical Officer , AHCA

    Chief Medical Officer, AHCA David Gifford, MD, MPH, is a geriatrician and former medical director of several nursing homes in Rhode Island. He currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer at the American Health Care Association. He helped create the Quality Department at AHCA which assists providers in their quality improvement efforts and works with administration officials on regulations and policies impacting the profession. 


    Dr. Gifford also serves on the Board of the Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes campaign and the Baldrige Foundation Board. He is a former Director of the Rhode Island State Department of Health, where he received the National Governor’s award for Distinguished Service Award for State Officials. Prior to that he served as Chief Medical Officer for Quality Partners of Rhode Island where he directed CMS’ national nursing home-based quality improvement effort. He also holds a faculty appointment at Brown University Medical School and School of Public Health. He received his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University and conducted his geriatric fellowship at UCLA where he also earned his Master’s in Public Health while a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar. 

    Marguerite McLaughlin, MA

    VP, RIHCA

    MARGUERITE M. McLaughlin has recently been named Vice President at the RI Healthcare Association.

    For the past four years she has worked in the nation’s capital as Senior Director of Quality Improvement at AHCA. She pursues her passion for improving the lives of residents living in long term care centers by developing educational resources, tools and products for staff, and consulting with  staff to improve quality within nursing centers. Ms. McLaughlin is an enthusiastic educator and trainer working both locally and nationally to support change in healthcare. Her 30+ years of experience – at Saint Elizabeth Home, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Healthcentric Advisors (the state’s Quality Improvement Organization) have provided her with unique insights and “boots on the ground” experience in helping organizations improve care and service to their residents. She has served as liaison to the Industry Partnership for Healthcare under the Governor’s Workforce Board-Rhode Island. In this role she provided solutions to bridge the skills gaps within the healthcare industry.  She was Co-Chair of SAGE-RI for six years.

    She earned a Master’s degree in Holistic Counseling at Salve Regina and applies this knowledge to individualized care and organizational culture.

    Janet Snipes, NHA

    Chair, AHCA Quality Improvement Committee

    Janet Snipes NHA is the Executive Director of Holly Heights Center in Denver, CO. Janet has worked at Holly Heights for the past 40 years.  She has served on the Colorado Health Care Association Board of Directors for the past 20 years and was the Chairman of the Board from 2004-2014.  She served as Chair of the American Health Care Association (AHCA) Quality Improvement Committee from 2010 to 2014.  Janet is currently the Chair of the AHCA Survey Regulatory Committee and serves on the AHCA Board of Governors.

    Stefan Gravenstein, MD, MPH

    Director, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Care

    Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University

    A geriatrician, former John Franklin Chair of Geriatrics and Director of the Glennan Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology at Eastern Virginia Medical School (1996-2007), and Director of Center for Geriatrics and Palliative Care at University Hospitals in Cleveland (2014-2017), Stefan Gravenstein is now the David S. Greer Professor of Geriatrics and Professor in the departments of Medicine and Health Services Policy and Practice at Brown's schools of medicine and public health. He serves as the Director, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Associate Director of the Center on Innovation in Long-Term Services and Supports at the Providence Veterans Administration Medical Center. Dr. Gravenstein has a long-standing interest in immunity, inflammation, cardiovascular outcomes and aging especially in the context of vaccines and the long-term care setting, and the topic of the majority of his publications. He also has a specific interest in quality improvement in health care, the culture of care, antimicrobial stewardship, and how to improve care transitions. Beginning n 2020, he became active in several projects related to COVID in long-term care.  He was Clinical Director at Healthcentric Advisors, Medicare's Quality Improvement Organization for New England from 2007 to 2019.

    Elie Saade, MD, MPH

    Assistant Professor, Medicine, CWRU School of Medicine

    Dr. Elie Saade is Assistant Professor Medicine at  Case Western University School of Medicine. He specializes in infectious diseases.

