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ISMP, FDA provide free toolkit to reduce errors
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices and the FDA have launched a national education campaign designed to reduce medication errors.
As part of the campaign, they are offering a free toolkit that includes:
- an error-prone abbreviations list;
- a brochure for use in staff education;
- a print public service ad;
- a slide show and video that can be used in presentations on the topic.
To access a copy of the toolkit, go to www.ismp.org/tools/abbreviations.
Oxygen study shows true cost of equipment
Nearly three-quarters (72%) of the cost of providing home oxygen therapy to Medicare patients in their homes represent services, delivery, and other operational expenses that benefit patients, according to a new survey of current costs by Morrison Informatics, commissioned by the American Association for Homecare. Only about one-quarter, or 28%, of the cost represents oxygen equipment.
"The study shows that, contrary to some perceptions, home oxygen therapy involves much more than a piece of equipment," said Tom Ryan, chairman of the American Association for Homecare and CEO of Homecare Concepts in Farmingdale, NY.
Morrison collected and analyzed data from 74 home care providers that collectively serve more than 600,000 Medicare beneficiaries receiving oxygen therapy in their homes, which represents more than half of the Medicare population receiving oxygen therapy at home. To access a copy of the free report, go to www.aahomecare.org. Under the heading "Advocacy Updates" on the home page, choose "Morrison Informatics Oxygen Study."
Language growing barrier to high-quality health care
According to the author of an article in the July 20 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine addressing the growing issue of language as a barrier in health care, 19% of the population in the United States speak a language other than English at home and 22 million have limited English proficiency.
At present, only 13 states provide third-party reimbursement for interpreter services. And most of the states with the largest number of patients with limited English proficiency do not. Though legislation is in the works, the author says it's hardly enough.
A government report estimated that on average it would cost only $4.04 more per physician visit to provide language services to patients who need them.
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices and the FDA have launched a national education campaign designed to reduce medication errors.You have reached your article limit for the month. Subscribe now to access this article plus other member-only content.
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