Dr. Roderic Pettigrew Ascends to Pivotal Role at Texas A & M
pg. 9
HOUSTON
New Staffing Rules Published Amidst the Current SNF Staffing Crisis
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) recently published a final rule implementing required mandatory hours per resident day (“HPRD”) for various levels of nursing staff in nursing facilities and skilled nursing facilities (“SNFs”) through a phased-in approach. Although the existing federal requirements to ensure SNFs have “sufficient staff” to meet residents needs and well-being remain, these mandatory staffing minimums further complicate SNF operations while still facing massive staffing shortages.
Key Deadlines
• August 8, 2024 - All SNFs, are required to document an update to their annual facility assessments pursuant to 42 CFR 483.70(e) to determine what resources are currently necessary to care for residents competently in day-to-day operations as well as emergencies.
• May 11, 2026 - Non-rural facilities will have 2 years to increase their registered nursing staff (“RNs”) to ensure at least one RN is present and on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Rural facilities have 3 years, until May 10, 2027, to meet this requirement.
• May 10, 2027 - Non-rural facilities will have 3 years to adjust their staffing to ensure overall staffing meets 3.48 HPRD, with a minimum
of 0.55 HPRD for RNs and 2.45 HPRD for nursing assistants (which includes certified nurse aides, aides in training, and medication aides/ technicians). Rural facilities have 5 years, until May 10, 2029, to meet this requirement.
• May 10, 2028 – Date by which Medicaid-certified nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities will be required to comply with the staffing requirements.
Notably, CMS did not impose any mandatory HPRD requirements for licensed professional nurses (“LPNs”) and licensed vocational nurses (“LVNs”), citing a lack of correlation between increased quality of care with an LPN/LVN HPRD requirement. However, LPN/LVN hours can apply to the overall 3.48 HPRD minimum.
Exemptions
A SNF provider may qualify for an exemption to the staffing rule if it: 1) it is located in a region where the provider-to-population ratio is at least 20% below the national average, and 2) it demonstrates good faith efforts to hire and retain staff, and 3) it demonstrates financial commitment
to retain direct care staff. “Good faith efforts” can include documented job postings, job vacancies and job offers extended for prevailing wages, as well as written staffing plans. “Financial commitment” will be evaluated by the amount spent on nurse staffing relative to revenue.
If granted an exemption, the SNF must post a notice of its exemption status at the facility, inform each current and prospective resident, and send a copy of the notice to State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Additionally, exemption status will be published on Care Compare. Exemptions are not available to SNFs with staffing-related violations, SNFs that have failed to submit PBJ staffing data, or Special Focus Facilities. Adds to Existing Requirements
It is important to note that although minimum staffing ratios will become an important marker of sufficient resident care, the new rule supplements, and does not supersede or replace, the current requirements that a facility have “sufficient staff” to meet residents needs safely and
By Meredith Duncan, J.D.
Ellie Tucker, J.D. Polsinelli, PC
Oncology Research Understanding the Eating and Nutrition Challenges Faced by Cancer Patients
FBy Zehra Kapadia, M.D.
Texas Oncology–Houston
or people undergoing cancer treatment, their body may respond in unexpected ways. One concern many patients bring up is being able to get proper nutrition and navigate the everyday tasks of preparing food and eating.
Cancer itself, as well as various treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, can have a profound impact on appetite, taste, digestion, and mental capacity or energy.
Struggles with eating faced by cancer patients
Cancer and its treatments can test the body, leading to a variety of eating-related issues and side effects
that can not only make it difficult to consume enough calories and nutrients, but impact overall quality of life. These can include:
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Dehydration
• Taste changes
• Mouth sores
• Difficulty swallowing
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Changes in weight
For some patients, the mental toll of cancer can also affect their appetite. Depression is common, and feelings of sadness, tiredness, or low energy can interfere with daily life and one’s ability or desire to eat and drink. Others may have trouble with physical movements, making it difficult to prepare or cook food. In addition, brain fog, mental exhaustion, or emotional exhaustion can make thinking about eating or meal planning difficult.