    Janet Robinson, RN, MEd, CIC

    Senior Program Administrator, Healthcentric Advisors

    Ms. Robinson is board certified in infection control, and has twenty-four years of consulting experience in long-term care facilities. She is an accomplished public speaker and educator in the area of long-term care infection control. In collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Health as well as the American Health Care Association, she has contributed to the development of guidelines and training materials.

    Linda Behan, BSN, RN, CWCN, CIC

    Senior Director of Infection Prevention and Control

    Genesis HealthCare

    Linda Behan BSN, RN, CIC is the Corporate Senior Director of Infection Prevention and Control for Genesis HealthCare.  Linda has been certified in infection prevention and control for over 10 years. She leads a team of Infection Preventionists in developing policies and procedures as well as developing and delivering education across the company.  Linda serves on the APIC Professional Development Committee and frequently presents at healthcare and professional organization conferences.

    Gail Polanski, RN, BSN

    President of Tara Therapy, LLC

    Gail Polanski RN, BSN serves as the President of Tara Therapy, LLC, a position she has held since 2003.  As President, Gail leads a team of dedicated professionals in providing therapy services to patients in skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers, home health and hospice programs. Gail has more than 30 years of experience in senior management positions. Her expertise includes the delivery of rehabilitation services, denials management, compliance, and case mix management. She is knowledgeable of Medicare regulations and managed care contractual requirements.

     Prior to joining Tara Therapy, Gail was an independent consultant and entrepreneur. As owner of MG Healthcare Solutions, she provided consulting services to clients across the country on the changing Medicare payment program and SNF PPS regulations. Gail has presented at national conventions and is currently an active member of the AHCA Clinical Practice Committee and serves as the co-chair for the MDS/IMPACT subcommittee.

    Stacey Merritt Hord, LNHA, MCD, CCC-SLP, QAPI

    Vice President of Quality for Golden Living

    Stacey Merritt Hord is the 2016/2017 Chair of the AHCA/NCAL Quality Improvement Committee and Vice President of Quality for Golden Living, the 3rd largest long term care provider in the country. Stacey is a health care executive with expertise in educating, deploying and sustaining Baldrige as a Business Model in post acute care and other sectors. Facilities under her operational oversight as an LNHA received AHCA Bronze and Silver recognition along with Alabama Level 1 Commitment to Excellence, Level 2 Progress Toward Excellence, and Level 3 Alabama Excellence recognition. Her faculty experience includes the AHCA/NCAL national convention, Alabama Quality Award Conference, AHCA Quality Symposium/Summit, Georgia Health Care Association Convention, and other venues. Stacey served on the panel of experts for the AL Quality Award Conference from 2004 - 2008 and has served as an AHCA Quality Award Examiner in multiple roles (Bronze, Silver, Silver Team Leader, Master Examiner) since 2002. She served as a member of the AHCA Quality Improvement Committee (QIC) and AHCA QAPI subcommittee from 2012- 2015. In addition, Stacey served as Chair of the 2015 QAPI Tools and Resources WorkGroup for the Quality Improvement Committee.

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    Frequently Asked Questions
    What is the AHCA Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO)?

    It is a specialized training for healthcare professionals who desire to serve as Infection Preventionists (IPs) as established in the CMS Reform of Requirements of Participation for Long Term Care Facilities (required by November 2019).  Through this program, individuals will be specially trained to effectively implement and manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program in a nursing center. 

    Do you have to be an AHCA member to register for IPCO?

    No. Both AHCA members and nonmembers are eligible to participate in the IPCO course.

    How much does it cost to take the IPCO training?

    Registration fee: $450 members, $650 nonmembers. Payment and registration is completed by individual participant in the IPCO product in ahcancalED.

    How can an individual register and pay for IPCO? 

    The individual who wants to take the IPCO course must login to ahcancalED and register for the course under their individual login.  Payment will be made in ahcancalED upon registration via credit card or E-check. Please be sure to have your credit card or banking information ready at checkout. Paying by credit card or E-check will grant automatic access to the course. Registrations for IPCO cannot be done by another person or under another person’s ahcancalED login.

    -- for a better web experience, please use Google Chrome Internet Browser and NOT Internet Explorer. 

