Consonus Pharmacy, a leading independent, long term care pharmacy, is partnering with Lifespark™, a complete senior health company in Minnesota. The two industry leaders have joined forces to enhance pharmaceutical […]
Consonus News
Important information and stories we love to share.
Regulation, limited resources and an ever growing need. You hear these issues in the news every day and it can weigh you down. At Consonus, we inform you on industry news but we also share feel-good stories that might not make headlines. After all, this is a people business.
Value-Based Care: A Conversation with Steve Fogg
Steve Fogg, CFO of Marquis Companies, Consonus Healthcare, and AgeRight Care Management Solutions, was recently a featured guest on VIUM Capital’s VERSED podcast with Scott Tittle. Steve spoke about his […]
Skilled Nursing News: Strategic Positioning with Primary Payers
The payment landscape is evolving and Jonalyn Brown, Vice President of Operations at Consonus Rehab, sat down with Tim Mullaney of Skilled Nursing News to explain the value of strategic […]
Phil Fogg Advocates for Long-Term Care Workforce Solutions
Phil Fogg, CEO of Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare, and board chairman of the American Health Care Association (AHCA), shared several points during the 2023 Congressional Briefing in advocacy of […]
McKnight's: Phil Fogg of AHCA Emphasizes the Need for Provider Protections
Skilled nursing providers could support a federal minimum staffing rule that is funded and protects them from penalties if they make “best faith efforts” to hire, according to one of […]
McKnight's webinar reveals trends that will shape the future of the senior care profession.
In this recent McKnight’s webinar, learn from two industry experts about the trends that will shape the future of the senior care profession. Phil Fogg, President and CEO of Consonus […]
Consonus Leadership Advocates During Advion Conference
Our Consonus Rehab leaders, Guy Cowart, Jonalyn Brown, and Tracy Fritts, all participated in the Advion Legislative & Regulatory Conference in Washington D.C. Advion is a strong advocate for issues […]
McKnight's: "Consonus Promotes Guy Cowart to Chief Customer Success Officer"
Guy Cowart had been promoted to chief customer success officer at Consonus Healthcare. Cowart joined Consonus Rehab (then RSI) in 2001 and regional vice president of operations to oversee the […]
Consonus Healthcare Responds to Resource Needs with Strategic, Key Promotion
Trusted internal leader takes the helm as chief customer success officer to navigate success in a post COVID-19 world PORTLAND, Ore. – Consonus Healthcare, a leading provider of pharmacy, therapy, […]
Skilled Nursing News: “New Initiative Will Help Nursing Homes Facing ‘Unique’ Staffing Crisis”
With the current workforce crisis, 96% of nursing homes are experiencing staffing and hiring challenges. As skilled nursing industry leaders push for new initiatives and launch resources to address the […]
McKnight's: "Now is the sector's time to shine, top leader says"
What are the possibilities and opportunities for the future of long-term care? Phil Fogg, president and CEO of Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare, and Board Chairman of AHCA/NCAL, knows the biggest challenges […]
Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists: Clinician Spotlight for Antibiotic Awareness Week
Alex Neukirch, Consultant Pharmacist at Community Pharmacy a Consonus Healthcare Company, was recognized by SIDP for his long-term care antimicrobial stewardship. SIDP highlighted members who promote optimal antibiotic use and […]
McKnight's: "Parkinson: Naysayers Were Wrong - The Sector is Recovering"
At the 73rd Annual American Healthcare Association (AHCA) and National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) convention, providers are optimistic about the future and road ahead. With current challenges in staffing, and […]
Skilled Nursing News: Nursing Home Operators Move in Radically Different Directions
While so many nursing home trends have been altered by the pandemic, one has interestingly stayed in line with pre-pandemic statistics: Medicare Advantage’s (MA) growth trajectory. MA is still expected […]
Provider: "Special Needs Plans Improve Care and Access"
Chief Financial Officer of Marquis Companies Steve Fogg has been in the long term care industry since 1986 as part of a multi-generational family business in Oregon. Marquis Companies became […]
McKnight's: With Leap in Nursing Home Costs, Doing Nothing Not an Option
WASHINGTON, DC — After two years in which nursing homes have been pilloried in the media and come under increased regulatory scrutiny, the nation’s top provider organization hopes two days […]
Baby Boomers Are Driving a New Revolution in Health Care
Baby Boomers Will Soon Make History as the Largest Population in the US and They Want a Fresh Approach to Health Care That Keeps Them Active, Independent and Aging Well […]
McKnight's: Providers Encouraged by Leadership on Nursing Home Reform
In a recent article by McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, Phil Fogg, CEO of Marquis & Consonus and AHCA Board President shares his thoughts after meeting with CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure […]
Phil Fogg’s First 120 Days as AHCA Chair
Shooting for the Stars: An Interview with Phil Fogg Jr., on How the New Leader of the American Health Care Association is Fighting to Rescue the Senior Healthcare Industry Cue […]
McKnight's: Creative Funding, Education Will Pave Route to Success
After two years of operating during a public health emergency, skilled nursing leaders are looking to reinvigorate their workforces, facilities and the industry. McKnight’s Long-Term Care News asks: What will […]
McKnight's: Therapists Cheer PDPM Outcomes, Rebuke Overutilization
Therapy leaders are hailing results of a new study showing outcomes were not harmed during the first five months of the Patient-Driven Payment Model. At the same time, they caution […]
Portland Business Journal: Why Is the Long-term Care Industry in a Labor Crunch?