No shame or blame
For caregivers, family members,
or friends who have a loved one dealing with cancer, it’s important to avoid blaming or shaming them for not eating or having a loss of appetite. Avoid judgment and criticism and instead, be encouraging. Rather than nag or fight about eating, focus on providing options that are comforting and appealing.
Offer frequent healthy snacks and keep cool drinks or liquid meals within reach and in sight. Let your loved one decide when and what they want to eat. If the patient has issues with bitter or metallic tastes, try plastic utensils or straws. If the patient can’t or doesn’t want to eat, offer your company
instead, and let them know you’re there to support them, including when they do want to eat.
Helpful tips for when eating is a challenge
There will be days when eating presents no issues and days when even a small sip of water is unbearable. Remember to take each day one at a time. Consider these four tips to help nourish the body and minimize stress around eating:
1. Eat frequent, small meals. Instead of three large meals, have smaller, more frequent ones throughout the
see Oncology ...page 14
Clear Lake Recognized Among 100 Top Hospitals by Fortune/PINC AI
AmidstHCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake has been named on the 2024 Fortune/PINC AI 100 Top Hospitals list which recognizes the highest-quality performers and promotes continual improvement in the industry. According to Fortune/ PINC AI, this year’s list is based on an analysis of Medicare data that reflect measures of clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, patient experience and financial health.
“This elite recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our colleagues and medical staff to continuously elevate the standard of care in the Bay Area,” said Todd Caliva, CEO of HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake. “We are proud to be the hospital of choice for our community for over fifty years.”
As a part of HCA Healthcare, HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake is also part of one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2024. To
determine this year’s list, Fortune collaborated with Korn Ferry to analyze 660 companies across 52 industries in 29 countries. The top-rated companies were rated by executives, directors and analysts on nine criteria: innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, long-term investment, quality of products and services, and global competitiveness.
In 2023, HCA Healthcare recruited more than 116,500 colleagues, including 37,500 bedside nurses. To support its colleagues, HCA Healthcare offers a variety of programs, resources and opportunities, including education assistance, financial well-being programs and the HCA Healthcare Leadership Institute, which has graduated more than 21,200 colleagues since its inception
HCA Healthcare strives to find new, innovative ways to elevate care delivery for its patients. The organization’s Care Transformation and Innovation (CT&I) team works closely with clinicians to refine tools, such as generative AI to assist care teams with time-consuming tasks like documentation and a scheduling and staffing solution for nurses, and to expand the use of technology throughout the organization.
HCA Healthcare’s dedication to improve more lives in more ways extends
beyond the walls of its hospitals. The organization’s environmental strategy includes both short- and long-term sustainability plans and centers on incorporating four key pillars into operations, including managing energy and water responsibly, enhancing climate resilience, sourcing and consuming efficiently and managing the environmental impact of capital programs.
Earlier this year, HCA Houston
in 2014.
Mental Health
Texas A&M School of Nursing Leads
$1.5 Million Grant Addressing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
Initiative Offers Home Visits For Pregnant And New Mothers Navigating Substance Abuse Treatment And Recovery
By Maddie Spera
The Texas A&M University School of Nursing and key partners are preparing to launch a home-visiting program designed to curb neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in the Golden Crescent area of Texas. The project is funded by a three-year, $1.5 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
on NAS, which occurs when babies are exposed to drugs, like opioids, in the womb and experience withdrawal.
The School of Nursing is collaborating with the Texas A&M School of Medicine and School of Public Health to develop a custom curriculum for home educators to support pregnant and new mothers as they navigate substance abuse treatment and recovery. GC-MOMS’ 12-month program will focus on behavioral health, community risk factors and more.
Other partners include Golden Crescent-based Cuero Regional Hospital, a referral source for the GC-MOMS, and the Billy T. Cattan Recovery Outreach Center, which will provide peer recovery support services for enrolled families.
