A new Medicare billing code (G0505) now allows clinicians treating Medicare beneficiaries to be reimbursed for providing care planning to those experiencing cognitive impairment (memory loss), including Alzheimers disease.This is a very important change in the billing system as it will allow physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists and certified nurse midwives to offer assessment and care planning services beyond the scope of the Annual Wellness visit and receive reimbursement from the Physician Fee Schedule. What does this mean for the patient? Better and more comprehensive discussion and strategies to deal with memory loss and Alzheimers related issues.Care planning allows newly-diagnosed individuals and their caregiver to learn more about medical and non-medical treatments, clinical trials and support services available in their community. All of this results in a better quality of life for those that maximize the information and support. Individuals receiving care planning support specific to dementia concerns typically have fewer hospitalizations, fewer emergency room visits and better medication management. Care planning is the key to care coordination and management for those experiencing Alzheimers and other chronic conditions. With this code, clinicians will have the time and resources to provide a comprehensive set of care planning services which may improve quality of life and reduce caregiver stress. Alzheimer's caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress due to the overwhelming needs that are associated with taking care of loved ones. Too much stress is harmful to both the caregiver and those to whom they are providing care. Additionally, care planning promotes putting legal and financial plans in place which can provide comfort to the entire family thereby reducing the stress associated with future decisions.Good health care requires a partnership between the patient, family and physician. Ask about the new care planning code options available through CMS Code G0505. Your physician may not yet be familiar with this new code. Share the information and plan ahead to get the most out of your medical appointments. When visiting your doctor, bring medications, provide good records, ask questions and offer honest answers. At the end of your appointment, ask the doctor to recap the most important points. Write them down. Note any follow-up steps needed (such as scheduling the next appointment or having tests done).most of all leave with a plan.For more information go to the Caregiver Center at www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 1.800.272.3900.Editorial Note: Debra Adams, Director Community Relations, Alzheimers Association Greater Dallas Chapter. Read more from the February 2017 Fact Sheet and at www.alz.org

SBB University and The Oxford Grand welcome Jennifer DiLorenzo and Chad Flores with Home Care Assistance to present on Neuroplasticity and the impact of brain health on overall wellness.A copy of the slides in the presentation are here for you: SBB-University-Neuroplasticity-Slides-JD-CF.pdfClick on the links to learn more about Home Care Assistance of Collin County, Home Care Assistance of Dallas, The Oxford GrandWatch the presentation:SBB University programs are provided courtesy of Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN and Seniors Blue Book.

Seniors Blue Book publisher, Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN welcomes Sonya Wells, Community Services Advisor with Restland Funeral Homes to educate us on the Benefits of PrePlanning. Learn about the Circle of Protection.Preplanned Memorial ServicesCemetery Property RightsOuter Burial ContainerOpening & Closing (Interment Fees)Memorials & MarkersDownload to the Free PrePlanning GuideTo Learn more about Restland Funeral Homes from Sonya, watch the video and click on Restland Funeral Homes.Watch the video here: