Houston House is taking extra steps to progressively better the care their residents receive. Starting in September, they became part of a limited group of nursing homes in rural areas that are focusing on reducing pressure ulcers and/or physical restraint use by working with Primaris, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Missouri.
By being one of only 13 homes selected by Primaris to improve care in rural parts of the state, Houston House will have access to exclusive educational and technical assistance, along with free on-site visits provided by Primaris. By assessing current practices and using real-time data to monitor progress, this home will take one step closer to improving care for all residents.
“We strive to take proactive steps in providing the best care possible to our residents. We believe this additional project will heighten the quality of care we deliver to a whole new level,” said Gary Huff, administrator. “Our team is always willing to take a close look at what we’re already doing and integrate proven methods for providing even better care.”
Physical restraints and pressure ulcers are both high-risk areas of concern for residents. More than one in every 10 Missouri nursing home residents develop pressure ulcers that result in pain, suffering, and for some residents-even death. Conversely, restraints can involve risks such as strangulation, decreased mobility and depression. By actively refraining from restraints and reducing pressure ulcers, homes can greatly impact a resident’s sense of independence and quality of life.
“Our overall goal is to assist nursing homes as they strive to provide even better care for nursing home residents in Missouri,” said Richard A. Royer, chief executive officer of Primaris. “Ensuring the health, safety and well-being of Missouri’s seniors is one of our top priorities.”
“We want to focus on one or two clinical areas with these nursing homes, so they achieve great success while using problem-solving skills that will help them in any area,” said Deborah Finley, director of nursing home services for Primaris.
Houston House encourages residents and family members to discuss this program or ask other questions about quality of care with their staff.