SHOULDN’T YOU BENEFIT
Robin Page, PhD, associate professor at the School of Nursing, serves as project director. Project team members are Nancy Downing, PhD, associate professor at the School of Nursing; Kelly Wilson, PhD, professor at the School of Nursing; Carly McCord, PhD, clinical associate professor at the School of Medicine; and Heather Clark, DrPH, director of public health practice at the School of Public Health.
Golden Crescent Management of Opioid Risk in Mothers (GC-MOMS) is funded under the HRSA’s Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP), an initiative aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality related to substance use disorder and opioid use disorder in high-risk rural communities. GC-MOMS will focus We’re rewarding eligible Texas members with a 5% dividend. Does
“The School of Nursing has a long history of serving at-risk communities under RCORP, and GC-MOMS represents an important opportunity to expand our outreach to more families
who need us,” Page said. “The Golden Crescent area is a ‘maternity care desert,’ which means families there don’t have access to important services that promote healthy pregnancies and positive post-partum outcomes. We believe a coordinated home-visiting program can provide essential support that helps remove barriers to care.”
The Golden Crescent area, which includes the counties of Calhoun, DeWitt, Goliad, Gonzales, Jackson, Lavaca and Victoria, is a designated health professional shortage
see Mental Health ...page 14
instead
At The Doctors Company we answer only to physicians like you. Not Wall Street. That’s why we’re able to award a 5% earned dividend to our eligible Texas members this year. Altogether, we’re returning $14.7 million to doctors in 2024, which brings the total dividend payments we’ve shared with physicians to $470 million.
Healthy Heart Ready For Vacation? Eat
Well and Enjoy Your Travels with These Healthy Tips
By Michael Merschel American Heart Association
AlthoughYou’ve got your swimsuit, sunglasses and a beach- or hammock-worthy novel ready to go. But does your vacation checklist also have a plan for healthy eating?
Sure, escaping your routine might be the whole point of hitting the road. But eating well not only boosts your health, it also can energize your adventures as well, nutritionists say. Here are some of their ideas.
Plan those snacks
For flyers in particular, finding healthy food in transit can be a challenge, said Katie Krieg, a registered dietitian in Dallas who’s also a travel
whole-grain crackers, carrots, apples, and unsalted popcorn are filled with fiber. And pairing unsweetened dried fruits with a protein and fat source increase satiety and energy levels, preventing blood sugar spikes and dips. Didn’t plan? Try this
Like Krieg, Marisa Moore, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Atlanta, believes in planning snacks. But if you didn’t pack any and find yourself stuck at a typical terminal or a highway convenience store, don’t despair. You still have options.
“Sometimes if you go and look in the back, you might find a spare banana,” or a snack pack of fresh grapes, Moore said.
Trail mix with less chocolate also
Don’t
wait to hydrate
Staying hydrated is important when traveling, so “the first thing is to prioritize getting your water in,” Moore said.
Moore suggested taking a refillable water bottle and hydrating fruits, like grapes and oranges.
Speaking of being on the go …
Fruits, vegetables and other
vacationers complain about.
“A lot of people do suffer with constipation when they travel,” Moore said. Fluids and fiber help alleviate it.
Divide and conquer
Krieg is a believer in ordering appetizers or in splitting dishes to get smaller portions. Not only does that leave room for a salad or vegetable side, it gives you the chance to sample more
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Ground Breaking: Modern Heart and Vascular to Build Cutting-Edge Cardiovascular Center in Houston The Framework
Modern Heart and Vascular Institute proudly announces the ground breaking of its new state-of-the-art facility on McKay Drive, Humble, Texas. This cutting-edge center is designed to provide unparalleled cardiovascular care to the community, enhancing the institute’s capabilities and solidifying its commitment to patient-centered healthcare.
The ground breaking ceremony marks a significant milestone for Modern Heart and Vascular, which has been at the forefront of innovative cardiovascular treatments and diagnostics. This center will provide advanced medical technology, comprehensive patient care services, and a team of highly skilled specialists in cardiology, pediatrics, heart and vein care, and dietetics – all under one roof.
Dr. Rajiv Agarwal, MD, a renowned cardiologist at Modern Heart and Vascular, commented: This new facility represents our dedication to advancing cardiovascular health in our community. Our goal is to provide our patients with the best possible care in a state-of-the-art environment where innovation and compassion go hand in hand. Our motto has always been ‘Patients First,’ and this new center embodies that commitment.
A Team Dedicated to Exceptional Care
Modern Heart and Vascular Institute is home to a team of highly skilled and experienced physicians, including Dr. Michael Siropaides, Dr. Percy Morales, Dr. Ricardo Bellera, Dr. William Kalchoff, Dr. Joshua Quinones, Dr. Mouzam Faroqui, Dr. Dorothy Pei, and Dr. Devang Parikh. These specialists are dedicated to
providing exceptional care to their patients.
Expanded Services for Exceptional Care
The new facility will offer a wider range of testing and procedures to ensure patients receive the most advanced and personalized care possible. This includes:
• Advanced diagnostics: Electrocardiogram, Echocardiogram, Doppler Ultrasound, Ankle-Brachial Index, Cardiac CT Scan, Cardiac PET/ CT Scan, Nuclear Cardiac Stress Test.
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• Minimally invasive procedures: Coronary angioplasty and stenting, peripheral artery interventions, and other innovative techniques.
• Cardiac rehabilitation: Supervised exercise programs and lifestyle modification counseling to help patients improve their heart health.
• Electrophysiology services: Diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). see Framework...page 13
Dr. Roderic Pettigrew Ascends to Pivotal Role at Texas A&M: A New Era in Health and Strategic Initiatives
By Shadia Sadaqa
In a landmark move, Texas A&M University has appointed Dr. Roderic Pettigrew as Vice Chancellor for Health and Strategic Initiatives, reaffirming its dedication to cutting-edge health education and groundbreaking research. Pettigrew, a luminary in medicine and engineering, brings visionary leadership that promises to propel Texas A&M to the forefront of global health innovation.
Pettigrew joined Texas A&M six years ago to establish the School of Engineering Medicine (ENMED). This pioneering program uniquely blends medical and engineering education, allowing students to earn both a medical doctorate and a master’s in engineering in four years. The second cohort of ENMED graduates, known as
“physicianeers,” has already made waves with inventive healthcare solutions. The program’s first graduation ceremony featured notable figures such as five Nobel Laureates, the co-inventor of the internet, and MIT President Emerita, underscoring its esteemed reputation and profound impact.
In his new role, Pettigrew is focused on harnessing Texas A&M’s extensive resources and talent to tackle global health challenges. His strategic vision is clear: “What are the pressing challenges? Where do our strengths align to meet these challenges?” he asks.
Pettigrew plans to establish
centers of excellence dedicated to improving global health and well-being. This initiative, conceived by Chancellor John Sharp, aims to elevate Texas A&M’s academic and research prowess by recruiting and nurturing national leaders in various fields. “Excellent programs need excellent faculty. Dr. Pettigrew will help supercharge our efforts to focus on centers of excellence,”
Sharp remarked. Pettigrew’s illustrious career includes numerous accolades. With a Ph.D. and an M.D., he is a respected member of the National Academy of Medicine, the National Academy of Engineering, the National Academy of Inventors, and the American Academy
We’ve Got Houston Covered. From Conroe to Downtown, Healthpeak is in every healthcare hub around the city.
Dr. Roderic Pettigrew as Vice Chancellor for Health and Strategic Initiatives
Dear Doctors and Staff,
Let us take the guesswork out of fracture referrals.
No more waiting for appointments!
We at the Orthopedic Care Center wish to offer your patients and staff easy scheduling of patients.
Our office has extended office hours on Fridays to accommodate patients with fractures. On behalf of the Orthopedic Care Center
A Long-Term Ketogenic Diet Accumulates Aged Cells in
Normal Tissues
Researchers Urge, ‘Take A Keto-Break,’ For Prevention
Astrict“keto-friendly” diet popular for weight loss and diabetes, depending on both the diet and individual, might not be all that friendly.
