GHCA_2019_AR

Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report A




From the President
The Georgia Health Care Association (GHCA) and its members remain dedicated to advancing the quality of care in our state and improving the lives of all those residing in a long term health care setting. In 2019, the long term and post-acute care profession faced a magnitude of challenges and our members persevered with a deep dedication to what matters the most - the health, wellbeing and happiness of their residents.
This annual report is a true testament of all our members have done in 2019 and continue to do to provide high-quality, compassionate care to Georgia’s most vulnerable citizens.
In 2019, our members exceeded national averages for overall ratings on yearly performance measurement and benchmarking satisfaction surveys and continued to cultivate leaders within their centers who demonstrate deep dedication to quality and clinical excellence. Additionally, many of our member centers received national recognition for their commitment to quality of care and service.
Further, GHCA was able to advocate successfully at the Georgia State Capitol. During the
2019 Legislative Session, we achieved significant Medicaid funding increases for the long term and post-acute care profession and elderly Georgians.
On behalf of the membership, I thank you for your interest in the Association and encourage you to share the 2019 Annual Report and the work our members are doing in dedicated service to those who need us the most.
If you have questions regarding any information in this report, please feel free to contact the GHCA offices at (678) 289-6555 or via email at [email protected]. If you would like to learn more about GHCA and the work our members are doing, visit our website at www.ghca.info. I also encourage you to follow our Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest news and updates regarding long term and post-acute care profession in Georgia.
Sincerely,
Tony Marshall
President & CEO
Georgia Health Care Association Georgia Center for Assisted Living
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 1


2019 LEGISLATIVE SESSION ENDS WITH
GHCA Budget Priorities in Place and Certificate of Need Process for Long Term Care Protected
The 40 Day 2019 Legislative Session ended
in late March with a host of policy matters, healthcare and beyond, hanging in the balance until the final closing moments. After years
of consideration of reforms to the Certificate of Need program, the legislature began 2019 by introducing robust reforms that would
all but repeal the entire CON process. From
the beginning of the session, long term
care providers were largely exempted from
this highly-charged debate. With dozens of attempts at CON legislation this session, GHCA’s ability to ensure long term providers remained unaffected can likely be considered one of the most significant accomplishments of the 2019 session.
2 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


When the dust settled, CON reforms were scattered across several bills and limited to:
1) ability for Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) to increase capacity at
its Newnan hospital, 2) new transparency measures aimed at increased financial reporting for not-for-profit hospitals, 3) limiting what entities may appeal a CON application to 35 miles of proposed site, and 4) increasing the capital threshold amounts for construction and equipment without seeking a CON.
The legislature passed a FY 2020 Budget that included over $50 million in new funding for Georgia’s skilled nursing care providers and their residents. On top of a 3% inflationary increase on Medicaid rates, appropriators also funded 50 new caseworker staff slots to address backlogs in Medicaid eligibility.
The SFY 2020 State Budget included the
following increases to funding:
N Increase funds for a 3% inflationary cost increase and utilize the most current fiscal year audited cost for the general liability and professional liability (GL/PL) calculation.
N Increase funds for nursing homes to support enhanced background checks.
N Increase funds for the second installment of a two-year plan to increase the personal needs allowance for nursing home residents by $5 to meet the $20 per month requirement pursuant to the passage of HB206 (2017 Session).
N Increase funds for a 3% increase in the nursing home ventilator reimbursement rate.
N Increase funds to provide an increase in the maximum adjustment factor to the Allowed Per Diem for Routine and Special Services from 4.5% to 5.5% for nursing homes
that qualify for the maximum adjustment rate based upon approved assessments for resident cognitive impairment.
Enhancing GHCA PAC
During 2019, GHCA PAC was called upon by both Republicans and Democrats to engage in statewide and local elections, many of which carried over into extended runoffs. Understanding the necessity of remaining relevant in such a crowded and competitive environment, GHCA members generously donated their time and resources towards the GHCA PAC. In addition to very generous personal giving, GHCA PAC hosted many events across the year including:
N PAC Silent Auctions at the GHCA Winter and Summer Conventions
N Fall GHCA PAC Golf Tournament at the University of Georgia Golf Course in Athens
N PAC Sunrise Breakfast at the Summer Convention
GHCA PAC is sincerely grateful to those who continue to sponsor and attend these events each year.
LegisLative
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 3
continued >>


