In the realm of organizational dynamics, the ability to navigate change with resilience is instrumental. The philosopher Heraclitus once said, “The only constant in life is change. Everything changes and nothing remains still; and you cannot step twice into the same stream.”

It’s imperative to equip ourselves with the tools and strategies essential for weathering the tides of transformation. At Functional Pathways, embracing change is one of our core tenets. Our Functional Fundamental #4 is “Embrace Change,” and it’s a value we try to live by as an organization.

Let’s dive into some strategies to help you ride those waves of change like a pro!

1. Cultivate Clear Channels of Communication: Effective communication serves as the cornerstone of organizational agility. Foster an environment where dialogue flows freely among team members, stakeholders, and leadership.
2. Incorporate Adaptability: In the face of evolving circumstances, flexibility emerges as a hallmark of skilled professionals. Embrace the ethos of adaptability, remaining receptive to novel methodologies, innovative approaches, and emergent models.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Just as a ship’s crew tends to its vessel, it’s important to nurture your well-being amidst the tumult of change. Dedicate time for rest, rejuvenation, and mindfulness, preserving your mental and physical equilibrium.
4. Foster a Collaborative Environment: Synergy thrives within cohesive teams, where members offer mutual support and camaraderie. Cultivate an ethos of collaboration, where collective efforts propel the organization forward toward its objectives.
5. Embrace Iterative Learning: In the pursuit of excellence, setbacks are stepping stones toward growth. Embrace failures as invaluable learning opportunities, encouraging continuous improvement and professional development.
6. Celebrate Milestones and Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate achievements, both individual and collective, as beacons of progress during the journey of change. Positive reinforcement fosters a culture of spirit and fortitude.

Resilience serves as a linchpin in navigating the currents of change within the work environment. By embodying these principles and cultivating an environment that embraces change, we’ll navigate the storms of transformation with finesse and effectiveness!

In the world of healthcare, fostering a culture of appreciation is vital for supporting engaged and motivated teams. Whether you’re leading the charge or contributing your valuable skills, acknowledging and celebrating each other’s efforts is the key to success.

So, let’s explore five effective strategies to show some appreciation within our workplace.

1. Shout It Out Loud: Ever heard of the power of a good ol’ shoutout? It’s like giving someone a figurative (or literal!) high-five for their awesome work! Managers, take a moment in your team meetings to recognize outstanding efforts. And team members, don’t hesitate to give props to your colleagues too. We’re all in this together!
2. The Gift of Time: Time is precious, isn’t it? So why not gift it to your team? Schedule one-on-one sessions to check in with your team members. Listen to their ideas, concerns, or even just have a casual chat. Remember, a little quality time goes a long way in making someone feel valued.
3. Tokens of Appreciation: Who doesn’t love surprises? Show your appreciation with thoughtful tokens like gift cards, handwritten notes, or even a simple “thank you” email. It’s not about the grand gesture; it’s about the sentiment behind it. So, get creative and spread some joy!
4. Flexibility Rocks: Life happens. Be a champion to your team by offering flexibility when possible. Whether it’s adjusting schedules or allowing remote work when possible, showing understanding can make a world of difference. Trust us; your team will appreciate the flexibility more than you know!
5. Celebrate Wins, Big or Small: Every victory deserves a celebration! Take the time to celebrate those wins, no matter what they are. Host team lunches, organize fun activities, or even create a virtual high-five channel. Let’s make celebrating success a part of our culture!

Together, we can create an environment where each person feels not just seen, but truly celebrated. Here’s to a future filled with more high-fives, heartfelt thanks, and shared successes.

Remember, appreciation isn’t just a once-in-a-while thing; it’s a mindset. So, let’s keep the appreciation train rolling and watch our teams thrive!

Let’s talk about a topic near and dear to every brain’s heart: learning styles. You know, those quirky little preferences that dictate how we soak up information like sponges in a sea of knowledge. But here’s the thing – not everyone’s sponge is cut from the same cloth. We’re a diverse bunch, and our brains have their own unique ways of saying, “Hey, I want to learn this!”

Auditory Learners

These are the folks who could listen to a podcast on underwater basket weaving and come out as certified experts. They thrive on the spoken word, whether it’s a captivating lecture or the soft tones of a soothing audiobook. If you are in a leadership role and manage an auditory learner, here are some ways to make sure your coaching doesn’t fall on deaf ears:

• Hold regular one-on-one meetings or team discussions to verbally explain concepts and answer questions.
• Encourage them to participate in group discussions and presentations where they can express their ideas verbally.
• Provide access to audio resources such as podcasts, recorded lectures, or verbal instructions for tasks and procedures.

