November 5, 2026 | Volume 41, Edition 43

TOP STORIES THIS WEEK

Post-election thought—Caring for older Minnesotans should never be a partisan issue

Audience: All members

Some issues are generally inherently political; taxes, regulations, elections, gun rights. Those debates are healthy and necessary in a democracy. Recently, our elections became more focused on fraud versus Anti-Trump, perhaps less of a debate and just more messaging strategy based on polls. read more

Update for 2026 Medicaid Nursing Facility Cost Report

Audience: NF providers

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) provided an update on the status of the 2026 Medicaid Nursing Facility Cost Report for the year ending September 30, 2026. read more

Holiday decorations—A seasonal reminder for providers

Audience: SNF/ NF & AL providers

Before putting up decorations, providers should take a few minutes to review applicable fire safety requirements and ensure decorations do not create hazards for residents, staff, or visitors. read more

National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month—Recognizing the person behind the diagnosis

Audience: All members

November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase awareness and understanding of Alzheimer's disease and recognize the millions of individuals and families affected by it.  read more

State election results—A DFL sweep across Minnesota

Audience: All members

However, the overall outcome is clear: Minnesota voters have delivered unified control of state government to the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party. read more

QUALITY

Assisted Living Top-Line report is now available

Audience: Housing & homecare providers

The 3rd quarter 2026 Assisted Living Top-Line is (a LTC Trend Tracker℠ publication) is available for participating organizations. read more

LEGISLATIVE/ADVOCACY

Laws effective January 1, 2027 part 1—Policy

Audience: All members

The 2026 legislative session has laws effective January 1, 2027, which impact long-term care settings. These are policy provisions that may impact your operations. read more

National election results—Democrats shakeup D.C.

Audience: All members

Washington, D.C., is poised for significant change. Democrats have secured majorities in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, marking one of the most consequential election cycles in recent years. read more

FOUNDATION

2027 Leading4Life Class announced

Audience: All members

Congratulations to the following individuals who will be making up the 19th class of the Leading4Life program. The program continues under the leadership and guidance of Dr. Chad Weinstein, Ethical Leaders in Action. read more

NATIONAL

Payroll-Based Journal data due by November 14 and must be submitted in iQIES

Audience: NF providers

Payroll-Based Journal staffing data for July 1–September 30, 2026, reporting period is due by November 14, 2026. read more

Court vacates CMS regulatory definition of Medical Frailty relating to Medicaid work requirements

Audience: All members

During June 2026, CMS issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) that provided guidance to the states on implementing H.R. 1’s changes to Medicaid, including new work requirements. read more

STATE

Waiver Reimagine implementation delayed

Audience: Housing & homecare providers

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) recently announced that Waiver Reimagine will not launch in 2027. read more

REGULATORY

Assisted living survey tip—A closer look at resident needs and staffing

Audience: Assisted living providers

Recent provider feedback offers an opportunity to consider how resident needs, planned services, staffing arrangements, and documentation fit together during the licensure survey process. read more

Project Firstline offers Hand Hygiene back to basics education

Audience: All members

MDH Project Firstline is a CDC & MDH partnership that provides infection control education to frontline health care workers, regardless of role or prior training. read more

Education & resources available for Antibiotic Stewardship Week during November 18-24, 2026

Audience: All members

In recognition of Antibiotic Awareness Week (USAAW), November 18–24, 2026, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Minnesota One Health Antibiotic Stewardship Collaborative (MOHASC) are offering a free webinar built specifically for Minnesota long-term care facilities. read more

Minnesota Department of Health Nursing Facility Quarterly call

Audience: SNF/ NF providers

Nursing facility members are reminded to review the materials covered by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) on the quarterly nursing facility regulatory updates held July 2026. read more

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