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GHCA Members Host Legislative Visits
Legislative visits in GHCA member centers play a critical role in GHCA’s legislative efforts and help to educate policy makers on issues affecting the long term and post-acute care profession in our state. Throughout 2019, many GHCA members hosted their local legislators for tours of their centers.
GHCA hosts fundraising meet-and-greet in support of candidate for
Georgia’s 7th U.S. Congressional District and longtime friend to the Association, State Senator Renee Unterman
Rep. Dewey McClain at Delmar Gardens of Gwinnett
GHCA Board Member and AHCA Vice Chair Debbie Meade hosts Rep. Heath Clark at Summers Landing in Warner Robins
Rep. Jodi Lott, Rep. Shelia Clark Nelson and Rep. Barry Fleming tour the Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home in Augusta
4 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
Rep. Danny Mathis visits Stone Brooke Suites


Strong representation for Georgia’s long term care providers at AHCA/NCAL’s Congressional Briefing
LegisLative
Rep. Matt Hatchett visits Magnolia Manor of Macon
Rep. Susan Holmes tours GHCA member community Stone Brooke Suites
GHCA Named Top Association in the State by
James Magazine
GHCA was thrilled to be named the number one association in Georgia by James Magazine in its Top Lobbyists Issue. GHCA VP of Governmental Affairs Russel Carlson was also listed among
the top lobbyists in the State. Special thanks to everyone who voted!
Rep. Katie Dempsey toured several member centers: Chulio Hills Health and Rehabilitation, PruittHealth– Rome, and Winthrop Health and Rehabilitation
Senator Johnny Isakson meets with the GA delegation at
the 2019 AHCA/NCAL Congressional Briefing
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 5


georgia’s QuaLity Framework is making
a diFFerence
7 40
Georgia’s skilled nursing and assisted living providers are more commited to systematic quality improvement and performance excellence than ever
before. This is evidenced in the growing number of providers embarking on a quality journey that is focused on continuous improvement, not
on a certain data point or destination.
National Quality Awards
The American Health Care Association/National Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) Quality Awards Program is part of
a progressive national program that is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. Participants move from the Bronze level, to Silver, and then ultimately to the Gold.
Bronze recipients must demonstrate a groundwork for excellence by completing a self-assessment that outlays
their organizational priorities and goals. Silver awardees outline their systematic approaches and demonstrate
sustainable organizational and process results linked to their key customer requirements, success
factors and challenges. Gold recipients represent an elite group by meeting all of the demands
of the Baldrige Criteria, they demonstrate the achievement of high levels of performance
over time in the areas of: leadership, strategic planning, customer and workforce,
operations and knowledge management.
In 2019, GHCA was thrilled to have 7 Silver Quality Award winning centers
and 40 Bronze Quality Award winning centers added to its distinguished list of
Quality Award recipients, including two Gold Quality Award winners.”
6
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


National Quality Award Fast Facts
* Prepared by: American Health Care Association, August 2019
Quality Award Program Totals * From 2008-2018
SILVER MAP BRONZE
evement in Quality
SILVER
888
Commitment to Quality
Excellence in Quality
36
*
Percent of AHCA/NCAL Members Receiving a Quality Award, 2008-2018
3,983
Achievement in Quality
36
M A P
BRONZE
Commitment to Quality 3,983 total awards
41-67% 26-40%
total awards
total awards
888
total awards
total awards
Where the Awardees Are
MAP
BRONZE
Commitment to Quality Ach 3,983 total awards 8
SILVER
Achievement in Quality 888 total awards
41-67% 16-25 26-40% 5-15%
16-25% 5-15%
continued >>
41-67% 16-25% 26-40% 5-15%
5% %
GOLD
The Quality Award P
Prepared by: American Health Care Association August 2019
The Quality Award Program
Prepared by: American Health Care Association August 2019
GOLD
Excellence in Quality
total awards
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 7


