D.C. Week: Medicare Reforms Backed Up With New Rules

(MedPage Today) -- Also, FDA approval for the first generic version of Crestor

OncoBreak: Radon Risk; E-Cig Boost; Pricey Tests in Toledo

(MedPage Today) -- News, features, and commentary about cancer-related issues

Trouble With Sense of Direction May Be Linked to Early Alzheimer's: Study

Title: Trouble With Sense of Direction May Be Linked to Early Alzheimer's: Study
Category: Health News
Created: 4/26/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 4/27/2016 12:00:00 AM

New Medicare Rules Would Increase Bonus Opportunities, Ease Reporting

(MedPage Today) -- CMS to simplify reimbursement, remove "all-or-nothing" Meaningful Use grades

Asthma More Common in Obese Women: ConsultantLive & Rheumatology Network

(MedPage Today) -- Also, air pollution may increase risk of preterm birth in asthmatic mothers

CMS Proposes TAVR Payment Cuts

(MedPage Today) -- Other CV procedures to gain slightly in fiscal year starting in October

More Exchange Plans Ease Access To Some Expensive Drugs: Report

(MedPage Today) -- Change helps some patients with cancer, HIV, MS

Using Novel Line-Item Veto, Ark. Governor Extends Medicaid Expansion

(MedPage Today) -- Program uses Medicaid funds to buy private insurance

IRA May Have to be Closed for ALTCS

Our latest Arizona Republic article in the weekly Aging and the Law column can be found below. Our column runs every Friday in select Arizona cities.

Question: My mother has monthly income of about $1,400, about $1,800 in her checking account, and a small IRA with a balance of about $45,000. She needs long-term care, and I understand that Arizona Long Term Care System provides coverage to those with less than $2,000 of resources and less than $2,199 of monthly income. Will ALTCS count the IRA as part of my mom's resources?

Answer: In Arizona, IRAs are treated as available resources for purposes of ALTCS eligibility. This being the case, your mother is currently ineligible due to the $45,000 that is in her IRA.

In order to qualify for ALTCS, then, your mother would have to first “spend down” the funds in her IRA. Of course, the issue with this is that money coming out of an IRA is taxable income, but it is very often the case that the benefits associated with qualifying for ALTCS greatly outweigh the potential tax obligation.

In your mother's case, it seems all but inevitable that she will have to close her IRA in order to have funds for her care. Given that the money is likely to come out of the IRA one way or another, it makes sense to put a plan in place that will help your mother qualify for ALTCS before the money runs out.

If your mother closes the IRA and then spends the money without a plan, she will not only have a tax obligation, but will also be without the funds to pay for care while the ALTCS application processes.

As is always the case, timing is everything with these types of cases. Your mom should only close her IRA as part of a comprehensive plan to obtain long-term care coverage.

Richard White is an elder law attorney at JacksonWhite Attorneys at Law. For more information on Elder Law at JacksonWhite, please visit www.ArizonaSeniorLaw.com.

Do Genes That Protect Against Dementia Guard Against Chronic Diseases?

Title: Do Genes That Protect Against Dementia Guard Against Chronic Diseases?
Category: Health News
Created: 4/21/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 4/22/2016 12:00:00 AM

The Key to Fighting Stress

(MedPage Today) -- Must reads about the latest news and trends in healthcare careers

Muscular Dystrophy Drug Faces Continued FDA Skepticism

(MedPage Today) -- Staff report criticizes efficacy data

CardioBrief: No Evidence to Support Screening Young Athletes

(MedPage Today) -- More questions raised about key study suggesting ECG screening can save lives

House Committee Hammers VA Officials on Accountability

(MedPage Today) -- VA official addresses falsified wait times, employing a criminal

Many Readmissions Preventable: HealthLeaders Media

(MedPage Today) -- Also, time for mandated programs to combat antibiotic resistance

Who Were the Top Earners in 2015?