The health care industry’s labor shortage is hitting the long-term and post-acute care sector especially hard, in Oregon and across the nation. Since February 2020, just before the Covid-19 pandemic […]
Skilled Nursing News: Occupancy Recovery Difficult to Predict for SNFs with Delta Variant
Some skilled nursing operators and industry advocates expected occupancy recovery from COVID-19 to occur by the end of 2021, but with the onset of the delta variant and staffing shortages […]
Phil Fogg Selected to AHCA Through Industry's Most Challenging Time
Fogg, founder of fifth generation Marquis Companies, will tackle workforce shortages, regulatory threats and underfunded Medicaid rates endangering long term care facilities PORTLAND, Ore. — (October 14, 2021) — Phil […]
Provider Magazine: Handling the Workforce Crisis, Win the Workforce Toolkit
As we attempt to make our way out of a global pandemic, and arguably one of the most challenging years in the senior care profession, we are simultaneously battling a […]
AHCA/NCAL: “Care For Our Seniors Act”
Why It’s Time to Transform America’s Nursing Homes The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated long-standing challenges impacting the long term care profession. The sector is dedicated to learning from this […]
Senior Housing News: Senior Living Providers Prep for Booster Clinics
Preparing for COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots “Covid-19 booster shots are on the horizon, and senior living providers are moving ahead with planning clinics for residents and staff while awaiting greater […]
Win the Workforce Toolkit
Strategies to source, recruit and retain staff during a workforce crisis. As we attempt to make our way out of a global pandemic, and arguably one of the most challenging […]
Skilled Nursing News: Diversified Service Lines Position SNFs for Post-Pandemic World
Steve Fogg, CFO of Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare, sits down with Skilled Nursing News to discuss how senior care organizations with diversified services lines are in a better position […]
Consonus Pharmacy Partners with AMDA & ASCP
Consonus Pharmacy Joins the National Drive to Deprescribe Initiative Consonus Pharmacy is honored to be invited to join the National Drive to Prescribe initiative (D2D) developed by AMDA/ ASCP as […]
The Touching Journey of Infection Control
The Stakes are High 2020 was a year of infection control focus. We don’t look at our environment in the same way. As senior care providers, we have lived through […]
Vaccine Continuity Plan
Achieve a high vaccine participation rate by implementing a vaccine continuity plan Don’t wait! Get your plan in place today. COVID-19 vaccine clinics are complete. You may have reached a […]
McKnight's: Pharmacies Demand More Provider Relief Funding from Congress
A coalition of long-term care pharmacies is calling top federal lawmakers to prioritize the sector for future Provider Relief Fund allocations after receiving no assistance from the reserve since its […]
McKnight's: Fed-up CEOs Embrace Strategies That Limit Carriers’ Influence
Medicare Advantage aggressively penetrates the market, representing a major threat to skilled nursing providers, some of whom now find themselves clearing less per resident day through MA plans than they […]
Senior Housing News: Marquis Reaps Benefits from Own It, Do It Ourselves Approach
In a recent interview with Senior Housing News for their Transform podcast, Phil Fogg, CEO of Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare, focuses on the future of senior living and the […]
Senior Housing News: Pause in J&J Vaccine May Have Consequences for Providers
Pause In Johnson & Johnson Covid Vaccine Could Have Consequences for Senior Living Providers Senior Housing News reports, “Federal health officials are recommending a halt in administering the Johnson & […]
Better Together - Consonus & Community Pharmacy
Community Pharmacy joins the Consonus Healthcare family of services. This strategic alliance between two of the most experienced and innovative independent pharmacies in the nation will result in expanded services […]
Consonus Healthcare and Community Pharmacy Unite
National Leaders in COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign for Long Term Care, Unite; Consonus Healthcare, Community Pharmacy Expand Services for Safer Prescription Use, Fewer Hospitalizations, Greater Efficiencies At Senior Living Centers Long […]
McKnight's: COVID Death Rates Are Down. Now Comes the Hard Part.
COVID death rates are way down. Now comes the hard part, reports McKnight’s Long Term Care News. Start preparations for Phase 2 of the vaccination program. So urged Marquis Companies […]
OPB: "COVID-19 Good News"
First Doses of Vaccine Have Reached Almost All Oregonians in Long-Term Care Oregon reached a monumental milestone last week in the fight against COVID-19, first doses of the vaccine have […]
McKnight's: Marquis Companies Reaches 82% Staff Vaccination
Northwest-based Marquis Companies not only already completed its third round of staff and resident COVID-19 vaccinations over the weekend, it also registered what could be the nation’s best 82% staff […]
KGW: "Pharmacy Vaccination Appointments"
Marquis and its subsidiary Consonus Pharmacy were part of the joint effort with Walgreens and CVS to vaccinate senior living communities in Oregon and Washington. Consonus is about to wrap […]
Vaccination Participation Rate Success
Far Outpacing New National CDC Numbers On Vaccination Participation, Marquis Senior Living Centers Vaccinate 90 Percent Of Residents, 82 Percent Of Staff––Finishing Weeks Ahead Of Other Providers With Most of […]
Skagit Valley Herald: Vaccinations at Sedro-Woolley Assisted Living Facility
Consonus Pharmacy vaccinated staff and residents at Country Meadow Village, a Village Concepts Assisted Living Facility. Village Concepts partners with CDC-approved Consonus Healthcare for its 14 facilities in the state […]
What Does the Future Hold for LTC Post-vaccine?