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Quality Performance Measures *
Quality performance data from Nursing Home Compare (NHC) and LTC Trend Tracker. The readmissions measure is PointRight Pro30 Rehospitalization.
NHC measures reflects data through 2019-Q1, Pro309% through 2018-Q3. Performance difference is statistically significant (p<0.05) for all measures
11%
11%
5% 5%
9% 4%4 % 4%4%
Percent
better than% national
average
4
Falls
4
5
9
11%
%
%
Hospital RHeoasdpmitaisl sions
Readmissions
Urinary Tract UrinarIynTferaccttions
Infections
Off-Label Use
Pressure
of Off-Label Use
Pressure Ulcers Falls
Antipsychotics of
Antipsychotics
Hospital Readmissions
Urinary Tract Infections
Off-Label Use of
Pressure Ulcers
%
Ulcers
Antipsychotics Falls
Overall Starpower Five-Star Rating *
Star rating data from July 2019 release of Nursing Home Compare. Performance difference is statistically significant (p<0.05)
for all measures.
Silver and Gold Recipients
235% 2185%
The Nation
Silver and Gold Recipients
The Nation The Nati
5 45 212%%
21%
25% 4 22%
18%
43 2128%
18% 3 18%
2 18% 3 20%
13%
13% 2 20% 13% 2 20%
}
9% 1 19%
19%1 19%
Quality Metrics
3 to 5
%
3 to 5 stars
Quality Awards
Quality Awards
stars
60% 75%
ion
35% 5 Silver and Gold Recipients 35%
Staffing
83%
70%
3 to 5 stars
Staffing Staffing
Quality Metrics Quality M
70% 607%0
83%
The Nation
Quality Awards
Quality Awards
75%8
The Nation The Nation
The
Nation
Quality Awards
Th
Qualit The N
60%
75%
on
21%
9%
1
9%
%
3
e Nat
8 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
etric
y Awards ation
s
Survey
71%
Survey Survey
71% 57%1%
57%
Quality Awards
The NatQiounality Awards
Quality Awards
The Nation 57% The Nation


Continued Partnership with Alliant Quality
A key strategy that will foster systematic quality improvement is GHCA’s continued partnership with Alliant Quality. Alliant is the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Quality Improvement Organization and Innovations Network for Georgia as well as six other states. The 12th Statement of Work (SOW) that will span the next five years was released in late 2019. Participating centers will benefit from collaborative learning opportunities and sharing of best practices, tools and resources. This collaborative is designed to achieve excellence in nursing care through action driven change.
TOGETHER, WE WILL ACHIEVE THE FOLLOWING GOALS:
N Improve the mean total quality for all centers and increase percentage of centers with a total quality score of >1258
N Reduce Adverse Drug Events (ADE) in centers
N Reduce healthcare-related infections in centers and hospitalizations for C.difficile infections
N Reduce ED visits and readmissions in short stay center residents by 2424

Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 9
s


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GHCA Education & Research Foundation
Endeavoring to advance innovation
and quality in the post-acute and long- term care profession through support of education, research, quality improvement and provision of scholarships and other incentive payments.
422 Nursing Scholarships Awarded To Date!
GHCA Prepares Members Ahead of Patient Driven Payment Model
On October 1, 2019, the Centers
for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) implemented a new payment system known as the Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM). Ahead of and following PDPM implementation, GHCA worked diligently to ensure members were prepared for success under the new payment model. The Association offered many education sessions and ensured members remained informed on the latest important information and updates.
10 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


GHCA Representation in AHCA/NCAL
debbie meade barbara mitcheLL tony marshaLL
In 2019, GHCA Board member Debbie Meade was elected as Chair of the American Health Care Association (AHCA) Board of Governors and Board member Barbara Mitchell continued her service on the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) Board of Directors as an At-Large Member. AHCA Elections were held during the Council of States Meeting at the AHCA/NCAL Annual Convention in Orlando in October. GHCA President & CEO Tony Marshall was re-elected to the Affiliated State Health Care Association Executives (ASHCAE) Board of Directors as an At-Large Member at the ASHCAE meeting held during the convention.
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 11


2019 ghca summer convention
AHCA/NCAL President & CEO Mark Parkinson’s opening keynote at the Summer Convention
GHCA was fortunate to have American Health Care Association/National Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) President & CEO Mark Parkinson kick off the 2019 GHCA Summer Convention at the Ritz Carlton in Amelia Island, FL, with a powerful keynote providing poignant strategies for success. Parkinson, recognized as one of the top CEO’s of 2019 by the Washington Post, advised GHCA members to maintain a relentless commitment to quality, to work hard to excel under the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM), and to strive to not just keep residents alive, but give them a reason to live.
GHCA was also excited to have a number of other special guests join us at the convention. Speaker of the House David Ralston opened
Senate President Pro Tempore Butch Miller swear in our newly-elected 2019-2020 GHCA Board of Directors led by Chair Donna Stefano
the House of Delegates membership meeting, and his address was followed by remarks from Rep. Butch Parrish. Also during the House
of Delegates meeting, Senate President Pro Tempore Butch Miller installed the 2019- 2020 Board of Directors led by Chair Donna Stefano.
12 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


