GREAT NEWS!
MAHC’S Multi-Factorial Fall Risk Assessment Tool Validity Assessed – Tool Ready for Use!
The validity of the multi-factorial fall risk assessment tool (MAHC-10) developed by the Missouri Alliance for Home Care (MAHC) Fall Prevention Benchmarking Initiative has been tested. Home Health Agencies may now use this single tool for their OASIS required patient fall risk assessment.
Related to OASIS item M-1910, the OASIS-C Guidance Manual specifically states: “The multi-factor falls risk assessment must include at least one standardized tool that 1) has been scientifically tested in a population with characteristics similar to that of the patient being assessed and shown to be effective in identifying people at risk for falls; and 2) includes a standard response scale. The standardized tool must be both appropriate for the patient based on their cognitive and physical status and appropriately administered as indicated in the instructions.” It further goes on to say: “An agency may use a single comprehensive multi-factor fall risk assessment tool that meets the criteria as described in the item intent.”
Home Health Agencies will now be able to meet the OASIS requirements utilizing the MAHC-10 as an initial screen for fall risk, which if identified may warrant additional, more specific fall risk assessment. This single tool can be used with all patients, including bed-bound patients and those with severe mobility limitations, thereby meeting CMS criteria to mark a “yes” response on M1910. However, as has been CMS’ response in the past, “it is the agency’s responsibility to determine if the tools they are considering for the OASIS-C M item best practice assessments meet the requirements as detailed in Chapter 3 of the OASIS-C Guidance Manual.”
Agencies may use the MAHC-10, including incorporating it into internal documents and computer systems, at no cost, however, we do require that proper credit be given to MAHC and that the content is not modified in any way. For further information or if you have any questions contact Carol Hudspeth at 573-634-7772 or carol@mahcmail.org.
Click here to download the tool
Click here for directions for use of tool
Click here for 10-17-12 software vendor conference call
Click here for frequently asked questions #1 (10-12-12)
Click here for frequently asked questions #2 (10-26-12)
Click here for a copy of MAHC’s Press Release
Click here to access the Validation Study
Click here to access the OASIS-C Guidance Manual
Click here to print item M1910 from Chapter 3 of the OASIS-C Guidance Manual
REDUCE FALLS AND IMPROVE PATIENT OUTCOMES
Want a way to reduce falls and improve patient outcomes? MAHC is proud to continue offering home care agencies across the nation with affordable tools to put their agency above the rest with the MAHC Fall Reduction Benchmark program.
The MAHC Home Care Fall Reduction Initiative has been extensively field-tested and publicly recognized as a best practice for assessing risk for falls among community dwelling elders. The program which began as a way for home health providers in Missouri to benchmark fall rates quickly gained national attention, and soon MAHC invited home care agencies from across the nation to submit their data for comparison and tracking.
The multi-disciplinary home care fall reduction initiative aims to:
- Reduce falls
- Improve patient outcomes
- Establish a baseline of falls in home care
Every quarter MAHC compiles the fall data submitted by participating agencies and returns to them easy-to-read individualized reports which provide an overview of all the information collected as well as the agency’s individual analysis. Clinicians use the reports to track outcomes, identify trends, and improve care.
Participating in the MAHC Home Care Fall Reduction Initiative underscores your agency’s effort and commitment to fall prevention and demonstrates your progress in concrete and easy-to-understand reports. The project is managed by MAHC staff and overseen by a volunteer committee of home health care professionals. A minimal annual registration fee paid by the participating agencies covers the cost of data collection and statistical analysis. In addition to the quarterly reports, other benefits for program participants include: training and on-going support; communication on fall prevention developments; and interactive communications where participants and MAHC staff share feedback and look for ways to enhance the program’s value to home care agencies, their staff, and patients. By expanding the program and adding features suggested by its participants, MAHC continues to assist home care providers to give the highest quality care to their patients.
For additional information or to request an enrollment form, please contact:
Missouri Alliance for HOME CARE
Carol Hudspeth
2420 Hyde Park, Suite A
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Phone: (573) 634-7772
Email: carol@mahcmail.org