(MedPage Today) -- What the latest data shows about physician income

AACR: Notes From New Orleans

(MedPage Today) -- Emerging cancer research initiatives; Biden's late-breaking address

Acne Drug: FDA Advisors Recommend OTC Adapalene

(MedPage Today) -- Panel votes 16-0 that the drug is safe for use without a prescription.

Why You Should Take Action On National Healthcare Day

by SYNERGY HomeCare

Thursday, April 14, 2016

0

First, what is National Healthcare Decisions Day? National Healthcare Decisions Day exists to inspire, educate and empower the public and providers about the importance of advance care planning.

It's not easy to discuss planning for the “what if's” in life, unfortunately it is not a matter of what if, but rather a matter of when.  We never know when a serious illness or accident will occur that would require us to make difficult and perhaps life changing medical decisions. It is important for all of us to be proactive and have heartfelt conversations, so we are prepared when a serious health crisis strikes. Knowing our loved one's wishes around health care decisions is a gift.

Where do I start? Starting this conversation can be challenging, here is a link that provides a wealth of information to help you get the conversation started.

Top 10 Healthcare Discussion Topics

1. Medical Power of Attorney/Health Care Agent Designation
2. Artificial Nutrition and Hydration
3. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
4. Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)
5. Managing Pain and at Life's End
6. Hospice and Palliative Care
7. Severe Brain Injury
8. Autopsy and Organ Donation
9. Funeral Preferences
10. Living Wills/Health Care Directives

When an emergency situation happens emotions run high, and we often question ourselves on whether we are communicating our loved one's health care wishes accurately. It is for this reason that it is important to document your wishes or the wishes of your loved one. Begin this conversation with your healthcare team or check your state's attorney general website to download the State approved health care directives/living will documents. You can find your state website at www.naag.org.

It's important to address these tough conversations now, so when a crisis does happen decisions have already been made, and everyone can focus their attention on providing the love and support needed.

We recommend you visit the National Healthcare Decision Day website, as it offers a wealth of information.

SYNERGY HomeCare

SYNERGY HomeCare is the premier provider of home care services. We strive to offer our clients the highest quality of life and independence possible. Call us today for a FREE in-home care assessment (877) 432-2692.

Visit us online @  www.SynergyHomeCare.com

Maintaining Your Mental Agility

Maintaining Your Mental Agility

by Carla Sutter

When I was growing up Sunday mornings at my house included a newspaper and a pencil. My dad would lead the charge and attempt to complete the New York Times crossword puzzle. While we were never confident enough to use a pen; among the four of us we could answer enough of the puzzle to feel challenged and victorious all at the same time. Today, crossword puzzles have gone digital. In addition, there are a multitude of online as well as print games to keep every family engaged over a weekend. For the elderly poor eyesight, isolation, decreased dexterity and cognitive decline minimize the opportunity to participate in activities that challenge one's brain.

A new study from the University of Texas explores the importance that mental challenges can have on sharpening the aging brain. Continuous learning opportunities is showing itself to be one of the mainstays of healthy aging and quality of life. SYNERGY HomeCare staff recognize the need for mental stimulation and ensure that our caregivers are not simply providing assistance with the activities of daily living such as: bathing, grooming, assistance with mobility and dressing, but just as importantly are offering brain engaging activities during their visits.

Caregivers are using technology to provide musical programs that are based on music therapy techniques. Programs such as MemVu.com which offers brain training programs personalized to the client can be added into the care plan. In addition, caregivers focus on re-engaging clients with social activities in their community, accompanying them to museums, lectures and family get-togethers; all activities that will stimulate the brain and enhance quality of life.

SYNERGY HomeCare is all about improving quality of life for our clients. You can use our Find a Local Agency tool at the top of this page or call our 24 hour number 877-432-2692 for help over the phone from our Care Team any time.