Rep. Matt Hatchett at Summer Convention with 2019 Administrator of the Year Michele Kittles
Congratulations:
N 2019 Administrator of the Year MICHELE KITTLES
N 2019 Executive Director of the Year KATHYJO GORDON N 2019 New Administrator of the Year JOHN “BO” DALTON
Above: Kathyjo Gordon Left: John “Bo” Dalton
Commissioner of the Department of Community Health Dr. Frank Berry and members of his leadership team also joined attendees at several education sessions and scheduled events during the convention. Further, Sen. Dean Burke, Rep. Trey Kelley, and Rep. Jay Powell participated in a panel discussion led by Arnall Golden Gregory.
Sen. Jeff Mullis addressed attendees at the GHCA PAC Sunrise Breakfast and Rep. Matt Hatchett assisted in the presentation of awards during the Summer Convention Awards Luncheon.
During the convention, many members played in the GHCA Summer Golf Tournament. While the group experienced a bit of rain,
the golf outing served as a fun afternoon
of fellowship and networking for GHCA members, guests and vendors. Special thanks to Hansen Hunter & Co./Synergy Healthcare for
their sponsorship of the beverage carts, Senior Dental Care for their hole sponsorship, and Arnall Golden Gregory for hosting a beautiful reception for all tournament participants.
This year’s team winners were:
N 1st Place:
Phil Herndon, Charles Fallaw, Jeffery Jursik, Kerry Smith
N 2nd Place:
Kathy Heath, Alonzo Lewis, Becky Hewitt, Scott Frigon
N 3rd Place:
Tyler Arnold, Neil Pruitt, Robert Strang, Nick Williams
N Longest Drive: Adam Morris
N Closest to the Pin: Frank Trenery
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 13


2020 ghca winter convention and trade show
Gov. Brian Kemp addresses attendees at the GHCA Winter Convention
The 2020 GHCA Winter Convention and Tradeshow was held for the second time at the Hotel at Avalon in Alpharetta, GA. GHCA attendees and exhibitors had the opportunity to network and engage with each other in a variety of new ways.
During the convention, GHCA engaged
in AHCA/NCAL’s #WhyICare campaign designed to share stories of individuals who work in long term care and what inspires them about their careers throughout the convention. Many GHCA leaders shared their stories throughout the week, beginning with
a powerful opening #WhyICare presentation by GHCA Board Chair Donna Stefano and AHCA Chair Debbie Meade. Additionally, attendees were able to share their own stories at the #WhyICare selfie station during the convention. It was truly a momentous occasion for members to share their heartfelt stories about why they care about improving lives and caring for those in need.
To add to the excitement, the new geoteaming program got people off their seats and into the Avalon, interacting in teams and getting to know each other. As one attendee stated,
14 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
Above: Georgia’s Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King at the 2020 Winter Convention


Congratulations to the following award winners recognized during the Winter Convention Stars in Long Term Care Awards Ceremony:
N 2019 Leadership in Public Trust BOBBY TAYLOR
“I have been coming to this conference for 16 years and this was the BEST session I have ever attended. Thank you GHCA!”
GHCA was thrilled to have Governor Brian Kemp give an address during the convention to share his appreciation for GHCA members and the care they
provide to thousands every day across Georgia. Additionally, local Atlanta icon, Monica Kaufman Pearson emceed the Stars of Long Term Care Awards Ceremony event honoring the many GHCA outstanding award recipients of the past year. Monica Pearson has led a distinguished career in journalism at WSB-TV in Atlanta, GA, as the anchor of Channel 2 Action News at five, six and eleven o’clock.
N 2019 Leadership in Innovation DONNA MARTIN
N 2019 Leadership Excellence Award ALGENUS “AJ” SPIERS
N 2019 GHCA Engineering and Environmental Services Champion of Long Term Care SHANDA WOOD
N 2019 Emergency Preparedness Champion of Long Term Care WALTER BERRIOS
Developing Leaders of Tomorrow
Congratulations to the 2019-2020 graduates of the GHCA/GCAL Georgia Leader Certificate Program:
N Christopher Denz N Nancy Musah
N Beverly Hamilton N Kaelyn Meade Parker
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 15


communications
Sharing the True Story of Long
Term Care in Georgia
Amidst negative media attention that failed to acknowledge that high quality care is being provided to elderly Georgians, GHCA made efforts in 2019 to share the true story of the compassionate and caring individuals that work in the long term and post-acute care profession. From empowering members to share their positive stories with local media outlets throughout National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW) and National Assisted Living
Week (NALW), to engaging in the American Health Care Association’s (AHCA) #WhyICare campaign designed to share stories of individuals who work in long term care and what inspires them about their careers, the Association worked diligently to ensure the voices of long term care were heard across the State.
16 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
Highlights: In 2019, GHCA...
N Provided new tools and resources to assist members to share positive stories to their local media, especially during National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW) and National Assisted Living Week (NALW)
N Created a webpage to house
good news stories that were
shared throughout NALW: www.ghca.info/our-al-commitment
N Submitted an op-ed written by GHCA President & CEO Tony Marshall
to the Atlanta Journal Constitution (AJC) highlighting GHCA member efforts to ensure the safety and happiness of residents. The op-ed was published in November 2019.
N Engaged in AHCA’s #WhyICare campaign throughout 2019 and especially during the 2020 GHCA Winter Convention. Members shared their personal Why I Care stories at the #WhyICare Selfie Station.
N Provided various resources and talking points to assist members in responding to inquiries from local media or
from residents and family members regarding a variety of issues.
N Shared countless stories of our members and their efforts to enhance the lives of those they serve on our social media platforms.