Visual Learners

These are the Picassos of the learning world, painting mental masterpieces with every PowerPoint slide and infographic. They’re the ones who doodle in the margins of their notebooks, creating intricate mind maps that rival the works of Da Vinci himself. If you find yourself drawn to bright colors and bold fonts, chances are your brain prefers to feast its eyes on visual information. If you’re managing a visual learner, here’s how you can paint a picture-perfect guide for them:

• Utilize visual aids like diagrams, charts, and videos to supplement verbal explanations during training sessions.
• Encourage them to take detailed notes, create visual study guides, or use mind mapping techniques to organize information.
• Provide written instructions, manuals, or visual step-by-step guides for reference.

Kinesthetic Learners

These are the hands-on heroes who need to roll up their sleeves and dive headfirst into the thick of things to truly grasp a concept. They learn by doing, whether it’s conducting experiments in the lab or getting their hands dirty in the garden of knowledge. If you’re the type who can’t sit still for too long and learns best through trial and error, you’re probably a kinesthetic connoisseur. Here’s how you can coach with a hands-on approach:

• Incorporate hands-on activities, role-playing scenarios, or interactive simulations to engage their tactile senses.
• Encourage them to practice new skills through real-world applications or hands-on exercises.
• Provide opportunities for them to shadow experienced colleagues, participate in practical workshops, or engage in practical learning opportunities.

But here’s the kicker – most of us aren’t strictly one type or another. We’re more like a mix of different styles, sort of like blending flavors in a smoothie – you have a little bit of auditory, visual, and kinesthetic flair to create our own unique flavor.

So, the next time you’re struggling to wrap your brain around a concept, try mixing up your learning style and see what works best for you. After all, variety is what spices up learning and makes you smarter!

We get it – money can be a tricky thing to handle, especially when life keeps throwing curveballs our way (hello, inflation and rising interest rates!). But fear not, because we’ve got your back!

Why Financial Wellness Matters

Picture this: You’re cruising down the highway of life, and suddenly your car hits a financial pothole. Whether it’s unexpected medical bills, a car repair, or even planning for your future self, having a solid financial foundation is like having a trusty GPS guiding you through the twists and turns.

Imagine finally taking that dream vacation you thought was out of reach. Or how about having the peace of mind that comes from having an emergency fund? With proper financial planning, it’s totally doable. It can be the safety net that keeps you afloat during unexpected financial storms.

Getting Started: Your Financial Wellness Roadmap

1. Assess Your Financial Situation: Take a close look at your income, expenses, and debts. Understanding where you stand is the first step toward making informed decisions about where you want to be.
2. Set Realistic Goals: Whether it’s paying off student loans or saving for a down payment on your future home, having clear goals gives your financial journey purpose.
3. Create a Budget: This isn’t about restricting yourself; it’s about empowering yourself and deciding what your priorities are going to be. A budget helps you allocate funds for everything you value most.
4. Explore Financial Apps: YNAB (You Need A Budget) and Mint are fantastic apps with web access, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Explore apps that align with your goals, help make budgeting easy, and make your financial journey smoother.
5. Review and Adjust: Life changes, and when it does, so should your financial plans. Regularly review your progress and adjust your strategy as needed.

Here are a couple suggestions of apps that can help you budget your money and improve your financial wellness:

Track Every Penny With YNAB

You Need A Budget (YNAB) is like a personal financial coach that fits right in your pocket. It’s not just an app; it’s your partner in managing your money. YNAB helps you give every dollar a job, ensuring you know exactly where your money is going. No more scratching your head at the end of the month wondering where it all went. With YNAB, you’re in control, and that’s powerful!

Mint: Your Financial Sidekick

Meet Mint, your new financial sidekick. This app takes the stress out of budgeting by automatically categorizing your expenses and helping you set realistic goals. It’s like having a knowledgeable friend who nudges you in the right direction. Whether you’re saving for a vacation or building an emergency fund, Mint has your back.

Remember, putting in the effort now to determine your financial roadmap will only benefit you in the future. Financial wellness isn’t a destination; it’s a journey that we’re taking one step at a time. And with the right tools by our side, we’re equipped to roll with the punches and handle whatever comes our way. Let’s make our financial wellness a priority and build a brighter, more secure future – together!

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, having a strong personal brand is like having your very own superhero cape. Your personal brand is a combination of how you present yourself, your reputation, and the way others perceive you in the professional world. It’s your unique promise to the world – a reflection of your values, skills, and the incredible value you bring to the table.

