#United States #Denver #post-acute care #AAPACN #nursing facilities

AAPACN-Certified Nursing Facilities: A Benchmark for Quality and Performance

The recent findings from the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN®), based on research carried out by Dobson DaVanzo & Associates, shed light on the advantages of certification for nursing facilities in the post-acute care sector. This research emphasizes the correlation between AAPACN-certified nursing professionals and enhanced performance across several areas, including clinical outcomes, workforce stability, and overall business efficiency.

Tracey Moorhead, President and CEO of AAPACN, points out, "Facilities investing in certification are reaping measurable benefits in both care quality and operational effectiveness." This statement is supported by robust data indicating that nursing facilities employing AAPACN-certified nurses exhibit superior scores in CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) Star Ratings, which are essential metrics for evaluating the quality of care.

The analysis reviewed national datasets, examining AAPACN certification records, as well as CMS provider claims and cost report data spanning 2022 to 2024. The results revealed that facilities with AAPACN-certified nurses outperformed their non-certified counterparts by an impressive 11.9% in CMS Star Ratings. Notably, over 42% of these facilities received a 4- or 5-star rating, an indication of high-quality service and care delivery.

Moreover, the research highlighted a significant improvement in quality measures, with certified facilities scoring better across ten of the eighteen evaluated CMS quality measures. Statistically significant enhancements were noted in seven specific categories, all while these facilities reported fewer health deficiencies, contributing further to their reputational and operational advantages.

The investment in certified nursing staff has also yielded higher staffing stability and retention rates, which are critical to maintaining the quality of patient care. The analysis showed that facilities employing AAPACN-certified nurses experienced lower turnover rates and provided increased nursing hours per patient. Higher levels of registered nurse staffing were also observed, indicating a clear commitment to delivering superior care.

In addition to the qualitative aspects, the research underscores the tangible business impacts associated with AAPACN certification. For instance, certified facilities reported an average occupancy rate of 80.74%, surpassing the 76.88% occupancy reported by non-certified facilities. This improved occupancy translates to greater financial sustainability, especially in a market where reimbursement through value-based purchasing programs is increasingly pivotal. Furthermore, certified facilities encountered fewer civil monetary penalties and lower average fines, helping mitigate regulatory and financial risks.

"Facilities that lead in quality are focusing on their workforce," said Amy Stewart, Chief Nursing Officer at AAPACN. "Investing in AAPACN certification ultimately empowers organizations to deliver better care and achieve improved outcomes." The findings of this research clearly advocate for the importance of developing nursing expertise as a vital part of operational strategy in post-acute care.

In summary, the synthesis of the findings from Dobson DaVanzo & Associates articulates a strong case for the value of AAPACN certification in nursing facilities. Investing in such certifications not only fosters a skilled workforce but also ensures a higher caliber of care for residents, leading to long-term operational success. For further information regarding AAPACN, including its certification programs, please visit AAPACN.org.