Care for the Aging
In 2019, GHCA partnered with the Indiana Health Care Association to develop carefortheaging.org
for Georgia. The website is a career information workforce development initiative to recruit compassionate and dedicated people to the long term and post-acute care profession in Georgia. The site allows potential long term care job seekers to explore the various career opportunities within long term care and provides
information on education and training requirements, salaries, and advancement opportunities.
The site also
links individuals
seeking educational
opportunities,
internships or job placements with centers looking
to fill those roles. Job seekers are able to complete an online interest form with their contact information, which is collected and available for members to access.
Visit georgia.carefortheaging.org to learn more and get connected.
GHCA Board Chair Donna Stefano & AHCA Chair and GHCA Board Member Debbie Meade shared their inspiring stories about why they care about long term care at the 2020 GHCA Winter Convention.
The #WhyICare Selfie Station was an inspiring way that members could share their heartwarming stories about why they love their jobs in long term care.
continued >>
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
17


communications
<< continued
2019 National Skilled Nursing Care Week
National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW),
was held May 12-18, and the theme, “Live Soulfully,” celebrated skilled nursing centers, and their residents and staff, by showcasing how they achieve happy minds and healthy souls. GHCA was thrilled that Gov. Brian Kemp proclaimed May 12-18 as Skilled Nursing Care Week in Georgia. Additionally, GHCA hosted its annual NSNCW Social Media Contest, which was again a huge success. Westbury Health & Rehab of McDonough was the winner of the contest, having received over 515 “Likes” and 45 shares on their photo submission.
GHCA appreciated the involvement
of our members in the 2019 NSNCW
photo contest. The Association was
thrilled to reach over 44,900 Facebook
users throughout NSNCW and showcase
all members did throughout the week to
celebrate and enhance the lives of their
residents. Additionally, the GHCA Facebook
page received 379 new followers, allowing GHCA to continue sharing the great things happening in Georgia’s skilled nursing centers on a daily basis with those individuals.
18 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
Cumming Health and Rehab
Rehabilitation Center of South Georgia
Brightmoor Nursing Center
Cordele Health and Rehabilitation Center


2019 National Assisted Living Week
NALW 2019 was September 8-14, and the theme, “A Spark of
Creativity,” was chosen to inspire residents to tap into their creative
side and assisted living staff to get creative in order to further person- centered care to residents. GHCA/GCAL successfully promoted the observance throughout the week through social media. Further, members of the GHCA/GCAL team visited and facilitated legislative visits to several GCAL communities across the State.
Also during NALW, an op-ed by a happy family member of a resident of GHCA member community Summers Landing in Warner Robins
was published by a local news outlet and celebrations held by
Stone Brooke Suites in Gray were featured prominently in the
local news throughout the week.
The Association was also pleased that Governor Brian Kemp proclaimed September 8-14 as Assisted Living Week in Georgia.
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 19
2019 National Skilled Nursince Care Week photo contest winner, Westbury Health & Rehab of McDonough
Harborview Health Systems


communications
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New Resources & Recognitions New Job Spotlight
GHCA/GCAL Weekly Newsfront now features a new section highlighting the most recent career opportunities posted to the online GHCA/GCAL Career Center. The Career Center Spotlight is designed to provide further visibility for our members with open positions in their center.
New Terry J. Bryant Media Awards Category
GHCA announced a new award category in the Terry J. Bryant Media Awards in 2019 — the Media Innovator Award. This award category is intended to recognize centers that have created
and distributed new promotional materials or publications designed to showcase the center’s activities and special programs to their communities as well as enhance public perception of long term and post-acute care. Congratulations to the first ever Media Innovator Award Winner, Westbury Medical Care and Rehab.
Social Media Growth
At the end of 2019, GHCA had over 3,743 followers on Facebook, which is an increase of
643 followers from January 1, 2019. The GHCA twitter page continues to grow and currently has over 650 followers. Additionally, GHCA worked in 2019 to grow its LinkedIn presence.
20 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


georgia center
For assisted Living
UPDATE
The Georgia Center for Assisted Living (GCAL) is generating momentum by increasing membership and providing elevated, value-adding education for our members.
In 2019, the newly elected GCAL Board of Directors (listed below) worked to establish new goals and initiatives and pave the way for success for the upcoming two years.
N CHAIR: KathyJo Gordon Stone Brooke Suites
N VICE CHAIR: Janice Baker Mattie H. Marshall Center
N SECRETARY: Mary Smith The Oaks Personal Care Home
N TREASURER: Samantha Allen Jonesboro Assisted Living
The 2020 GHCA Winter Convention showcased an assisted living track, providing important education on DCH Updates, NCAL Trend Tracker and Abuse Prevention.
Over 40 assisted living professionals were in attendance.
GCAL also continues to work closely with the GHCA legislative team to ensure issues of importance to the assisted living profession are addressed under the Gold Dome.
GCAL Chair KathyJo Gordon, GHCA Board Member and NCAL Board Member at Large Barbara Mitchell, and GHCA Director of Assisted Living Sylvia Barnes
The GHCA Team delivers goodies to GCAL member communities during National Assisted Living Week
The GHCA Team delivers goodies to GCAL member communities during National Assisted Living Week
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 21


Success for GHCA’s First Affiliates Annual Meeting & Quality Summit
The 2019-2020 GSSSP Board of Directors being sworn in during the Affiliates Annual Meeting and Quality Summit.
The leadership of the Georgia Association of
Nurses in Long Term Care (GANLTC),
Georgia Society of Activity Professionals (GSAP)
and Georgia Society of Social Service Professionals
(GSSSP) worked diligently to develop and execute
the first ever Affiliates Annual Meeting & Quality
Summit in August of 2019. The GHCA affiliates
joined forces to form an all-new meeting format designed to
bring together the interdisciplinary team and provide them with
the tools and resources they need to deliver person-centered care
and achieve quality outcomes. The event was packed with superb educational sessions focused on current issues impacting the long
term and post-acute care profession and engaging networking opportunities. Themed, “Say Yes to a New Quality Adventure,”
the event demonstrated the dedicated commitment of caregivers across the State to advancing the quality of care for all those
residing in a long term health care setting.
The following pages feature highlights from the Annual Meeting and Summit. >>
GSAP Reception
22


Top – GANLTC Board
Middle – Tina Valdes & Margie Freeman presenting
to GANLTC & GSSSP Bottom – GSSSP Board
23


aFFiLiates
<< continued
Top – GSAP Opening
Middle left – Patricia Sherwood, Jonesboro H & R, participating in Q&A
Middle right– Patty Comer, GANLTC President & Tabitha Johnson, GSSSP President addressing audience
Bottom – GSAP
24


Top – Darcy Watson, Westbury Administrative Services giving a lively presentation on Hand in Hand
Middle – Vendor Reception Bottom – GSAP group
25


Successful Evacuations
After devastating the Bahamas on September 1, 2019, Hurricane Dorian posed an enormous threat to the Atlantic coast. As the storm slowly edged towards the United States with Georgia’s coast in sight, Governor Kemp declared a State of Emergency for 21 counties and the mandatory evacuation of six counties east of I-95 at noon on September 2, 2019. Over 20 long term health care centers were located within those counties identified in the
Governor’s evacuation order. All 20 of those centers were able to successfully evacuate their residents. Additionally, various centers across the State assisted with placement of close to 100 functional medical needs evacuees.
Georgia was fortunate to receive little to no damage as Hurricane Dorian’s track shifted, missing the State’s coastline. All providers who were required to evacuate their residents were able to return their residents to their centers with no adverse outcomes. Hurricane
Dorian is the second strongest Atlantic hurricane on record, and the potential risk and damage of a hurricane remains a major hazard for Georgia’s long term care centers. GHCA continues to work alongside the Georgia Department
of Public Health (DPH), Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), regional healthcare coalitions, and other partners to ensure Georgia’s long term care centers are prepared to protect their residents during a severe weather event.
26 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


