Achieving American Heart Association (AHA) certification is no small feat in post-acute care. It requires unwavering clinical standards, multidisciplinary collaboration, and a relentless commitment to evidence-based cardiac care. In Missouri, only one post-acute cardiac program has earned this distinction. To better understand what it takes to build an AHA-certified cardiac program from the ground up, we sat down with Lansdowne Village Administrator Jennifer Burgess, Area Director of Operations, and Clinical Liaison, Jennifer Mancuso, to discuss the vision, process, and leadership behind this landmark achievement.

“In a city with a lot of choices for rehabilitation, we are always looking to improve our services to exceed the expectations of our current and prospective residents,” says Burgess. Mancuso agrees, citing heart disease as a leading cause of death in the US. “We noticed that residents from our surrounding community had a lot of cardiac issues, including heart failure. Our program follows patients even after discharge, to ensure progression of progress. Aspects of the program like these attribute to lifelong benefits.”

Both Mancuso and Burgess insist that buy-in from the entire internal team was crucial. “A lot of planning and preparation goes into getting all disciplines on board to make the program a success. We assigned a ‘champion’, our ADON, to head the committee and oversee the program to keep us on track,” Burgess states, “The interdisciplinary team must believe in the mission and be involved for the program to be a success. From Dietary Services providing the appropriate diets to Social Services assisting with discharge planning, it takes the entire team to ensure residents benefit from all the program has to offer.”

The Lansdowne team is excited to see improvements to patient care, outcomes, and clinical consistency post-AHA certification. “There are rarely, if ever, discharges to the hospital for s/sx of heart failure that could have been prevented and/or treated at the center,” says Burgess. Mancuso adds, “Not only are there decreased re-hospitalizations on these patients, there’s increased quality of life.”

Mancuso notes operational improvements as well, “We have noticed improved morale within our staff, with increased meaning to what we do every day. Every staff member has been trained to look for signs and symptoms of heart failure exacerbations. Our program puts patients and families at ease.”

Certification has also influenced referral relationships, hospital partnerships, and community perception for the facility. Mancuso beams with pride, “The AHA certification has increased satisfaction and trust with hospital staff, patients and families. Lansdowne Village is now a preferred provider within the BJC network, resulting in increased admissions to us and ensuring a safe discharge to home.”

“We can speak to patients, families and case workers about how our program can positively impact them and their diagnosis,” says Burgess, “It’s a unique distinction that comparable centers in the region do not offer. Our marketing team can speak directly to real positive outcomes we have achieved for patients suffering from heart failure, giving them a leg up in having a successful discharge to the community and keeping them out of the hospital.”

When asked what advice she would give to another Administrator who was considering AHA certification, Burgess says, “First, you need to communicate the importance and benefits of the program for your residents to your team. Then, I would tell them that the planning and certification does take time. The team needs to work together to prioritize the goal. Dedicated planning time is key.”

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Becoming the only AHA-certified cardiac program in Missouri reflects more than regulatory excellence. It represents a promise to patients, families, and hospital partners that cardiac care doesn’t stop at discharge. Through intentional planning, staff education, and a culture rooted in accountability and compassion, this program has set a new benchmark for post-acute cardiac care in the state. As the Lansdowne leadership team shared, certification isn’t the finish line, it’s a commitment to continuous improvement and to delivering life-saving care at the highest standard, every single day.

To learn more about this and other services at Lansdowne Village, contact:

Clinical Liaison Jennifer Mancuso | 314-707-6183 |  JMancuso@mgmhealthcare.com

As healthcare continues to shift toward value-based, outcomes-driven models, innovation in post-acute orthopedic care has never been more critical. Spring Morrow, Regional Director of Marketing for the Southern Oklahoma division, has been at the forefront of this evolution, leading the development of Orthopedic Centers of Excellence across five facilities. Through close collaboration with orthopedic surgeons, interdisciplinary care teams, and community partners, Spring has helped create a program focused on continuity, personalization, and measurable outcomes. In this interview, she shares the vision behind the initiative, how excellence is defined and measured, and what sets these Centers of Excellence apart in an increasingly competitive healthcare landscape.

What was the original vision for developing the Orthopedic Center of Excellence?

The original vision was to create a comprehensive program that improved postoperative outcomes for orthopedic patients, specifically those undergoing hip and knee replacements. By collaborating closely with a local orthopedic surgeon, we aimed to tailor therapies and rehabilitation plans that met the unique needs of our patients, ensuring they receive specialized care from pre-op through to recovery and discharge from skilled nursing care. We also wanted to collaborate so closely with our surgeons’ interdisciplinary team to ensure that even after they discharge from our care, we are following through with the surgeons’ recovery plans.

How does the COE align with your organization’s broader goals around value-based care and outcomes?  

The COE directly supports our organization’s mission by focusing on enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction. Through targeted interventions and specialized rehabilitative therapies, we not only aim to improve our patients’ recovery times but also enhance their overall quality of life post-surgery. This aligns with our goal of providing high-quality, cost-effective care.

What differentiates your orthopedic program from others in the market? 

Our program is unique in that it offers specialized, surgeon-directed rehabilitation protocols tailored specifically to the recovery process of our patients. Unlike many programs for accountable care organizations that exist in both rural and urban settings, our focus on personalized care and close collaboration with orthopedic surgeons ensures that our patients receive a level of focused attention that translates into better outcomes.

What quality metrics or outcomes do you track to measure success?  

We track several key metrics, including length of hospital stay, readmission rates, and overall patient satisfaction scores. These indicators help us assess both the efficiency and effectiveness of our orthopedic services.

How do you engage patients and families throughout the entire episode of care? 

Education and communication are key to patient and family engagement. We provide pre-admission educational materials, involve family members in goal setting during rehabilitation, and encourage open dialogue with care teams. This proactive involvement empowers patients and promotes adherence to recovery plans.

How do you engage orthopedic surgeons in shaping the COE?

We actively involve orthopedic surgeons in leadership roles within the COE, encouraging their input and insights on clinical pathways and program development. Regular meetings and collaborative decision-making forums ensure that their expertise directly influences the quality and direction of care.

What feedback has been shared about resident experience in the COE?

Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the personalized care, attentive staff, and effective communication. Many patients report feeling well-supported throughout their surgical journey and appreciate the focus on their individual recovery needs post hospital discharge.

What advice would you give post-acute or rehab partners looking to align with an orthopedic COE?

I would recommend that potential partners prioritize open communication and collaboration on care pathways. Reach out to us to initiate a CEO program that is tailored to your specific therapies and programs you wish to include. Our programs are not specific to one surgeon but to each surgeon. We collaborate closely with individual healthcare providers to give all their patients the best outcomes.

Establishing clear expectations and shared goals around patient outcomes can lead to meaningful partnerships that enhance the overall quality of care.

How do you plan to evolve the orthopedic COE over the next 3–5 years?  

Our evolution will focus on incorporating advanced technologies, such as rehab programs and therapies, and even patient monitoring tools, which can help enhance the quality of care. We’ll also explore expanding our patient education resources.

What innovations or trends will most impact orthopedic centers of excellence in the future? 

Innovations in predictive analytics for patient outcomes, and personalized medicine are trends expected to reshape orthopedic care.

Additionally, the incorporation of virtual reality for rehabilitation exercises presents exciting opportunities for improved patient engagement and outcomes. We are already Incorporating Virtual reality into therapies, where patients can go bowling, climb ladders, do laundry and other household chores.

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At its core, the Orthopedic Center of Excellence initiative reflects a commitment to collaboration, accountability, and patient-centered care. Under Spring Morrow’s leadership, the program has evolved into a model that not only improves clinical outcomes but also enhances the patient experience from surgery through recovery and beyond.

By aligning surgeons, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and home health partners around shared goals, the program demonstrates what’s possible when innovation meets intentional care design. As orthopedic care continues to advance, these Centers of Excellence are well-positioned to grow, adapt, and set new standards for post-acute recovery in the years ahead.

The holiday season often brings warmth, celebration, and a sense of togetherness. But for many older adults—especially those living with chronic health conditions, mobility challenges, or cognitive changes—the winter months can also be a time of increased risk and emotional vulnerability. Shorter days, colder weather, and changes in routine can affect both physical health and emotional well-being.

Senior care providers, families, and caregivers play a vital role in keeping older adults safe, supported, and connected during this time of year.

Physical Health: Winter Safety Matters

Winter weather creates a unique set of risks for seniors. Cold temperatures can worsen heart and lung conditions, while snow and ice make falls more likely. Even indoors, dry air and circulating illnesses such as RSV, flu, and COVID-19 can pose challenges.

Key winter health considerations include:

• Fall prevention: Wet floors, bulky clothing, and icy walkways increase the risk of injury. Regular mobility checks and safety reminders go a long way.
• Hydration: Seniors often drink less during cold weather. Staff and families can encourage warm drinks, soups, and regular hydration breaks.
• Illness prevention: Staying up to date with vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene, and monitoring symptoms helps prevent outbreaks in senior communities.
• Warmth & comfort: Ensuring proper indoor temperatures and warm clothing helps maintain circulation and comfort for those with arthritis or poor circulation.

Emotional Well-Being: Combating Loneliness and Holiday Blues

While the holidays are joyful for many, they can also bring feelings of loneliness, loss, or stress—especially for seniors experiencing memory decline or living far from family.

Ways to support emotional health:

• Holiday programming: Music therapy, crafts, decorating, and small-group activities bring joy and connection.
• Person-centered traditions: Asking residents what traditions they love and incorporating those touches helps the season feel more meaningful.
• Family engagement: Video calls, photo boards, letters, and visits (when possible) remind seniors they are remembered and valued.
• Grief support: Acknowledging the mixed emotions of the season and offering gentle conversations or counseling helps residents feel seen and supported.

Supporting Seniors with Dementia During the Holidays

Changes in routine, increased noise, or larger gatherings can be overwhelming for individuals with dementia. Predictable schedules, calm spaces, and simplified holiday activities reduce anxiety and confusion.

• Keep decorations familiar and avoid clutter
• Use soft lighting and calming holiday music
• Offer shorter, quieter activities
• Use memory-friendly cues, such as labeled décor or simple reminders

Senior care is strongest when families and caregivers work together. Through open communication, shared understanding, and planning, winter risks can be minimized and the holidays can become a meaningful time for everyone involved.

• Review winter care plans together
• Share any changes in mobility or behavior
• Plan visits, calls, or holiday events that suit the resident’s comfort level
• Stay informed on facility guidelines for safety and infection prevention

Despite the unpredictability of winter, the holiday months offer countless opportunities to celebrate, reflect, and strengthen relationships. With thoughtful planning, safety precautions, and warm-hearted engagement, seniors can enjoy a season filled with joy, dignity, and belonging.

Caring for older adults during the holidays is about more than keeping them safe—it’s about helping them feel connected, cherished, and part of something meaningful. And that spirit of compassion is truly what makes this season special.

 pictured: Debbie Clark RN, D.O.N., Kellie Hughes Vohra wound care MD,  and Melissa Bland Vohra Certified Wound Nurse

Sunset Healthcare has been certified by Vohra Wound Physicians as a Center of Excellence for Wound Management. Only 10% of Vohra’s skilled nursing facility partners have qualified for this annual certification.

Our facility places a top priority on healing and rehabilitating our residents to return them to their homes. We admit patients with chronic or complex wounds because we are equipped to treat them with our specialized wound management program.

