Fall Risk Discussions: Why They’re Important

Between football, leaves changing colors, and all things pumpkin, reminders are everywhere that fall is upon us. This time of year, when patients hear the word “fall” they may think of the Fall Equinox—the first official day of fall (Wednesday, September 22).

However, September 22 is also Falls Prevention Awareness Day! Plus, here in North Carolina, we celebrate Falls Prevention Awareness Week from September 21-24, 2021.

Physical falls are never a good thing, but for the Medicare population falls can be more risky, costly, and even deadly. According to the CDC, each year millions of people 65 and older fall and many don’t tell their doctor. That’s why it’s important for providers and practice staff to discuss fall risks and treatment plans for a patient who’s had a fall.

Another important reason to discuss fall risks with your patients is Health Outcome Surveys. Medicare monitors managing fall risk, urinary incontinence, mental health, physical health, and more using Health Outcome Surveys (HOS). HOS are longitudinal surveys that monitor the progress of Medicare enrollees. A random sample of HealthTeam Advantage (HTA) members are given an identical HOS survey at the beginning and end of two years (baseline and follow-up).

Plus, several of the HOS questions are used in Medicare Star Ratings for Medicare plans like HTA. These are examples of a survey questions that may affect Stars for fall risk management:

A fall is when your body goes to the ground without being pushed.

• In the past 12 months, did you talk with your doctor or other health providers about falling or problems with balance or walking?
• Did you fall in the past 12 months?
• In the past 12 months, have you had a problem with balance or walking?
• Has your doctor or other health provider done anything to help prevent falls or treat problems with balance or walking?

Many of your patients started receiving the 2021 Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (HOS) in the mail this summer and will be able to respond by mail or phone until early November. If your patient discloses that they received the survey, please encourage them to complete and return it. The interaction you have with your patients year-round directly affects HOS Star measure ratings.

Here are some tips or things to consider:

• Key questions to be asked during each visit, regardless of the primary reason for the visit, to increase your patient’s ability to recall discussing HOS-related questions with the provider.
  • Print checklist on brightly colored paper so patients and providers won’t overlook
  • Have a checklist with HOS-related questions for patients to complete in the waiting room during check-in (If you need a sample, please contact us.)

• What will your patients’ perceptions of your interactions be this year? Will they recall discussing issues with you that are key HOS questions?
• How can you impact their perception?
• We encourage you and your staff to be familiar with the HOS Star measures and questions so you’ll know what you should be asking your patients.

Sources:

FPAW 2021

CDC Facts About Falls