Partnerships and Education
GHCA continued its ongoing partnerships with regional coalitions, emergency management agencies, and various other entities in 2019. In order to provide emergency preparedness education for centers across the State, GHCA worked with the University of Georgia to provide the CMS CMP Long Term Care Emergency Preparedness Classes for all skilled nursing centers. The CMS CMP LTC Emergency preparedness classes provided an opportunity for all center staff to learn about tools and resources available to prepare for any impending threat.
Additionally, GHCA continued to build
its partnership with the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office to ensure members remained
up to date on Life Safety Code and Emergency Preparedness Survey guidance. The State Fire Marshal’s Office provided updates at the 2019 GHCA Winter and Summer Conventions. Further, the GHCA Emergency Preparedness Committee teamed up with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to create a newly updated E-tag checklist to be used by centers and fire marshals.
GHCA members work tirelessly to ensure
the safety and well-being of their residents, especially during emergencies. GHCA is
proud of the efforts made by members to keep residents safe during Hurricane Dorian and throughout the year through participation in emergency preparedness education and regional emergency preparedness activities.
emergency PreParedness
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 27


Ms. Georg
ia Health Care Association
Ms. Carol Hebert,
Westbury Medical Care & Rehabilitation
Throughout the year, GHCA recognized several member centers and individuals who have gone above and beyond to ensure the happiness and safety of their residents. We are deeply appreciative of the hard work of associates, caregivers and support personnel who carry out day-to-day care with professionalism and compassion.
28 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report
!
e
n
i
h
S
u
o
Y


RN of the Year
Jane Martin, Treutlen County Health and Rehabilitation
Social Service Professional of the Year
Kelly Archer, Heritage Inn of Sandersville Health & Rehabilitation
LPN of the Year — Lurline Kemokai, Jonesboro Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
Activity Professional of the Year
Sandra Ross, Wellstar Florence Hand Home
CNA of the Year
Activity Assistant of the Year
Marchell Wright, Magnolia Manor of Marion County
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 29
Shirley Carter, Twin Oaks Convalescent Center


2019 AHCA/NCAL Quality Award Winners
Silver
Azalealand Nursing Home . . . . . . Savannah, GA CalhounNursingHome . . . . . . . . .Edison,GA Chelsey Park Health & Rehabilitation Dahlonega, GA Hartwell Health & Rehabilitation . . . Hartwell, GA MillerNursingHome . . . . . . . . . Colquitt,GA Oxley Park Health & Rehabilitation . . . Lyons, GA Townsend Park Health &
Rehabilitation. . . . . . . . . . . . Cartersville, GA
Bronze
Archway Transitional Care Center . . . . Macon, GA Azalea Health & Rehabilitation . . . . . Metter, GA BayView Nursing & Rehabilitation. . . Nahunta, GA BermanCommons. . . . . . . . . .Dunwoody,GA
Magnolia Manor of Columbus
AssistedLiving. . . . . . . . . . . .Columbus,GA
Miona Geriatric & Dementia Center . . . . Ideal, GA NHCatRossville. . . . . . . . . . . .Rossville,GA Orchard Health and Rehabilitation. . . .Pulaski, GA Pinewood Manor Nursing and
Rehabilitation Center. . . . . . . .Hawkinsville, GA PruittHealth—Austell . . . . . . . . . . Austell, GA PruittHealth—Covington . . . . . . Covington, GA PruittHealth—Decatur. . . . . . . . . Decatur, GA PruittHealth—Forsyth . . . . . . . . . Forsyth, GA PruittHealth—Griffin . . . . . . . . . . Griffin, GA PruittHealth—Holly Hill . . . . . . . Valdosta, GA PruittHealth—Jasper. . . . . . . . . . . Jasper,GA PruittHealth—Lanier . . . . . . . . . . Buford, GA PruittHealth—Macon..........Macon,GA PruittHealth—Marietta . . . . . . . . Marietta, GA PruittHealth—Palmyra. . . . . . . . . . Albany, GA PruittHealth—Sunrise . . . . . . . . . Moultrie, GA Roberta Health and Rehabilitation . . . Roberta, GA Scott Health and Rehabilitation . . . . . Adrian, GA Sparta Health & Rehabilitation . . . . . Sparta, GA Summerhill Senior
LivingCommunity. . . . . . . . . . . . .Perry,GA TheCohenHome . . . . . . . . . .Alpharetta,GA TheOaksatScenicView. . . . . . . . Baldwin,GA The Oaks at Carrollton
Assisted Living . . . . . . . . . . . . Carrollton, GA TheOaksNursingHome.Inc.. . .Marshallville,GA TheOaks—Athens. . . . . . . . . . . .Athens,GA TheOaks—Bethany. . . . . . . . . . .Vidalia,GA The Oaks—Limestone . . . . . . . .Gainesville, GA The Oaks—Scenic View . . . . . . . . Baldwin, GA Thomson Manor . . . . . . . . . . . Thomson, GA Wellstar Paulding Nursing Center . . . . Dallas, GA
CookSeniorLivingCenter. . . . . .
EastviewNursingCenter. . . . . . .
Gibson Health & Rehabilitation . . .
Magnolia Manor Nursing Center. . .
Magnolia Manor of ColumbusEast............
. . . Adel,GA . .Macon,GA . . Gibson, GA
Americus, GA Columbus, GA
30 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report