Webinar Education Opportunity What: “What does the future hold for LTC post-vaccine?” Who: Presented by Phil Fogg, CEO of Consonus Healthcare and Marquis Companies. Hosted by McKnight’s Long Term Care News. […]
KGW: Oregon Nursing Facilities Finish First Round of Vaccinations
OREGON, USA — Oregon-based Consonus Pharmacy arranged distribution and clinics through a federal vaccine program. According to Oregon Health Care Association (OHCA), there are 130 nursing facilities in Oregon, serving more than […]
Canby Current: Canby Care Facilities Receive Covid Vaccinations
COVID Vaccinations in Canby Marquis Companies — which manages an assisted living, rehab and memory care facility on the campus of the Hope Village Senior Living Community — announced this week that it […]
KPTV: "COVID-19 Vaccine Second Doses"
PORTLAND, OR (KPTV) – As the Oregon Health Authority works to increase the pace of vaccinations around the state, we’re seeing more people also getting their second round of the vaccine. […]
Seattle Times: Inside the Slow Rollout of Vaccines in Washington State
Long-term care facilities are still waiting on coronavirus vaccines Long-term care facilities have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic, accounting for more than half the state’s deaths. A record […]
KGW: "Senior Center Starts Round Two"
KGW reports what you need to know about Coronavirus right now. Consonus Pharmacy is one of seven non-retail pharmacies in the country approved to give vaccines to seniors in long […]
Consonus Pharmacy Launches Second Round of Vaccinations
Oregon’s Fifth Generation, Consonus Pharmacy is Far Ahead of Schedule to Vaccinate Seniors, Launches Second Round of COVID-19 Vaccinations Today, and Has Provided 40 Percent of the Vaccines to Oregonians […]
Senior Housing News: Providers Prepare for Hurdles as Vaccine Reaches Senior Facilities
Leading the rollout In an article published by Senior Housing News, Consonus Pharmacy is deemed a leader in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and helping the lifesaving vaccine reach senior living […]
KUOW: When Are WA Senior Homes Getting Vaccinated?
WA senior homes with COVID outbreaks get no response from pharmacies Many senior living communities were expecting to begin Covid vaccinations next week. But they say they haven’t gotten any […]
Senior Housing News: First Clinics for Long-awaited COVID-19 Vaccine
Less than a year ago, the senior living industry stood at the precipice of Covid-19. Now, the industry is on the cusp of another potentially seismic event: the deployment of […]
KEZI: "Seniors Next for COVID19 Vaccine"
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has announced that Consonus Pharmacy will be giving out COVID-19 vaccines to long term care residents and staff this week across Oregon. Find out who gets […]
KOIN: "Senior Care Facilities Getting Vaccines"
Senior care facilities in Oregon started receiving the life-saving COVID-19 vaccine yesterday. These facilities are among the first in the nation to receive the vaccine. Consonus Pharmacy is one of […]
KPDX: "Long Term Care Facility Vaccinations"
Consonus Pharmacy is honored to dispense the COVID-19 vaccine to the first long term care facilities in Oregon. The first senior to receive the life-saving vaccine is Ed Johann, a […]
KPTV: "Vaccines in Long Term Care"
COVID-19 vaccines in long term care start next week. The vaccinations will begin Monday at three of 120 facilities serviced by Consonus Pharmacy in Oregon. Phil Fogg, CEO of Marquis […]
KATU: Long-term Residents Next in Line for COVID-19 Vaccine
Phil Fogg, CEO of Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare, sat down with KATU to discuss how residents and staff in long term care facilities in Oregon will be the next […]
KGW: Seniors to Receive Next Vaccinations in Oregon and Washington
PORTLAND, Ore. — Senior communities in Oregon and Washington are next in line after health care workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Phil Fogg Jr. is president of Marquis Companies, which runs […]
OHA: State’s First COVID-19 Vaccines Given to Health Care Workers
More than 35,000 doses expected in Oregon before week’s end; Director Allen clarifies remarks PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 immunizations with the new Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine began today in Oregon, kicking off […]
KXL: "Consonus Will Begin Dispensing the Vaccine to Older Adults in Long-term Care"
In a KXL FM News 101 interview, Rosemary Reynolds talks to Phil Fogg, CEO of Consonus Healthcare, about dispensing the COVID-19 vaccine to older adults residing in long term care […]
OPB Think Out Loud: Consonus Rolls Out First COVID-19 Vaccine to Long-term Facilities
The first COVID-19 vaccine shipments arrived in Oregon this week. Consonus Pharmacy is one of seven approved long term care pharmacies to administer the vaccine to seniors and frontline workers […]
KOIN: "Vaccine Shipments Arrive in Pacific NW"
COVID-19 Vaccine to Long Term Care Staff and Residents As COVID-19 vaccines begin to arrive in the Pacific NW, Wayne Havrelly from KOIN 6 news, sits down with Phil Fogg, […]
The Vaccine Campaign of Our Lifetime
The Vaccine Campaign of Our Lifetime Oregon’s Governor And The Oregon Health Care Association Partner With Consonus Pharmacy To Bring The First COVID-19 Vaccines To Seniors And Staff In Senior […]
OHA: "First Doses of COVID-19 Vaccine Arrive in Oregon"
PORTLAND, Ore. — The first COVID-19 vaccine doses have arrived in Oregon. Legacy Health is the first registered COVID-19 vaccine provider in the state to receive the vaccine, made by […]
The Seattle Times: Washington Lays Out Who Should Get First Coronavirus Vaccines
Washington State Department of Health officials, who are preparing for coronavirus vaccination to begin as early as the middle of next week, issued more detailed guidance Thursday on who should […]
Consonus Pharmacy Approved as Trusted Provider of the COVID-19 Vaccine
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Approves Consonus Pharmacy as Trusted Provider of the COVID-19 Vaccine to Long Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities The CDC Acknowledges the Long […]
CalMatters: Vaccines Getting Closer: Governor Outlines Priorities
Californians will likely see the first doses of Pfizer’s new COVID-19 vaccine arrive between Dec. 12 and 15, Gov. Gavin Newsom said today as he unveiled the state’s distribution plans […]
Consonus Pharmacy Approved for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution
CDC Approves Consonus Pharmacy for COVID-19 Phase 1 Vaccine Distribution Recently, we’ve all been on the receiving end of a lot of great news about COVID-19 vaccines. Here at Consonus, […]
2020 Thanksgiving - Stay Small to Stay Safe
Small Sacrifices Prevent Tragedies In a recent CNN report, AHCA President and CEO Mark Parkinson discussed record nursing home cases due to community spread. As we head into the holiday […]