    How can an organization group register and pay for IPCO?

    Group purchase is available for groups of 5 or more.  AHCA offers the following discount structure for groups: 5-49 registrations will receive $25 off each registration.  50 or more registrations will receive $75 off each registration. 

    After full payment is made for group purchase of IPCO, the designated individuals who the IPCO registration payment was made for, will be provided with a unique group code for their group which will translate to $0 due upon registration (because full payment has already been received).  One code will be provided for each group with a max allowance of times that the code can be used based on the group’s payment. 

    Each individual will need to login to the AHCA website to access ahcancalED and then complete their own registration using the group code.

    Can I get a refund on the IPCO product if I no longer want to take the course?

    No refunds are issued for IPCO.

    Can my IPCO registration be transferred to a colleague?

    IPCO registrations cannot be transferred. The individual that registers for the course is the only one that has access to it.

    Who is eligible to take this training?

    Anyone can take this training.  The AHCA Infection Preventionist Specialized Training does not require a particular healthcare license. 

    AHCA/NCAL recommends that administrators also consider taking the course to gain a deeper understanding of infection prevention and control in the overall operation of the building.  Just a reminder that administrators should not serve as designated Infection Preventionists unless they have separate formal advanced clinical training and/or licensing such as a nursing license.     

    Please note, there are specific requirements for the individual(s) who will serve as Infection Preventionist(s).  CMS requirements for a designated Infection Preventionist state:

    483.80 (b) Infection preventionist. The facility must designate one or more individual(s) as the infection preventionist(s) (IPs) who are responsible for the facility’s IPCP. The IP must:

    (1) Have primary professional training in nursing, medical technology, microbiology, epidemiology, or other related field;

    (2) Be qualified by education, training, experience or certification;

    (3) Work at least part-time at the facility; and

    (4) Have completed specialized training in infection prevention and control.

    What are the requirements to successfully complete IPCO?

    Participate in each module and successfully complete quizzes throughout the course and final test (achieve at least 80% correct each time)

    Modules 1-7 will have quizzes with 5 questions (4 of 5 questions must be accurately completed) except for module 3 which will have 10 questions (8 of 10 questions must be accurately completed).

    The final test after Module 9 will have 20 questions (16 of 20 questions must be accurately completed)

    Each module quiz may be attempted three times before the participant is required to repeat the module and then reattempt answering questions. 

    Complete course evaluation after each module and at the end of the course. 

    Course completion must occur within 12 months of the date the registrant starts the first required component of the program; which is the copyright agreement.(not registration date)

    How long does it take on average to complete the IPCO course?

    The learning time of all modules, review of additional resources, time to complete the modules and final course evaluations and quizzes/final test accounts for 24 hours and 30 minutes. 

    Participants are encouraged to spread out the course over time in an organized manner – such as scheduling module reviews on various dates/times when they can focus their attention to it.  The course could be completed within a week or over several months based on how the individual would like to approach the program. 

    Are Contact Hours awarded for IPCO?

    Yes, 24.5 ANCC contact hours and 24.5 hours of continuing education credit are NAB approved for Nursing Home Administration and Residential Care/ Assisted Living Administration are available for completion of this program. 

    In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by University of Nebraska Medical Center and American Health Care Association. University of Nebraska Medical Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

    What does a participant get when they complete the IPCO course?

    Participants receive three certificates at the completion of IPCO:

    • UNMC CON CNE will provide a certificate awarding 24.5 contact hours to participants who successfully achieve the completion requirements.
    • 24.5 hours of continuing education credit are NAB approved for Nursing Home Administration and Residential Care/ Assisted Living Administration
    • Specialized Training Completion certificate from AHCA, valid for 3 years. 
    How long do the certificates last?

    The CE certificates do not expire. The Specialized Training Completion certificate expires after 3 years from issue date.

    How can someone renew their IPCO certificate?

    Renewal may occur by the options below:

    Option 1: Registering for a competency exam requiring a grade of 80% or above to successfully receive certificate of renewal. This option is only available to individuals who have previously successfully completed the full IPCO course and are seeking renewal.  