Carla Sutter

Carla, Director of Operations for SYNERGY HomeCare Franchisor, holds her Masters in Social work and is a Certified Advanced Case Manager with the NASW.  Carla has dedicated her over 25 year career to helping clients and families care for themselves and others whose needs are changing due to age or illness. She has provided training to companies and individuals throughout the United States and Canada.

Visit us online @ www.SynergyHomeCare.com 

Patients Won't Take Charge of Cutting Health Costs

(MedPage Today) -- Doctors need to take the lead, says Peter Ubel, MD

Alzheimer's Can Steal Ability to Know Loved Ones' Faces

Title: Alzheimer's Can Steal Ability to Know Loved Ones' Faces
Category: Health News
Created: 4/13/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 4/13/2016 12:00:00 AM

Study Suggests Brain Damage in 40 Percent of Ex-NFL Players

Title: Study Suggests Brain Damage in 40 Percent of Ex-NFL Players
Category: Health News
Created: 4/11/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 4/12/2016 12:00:00 AM

Patients Wary When Docs Recruit for MS Trials (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- Majority said they'd trust their physician less if compensated for enrollment

5 Tips That May Prevent Alzheimer's Disease

---

5 Tips That May Prevent Alzheimer's

Today, one in eight Americans over the age of 65 live with Alzheimer's disease.

This progressive brain disorder causes brain cells to degenerate and die, which results in a continuing decline in memory and other mental functions. Alzheimer's literally shrinks the brain. Each year, Alzheimer's costs 79,000 people their lives, making it the sixth leading cause of death. It also costs American society – $200 billion this year alone, according to the Alzheimer's Association's projection.

Scientists haven't yet discovered a proven way to cure or prevent the disorder, but recent research connects certain lifestyle changes with decreased chances of developing Alzheimer's. Considering that these lifestyle changes will improve your physical health or mental function even if Alzheimer's weren't a concern, you have little to lose…

§  Exercise your brain.

Two studies published last week by the American Academy of Neurology support existing evidence of a connection between your mental activity now and your mental acuity later in life. In other words, keeping mentally active appears to preserve your mental skills, which may otherwise weaken with time. Examples of ways to challenge your brain include reading, playing board games, and doing crossword puzzles.

§  Exercise your body.

This tip is also backed by numerous studies – of mice and humans. The Mayo Clinic has even called exercise the “best bet” for preventing Alzheimer's. Note, though, that “exercise” in this case means getting your heart rate up for at least 30 minutes several times a week.

§  Protect your health.

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology last year found that seniors who rated their health as poor had greater chances of developing Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. A second study published last year found that even a modest reduction of certain medical risk factors – smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, midlife high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression – could prevent 3 million cases of Alzheimer's worldwide.

§  Protect your mental health.

A 10-year study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in November connected poor psychological health (specifically depression and anxiety) to a greater chance of dying from Alzheimer's Disease.

As if you needed another reason to relieve stress, “One possibility, the researchers propose, is that chronic levels of psychological distress may raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Persistently high levels of cortisol, in turn, may have toxic effects on the hippocampus, a part of the brain that is critical for memory.”

§  Learn a foreign language.

An article about the benefits of being bilingual, published in The New York Times last month, cited a recent University of California-San Diego study. It found that people with a higher degree of bilingualism were more resistant to Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. In other words, the more proficient you are at a second language, the later the disease onset.

Visit us online @ www.gomastercare.com

NSCLC Drug Hits Speed Bump on Road to FDA Approval

(MedPage Today) -- Agency advisors recommend waiting for more data on rociletinib

Healthcare Consumerism: Is It the Future?: HealthLeaders Media

(MedPage Today) -- Also, new score prevent avoidable hospital readmissions

The Methods Man: Accuracy of Test 'Accuracy'

(MedPage Today) -- An overused and often misleading test metric

10 Questions: Ilona J. Frieden, MD

(MedPage Today) -- 'The structure of the system itself is the biggest barrier'

Haven Senior Horizons Grand Opening of their Juniper Unit!