We have partnered with Vohra Wound Physicians to bring physician-led bedside wound care to our facility. A Vohra wound physician visits our facility weekly to treat our residents with wound and skin issues. This reduces the need to send our residents out to wound care centers or hospitals.

“Sunset has a successful wound care program thanks to the commitment and dedication of care that is provided by our incredible nursing team including Certified Wound Nurse, Melissa Bland. They work alongside Vohra to ensure excellence for our residents who require wound care.” – Jennifer Dunk, Administrator (LNHA) – Sunset Healthcare. 

Our facility has an interdisciplinary team to care for our residents. Our multispecialty team treats all types of wounds including pressure ulcers, venous ulcers, arterial wounds, diabetic neuropathic wounds, post-surgical wounds and others. The wound physician works with the primary care physicians, physical therapists, staff nurses and other specialists to ensure our residents are receiving excellent wound care.

As long-term facilities continue to provide more specialized services with complex ailments, the presence of a wound physician is an important link in providing superior care.

About Our Facility:

Sunset Health Care has provided individual person-centered care to residents and their families in the Franklin County area for over 30 years. Our mission has been to provide the highest quality of care with a personal touch. Sunset provides multilevel services so individuals will not have to leave their “home” community.

Sunset Health Care rests on 14 wooded acres in the rural community of Union, Missouri. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most ins

About Vohra Wound Physicians:

Founded in 2000, Vohra Wound Physicians is the leading physician network devoted to post-acute wound care in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities. More than 300 physicians provide bedside care for patients in more than 3000 facilities across 28 states. We support our physicians and partners through our proprietary electronic health system, telehealth platforms, robust wound predictive tools, and most accessible and active education programs. For more information, visit www.VohraPhysicians.com.

Contact Us:

636-583-2252

400 West Park Ave., Union, MO 63084

Can you describe a typical day in your role as a skilled nursing home administrator?

As the Administrator, at Parkview Manor, I am responsible for maintaining the daily operations of the skilled nursing facility, our Assisted Living units, and 8 Independent Living duplexes. I strive to maintain the delicate balance between caregiving and organizational departments with empathetic leadership. I manage our staff, interact with our residents and their families, and maintain compliance with the federal and state regulations.

What measures do you take to ensure high-quality care for residents?

Ensuring high-quality care involves several key measures:

• We prioritize ongoing training for not just our nursing staff, but for our staff across all departments. A well-trained staff contributes significantly to an improved quality of care.
• Promptness and efficiency is key. Our team prioritizes timely access to care for residents, whatever their unique care needs may be. This ensures their quality of life is preserved.
• Patient and family engagement is very important. We emphasize patient and family involvement in care decisions and planning.
• The Parkview Management Team practices effective communication techniques to improve collaboration among staff, residents, and families and enhance care coordination.
• We set clear, tangible goals for quality improvement and track progress.

What are the biggest challenges you face in the day-to-day operations of the facility?

Our talented staff members are what drive our care and support services. Identifying candidates who are not only qualified, but the right fit for our team is very important. Our rural location can be a challenge when seeking applicants.

What are the key qualities you look for when hiring staff?

Compassion, empathy, clinical competence, ethical behavior and communication are some of the standards I assess during the hiring process. Equally important are adaptability and teamwork.

What steps do you take to maintain staff morale and reduce turnover?

We have a culture of recognition and appreciation for our staff. Work/Life balance is very important to make sure we are performing at our best. As a facility we offer professional growth opportunities, competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. Above all, we strive to create an environment where our employees are not only satisfied but happy.

How do you handle resident complaints or concerns about their care?

Handling resident feedback effectively is crucial for maintaining positive relationships and ensuring resident satisfaction. First, I listen attentively so that I have a thorough understanding of the situation. Based on these details, I provide a timeline for resolution or updates. I follow up with the resident to ensure satisfaction. Keeping the resident informed shows respect and transparency. Post resolution, we evaluate our processes to determine if property management practices need enhancement.

