State licensure office encouraging providers to check out CMS’s ‘Hand in Hand’ training
The South Dakota Office of Licensure and Certification is encouraging nursing facilities and other health care providers to view and educate staff on the “Hand in Hand” training program from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The six-part series includes training on the disease process, abuse and reporting abuse, communication, actions and reactions, abuse prevention and making a difference in the life of residents with dementia.
CMS to release information next month on Rural Community Hospital Demonstration 5-year extension
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) says that it will release further information on the implementation of...
State radio system software patches available through end of year
Local agencies have until Dec. 31, 2017, to purchase software patches to make their Motorola XTS/XTL radios compatible with the South Dakota State Radio System's eventual upgrade to the P25 system. The patches cost $600. After that date, the radios will continue to operate until the state system turns on P25 functionality.
April is Donate Life Month
“Let it Bloom” activities are happening all across South Dakota this April as health care providers celebrate Donate Life Month. The celebration, instituted by Donate Life America and its partnering organizations in 2003, features an entire month of local, regional and national activities to help encourage Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors and to celebrate those who have saved lives through the gift of donation.
What’s next after failed attempt to repeal and replace the ACA?
After seven years (and 50 votes) to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA), House Republican leaders and President Trump last Friday decided to pull the American Health Care Act (AHCA) bill when efforts to garner the necessary 216 votes for passage could not be achieved. House caucus groups met Tuesday morning to regroup, reflect and prioritize their next steps related to the health care agenda.
Office of Rural Health seeking feedback on proposed rules
The Office of Rural Health/EMS Program is seeking feedback on the proposed rules package following successful passage of Senate...
Fire chief to lead South Dakota Healthcare Coalition
Retiring Sioux Falls Fire Chief Jim Sideras is taking on the role of executive director of the South Dakota Healthcare Coalition. Sideras' new position will require him to work closely with four regional state healthcare coalitions and a governing board to enhance statewide relationships for health care facilities in emergency preparedness, response and recovery.
Oglala Lakota Nation hosting workshop on developing strategies to strengthen health career opportunity programs
The Oglala Lakota Nation is hosting a workshop on Tuesday, May 16 on developing strategies to strengthen health career opportunity programs on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
SD Diabetes Coalition introduces improved website
The South Dakota Diabetes Coalition has introduced an improved website. The coalition aims to collaboratively improve the quality of life for all South Dakotans at risk for, or affected by, diabetes. Visitors are encouraged to share the website with colleagues, patients, friends and family.
State seeking information on decisions to admit nursing home residents
The state Department of Health, Department of Social Services and Department of Human Services are seeking information that impacts a nursing facility’s decision to admit a nursing home resident. The information gathered from nursing home providers will be included in the annual review process related to the need for additional nursing facility beds or new nursing facilities.