We are very excited to announce the opening of our
Juniper Unit!!!

If you haven't had a chance to come by and take a tour, give me a call and I'll be happy to show you around!

At Haven Senior Horizons we offer educational information sessions tailored to staff, residents or family members. 
We can bring the Virtual Dementia Tour to you. 
Please contact me for information. 

We do have beds available, please contact our intake department at (623) 236-2000 (option 1) for immediate assistance.

Debi Elder, Community Liaison
Haven Senior Horizons
1201 S. 7th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ  85007
cell (623) 760-8870
admissions (623) 236-2000

FDA OKs Metformin Drugs for Patients With Kidney Impairment

(MedPage Today) -- The change removes a restriction on metformin compounds

Lamotrigine May Not Cause Orofacial Birth Defects (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- But large European registry case-control study suggests link to clubfoot

Medtronic's Leadless Pacemaker Wins FDA Approval

(MedPage Today) -- Micra demonstrated efficacy in 98% of implanted patients

Value-Based Insurance Program Raises Compliance (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- Employees had more preventive visits, better medication adherence

Hospital Mergers and Price Hikes: HealthLeaders Media

(MedPage Today) -- Also, some Calif. hospitals may be cut loose from health plans

D.C. Week: Obama Sets Task Force to Ensure Access to Addiction Tx

(MedPage Today) -- FDA updates its labeling for medical abortion drug mifepristone

ICD-10 Mostly an Easy Ride

(MedPage Today) -- Minor issues include a bump in rejections of medical necessity claims

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Condit and Associates, LLC

We are pleased to announce our newest advertiser

Condit and Associates, LLC

in the Phoenix SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options

Our Mission

We provide professional, dependable financial and personal care services for those who want life to be simple, easy, or no longer a struggle. To give respect and honor the dignity and livelihood of those who have raised, nurtured and mentored the rest of us.

It is our privilege to provide quality care and management for those who are in need of protection and assistance.

What is a Licensed Fiduciary

A fiduciary is someone entrusted to protect property, oversee matters and manage care when people become unable to do so for themselves.

Through the Arizona Supreme Court, Fiduciaries are bonded, background checked, fingerprinted and eventually become licensed. The licensing means a knowledge of the law that applies to caring for others and their finances. They are held to a high standard under the law and are accountable to their clients, their families and the courts. Fiduciaries are expected to be advocates for the clients they serve and help to protect them from abuse and exploitation. Many Licensed Fiduciaries are either former personal trust officers, medical professionals, or human services professionals.

How Can You or a Loved One Benefit?

In today's busy world, having the time to attend to needed family and loved ones is a challenge.

• We fill the gap for busy families and treat clients like adopted parents, aunts and uncles.
• Rescue and relief for busy families.
• Help for loved ones to live an easier, simpler, and more carefree life.

Licensed Fiduciary Condit and Associates, LLC offers financial peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

TYPES OF SERVICES

Financial Management Services

Keeping the finances organized, current and in good standing are important. We work with your investment advisor, income tax preparer, trust officer, and attorney to provide bookkeeping services such as bill payment, filing of records, bank account reconcilement, letter writing and organization of all your records and documents.

Care Management Services

Our clients benefit from a team of expert medical professionals such as a Geriatric Care Manager, Registered Nurses (RN) Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and several in-home care and health care agencies. Our medical professional team works privately with elders, challenged adults, and their families.

Property Management Services

Condit and Associates offers property management responsibilities in regard to the marshalling of assets. A Property Management Coordinator is assigned to facilitate instructed property management services, coordinate, delegate and supervise services among staff and arrange for outside support if applicable.