But here’s the exciting part: Your personal brand isn’t set in stone. You have the power to shape it, refine it, and make it shine even brighter. Get ready to unleash your professional potential and leave a lasting impression! Here’s how you can shape your personal brand:

1. Reflect on Your Brand Perception: Take a moment to reflect on how you’re perceived by others in the workplace. Consider feedback you’ve received, both formally and informally. What do your colleagues, supervisors, or clients say about you? Does your brand align with your professional goals? This self-reflection will help you evaluate your current brand perception and identify areas for improvement.
2. Evaluate Your Online Presence: In our digital age, your online presence plays a significant role in shaping your personal brand. Conduct an audit of your social media profiles, especially LinkedIn. Is your profile up to date? Does it accurately reflect your skills, achievements, and aspirations? Also, review your privacy settings on other platforms to ensure your personal and professional lives remain separate. Remember, what you share online can leave a lasting impression.
3. Seek Feedback: Obtaining feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors, or supervisors is invaluable in evaluating the strength of your personal brand. Ask for honest input on how you are perceived in the workplace and how your professional image could be improved. This feedback can provide valuable insights into areas where you may need to focus your efforts to strengthen your brand.
4. Cultivate a Professional Network: Your network can greatly influence your personal brand. Take the time to build and nurture relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals. Engage in meaningful conversations, attend industry events, and participate in networking opportunities. By connecting with others, sharing knowledge, and offering support, you enhance your brand and expand your professional reach.
5. Develop Your Unique Value Proposition: What sets you apart from others? Identify your unique strengths, skills, and experiences. Craft a concise and compelling personal brand statement that communicates your value proposition. This statement should highlight your expertise and the value you bring to the table. Use it as a guiding light to shape your professional brand messaging consistently.

Developing a strong personal brand is an ongoing process that requires self-reflection, continuous learning, and intentional actions. Embrace authenticity, showcase your unique talents, and let your personal brand shine brightly.

Clear and effective communication is the foundation of a harmonious and productive work environment. Yet, miscommunication can easily creep in, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and decreased productivity. Today, we will explore some common reasons for miscommunication and provide practical tips to improve communication within your organization.

1. Missing out on Context: One of the primary culprits of miscommunication is a lack of contextual understanding. This can happen when we internally misunderstand someone’s direction and fail to clarify their expectations of us. When we fail to grasp the broader picture or neglect to clarify expectations, messages can be misconstrued. To address this issue, we can:
   • Practice active inquiry: Ask questions and seek clarity whenever you encounter ambiguous instructions or vague objectives.
   • Provide comprehensive briefings: When delegating tasks, ensure that you provide all the necessary information and context, empowering your colleagues to perform their duties effectively.
2. Making Hasty Assumptions: Assumptions are a communication killer. Making quick judgments without gathering all the facts often leads to miscommunication. To overcome this challenge:
   • Practice open-mindedness: Embrace diverse perspectives and be willing to challenge your assumptions.
   • Seek direct communication: Instead of relying on hearsay or rumors, approach the individuals involved directly to gather accurate information and gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
3. Failing to Actively Listen: Active listening is a vital skill that many of us overlook. When we fail to listen actively, important details can be missed, leading to misunderstandings. Here’s how we can become better listeners:
   • Give undivided attention: When engaging in a conversation, focus solely on the speaker and avoid distractions.
   • Reflect and paraphrase: Summarize and repeat key points to ensure that you have understood the message correctly.
   • Show empathy: Demonstrate understanding and validate the speaker’s feelings, creating a safe and open space for communication.
4. Lack of Employee Motivation: Low motivation can hinder effective communication within a team. To promote engagement and motivation:
   • Foster a positive work culture: Recognize and appreciate employees’ efforts, creating an environment where individuals feel valued and motivated to contribute.
   • Encourage open dialogue: Provide opportunities for employees to voice their ideas, concerns, and suggestions, fostering a sense of ownership and involvement.
5. Using Poor Mediums of Internal Communication: Choosing the right communication medium is essential for transmitting information accurately. Avoiding inefficient communication channels can significantly reduce miscommunication. Here are some best practices:
   • Utilize appropriate platforms: Consider the nature of the message and select the most suitable medium, such as email for formal communication or video conferencing for complex discussions. Avoid texting whenever possible – it is perceived by many to be a casual, informal communication method, and due to the nature of quick texting, it is hardly ever received in the tone and context it was meant to be.
   • Document important information: Instead of relying solely on verbal communication or informal channels, use formal documentation to ensure clarity and prevent misinterpretation.

In a world where communication is key, let’s unlock the doors to effective workplace interaction! By understanding the common pitfalls of miscommunication and implementing simple tips, we can create a friendly and collaborative atmosphere within our organization.