A new study led by researchers at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) and involving Houston Methodist researchers found that a continuous long-term ketogenic diet may induce senescence, or aged, cells in normal tissues, with effects on heart and kidney function in particular. However, an intermittent
the journal Science Advances. Other authors also are with the Department of Radiation Oncology and Mays Cancer Center, as well as the Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, Center for Precision Medicine, School of Nursing, and Division of Nephrology in the Department of Medicine at UT Health San Antonio; and both the Houston Methodist Cancer Center and Houston Methodist Research Institute.
Too much of a good thing
A ketogenic diet, popularly known as keto-friendly, is a high-fat,
ketogenic diet, with a planned keto vacation or break, did not exhibit any pro-inflammatory effects due to aged cells, according to the research.
Develop
The findings have significant clinical implications suggesting that the beneficial effect of a ketogenic diet might be enhanced by planned breaks.
“To put this in perspective, 13 million Americans use a ketogenic diet, and we are saying that you need to take breaks from this diet or there could be long-term consequences,” said David Gius, MD, PhD, assistant dean of research and professor with the Department of Radiation Oncology in the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine at UT Health San Antonio, and associate cancer director for translational research at the institution’s Mays Cancer Center.
He is lead author of the new study titled, “Ketogenic diet induces p53-dependent cellular senescence in multiple organs,” published May 17 in
low-carbohydrate diet that leads to the generation of ketones, a type of chemical that the liver produces when it breaks down fats. While a ketogenic diet improves certain health conditions and is popular for weight loss, pro-inflammatory effects also have been reported. The new study shows that mice on two different ketogenic diets, and at different ages, induce cellular senescence in multiple organs, including the heart and kidney. However, this cellular senescence was eliminated by a senolytic, or a class of small molecules that can destroy senescence cells and prevented by administration of an intermittent ketogenic diet regimen.
“As cellular senescence has been implicated in the pathology of organ disease, our results have important clinical implications for understanding the use of a ketogenic diet,” Gius said. “As with other nutrient interventions, you need to ‘take a keto break.’
Lubor Jarolimek M.D.
NFinancial Forecast Hoping for the Best, but Planning for the Worst
By Grace S. Yung, CFP Midtown Financial Group, LLC
o matter how much we plan and prepare, there may be something that we didn’t think about or that will be missed. Some of these things can be critical and can cause unintended consequences in our lives when unexpected changes happen. An illness or sudden death of a loved one, may cause financial challenges. That
was forced to file for bankruptcy following her husband’s sudden death, in order to save her home after his bank account was frozen, stopping mortgage payments and triggering foreclosure.
The woman was unaware that the automatic payments on the mortgage had stopped until she received a letter stating that the home would be auctioned off… even though her finances were otherwise very healthy.
− Proper asset titling. The way assets are titled can make a big difference in what happens to them upon the passing of a
►John DelaRosa Principal/Broker
said, it is important to be prepared. Important Things to Consider that can Make a Big Impact
Financial emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. This being the case, it is a good idea that both parties in a relationship should be aware of the financial status of the household at all times. This is especially true if you are not the person who handles the finances in your relationship. Here are some things to look out for:
Auto pays - Any bills that are automatically paid must be reviewed on a regular basis, but especially if something untoward has happens to the person who mainly runs the household finances. Otherwise, it could have devastating effects. For example, in 2022, a widow in Kentucky
loved one. A strategy often left unexecuted involves titling, where one spouse is ill / in hospice, not expected to live for much longer. The initial knee jerk reaction is to move assets out of the ailing spouse’s name and into the healthy spouse’s individual name so that he or she will have access to funds later during the estate settlement process upon the passing of person A. While that may make sense for a portion of the assets that need to be liquid for day-to-day operations, if there is a situation where there is a joint account (for Person A and Person B) where there are highly appreciated holdings, one may consider moving those securities
Healthy Heart
Continued from page 6
Balance with alcohol
If you choose to drink alcohol, hydration becomes extra important, Krieg said. So make sure you’re filling up on water.
Moore pointed out that although alcohol might make you feel more relaxed, it can interfere with sleep. So if you drink, leave extra time for rest.