The Hill: Medicare Cutting Senior Fund During COVID-19 Is Unfathomable
Americans living in nursing homes during the last several months face the greatest health challenges residents of these facilities have ever experienced. COVID-19 has changed everything. It has caused heartache […]
RoP & Infection Control: Tools to Maintain Compliance
RoP, Infection Control, COVID-19, all buzzwords of 2020. We no longer look at our environment in the same way. As we have lived through Focused Infection Control Surveys, Federal, State […]
Newsweek: "America's Best Nursing Homes 2021"
Newsweek partnered with respected global data research from Statista to establish a ranking of Best Nursing Homes, providing information and insights to help readers understand their options at a very […]
Provider Magazine: Fogg Assesses State of Pandemic Response for Marquis Facilities
Phil Fogg, chief executive officer, Marquis Companies, Milwaukie, Ore., and vice chair of the American Health Care Association (AHCA), offered his take on COVID and the pandemic’s impact on his […]
Enterprise-Record: After a Fight, Two Chicoans Triumph Over Coronavirus
Enterprise-Record: COVID-19 recovery may require therapy. Consonus Therapy plays a vital role in COVID-19 recovery. Read the article from Enterprise-Record to learn more about the success stories of two patients […]
Pharmacy Times: LTC Pharmacists Drive Positive Clinical Outcomes
A recently published study, “The Value of the Long-Term Care Pharmacist in the Delivery and Continuum of Care,” by Managed Health Care Associates (MHA), supports the notion that investments in […]
Relationships Matter More
At Consonus, relationships matter more This challenging year has reminded us about the importance of community and connection. Our worlds have shrunk and great relationships matter more. Shared values and […]
Managing Resident Well-Being: Leveraging Your Pharmacy Partner
Managing resident well-being is critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing restrictions on visitation have left many seniors feeling lonely or isolated. We know frontline staff are working tirelessly to […]
Three Actions to Help Fight the Flu
Flu prevention is more important this year due to the heightened risk of the COVID-19 virus. This double threat makes it critical to fight the flu. FACT: Influenza (flu) is […]
McKnight's: Six Proven Tips for Navigating the COVID-19 and PDPM
Kingda Ka, at New Jersey’s Six Flags, is the world’s tallest, most terrifying roller coaster ride. It comes with a warning: “Not Recommended for Wimps.” Seconds after take-off, you’re hurtling […]
Consonus Pharmacy: Your Proven Partner
Who is Consonus Pharmacy? Why are they the best partner during the COVID-19 crisis? Consonus Pharmacy is an independent long-term care pharmacy providing unique clinical benefits to seniors residing in […]
Flu & COVID-19: Preparing for the Double Threat
We’re breaking down three things you can do to help navigate the dual challenges of the flu and the coronavirus (COVID-19). This video helps prepare and plan for flu vaccines during […]
Consonus Rehab: Your Proven Partner
Who is Consonus Rehab? Why are they the best partner during the COVID-19 crisis? Consonus Rehab is a contract therapy company that focuses on making your residents and your business […]
Ancillary Providers Scorecard
How have your ancillary providers partnered with you during the COVID-19 crisis? Ancillary providers should be your partner during good times and challenging times. The COVID-19 pandemic has tested the […]
Consonus Healthcare Appoints Laurie Schadegg Thomas to Chief Operating Officer
Former Chief Operating Officer, Dave Lewis, Retires; Honored for this 20+ Years of Leadership and Contributions to Company’s Growth and Success MILWAUKIE, Ore. — June 3, 2020 — Consonus Healthcare, […]
McKnight's: Tackling Leadership, Business Continuity During COVID-19
McKnight’s Long Term Care News is going in-depth into the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on senior living during a special Online Forum on June 4th. The educational webinar is free […]
Pharmacy Times: Long-Term Care Team Puts Patients First in Skilled Nursing Facility
Today, we’re celebrating the entire pharmacy team at Consonus Pharmacy in Las Vegas, Nevada. Although the team is small, they are in a unique position to help their patients because […]
PointClickCare Acquires Co-Pilot Analytics Solution
PointClickCare Strengthens Analytics Portfolio to Expand Access to Critical Data Insights for Senior Care Providers MISSISSAUGA, ON – May 5, 2020 – PointClickCare Technologies Inc., the leader in cloud-based software technology […]
McKnight's: Foresight and Flexibility the Keys to COVID-19 Survival
James M. Berklan from McKnight’s Long Term Care News writes an update on COVID-19 survival techniques, based on discussions and webinar education from Phil Fogg, Jr. With clinical, regulatory and […]
The Oregonian: Finding Ways to Remind Isolated Seniors, They Are Not Forgotten
The Oregonian writes about positivity campaigns initiated by Marquis Companies, Consonus Healthcare, and Vital Life Foundation to keep seniors from feeling isolated during the COVID-19 crisis. “The walls have closed […]
McKnight's: Special Online Forum on April 23 Tackles COVID-19
McKnight’s is going in-depth into the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on senior living during a special Online Forum on April 23. A total of three webinars – all FREE – […]
KOIN: Oregon Vet Recovers from COVID-19, Celebrates 104th Birthday
William “Bill” Lapschies started showing signs of coronavirus in early March. LEBANON, Ore. (KOIN) — An Oregon man is celebrating both his 104th birthday and his recovery from the novel […]
Skilled Nursing News: Despite Underperformance of Omnicare, Pharmacies Are Optimistic
While some long-term care pharmacies are struggling to stay afloat, others are thriving despite headwinds such as reduced reimbursements and coding challenges in the skilled nursing sector. Commoditization is one […]
McKnight's: Marquis’ Phil Fogg Is Living Life in the Fast Lane
From the time he was a boy, Phil Fogg, CEO of Marquis Companies, wanted to be like Dad. Back then, Phil Fogg Sr. ran the Marquis Piedmont, a nursing home […]
Skilled Nursing News: "Embracing End-of-life Plans Can Lead to Better Skilled Nursing Care — While Reducing Unnecessary Costs"
For nursing home owners and operators, having frank conversations about residents’ end-of-life intentions, and organizing the associated paperwork proactively, is a potential way to avoid unwanted hospitalizations and the sizable […]
PointClickCare Unveils the Winners of Its 2019 Partner Awards
TORONTO, ON., November. 21 – PointClickCare, the leading cloud-based software vendor for the senior care market, recently announced the winners of its 2019 Partner Awards. Winners were revealed at the […]
PPD Calcuator Resource
PDPM has been in effect since October 1, 2019. If you don’t know how this is going to affect your organization financially, it starts by knowing what your Medicare Revenue […]
The Difference Between LTC and Retail Pharmacy - A Virtual Tour
Independent long-term care (LTC) pharmacies operate and provide care within a unique and growing space in America’s care continuum. As demonstrated in this video, they offer unique clinical benefits to […]
Provider Magazine: "Associations Elect New Board Members at Annual Convention"
The American Health Care Association (AHCA) and the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) elected full slates of board officers at their annual convention today. The officers will represent care […]
Skilled Nursing News: "Therapy’s PDPM Paradox: Clinicians Have More Control, But Smaller Rehab Staffs Needed for Now"
The new Medicare payment model for nursing homes took effect this week with a bang, as therapists across the nation criticized a wave of staffing reductions in the immediate wake […]
KOIN: "Vets, Vintage Aircraft, and the End of World War 2"
AURORA, Ore. (KOIN) — Hundreds of veterans and their family members flew in vintage aircraft on Wednesday to celebrate the end of World War 2. The Vital Life Foundation hosted […]
McKnight's: "PDPM: Where Providers Should Be Now, on Oct.1, and at 6 and 12 Months Post Implementation"
“Tick, Tick … Boom!,” a lesser known musical by composer Jonathan Larson, who won a Pulitzer and three Tony Awards for his musical “Rent,” opens with a ticking sound. “The […]
Reducing Readmissions: Pharmacist Interventions
Approximately 20% of patients discharged from a hospital experience post-discharge adverse events. Two-thirds of these adverse events are medication-related and nearly one-third are serious or life-threatening, often resulting in rehospitalization. […]
USP 800: What Is It, Why It Matters, and How to Prepare for It
USP 800 will change how you protect your staff from hazardous drugs. We’ve broken down the details and shared a 4-step preparation plan, below. While recent changes mean that the […]
Are You Ready for PHASE 3 OF RoP?
RoP Phase 1 and 2 have been issued, and we’re starting to see their effect in survey results. Phase 3 is coming on November 28, 2019. There are new & […]
Skilled Nursing News: "Bundling is Not Your Friend"
Among the many skilled nursing landmines — from a new Medicare payment system to underfunded Medicaid programs to a shifting regulatory landscape — providers would be wise not to ignore […]
McKnight's: "Ensuring Compliance in the Ever-changing LTC Environment"
The long-term care industry is two and a half years into the Mega-Rule process of the consolidated Medicare and Medicaid Requirements of Participation. The third and final phase goes into […]
Does Integrating eMAR for Senior Living Communities Live Up to the Hype?
As a senior living operator, you are working hard every day to attract new residents and then keep those residents healthy and safe. A strong medication management program is critical […]
Consonus Healthcare Launches "PDPM 2U"
PORTLAND, Ore. – April 4, 2019 – Consonus Healthcare, a post acute consulting, rehab, pharmacy and data analytics company, announced the launch of its “PDPM 2U” program today for partner […]
Q13Fox: "Healthy Living: Preventing Falls in Your Home"
Whether it’s yourself or you are caring for an aging loved one, falling is a very serious concern for a lot of people. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control […]
McKnight's: "Executive Decisions: Destiny in Hand"
Provider-owned Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs) are one of the newest waves in long-term care. Designed to take control of insurance funding for a special class of residents, I-SNPs have […]
Senior Housing News: "Juniper, Marquis Execs: Launching a Medicare Advantage Plan is Daunting, Rewarding"
Launching a Medicare Advantage (MA) insurance plan is a huge undertaking for a senior living provider. However, the work and risks involved could be worthwhile, considering recent changes to the […]
What's Ahead in 2019: Six Predictions and Insights
VP of Strategic Development Laurie Thomas and CEO Phil Fogg give a critical overview of what Consonus faces in the new year and offer some essential strategies and tools to […]
Navigating PDPM: The Right Rehab Partnership Yields Great Value
By Guy Cowart, Consonus Rehab President It’s no secret that 2019 will bring tremendous change to our profession—maybe more than most of us have ever experienced. At Consonus, we’re in […]
Skilled Nursing News: "Marquis Cuts Readmission Rate By 60% with Patient-Tracking Software Pilot"
In less than six months, a skilled nursing provider in the Pacific Northwest cut hospital readmissions by 60%, and its director of data analytics credits a novel pilot partnership with […]
Skilled Nursing News: "No Room for Error as Providers Update Rehab Contracts Under PDPM"
When sitting down at the negotiating table, rehabilitation companies can often have an edge over the skilled nursing facilities where they provide services. This is especially true as providers take […]
WJLA: “Holocaust Survivors Visit Museum with World War II Veterans”
WASHINGTON (ABC7) — Les Aigner’s trip to the United States Holocaust Museum proved to be even more meaningful than he could have imagined. Aigner, a Holocaust survivor, has walked the […]
KOIN: “Holocaust Survivors from Oregon Take ‘Journey of Heroes’”
TUALATIN, Ore. (KOIN) — Eva and Les Aigner have been married for more than 60 years. They met and married in Budapest and immigrated to the United States shortly after. […]
KATU: “Holocaust Survivors Fly from Portland Area to D.C. to Visit Memorial Museum"
TUALATIN, Ore. – A Tualatin couple is sharing their harrowing holocaust survival stories ahead of a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Washington, D.C. In D.C., they’ll visit war memorials and the Holocaust […]
Pathway Health Selected as Training and Implementation Partner for the Consonus Co-Pilot
LAKE ELMO, Minn. and MILWAUKIE, Ore., October 09, 2018 — Pathway Health has been selected by Consonus Healthcare as its implementation, training and ongoing support services partner for its new […]
McKnight's: "Opioids and Senior Care—the Ripple Effect"
Even if you’ve been avoiding the depressing evening news and have cut the newspaper from your budget, you’re probably still well aware we’re in the midst of an opioid epidemic. […]
NonProfit PRO: “10 Lessons Learned from a Decade of Investing in Senior Care"
Giving back to the community has always been a significant part of the Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare philosophy. Advocating for the causes we believe in is important to us, […]
KPTV: "WWII Veterans Take Flight"
KPTV reports as WWII veterans step back in time and into the cockpit of a vintage aircraft. This special event included a powerful message of gratitude.
KGW: “Project to Interview All Surviving W2 Vets”
Filmmaker Rishi Sharma has been driving around the country interviewing WWII vets to appreciate what they sacrificed to ensure the next generation’s future.
Wilsonville Spokesman: "A Flight to Remember"
Wilsonville residents Ed Johann and Frank Walsh’s most visceral experiences from World War II took place on different continents and on opposite ends of the United States’ war timeline. Johann […]
Woodburn Independent: “Aurora State Airport Hosts Spirit of '45 Event for Veterans”
A veterans appreciation event touched down Aug. 15 and 16 at Aurora State Airport, with Portland-area World War II veterans receiving recognition and, for some, a ride in a historic […]
Portland Society Page: “Seventh Annual BridgeTown Bash Raises Record $715, 772”
Milwaukie, OR. The Vital Life Foundation, a 503 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, held its Seventh Annual BridgeTown Bash on June 22. The local nonprofit announced that this year’s event raised a […]
Portland Monthly: “Vital Life Foundation’s BridgeTown Bash”
2018 marks the 10th year of the Vital Life Foundation so we traveled to Alexana Winery for a night of celebration, honoring our generous donors who have made it all […]
Consonus PDPM Update Based on CMS Final Rule Release
On July 31, The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued final details of the Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM). As expected, there were no significant changes, and the PDPM will go […]
Vital Life Foundation Raises $715,772 at Seventh Annual Bridgetown Bash
MILWAUKIE, Ore. – July 26, 2018 – The Vital Life Foundation, a 503 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, held their Seventh Annual BridgeTown Bash on June 22. The local nonprofit is thrilled […]
Dear CMS: We Have Questions Regarding PDPM
On May 8, CMS issued the Fiscal Year 2019 SNF Proposed Rule. Since then, Consonus Leadership has been reviewing, pondering and ultimately questioning the Proposed Rule’s content. Comments were due back […]
Preparing for RoP
The Long-Term Care (LTC) industry is just five months into phase 2 of the consolidated Medicare and Medicaid Requirements of Participation (RoP) for LTC Facilities. Phase 1 began on November […]
CMS Releases New 2019 Proposed Rule; Consonus is Ready
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a new Proposed Rule for skilled nursing facilities Friday, April 27. What was once known as RCS-1 is now the proposed Patient-Driven Payment […]
SCPC: President of Consonus Healthcare Dave Lewis to Serve as LTC Pharmacy Advocacy Group’s Secretary
Washington, DC – Dave Lewis, President of Milwaukie, OR-based Consonus Healthcare has been tapped to serve as the new Secretary for the Senior Care Pharmacy Coalition (SCPC), the Washington D.C.-based […]
Consonus Pharmacy Introduces a New Solution for Assisted and Independent Living Communities
Consonus Pharmacy’s “Your Perfect Dose” program shares the benefits of a preferred partner pharmacy with assisted and independent living residents. Focus on saving time and stress while Consonus cares for […]
Skilled Nursing News: "As Managed Care Grows, Skilled Nursing Providers Have Leverage"
Skilled nursing providers are adding value for managed care payors, and they need to be willing to tout it in contract negotiations, according to one executive. “[Managed care] is coming […]
Skilled Nursing News: “Data-Driven Partnership Targets Hospital Admissions from Nursing Homes”
A new partnership aims to give skilled nursing facilities a leg up in preventing readmissions by facilitating the transmission of patient data in as close to real time as possible. […]
KWQC: “89-year-old Is Granted a Special Wish”
After working at what is now the Taxslayer Center for nearly 25 years, 89-year-old June Rowell says it was her long-time wish to ride on a Zamboni. “Carrie, the Zamboni […]
Provider Magazine: “Providers Choose Their Own Technology Paths”
Technology is for many long term and post-acute care (LT/PAC) providers a driving force to improve quality, realize new efficiencies, and keep pace with the mandatory changes in how health […]
KTNV: “Scale the Strat 2018”
KTNV Las Vegas: Ally Few, an Occupational Therapist at Marquis Centennial Hills in Las Vegas, was recently featured on KTNV-TV to tell her story about why she’s participating in Scale […]
GeriNotes: “Policy Talk: Acting on Clinical Data to Improve Care”
Consonus Rehab’s Tracy Fritts, vice president of quality and outcomes, co-authored a piece in the January issue of the American Physical Therapy Association’s publication, GeriNotes. The article describes Consonus’ ongoing […]
Top 5 Keys to Winning Managed Care
An interview with Steve Fogg, Consonus Healthcare’s chief financial officer That’s a pretty bold phrase—winning managed care. Sounds a bit presumptuous, kind of like winning gravity. After all, managed care […]
KATU: "Cupid Crew delivers Valentine's Day to local senior centers: It's about love"
Valentine’s Day isn’t just a holiday for couples. Volunteers with the Vital Life Foundation celebrated the day by visiting senior centers. The “Cupid Crew” handed out roses, organized music performances, […]
Repeal of the Therapy Cap: A letter to our clients from Tracy Fritts
Good afternoon- We are pleased to announce that the Bipartisan Tax Bill of 2018 that was signed into law early this morning included language that repealed the annual cap on […]
OHCA CareNotes: "Bridging the Communication Gap between Nurses and Pharmacists"
Terri Fagan, pharmacist and director of clinical services for Consonus Pharmacy, and Melissa Robinett, nurse consultant supervisor for Consonus Pharmacy, are guest writers for OHCA CareNotes. Current research indicates that […]
Navigating Phase II of the RoP: Pharmacy Implications 101
Even though Phase II went into effect back on Nov. 28, 2017, the new RoP still presents a considerable challenge for facilities—especially when, as a provider, it’s just a small […]
Provider Magazine: "Providers Create Their Own Opportunities”
Enthusiasm for creating new business lines, both directly and indirectly tied to core skilled nursing facility (SNF) or assisted living (AL) operations, could not be higher among many long term […]
Consonus Pharmacy team recognized with Legends award for heroic actions during Northern Calif. fires
MILWAUKIE, Ore. – December 14, 2017 – As deadly fires raged through California’s Napa Valley in October of 2017, the California Consonus Pharmacy team came together in truly inspiring fashion […]
Senior Housing News: "Senior Care Providers and Patients Excel When Therapy Is a Game"
The 21st Century Senior Living Community is a series brought to you by CDW, a provider of technology solutions and services focused exclusively on serving the healthcare marketplace. The series […]
KATU: Veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War Head to Washington DC on the “Journey of Heroes.”