By incorporating these friendly and valuable communication practices, we’ll create a workplace that thrives on collaboration, productivity, and understanding. So, let’s get out there, communicate effectively, and make our workplace a communication utopia!

If you missed Part 1 of our blog series, you can read the full post here. To recap, only the top 10% of skilled nursing facilities within a state receive a 5-star rating on the 5-Star Quality Rating System, and two-thirds of Functional Pathways’ clients have earned a 4- or 5-Star rating, with over 80% achieving a 4- or 5-Star rating for Quality Measures.

So, how does partnering with Functional Pathways make this kind of success possible?

Functional Pathways’ partnership with our clients leads to outcomes that are above industry standards through a combination of a tactical screening process, utilization of QM and MDS analytical software, and evidenced-based clinical programming. Our processes lead to decreased negative survey outcomes and positive census development data.

Why is this important? Because the Quality Rating System is used not only by consumers, but also by health care insurers and others.

According to the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, the Quality Rating System is used by a number of users in addition to the traditional consumer, like health care insurers, investors, and state regulators. This highlights the importance of a 4- or 5-star rating, because they are used to determine reimbursements, loans, and payments.

A better rating not only means families and patients are more likely to choose your community, but it means your facility is less likely to face penalties and more likely to be successful financially.

CMS is continuing to raise the bar for quality measures, with threshold updates every 6 months. This makes it imperative for every facility to be in a constant state of improvement with their outcomes. Even facilities that currently have a 5-star rating cannot rest on their laurels; they must continue to seek out improvement and not grow stagnant in their operations.

With a strong collaboration between facility and therapy teams, achieving and exceeding those thresholds is not only attainable with Functional Pathways, but also sustainable.

Do you want your facility to exceed expectations and work towards becoming a center of excellence? Click here to schedule an appointment with Functional Pathways today.

Resources:

https://www.ahcancal.org/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Pages/FiveStar.aspx#:~:text=The%20Five%2DStar%20Quality%20Rating,%2C%20Quality%20Measures%2C%20and%20Staffing.

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/CertificationandComplianc/downloads/brieffivestartug.pdf

Does your therapy provider help drive your Quality Measure Rating to 5-Star success? As the SNF and LTC industry moves away from fee-for-service and embraces value-based care, understanding how to achieve positive outcomes has never been more important. At Functional Pathways, our process of analyzing and improving Quality Measure performance has enhanced the clinical outcomes for our patients and clients.

Our facilities are better than the national averages in many reportable outcomes, and over three-fourths of our partner facilities are rated as 4- or 5-Stars for Quality Measures. Some of our results include:

• 81% of FP clients are 4- or 5-Stars for Quality Measures
• 65% of FP clients are 4- or 5-Star communities
• FP clients as a whole are 19% better than the national average in patient mobility improvement
• FP re-hospitalization average is 10% below national average
• Over 70% of clients have lower than national average for Falls with Major Injury

But what’s so important about being a 4- or 5-Star facility? Let’s take a look at what it means to achieve that designation in part one of this blog series, and part two will explore why FP clients are exceeding expectations.

The 5-Star Quality Rating System was created to compare nursing home quality based on health inspections, quality measures (QMs), and staffing. Health inspection ratings are dependent on the calculation of points extracted from results of nursing home surveys from the past three years, with recent surveys weighing more heavily in the calculation. Those results are used to rank nursing homes within their state, and the top 10% of those nursing homes get 5-star ratings.

Additionally, quality measure ratings are calculated based on a nursing home’s performance in long-stay ADL decline, mobility decline, catheter, high-risk pressure ulcers, physical restraints, urinary tract infections, moderate to severe pain, and short-stay pressure ulcers, and moderate to severe pain- delirium. “ADL decline” and “mobility decline” are ranked against other nursing homes in the state, and the other 8 quality measures are ranked against other nursing homes in the nation, with the top 10% of nursing homes receiving 5 stars.

Only the best facilities receive a 5-star rating, and only very successful facilities are even able to achieve a 4-star rating.

At Functional Pathways, we provide the resources and support necessary to make your community a center of excellence. Two-thirds of our clients rank among the best nursing homes in the nation according to the Quality Rating System, and we can help your community be next.

Schedule an appointment with us today to learn how we can help your facility exceed expectations.

Resources:

https://www.ahcancal.org/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Pages/FiveStar.aspx#:~:text=The%20Five%2DStar%20Quality%20Rating,%2C%20Quality%20Measures%2C%20and%20Staffing.https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/CertificationandComplianc/downloads/brieffivestartug.pdf