The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare recently recognized Visiting Nurse Service (VNS) of Ithaca and Tompkins County with a 4-star rating for quality of care and patient surveys.
The Quality of Patient Care Star Ratings signify how home health agencies compare with one another on measurements of the quality of patient care performance. VNS’ above-average rating reflects seven assessments of quality, including timely initiation of care, management of oral medications, and ambulation. When surveyed, patients also rated VNS a 4-star agency.
For Ithaca and Tompkins County home health agencies, VNS scored highest on quality of patient care. The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare updates star ratings quarterly at https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/.
“The 4-star rating demonstrates the exceptional care provided by the dedicated staff of Visiting Nurse Service,” stated Dr. Martin Stallone, President and CEO for Cayuga Health. “Cayuga Health most visibly offers hospital care, but also focuses on office-based care, transportation, rehabilitative care, skilled nursing, and more, including the vital services we are pleased to provide patients in their homes through VNS.”
“At home nursing can address potential issues and reduce the need for hospitalization or nursing home placement. It also plays a critical role for patients returning to their home as they recover,” said Sue Ellen Stuart, Executive Director for Visiting Nurse Service. “We are proud to offer nursing and other needed medical services to our community and to deliver care with excellence.”
VNS, an affiliate of Cayuga Health, provides home medical care, including nursing, social work, nutrition, home health aide, and physical, occupational and speech therapy.
The CMS Quality of Patient Care Star Ratings are based on Outcome and Assessment Information and Medicare claims data. Patient Survey Star Ratings are based on the Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers & Systems.
To inquire about care, contact Visiting Nurse Service at (607) 273-0466 or VNSIthaca.org.