Terry J. Bryant Media Awards
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
FirstPlace . . . . . . . . WestburyHealth& Rehab – McDonough
SecondPlace. . . . . . . . .TwinFountains Home Wellstar
Third Place Westbury Health & Rehab – Conyers
GROUP VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Sarah Thornton & Perry Smith
Bolingreen Healthcare Center
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Bert Bork
Delmar Gardens of Smyrna
TEEN VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Sabina Ajjan
Carlyle Place, Navicent Health
MEDIA INNOVATOR AWARD
Westbury Medical Care & Rehab
PRINT OR DIGITAL NEWSLETTER
First Place . . Second Place .
Third Place .
. Twin Fountains Home Wellstar . . . Westbury Health & Rehab,
Conyers . . . Brightmoor Nursing Center
Georgia Quality Award Winning Centers
Azalealand Nursing & Rehab
Church Home LifeSpring Rehabilitation & Healthcare
Westbury Conyers
Westbury McDonough Magnolia Manor of Columbus West Magnolia Manor of Marion County Cook Senior Living Center
Four County Health & Rehabilitation Fort Gaines Health & Rehabilitation Treutlen County Health & Rehabilitation
First Place . . Second Place .
ThirdPlace .
. Twin Fountains Home Wellstar . . . . . . . Westbury Medical
Care & Rehab . . . . . DadeHealth&Rehab
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
PHOTO IN A NEWSPAPER
First Place . . . . . Westbury Health & Rehab McDonough
Second Place . . . . . . Dade Health & Rehab ThirdPlace . . . . . . . . MagnoliaManor
Columbus West
SOCIAL MEDIA STAR
Church Home Rehabilitation & Healthcare
TELEVISION COVERAGE
Magnolia Manor Columbus West
Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report 31


GHCA SOURCE, led by Chair Tracie Clark, Vice Chair Stella Sykes, and Secretary Treasurer Jenny Dowdy, continued to make strides during 2019. The affiliate group was pleased to welcome ACE Care Management as a new member, and now represents 100% of the SOURCE agencies in the State.
Throughout the year, GHCA SOURCE engaged and collaborated with the Department of Community Health’s (DCH) Medicaid Elderly and Disabled Waiver team. DCH Waiver Program leadership remained committed to working closely with GHCA SOURCE on
policy changes and updates to the SOURCE Waiver as well as educational opportunities and improved communication between DCH and GHCA SOURCE member agencies.
GHCA SOURCE developed and awarded the first Case Manager of the Year Award in 2019 to recognize and celebrate excellence among SOURCE agencies. Congratulations again
to 2019 SOURCE Case Manager of the Year Sherri Stuckey of Piedmont Columbus Regional SOURCE (pictured below). GHCA SOURCE looks forward to continuing and expanding the awards program in 2020.
Special thanks to those serving as GHCA SOURCE Committee Chairs throughout 2019:
Quality Committee Chair
Laura Prough
Policy Committee Chair
Jean Carpenter
Membership Committee Co-Chairs Latashia Johnson and Stephanie Chambers
SOURCE Spotlight
32 Georgia Health Care Association 2019 Annual Report




Phone: 678-289-6555
Country Club Drive, Stockbridge, GA 30281
www.ghca.info
@ GHCA.info @ghcainfo @ghcagcal
This publication of the 2019 Annual Report was made possible by the generous support of the GHCA Special Projects Committee.
2019-2020 GHCA Officers & Board Members
OFFICERS: Donna Stefano, Chair of the Board Jerry Patton, Vice Chair of the Board Brad Bilbo, Secretary Suzanne Gerhardt, Treasurer Dr. Ron Westbury, Past Chair
BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE: Laura Backus William “Chip” Davis Renee Ellis Darcy Watson Paul Zani
BOARD MEMBERS: Kenneth Burnett
Metro Atlanta Council President
Terry Cook
Southeast Council President
Susie Fussell
Southwest Council President
Brian Hart
Middle Georgia Council President
Rita Hudson
Northwest Council President
Kerry Smith
Northeast Council President
Donna Wiggins
East Central Council President
Spencer Windham
West Central Council President
Kathyjo Gordon
GCAL Representative
Tracie Clark
SOURCE Representative
Debbie Meade
AHCA Representative
Barbara Mitchell
NCAL Representative
Fax: 678-289-6400 160