    Option 2: Registering for the IPCO course and completing the course requirements as outlined above. 

    Is IPCO a certification?

    No, IPCO is a specialized training program with a certificate upon successful completion.

    Does IPCO meet CMS requirements?

    Yes, IPCO meets the expectations CMS has outlined on the required components of the specialized training. 

    CMS is not endorsing any particular training, rather CMS is focused on the content and intensity/duration of what will meet the specialized training requirement.  Based on information AHCA received from CMS, the IPCO training meets both the content and intensity/duration of CMS requirements.  

    Can I print the presentation slides and how can I access the resources within the module? 

    Each module contains a resource guide which includes a copy of the presentation and any necessary supporting documents discussed within the module. This resource guide can be found at the top right corner within each module. 

    I am having technical difficulties with IPCO, can you help?

    Please email us at educate@ahca.org.

    "What a great program! I was able to complete at my own pace and learned a lot." - Connie Francioli, RN,WCC, Director of Nursing, Odd Fellow & Rebekah Rehabilitation RHCC Inc.


    "The AHCA IPCO program gave me the tools I needed to be effective in my role as the Infection Preventionist and to initiate an antibiotic stewardship program.  The modules and website were easy to navigate and very convenient for my schedule. Thanks a bunch!"- Adriana Casale, BSN, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing Services, Roberts Health Centre


    "I thoroughly enjoyed the course.  I am a new to the Infection Prevention world and this engaging and interactive course provided an excellent foundation for me.  I hope to use this as a stepping stone to advance the Infection Prevention culture within my facility and my community." - Daniel Mazzone, Associate Director of Nursing and Infection Preventionist at the Acadia Center for Nursing


    "The IPCO training was intense but I gained the confidence to implement key initiatives in our facility, including antibiotic stewardship.  I have a lot to learn but I know I can go back to the course and get the information I need with any situation that I am confronted with." - Karla Ruther, Clarence Senior Living Director of Nursing


    "I really enjoyed the IPCO program. It is full of knowledge and information for any infection control program.  I would like to see more infection control class with updates on organisms and new ROPs." - Helen Durden, RN, Education Coordinator, Eagle Health and Rehabilitation


    "This course was a good blend of review, new information and practical tools for program improvement in both skilled and long term care settings. I would recommend for any nurse interested in Infection control and prevention." - Becci St Laurent | Senior Director of Education, Palm Healthcare Management, llc


    "I am recommending it to our Corporate Team members here at Laurel Health Care.  I know some Associate Team members at Ciena Heath Care have taken this training program, as well, and were very satisfied.  It really enhances and clarifies so much Infection Control information.  I feel much more confident with being and Infection Control practitioner." - Marlissa Corby, Corporate Compliance Officer, Laurel Health Care Company


     

     

     

     

    How can an organization group register and pay for IPCO?

    One user can purchase multiple registrations for other users by adding them to their cart during the checkout process; using the button displayed in image below. (This can only be done if all individuals have an ahcancalED account.) The price of the training will be based on each registrant’s member type (member or non-member). 

    image

    *payment tip: please be sure when you are paying with a credit card the bill-to and shipping address are the same* 

    Group purchase is available for groups of 25 or more. If you are interested in group purchasing, please email educate@ahca.org

    After full payment is made for group purchase, the designated individuals who the course registration payment was made for, will be provided with a unique group code for their group which will translate to $0 due upon registration (because full payment has already been received).  One code will be provided for each group with a max allowance of times that the code can be used based on the group’s payment. 

    Each individual will need to login to the AHCA website to access ahcancalED and then complete their own registration using the group code.

    PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ONLY ACCEPT PAYMENT IN THE FORM OF A CHECK FOR GROUP PURCHASES.  

  • Contains 1 Component(s)

    Join association staff to learn the importance of advocacy, why assisted living providers should care about advocacy, the key to building relationships with your Members of Congress, the latest in NCAL’s advocacy tools for assisted living providers, and up-to-date information on bills that impact assisted living. You will hear from LaShuan Bethea, Executive Director of NCAL, Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association, Heather Posthumus, Manager, Political and Grassroots, Dana Ritchie, Associate Vice President of Constituency Services & Workforce, and Jill Schewe, Director of Policy & Regulatory Affairs will provide an interactive webinar with helpful information. This is free and accessible to NCAL members only.

    Join association staff to learn the importance of advocacy, why assisted living providers should care about advocacy, the key to building relationships with your Members of Congress, the latest in NCAL’s advocacy tools for assisted living providers, and up-to-date information on bills that impact assisted living. You will hear from LaShuan Bethea, Executive Director of NCAL, Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association, Heather Posthumus, Manager, Political and Grassroots, Dana Ritchie, Associate Vice President of Constituency Services & Workforce, and Jill Schewe, Director of Policy & Regulatory Affairs will provide an interactive webinar with helpful information. 

    This is free and accessible to NCAL members. The webinar will be recorded.
    Learning Objectives:
    • An understanding of what activities federal policymakers are undertaking that impact assisted living.
    • How a strong advocacy relationship helps assisted living and senior care.
    • Specific how-to instructions on grassroots advocacy, building relationships and hosting community tours. 
    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register. 
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance with registering. 
  • Contains 1 Component(s)

    The GUIDE Model has the potential to transform care for individuals living with dementia and their unpaid caregivers. This new program, which the CMS Innovation Center intends to launch in 2024, could also pave the way for innovative partnerships between healthcare providers, assisted living communities, and community-based organizations that provide dementia care. Join Sarah Keenan, President of Integrated Care for Bluestone Physician Services, and Fred Bentley, Managing Director at ATI Advisory, for an in-depth discussion of the opportunities and challenges that the GUIDE Model presents for assisted living operators and other dementia care providers. ​This is free and accessible to AHCA/NCAL members.

    The GUIDE Model has the potential to transform care for individuals living with dementia and their unpaid caregivers. This new program, which the CMS Innovation Center intends to launch in 2024, could also pave the way for innovative partnerships between healthcare providers, assisted living communities, and community-based organizations that provide dementia care.

    Join Sarah Keenan, President of Integrated Care for Bluestone Physician Services, and Fred Bentley, Managing Director at ATI Advisory, for an in-depth discussion of the opportunities and challenges that the GUIDE Model presents for assisted living operators and other dementia care providers. 

    This is free and accessible to AHCA/NCAL members. 
    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register. 
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance with registering. 

  • Contains 1 Component(s)

    Learn from providers across the country as they discuss innovative ideas and concepts, they have engaged to empower residents and support their self-care.

    Residents have been impacted in a variety of ways over the last three-plus years going through the pandemic and even as we emerge from the pandemic.  Residents endured moments of isolation, loneliness, and decreased socialization.  The pandemic offered opportunities to engage in innovative technology to fill the gaps left from staffing shortages.  As we continue to navigate the ongoing staffing crisis, technology plays a key role in helping to support resident self-care.  Learn from providers across the country as they discuss innovative ideas and concepts, they have engaged to empower residents and support their self-care.

    Objectives: After attending this session, participants will be able to:

    • Describe innovative methods of engaging residents in self-care.
    • Identify innovative concepts that can be implemented in assisted living.
    • Discuss how to motivate self-care in residents through innovative technology. 

    Speaker Panel:

    • Lisa Williams – Maplewood Senior Living
    • Sheri Easton-Garrett – Belmont Senior Village
    • Gwen Wilburn – The Aspenwood Company
    • Lisa Zeis – LifeSpark
    • Pamela Truscott – NCAL

    Moderator: Calvin Groeneweg - AALNA

    This webinar is available to AHCA/NCAL members and non-members. The webinar will be recorded and available for access after the live event. 

    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 

    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register for the webinar. 

    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance with registering. 


