Due to the anticipated winter storm impacting our region Wednesday into Thursday, the Mass Senior Care Association Spring Conference & Trade Show scheduled for Thursday, March 22 nd has been rescheduled to Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at the Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center. After careful consideration with our Board of Directors and facility members, we have determined it would be extremely difficult (if not impossible) for staff to attend the event during a winter storm.

Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) changed the survey domain methodology of the Five-Star rating system. In the previous methodology, CMS used a center's most recent three survey cycles in calculating the survey rating. Moving forward, citations from the first cycle will contribute 60% toward a center's survey rating and will include the most recent standard survey prior to November 28, 2017, as well as any complaint surveys from November 28, 2016, to November 27, 2017.

MassHealth has issued additional information in regard to the transition to its new integrated care networks including ACOs and MCOs effective March 1. Continuity of Care – MassHealth has issued a Continuity of Care FAQ in regard to the ACO transition. This document addresses questions that have been raised in regard to the transition. The FAQ will also be posted on MassHealth's website.

As part of Mass Senior Care’s ongoing membership engagement efforts, the Association has scheduled regional membership meetings throughout the state. The regional meetings offer a great opportunity for members to network and discuss critical local issues with their colleagues and Mass Senior Care staff. Mass Senior Care will provide an update on the Association’s 2018 priorities and information on relevant topics including reimbursement, regulatory compliance and workforce. Regional meetings are open to staff at Mass Senior Care member facilities and corporate offices only.