KATU reports from the Portland International Airport as war veterans head off on a trip to Washington, DC. The “Journey of Heroes” is organized and funded once a year by […]
McKnight's: “Antibiotic Stewardship Is at the Heart of What We Do"
It’s not news that our planet has a serious antibiotic resistance problem on its hands, or that better antibiotic stewardship across the health care spectrum is essential to solving it. […]
CMS regulatory changes limit the use of PRN psychotropic medications
Attention Long-term Care Provider, On November 28, 2017, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will be implementing several regulatory changes for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs.) Of significance to […]
KATU: “Vets Fly in WWII-era Biplanes”
This August, The Vital Life Foundation hosted the Spirit of ’45 Event, where over 60 veterans were honored. As a part of this celebration, Ageless Aviation took veterans on 30 […]
Mcknight's: "Medication management: Five things to do better"
As a geriatric pharmacist, helping keep patients safe, improving the quality of their care and reducing the risk of hospitalizations has been my professional motivation for almost 27 years. It’s […]
Vital Life Foundation’s Transformative Community Service Program Recognized at LeadingAge Washington Annual Conference
Stevenson, Washington (June 20, 2017) – When communities come together, they can create lasting change. The Vital Life Foundation, a Marquis Companies and Consonus Healthcare Foundation, was the recipient of […]
McKnight’s: “Sector-Specific LTC Pharmacy Data Warehouse Now a Reality”
Ensuring the provision of quality post-acute care in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities requires the need to direct and perform an increasingly complex array of medication management regimes and […]
KGW: "Bridge Town Bash 2017"
Bryan McFayden is at Pure Space in the Pearl for the kick-off of the 2017 BridgeTown Bash benefit for Vital Life Foundation.
The Vital Life Foundation Raises $615,000 at Sixth Annual Bridgetown Bash
MILWAUKIE, Ore. – July 5, 2017 – The Vital Life Foundation, a 503 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, held their Sixth Annual BridgeTown Bash on June 23. The local nonprofit is thrilled […]
Vital Life Foundation Annual Report 2016
For the Vital Life Foundation, 2016 had all the elements of a blockbuster movie—minus the over-priced Milk Duds. It offered an engaging plot with radiant star power. Heroic journeys and […]
Senior Housing News: "Post-Acute Provider Shifts Gears to Succeed in New Payment Models"
Post-acute care providers around the nation have been facing a rapidly changing environment, with new Medicare and Medicaid payment models demanding adaptations. While new models are sometimes hard to understand […]
Provider Magazine: "Building A QAPI Team To Find Root Causes"
Last fall, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the Final Rule, a three-phased process that revises the requirements that long term/post-acute care centers must meet to participate […]
QAPI - Are You Ready?
“There’s only a few months left,” says Patti Garibaldi, director of clinical consulting at Consonus, with a tone of urgency in her voice. “After November 27, 2017, you will need […]
What’s Next for the Affordable Care Act?
Even though Congressional efforts to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act (ACA) failed famously last month, it’s not a matter of if the law will change, but when. As […]
KSNV: "9th Annual ‘Scale the Strat’ Event Benefits American Lung Association in Nevada"
LAS VEGAS (KSNV News3LV) — An estimated 800 athletes of all abilities will run or walk up all 1,455 steps to the 108th floor of the iconic Stratosphere Tower with […]
Ageless Aviation Dreams Foundation Receives $5,000 Grant From Vital Life Foundation.