    © 2023 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. All Promoting Resident Self-Care through Innovation materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

  • Contains 14 Component(s)

    Assisted Living organizations have faced numerous challenges over the past decade. Long term care has shifted to providing care and services to more acutely ill residents than ever before. Assisted Living Administrators and nurses have the task of knowing and understanding state specific regulations, standards of practice, and how to implement them effectively. Leaders must balance the technical skills of running an assisted living community with the essential soft skills of being a team leader. Technical skills and leadership skills are necessary to effectively run a successful organization. It is time to level up your leadership skills. This course is designed to help you take your leadership skills to the next level by adopting the right mindset and communication practices. In addition, you will learn the critical role you play in mission, vision, and values for your team and your organization. Learners will build their knowledge about emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, relationships navigation, and the power that data holds.

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    Assisted Living organizations have faced numerous challenges over the past decade.  Long term care has shifted to providing care and services to more acutely ill residents than ever before.  Assisted Living Administrators and nurses have the task of knowing and understanding state specific regulations, standards of practice, and how to implement them effectively.  Leaders must balance the technical skills of running an assisted living community with the essential soft skills of being a team leader.  Technical skills and leadership skills are necessary to effectively run a successful organization. It is time to level up your leadership skills.  This course is designed to help you take your leadership skills to the next level by adopting the right mindset and communication practices.  In addition, you will learn the critical role you play in mission, vision, and values for your team and your organization.  Learners will build their knowledge about emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, relationships navigation, and the power that data holds. 

    Course Objectives: After viewing this course, learners will be able to:

    • Discuss how mindset plays an important role on leadership style.
    • Describe the essentials to leadership development.
    • Discuss how mission, vision, and values are conducted by the organizational leadership team through their actions.
    • Explain how emotional intelligence plays a role in leading and understanding team dynamics.
    • Identify strategies for conflict resolution and relationship navigation with employees and other leaders.
    • Describe the importance of data in leading successful organizations.

    Audience: This course is appropriate for administrators, nurses, and department managers working in assisted living. 

    Presenter: Pamela Truscott, DNP/HSL, MSN/Ed, RN, QCP, DNS-CT, RAC-CT, CDP, Director of Quality Improvement NCAL

    Cost: $199 NCAL Member | $650 Non-member

    4.50 NAB approved CEs are available upon completion and 4.0 contact hours for nurses through the Iowa Board of Nursing.


    © 2023 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. 

    All Advancing Assisted Living Leadership – It’s Time to Level Up! materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

    Pamela Truscott, DNP/HSL, MSN/Ed, RN, C-CNL, C-AL, DNS-CT, QCP, RAC-CT, CDP (Moderator)

    Director of Quality Improvement, AHCA/NCAL

    NCAL

    Pamela Truscott, DNP/HSL, MSN/Ed, RN, DNS-CT, QCP is the Director of Quality Improvement with the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL). She joined the AHCA/NCAL family in June 2019 and has been actively involved with a variety of education, tools and resources such as: trauma-informed care, behavioral health, functional outcomes improvement, and infection prevention and control. Prior to joining AHCA, Pam worked for the Nebraska Health Care Association (NHCA) as the Vice President of Professional Development for seven years and is a Nebraska Assisted LIving Administrator. Before joining the NHCA team, she worked in a rural nursing home with attached assisted living community for 15 years in a variety of roles, including: charge nurse, wound nurse, medication aide, and direct care staff member. She is an active member in the American Nurses Association as well as the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nurses. She received a Doctor of Nursing Practice with specialy focus in Healthcare Systems Leadership and Master of Science in Nursing with focus in nursing education degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing. Pam has over 20 years of long-term care experience and shares a passion for growing education and cultivating new leaders in long-term care.

    By Registering for this series, individuals will have access to a series of modules that include:

    • Module 1: It’s All About the Mindset 
    • Module 2: Leadership Essentials 
    • Module 3: Mission, Vision, Values – It’s “Mission” Critical
    • Module 4: Emotional Intelligence
    • Module 5: Conflict Resolution & Navigating Relationships 
    • Module 6: The Power of Data and Quality

    4.50 NAB approved CEs are available upon completion and 4.0 contact hours for nurses through the Iowa Board of Nursing.

NCAL AHCA