How do you foster a positive relationship with the surrounding community?

We collaborate with local organizations to host activities and events! We use our local media outlets and digital channels to inform the community about facility updates, resident achievements, and upcoming events. We also attend community meetings to remain educated about changes in our local government and ensure we are on one accord with our neighbors.

What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing home administration?

My inspiration stems from a deep desire to make a positive impact on the lives of older adults. Witnessing the resilience, wisdom, and unique stories of residents during my skilled nursing career motivated me. It has been very rewarding to build meaningful connections with our staff, and our residents and their families. I want to create an environment where they receive compassionate care, maintain dignity, and thrive despite health challenges. I take pride in our motto, “Empowering Better Living” for our residents.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a skilled nursing home administrator?

• Seek holistic education about the role. Understand clinical, regulatory, financial, and interpersonal aspects.
• Tap into your personal empathy. Put yourself in residents’ shoes; empathy drives better decision-making.
• Be adaptable. As healthcare evolves, you need to be open to change and continuous learning.
• Be an advocate for residents’ rights and well-being.
• Practice self-care by prioritizing physical health, mental well-being, and work-life balance so you can show up as your best self every day.
• Build trust with your team by delegating tasks.
• Tap into your support network. Consult colleagues, mentors, and professional networks. Remember, each day brings opportunities to make a difference!

What do you see as the biggest trends or changes in the skilled nursing industry over the next few years?

Legal and regulatory mandates are on the horizon. However, advocacy efforts are ongoing. Staying updated and compliant with these changes is crucial. By developing impactful clinical programs that exceed state and federal requirements, we will improve resident outcomes.

Technological integration is trending in our industry. The adoption of AI and other technologies is becoming essential. These tools help improve efficiency, patient care, and data management. To adapt, we plan to upskill current staff through innovative training programs.

Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) are the backbone of healthcare, providing vital support to nurses and ensuring patient comfort and care. Their tireless dedication and compassionate service make a significant difference in the lives of patients and their families. CNAs work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare, often forming the primary point of contact for patients.

These professionals perform essential tasks such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with mobility. Beyond their technical skills, CNAs offer emotional support, lending a listening ear and a comforting presence to those in their care. Their role requires immense patience, empathy, and resilience, as they navigate the physical and emotional demands of their job.

CNA appreciation is about recognizing the hard work and dedication these healthcare heroes bring to their roles every day. It’s about acknowledging the countless hours spent ensuring the well-being and dignity of patients. Simple gestures like a thank-you note, a small gift, or a public acknowledgment can go a long way in showing CNAs that their efforts are valued and appreciated.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate CNAs for their unwavering commitment to compassionate care. Their contributions are indispensable, and their impact on the healthcare system is profound. Thank you, CNAs, for all that you do!

Senior living communities are evolving rapidly to meet the changing needs and preferences of the aging population. Today’s seniors are more active, tech-savvy, and health-conscious than ever before, driving significant shifts in how these communities are designed and operated. Here are some key trends shaping the future of senior living.

1. Health and Wellness Focus

Modern senior living communities are increasingly focused on promoting health and wellness. This trend includes the incorporation of state-of-the-art fitness centers, yoga studios, and swimming pools. Additionally, many communities now offer wellness programs that include nutrition counseling, physical therapy, and mental health services. These initiatives are designed to help residents maintain their physical and mental well-being, leading to a higher quality of life.

2. Technology Integration

Technology is playing a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life in senior living communities. From smart home devices that assist with daily activities to telehealth services that provide remote medical consultations, technology is making it easier for seniors to live independently and stay connected with their loved ones. Many communities are also implementing high-speed internet and digital literacy programs to ensure residents can take full advantage of these technological advancements.

3. Social and Recreational Opportunities

Today’s senior living communities are offering a wide range of social and recreational activities to keep residents engaged and active. These activities include group outings, hobby clubs, educational workshops, and cultural events. By providing diverse opportunities for social interaction, communities help combat loneliness and isolation, which are common challenges among the elderly.

4. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices

Sustainability is becoming a priority in senior living community design and operation. Many communities are adopting eco-friendly practices such as using renewable energy sources, implementing water conservation measures, and creating green spaces. These efforts not only reduce the environmental impact but also create a healthier living environment for residents.

5. Customized and Flexible Living Options

Recognizing that one size does not fit all, senior living communities are offering more personalized and flexible living options. This includes a variety of housing choices, from independent living and assisted living to memory care units. Additionally, communities are providing customized care plans that cater to the individual needs of each resident, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of support.

6. Intergenerational Living

A growing trend is the development of intergenerational living environments, where seniors live alongside younger generations. This setup fosters mutual support and understanding, with older adults benefiting from the energy and perspectives of younger residents, and vice versa. Intergenerational living also helps to bridge the gap between generations and create a more inclusive community atmosphere.

In conclusion, senior living communities are undergoing significant transformations to better serve the aging population. By focusing on health and wellness, integrating technology, offering diverse social activities, embracing sustainability, providing flexible living options, and fostering intergenerational connections, these communities are creating vibrant and supportive environments where seniors can thrive.

THE INDUSTRY LEADER IN NURSING HOME DIALYSIS
Founded by seasoned nursing home experts, Concerto understands the needs of nursing home operators. This knowledge, combined with a clinical team of leading dialysis specialists, has positioned Concerto as the industry leader in Nursing Home Dialysis and your preferred partner in care.
Approximately 70,000 skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents in the United States are diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Providing effective dialysis care to nursing home residents presents unique challenges for operators. The SNF population is highly decentralized, presenting various logistical challenges and necessitating innovation relating to technological integration, coordination of care, and clinical oversight. With Concerto’s innovative model, these challenges are overcome, resulting in an improved process and healthier outcomes for SNF dialysis patients.

BENEFITS OF NURSING HOME DIALYSIS
Continuity of care: Doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, renal dietitians, renal social workers and dialysis clinical staff members all work together in harmony to create a customized care plan to meet each patient’s needs.
Continuous, stable nursing care: Concerto creates a schedule allowing the same nurse to be in the dialysis unit for each treatment, promoting a level of familiarity and comfort for patients.
Convenience: Patients avoid hours of transportation back and forth to the hospital and exposure to inclement weather and other transportation risks.
Rehabilitation: With more efficient use of the patient’s time, patients focus on getting better.

CONCERTO LEADING THE WAY
Concerto’s clinical leadership team includes nephrology experts who have a deep understanding of the inner workings of SNFs. As a pioneer in nursing home dialysis, Concerto has quickly grown to become the largest and most qualified provider of nursing home dialysis in the United States. Our growth is attributable to our proprietary care model, designed specifically for geriatric ESRD patients residing in SNFs.

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, Seminole Care and Rehabilitation Center marked a momentous occasion in Seminole, Oklahoma, by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil the grand opening of the new Rehabilitation Unit. After 17 months of construction, the facility is officially complete and set to welcome residents. This expansion is a significant step in advancing Seminole Care and Rehab’s mission to offer short-term rehabilitation, long-term, and respite care to the local community. With 20 new private rooms, the facility has increased capacity to deliver care within a setting designed for comfort and wellbeing. 

Spanning 14,000 s.f., the addition encompasses more than extra rooms. It features a new dining room, dedicated spaces for physical and occupational therapy, an inviting outdoor patio, a welcome area with a covered entry, and shared facilities.

The holistic approach adopted by Seminole aims to facilitate residents in achieving their quickest and highest possible recovery level, all within a physically and mentally stimulating environment. Through this project, Seminole has upped its commitment to providing residents with a small-town atmosphere coupled with the services and amenities of a large city skilled nursing. 

Story originally published by Russel Construction