Brickyard Healthcare is set to make a significant mark by launching the most extensive provider-owned Institutional Special Needs Plan (I-SNP) in the United States. This network will go live in January 2025, involving around 200 buildings. Brickyard Healthcare is teaming up with five other operators in Indiana to make this ambitious project a reality. CEO Wesley Rogers believes this collaboration will lead to a high-quality care model that benefits many residents.
Reducing Dependence on Agency Staff
Reducing the use of agency staff has been a significant focus for Brickyard Healthcare. The organization worked hard during the pandemic to stabilize and improve its core facilities. As a result, Brickyard managed to recover its census numbers about a year ahead of the industry average.
Internal Recruiting and Mentorship Programs
To achieve this reduction, Brickyard Healthcare set up an internal recruiting team with five full-time employees. These recruiters are dedicated to finding and interviewing qualified candidates to join Brickyard's care centers. Additionally, Brickyard has implemented mentorship programs for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), Registered Nurses (RNs), and other key staff. They even pay for people to get their CNA licenses, ensuring a steady flow of trained caregivers.
Incentives for Caregivers
Brickyard offers several incentives to retain and motivate its staff. Caregivers, especially CNAs, can earn up to $10 more per hour through special pay programs. These programs reward perfect attendance and taking on extra shifts, making it attractive for staff to stay committed to their roles.
Preparing for Federal Staffing Mandates
Anticipating future federal staffing mandates, Brickyard Healthcare has proactively enhanced its workforce. A significant move in this direction has been hiring 100 nurses from the Philippines. This project, which has been ongoing for a year and a half, has already brought 20 nurses to Brickyard, with the rest expected over the next nine months. These nurses have committed to working for Brickyard for at least three years, providing much-needed stability.
Adapting to Managed Medicaid in Indiana
Starting July 1, 2024, Indiana will shift from a state-run Medicaid program to managed Medicaid, administered by commercial providers like Anthem, United Healthcare, and Humana. Brickyard Healthcare is preparing for this transition, understanding that it will bring new challenges in payment and reimbursement processes. CEO Wesley Rogers is confident Brickyard can navigate these changes effectively with a strong coalition of providers.
Challenges with Medicare Advantage
The rise of Medicare Advantage plans presents another challenge for Brickyard Healthcare. These plans, managed by insurance companies, often require more resources and lead to a loss of revenue compared to traditional Medicare. The need for weekly updates and increased documentation adds to the operational burden. Despite these challenges, Brickyard is committed to providing the best possible care for its residents.
Looking to the Future
Brickyard Healthcare is always looking ahead and preparing for new trends and challenges in the healthcare industry. The organization is dedicated to high-quality care and constantly explores ways to improve its services and support its staff. By focusing on collaboration, proactive staffing solutions, and adapting to new Medicaid and Medicare structures, Brickyard is well-positioned for the future.
Conclusion
Brickyard Healthcare is undergoing a transformative phase, with plans to launch a groundbreaking I-SNP network and reduce reliance on agency staff. By investing in its workforce and preparing for changes in Medicaid and Medicare, Brickyard is committed to overcoming challenges and enhancing the quality of care for its residents. These efforts highlight Brickyard's dedication to innovation and excellence in the healthcare sector.
Σχόλια