CARSON CITY, Nev. (Dec. 15, 2016) – Ageless Aviation Dreams Foundation (AADF), a non-profit organization that offers Dream Flights to U.S. military veterans living in retirement communities and long-term care […]
McKnight’s: "Journey of Heroes deserves showing, not telling"
Every year about this time, I tell you eagerly and often weepily about “The Trip.” The one where 12 veterans, many of them from World War II and living in […]
McKnight’s: "How to Survive the Likely Shift to Bundled Payments"
Let’s take a trip back in time to 1982. Hair was big and Olivia Newton-John was even bigger. Hospitals were paid based on the bills that they submitted. This form […]
SCPC: "Fast-Growing Senior Care Pharmacy Coalition Announces New Board Chairman, Executive Leadership Team, Board Members"
Washington, DC – Phil Fogg, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Milwaukie, OR-based Marquis Companies and Consonus Health Care — currently serving on the Board of the American Health Care Association […]
Hillsboro News Times: "Shot down by the Germans in WWII, Washington County Vet Visits Memorials Honoring ‘The Greatest Generation’"
It’s been a long time since Guido Pinamonti was held as a prisoner of war by the Nazis after being shot down during World War II. But Pinamonti, a 17-year […]
Contract Therapy Provider Consonus Uses Optima’s Business Intelligence Tool to Transform Their Decision Making Processes
Industry Changes Demand Richer Analytics After creating an in-house analytics tool, Consonus Healthcare was questioning whether to hire a team of full-time analysts to manage and mine their data. They […]
Consonus Pharmacy Opens Nevada Location Specializing in Geriatric Care
LAS VEGAS – September 29, 2016 – Consonus Pharmacy, a long-term care company committed to servicing the needs of seniors, is now operating its first location in Las Vegas. A […]
Teri Ferreira Named Rodney D. Shafer Award Winner
The Washington State Pharmacy Association recently announced that Teri Ferreira was named the winner of their Rodney D. Shafer Award. Teri, the General Manager for Consonus Healthcare, lead Long Term Care […]
McKnight’s: "Reader Poll: What’s the best part of your day?"
“As a new addition, I love having the daily opportunity to work directly with such a diverse team – from Marketing and Pharmacy Operations to Data Analytics and Administration Staff. […]
Forest Grove News Times: “Dream flights honor local veterans"
Robert Cloos was one lesson away from getting his pilot’s license when his instructor had a heart attack. After decades of wishing he’d gotten that license, Cloos — now 73 […]
Consonus Healthcare Welcomes New Vice-President of Strategic Development Laurie Thomas
“I’m Lauri Thomas. I’m the new Vice President of Strategic Development for Consonus. Probably what brought me to Consonus and Marquis is really the vision.”
The Vital Life Foundation Raises $630k in Fifth Annual BridgeTown Bash
MILWAUKIE, Ore. – July 26, 2016 – The Vital Life Foundation, a 503 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, held their Fifth Annual BridgeTown Bash on June 24, 2016, and is excited to […]
Provider Magazine: "Leveraging Data Can Help Accelerate Change"
Waiting for CMS to report and rate a Center based on its MDS submissions eliminates the opportunity to make point-of-care changes. Imagine a world where an electronic health record (EHR) […]
Vital Life Foundation Annual Report
For the Vital Life Foundation, 2015 was a celebration of extraordinary teamwork—and the unprecedented achievements it inspired. Nearly $1 million was raised by 1,820 donors—the most of both, ever. Volunteers […]
The Oregonian: “The Bloom Project Receives $5,000 from Vital Life Foundation”
The Bloom Project, a volunteer-driven nonprofit that provides fresh floral bouquets to hospice and palliative care patients, has received a $5,000 grant from the Vital Life, a Marquis and Consonus […]
Melissa Robinett and Terri Fagan Receive PAC Trainer Certification
MILWAUKIE, Ore. – June 3, 2016 – Consonus Healthcare is proud to announce the recent Teepa Snow Positive Approach™ to Care (PAC) Certification of Melissa Robinett and Terri Fagan. Melissa […]
Meals On Wheels People: The Vital Life Foundation Receives Compassion For Seniors Award
(May 11, 2016 – Portland Ore.) Supporters and volunteers of Meals on Wheels People donated enough funds in just one hour to provide 65,500 hot meals to older adults in […]
KHQA: "Pittsfield man receives new tricycle from therapy team”
Pittsfield, Illinois — Ed Voiles has always loved riding his bike, but he was forced to stop after a bike crash broke his leg. The accident destroyed his bike, leaving […]
McKnight’s: "Plymouth Village CCRC Partners with Consonus Healthcare for Rehab"
Plymouth Village, a continuing care retirement / life plan community in Redlands, CA, has formed a new partnership with Consonus Healthcare to provide inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and therapy services […]
KATU: "After traumatic brain injury, man returns to slopes on Mt. Hood"
This past July, Bill suffered from a traumatic brain injury causing him to be bed bound and unable to speak. Since working with Consonus Healthcare rehab care, Bill is now […]
Teri Ferreira appointed to Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
Governor Jay Inslee appointed long-time WHCA member Teri Ferreira, to the Washington State Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission (PQAC) on January 28 for a term that will run through 2020. Teri […]
KGW: Vital Life Foundation Helps Open New Mentoring Facility in Gresham
Friends of the Children is a local mentoring program for at-risk kids. Tonight they are opening a new facility in Gresham that’s bringing services closer to the many children who […]
Portland Society Page: “Ronald McDonald House Charities Hearts & Hands Gala Keeps Families Close”
Portland, October 10th, 2015. The Oregon Convention Center was a sea of elegant red dresses and red ties at the annual Hearts & Hands Gala to support Ronald McDonald House […]
Marquis Companies Named RMHC 2015 Partner of Distinction
PORTLAND, Ore. (December, 2015) – Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) of Oregon and Southwest Washington is pleased to honor Marquis Companies as its 2015 Partner of Distinction. This award recognizes […]
Lodi News-Sentinel: "Vienna Nursing and Rehab Center Celebrates Backpack to School with Science, Sundaes"
There were explosions, color changing liquids and plumes of fire at the Vienna Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Sunday. “Don’t do this at home, do this at your friend’s home,” […]
Take to the Skies
Local Hillsboro resident and retired Marine Corps Colonel and Pilot, Bill Chase, took to the air once again as his wish to fly a helicopter again was granted by the Vital […]
Las Vegas Review-Journal: "Foundation Sends Volunteers to Nicaragua to Help Teach Health Care Methods"
In recent years, population growth in developing nations has caused a lack of access to basic health care services for many people. This not only results in the general public’s […]