The Framework
Continued from page 8
• Modern Vein Treatments: Laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, varicose vein surgery, sclerotherapy, and vein stripping.
• Preventive Heart Care: Cholesterol screenings, blood pressure monitoring, weight management counseling, and smoking cessation programs.
• Cardiac Consultation: Consultation with a cardiologist to discuss your heart health and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Texas A&M
Continued from page 9
of Arts and Sciences. His receipt of the prestigious Vannevar Bush Award from the National Science Board highlights his significant contributions to science and engineering.
Before joining Texas A&M, Pettigrew was the founding director of the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) at the NIH, where he served for 15 years. His pioneering work in cardiovascular MRI has revolutionized diagnostic medicine, enabling early disease detection and advanced treatments.
“Medicine is a big thing but not the only big thing. Our next initiative could span a broad range of critical issues, from data science and AI-driven insights to next-generation materials for energy and environmental applications. We’re addressing quality-of-life challenges that demand a multidisciplinary approach, including the social and behavioral sciences,” Pettigrew articulates.
Pettigrew will continue as ENMED
A healthy attitude
It’s true that those fresh-baked pastries you find in France might have more fat or sugar than is ideal, Gentile said. It’s also true that “you’re not going to go to Paris and not have baguettes and croissants.”
Don’t get caught up in a cycle of recrimination about what you
• Cardiovascular Exam: A comprehensive evaluation of your heart health, including a physical exam, medical history review, and diagnostic testing.
• Intensive Cardiac Rehab: A specialized program to help patients recover from heart events and improve their long-term cardiovascular health.
A Convenient Location with Modern Amenities
The new location on McKay Drive has been strategically chosen to offer convenient access to residents and ensure that patients receive timely and efficient care. The facility will include
eat on vacation, she and the other nutritionists said.
“People feel an immense pressure to eat perfectly,” Moore said. “And it’s just not realistic. You make the best that you can.”
Krieg emphasizes balance and moderation. “I think that’s the key to not only a healthy relationship with
modern consultation rooms, advanced imaging and diagnostic equipment, and specialized treatment areas designed to support various cardiovascular conditions.
Modern Heart and Vascular Institute has built a reputation for excellence in cardiovascular care. Its focus is on personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. The new facility is expected to enhance these services further, providing a comprehensive and integrated approach to heart health.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by local officials, healthcare professionals, and community members,
food, but the key to a healthy life.” So as you explore the world, “have fun. Order these cool adventurous foods that you don’t typically get to try. Include some fruits and veggies. And then when you come back from a trip, continue to do the same thing.”
dean until an interim successor is named in the fall. He will remain in Houston, serving as Texas A&M’s liaison within the Texas Medical Center and overseeing ENMED’s expansion in collaboration with Houston Methodist Hospital. He also retains his faculty appointment as the Robert A. Welch Professor of Chemistry and continues his research with support from the Governor’s University Research Initiative (GURI) grant program.
Pettigrew’s appointment heralds a new era for Texas A&M, poised to make significant strides in global health and research. His leadership and innovative vision set the stage for Texas A&M to solidify its role as a leader in healthcare and scientific advancement.
all of whom expressed their support for the new development. The event celebrated progress and a testament to the institute’s ongoing commitment to improving cardiovascular health outcomes.
Construction of the new Modern Heart and Vascular facility on McKay Drive is expected to be completed by the middle of 2025, with doors opening to patients shortly thereafter.
For more information about Modern Heart and Vascular Institute and updates on the new facility, please visit www.modernheartandvascular. com or contact 832-644-8930.
Financial Forecast
Continued from page 12
into the ailing spouse’s single name. The reason for this is because in a joint account, when one person passes away, only half the account will receive a step up in basis. Whereas in an individually named account, the entire account will receive a step up in basis. This would be beneficial to the surviving spouse later as it is a tax-efficient strategy.