Some types of property management services included are, but are not limited to

• Conduct Pictorial Inventory 
• Arrange for appraisal(s) 
• On-site staffing during formal inventory/appraisal, maintenance/repairs/installation. 
• On-site staffing for removal/disposition of property and arrange for and management of appropriate labor. 
• Obtain bids for sale of personal property
• Records Management (Sorting)
• And other property management related services

Additional Services

• Needs Assessment – to help determine the level of care needed and appropriate living environment.
• Care Plan Development – a written plan explaining how care needs will be met.
• Quality Check Visits – periodic, unannounced or announced visit to determine the quality of care being given to a person and their living conditions.
• Moving Arrangements/Relocation Assistance – sometimes having to downsize can be overwhelming after years of accumulating personal property. We help to find appropriate living alternatives, organize and facilitate the move.

How Services Start

Services are started by written agreement or by court appointment. Depending upon the types of services desired, Condit and Associates LLC may be named in any of the following documents to carry out services in the event the client becomes no longer able to do certain tasks they otherwise could do for themselves either temporarily, long term or upon death. 

Legal Documents signed by the client and expressly directing specific duties be performed by the licensed fiduciary firm are:

• Durable, Spring or Limited Power of Attorney for Financial purposes
• Health Care Power of Attorney for medical purposes
• Mental Health Power of Attorney for treatment and hospitalization
• Trustee and Successor Trustee of a Trust
• Personal Representative under Last Will and Testament
• Engagement Letter is used when the licensed fiduciary is acting as Agent to the client, power of attorney, trustee or personal representative.

Court appointments may occur for different reasons. Some examples of why a court appointment is necessary are when a person is incapacitated, has assets that will dissipate if not protected, can no longer take care of themselves and is vulnerable. A court of law appointments an attorney to represent the alleged person in need of protection.

A court investigator is assigned to the case and consults with all interested parties, including the alleged protected person, reviews medical reports from physicians and any other professionals that may be part of the case as a witness. A court hearing occurs to determine if in fact the alleged protected person does need protection and is at risk.

Some types of Court Appointments are:

• Conservator – responsible for all financial matters outside of a Trust, if one exists.
• Guardian – responsible a person's welfare and well being.
• Trustee – responsible for all trust assets, trust administration and carrying out the terms and conditions of the trust agreement.
• Personal Representative – responsible for carrying out the terms and conditions of the decedent's Last Will and Testament.

For more information or to schedule a complimentary visit contact us at
Phone 623-546-6082 Fax 877-784-6938
Email:  mjcondit@conditandassoc.com

Visit us online @ http://www.conditandassoc.com/

Scientists Reduce Alzheimer's-Linked Brain Plaques in Mice

Title: Scientists Reduce Alzheimer's-Linked Brain Plaques in Mice
Category: Health News
Created: 3/31/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 4/1/2016 12:00:00 AM

ICD-10 Mostly an Easy Ride

(MedPage Today) -- Minor issues include a bump in rejections of medical necessity claims

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Condit and Associates, LLC

We are pleased to announce our newest advertiser

Condit and Associates, LLC

in the Phoenix SPOTLIGHT Senior Services & Living Options

Our Mission

We provide professional, dependable financial and personal care services for those who want life to be simple, easy, or no longer a struggle. To give respect and honor the dignity and livelihood of those who have raised, nurtured and mentored the rest of us.

It is our privilege to provide quality care and management for those who are in need of protection and assistance.

What is a Licensed Fiduciary

A fiduciary is someone entrusted to protect property, oversee matters and manage care when people become unable to do so for themselves.

Through the Arizona Supreme Court, Fiduciaries are bonded, background checked, fingerprinted and eventually become licensed. The licensing means a knowledge of the law that applies to caring for others and their finances. They are held to a high standard under the law and are accountable to their clients, their families and the courts. Fiduciaries are expected to be advocates for the clients they serve and help to protect them from abuse and exploitation. Many Licensed Fiduciaries are either former personal trust officers, medical professionals, or human services professionals.

How Can You or a Loved One Benefit?

In today's busy world, having the time to attend to needed family and loved ones is a challenge.

