Recommended strategies for addressing delays in care caused by chronic understaffing
Requesting advocates share their best strategies for addressing delays in care caused by chronic understaffing. We have all experienced... See More
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3 comments
Renea Stasaski
12 days ago
David, this is exactly the systemic issue Cheryl is pointing to — and there's an underutilized resource worth knowing about.
The Older Americans Act established the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, staffed by both paid and volunteer advocates. Critically, they work for residents, not facilities. They can address individual resident concerns and pursue systemic facility issues. Complaints feed into state and national trend databases that can drive regulatory action.
As a former Texas ombudsman, I can tell you SNFs were prioritized in caseloads over assisted living, even though both are covered under the OAA. The program is lean, but strategic.
As a first step I recommend looking for the ombudsman contact information typically posted at the facility entrance. Introducing yourself creates a ready partnership for exactly the issues you're describing.
Understaffing explains resource constraints. It doesn't excuse poor care.
Renea Stasaski, BCPA
Sonoran Wayfinders
Advocate's AI Atlas
The Older Americans Act established the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, staffed by both paid and volunteer advocates. Critically, they work for residents, not facilities. They can address individual resident concerns and pursue systemic facility issues. Complaints feed into state and national trend databases that can drive regulatory action.
As a former Texas ombudsman, I can tell you SNFs were prioritized in caseloads over assisted living, even though both are covered under the OAA. The program is lean, but strategic.
As a first step I recommend looking for the ombudsman contact information typically posted at the facility entrance. Introducing yourself creates a ready partnership for exactly the issues you're describing.
Understaffing explains resource constraints. It doesn't excuse poor care.
Renea Stasaski, BCPA
Sonoran Wayfinders
Advocate's AI Atlas
AnnMarie Cross
13 days ago
Thank you for asking such an important, complex question!
Cheryl Kauffman
14 days ago
Oh gosh, this is such a major problem! And if I knew how to fix it, I would be a wealthy woman! I experience this both as a clinician and as an advocate. A few strategies that are absolutely not fixes:
1. bundle needs as much as possible so there are fewer calls on the call light. I know it's not always possible! If possible, build ADL routines so they're more anticipated/scheduled and more efficient.
2. let the staff know they're appreciated, with words and maybe snacks. Let managers know who is excellent.
3. escalate as needed if/when there are safety concerns
4. aim for non-profit care centers whenever possible
Well, that's a few thoughts to start the conversation.
Cheryl Kauffman, PT, BCPA
Seattle Patient Advocates
1. bundle needs as much as possible so there are fewer calls on the call light. I know it's not always possible! If possible, build ADL routines so they're more anticipated/scheduled and more efficient.
2. let the staff know they're appreciated, with words and maybe snacks. Let managers know who is excellent.
3. escalate as needed if/when there are safety concerns
4. aim for non-profit care centers whenever possible
Well, that's a few thoughts to start the conversation.
Cheryl Kauffman, PT, BCPA
Seattle Patient Advocates