Income replacementMaking sure that life insurance and/or other income replacement strategies are in place is essential, so survivors don’t have to change their lives if income drops. This is particularly important for surviving retirees who may lose deceased spouse’s pension and Social Security benefits. Relying only on life insurance through your employer can result in lost coverage when you leave your job
/ retire. So, having an individual life insurance policy that is privately owned is recommended. It would be a good idea to look into this sooner rather than later as the cost of insurance increases due to age and health.
Communication - Spouses should also be aware of where important documents like insurance policies and loan paperwork are kept, as well as contact information for key advisors. And let’s not forget passwords.
Where to Go from Here
Do you have a plan to protect yourself and loved ones from financial challenges in case of the unexpected? If not, talk with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional who can walk you through various scenarios and create strategies based on your particular objectives.
Rules
Continued from page 1
in a manner that promotes their well-being. Historically, CMS has deferred to facilities to determine what qualifies as “sufficient staff” based on their resident population case mix, care plans, acuities, and diagnoses. Providers should still expect that CMS will require it to ensure that it has sufficient staff to meet residents’ needs, and that number could be higher than the prescribed minimums depending on the Provider’s resident population at any given time.
Oncology
Continued from page 3
day. This can help manage nausea and maintain energy levels.
2. Consume nutrient-dense foods. Focus on nutrient-dense foods full of vitamins, minerals, and calories. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
3. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate hydrating foods such as soups, smoothies, and fruits with high water content.
4. Experiment with different flavors. Cancer treatments may alter one’s
Top 100
Continued from page 4
Healthcare Clear Lake was recognized as one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals and a 2024 Patient Safety Excellence Award™ recipient by Healthgrades, the leading resource consumers use to find a hospital or doctor. This achievement puts HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake in the top 5% of hospitals nationwide for overall clinical performance and reflects HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake’s
Mental Health
Continued from page 5
area, according to HRSA. GC-MOMS will serve Lavaca, DeWitt, Jackson and Calhoun counties.
GC-MOMS operates under the Program of Excellence for Mothers,
Court
Challenges
Less than two weeks after the final rule was published, the American Health Care Association (representing more than 14,000 nursing homes), along with the Texas Health Care Association and a handful of individual nursing home plaintiffs filed a lawsuit in the Northern District of Texas challenging these new minimum staffing rules. Plaintiffs argue that the rule exceeds CMS’s statutory authority, contradicts congressional intent, and
imposes impractical and financially burdensome staffing standards. Specifically, they contend that the rules fail to consider the nationwide shortage of qualified nursing staff and will disproportionately affect smaller, rural facilities. Plaintiffs seek declaratory relief finding the new staffing requirements to be arbitrary and capricious as having exceeded CMS’ statutory authority and injunctive relief to prevent enforcement of the rules.
sense of taste. Experiment with different flavors and seasonings to make meals more palatable. Resources for accessing healthy foods
Social determinants of health are non-medical factors that can affect health outcomes, such as food insecurity, the lack of ability to afford or access health nutritive food. Cancer patients facing food insecurity may postpone medical care, underuse medications, or not comply with prescribed therapies because they are faced with the dilemma of choosing
between paying for food or paying for medical care.
There are resources available to help patients or loved ones get necessary nutrients such as food pantries, community gardens, the government’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program, or Meals on Wheels.
By understanding the challenges cancer patients face when it comes to eating and nutrition, patients and their loved ones will be able to maintain the strength and resiliency needed to manage the cancer journey.
commitment to exceptional patient care.
Last fall, HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake’s Heart Hospital earned a distinguished three-star rating from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) for its patient care and outcomes in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. The three-star rating, which denotes the highest category of quality, places
HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake among the elite for heart bypass surgery in the United States and Canada and top in Houston.
“We are extremely proud that our community has access to one of the nation’s top hospitals for quality patient care, right here in Webster,” said Caliva.
Children and Families (POEMCF) at the School of Nursing, which creates and manages projects that serve families and communities across Texas. Much of the POEMCF’s programming
uses home-visiting models.
GC-MOMS expects to launch home visits later this summer. For information, visit nursing.tamu.edu/ gc-moms.
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