• We fill the gap for busy families and treat clients like adopted parents, aunts and uncles.
• Rescue and relief for busy families.
• Help for loved ones to live an easier, simpler, and more carefree life.

Licensed Fiduciary Condit and Associates, LLC offers financial peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

TYPES OF SERVICES

Financial Management Services

Keeping the finances organized, current and in good standing are important. We work with your investment advisor, income tax preparer, trust officer, and attorney to provide bookkeeping services such as bill payment, filing of records, bank account reconcilement, letter writing and organization of all your records and documents.

Care Management Services

Our clients benefit from a team of expert medical professionals such as a Geriatric Care Manager, Registered Nurses (RN) Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and several in-home care and health care agencies. Our medical professional team works privately with elders, challenged adults, and their families.

Property Management Services

Condit and Associates offers property management responsibilities in regard to the marshalling of assets. A Property Management Coordinator is assigned to facilitate instructed property management services, coordinate, delegate and supervise services among staff and arrange for outside support if applicable.

Some types of property management services included are, but are not limited to

• Conduct Pictorial Inventory 
• Arrange for appraisal(s) 
• On-site staffing during formal inventory/appraisal, maintenance/repairs/installation. 
• On-site staffing for removal/disposition of property and arrange for and management of appropriate labor. 
• Obtain bids for sale of personal property
• Records Management (Sorting)
• And other property management related services

Additional Services

• Needs Assessment – to help determine the level of care needed and appropriate living environment.
• Care Plan Development – a written plan explaining how care needs will be met.
• Quality Check Visits – periodic, unannounced or announced visit to determine the quality of care being given to a person and their living conditions.
• Moving Arrangements/Relocation Assistance – sometimes having to downsize can be overwhelming after years of accumulating personal property. We help to find appropriate living alternatives, organize and facilitate the move.

How Services Start

Services are started by written agreement or by court appointment. Depending upon the types of services desired, Condit and Associates LLC may be named in any of the following documents to carry out services in the event the client becomes no longer able to do certain tasks they otherwise could do for themselves either temporarily, long term or upon death. 

Legal Documents signed by the client and expressly directing specific duties be performed by the licensed fiduciary firm are:

• Durable, Spring or Limited Power of Attorney for Financial purposes
• Health Care Power of Attorney for medical purposes
• Mental Health Power of Attorney for treatment and hospitalization
• Trustee and Successor Trustee of a Trust
• Personal Representative under Last Will and Testament
• Engagement Letter is used when the licensed fiduciary is acting as Agent to the client, power of attorney, trustee or personal representative.

Court appointments may occur for different reasons. Some examples of why a court appointment is necessary are when a person is incapacitated, has assets that will dissipate if not protected, can no longer take care of themselves and is vulnerable. A court of law appointments an attorney to represent the alleged person in need of protection.

A court investigator is assigned to the case and consults with all interested parties, including the alleged protected person, reviews medical reports from physicians and any other professionals that may be part of the case as a witness. A court hearing occurs to determine if in fact the alleged protected person does need protection and is at risk.

Some types of Court Appointments are:

• Conservator – responsible for all financial matters outside of a Trust, if one exists.
• Guardian – responsible a person's welfare and well being.
• Trustee – responsible for all trust assets, trust administration and carrying out the terms and conditions of the trust agreement.
• Personal Representative – responsible for carrying out the terms and conditions of the decedent's Last Will and Testament.

For more information or to schedule a complimentary visit contact us at
Phone 623-546-6082 Fax 877-784-6938
Email:  mjcondit@conditandassoc.com

Visit us online @ http://www.conditandassoc.com/

Scientists Reduce Alzheimer's-Linked Brain Plaques in Mice

Title: Scientists Reduce Alzheimer's-Linked Brain Plaques in Mice
Category: Health News
Created: 3/31/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 4/1/2016 12:00:00 AM