Reclaiming the Push for Highest Practicable Function
Once a pillar of resident-centered care, Restorative Nursing Programs (RNPs) are now vanishing from many long-term care settings. Designed to help residents regain or maintain their highest physical, mental, and psychosocial function, these programs delivered better quality of life and compliance with federal care standards.
But in today’s climate of staffing shortages and shifting financial priorities, restorative nursing is being sidelined. What’s lost isn’t just documentation—it’s dignity, independence, and better outcomes for residents… and untapped financial value for providers.
Why Restorative Nursing Still Matters
- Improved Functional Outcomes RNPs support independence in ADLs, transfer, and mobility—key drivers of Section GG scores.
- Reduced Adverse Events Residents in restorative programs have fewer falls, pressure injuries, and hospital transfers.
- Lower Hospital Readmission Rates Some facilities see a 32% decrease in readmission rates with structured restorative care.
- Enhanced Resident Well-Being Mental health, engagement, and self-worth improve with daily restorative interactions.
How Restorative Nursing Supports Revenue
- Higher PDPM Reimbursement Two restorative programs six days/week can raise your nursing CMI—$9–14 more per resident/day.
- Improved Quality Measures & Five-Star Ratings Better ADL, fall, and pressure injury outcomes feed directly into star ratings.
- Cost Avoidance Avoiding one pressure injury can save $37K–$70K. Falls? Up to $30K each.
- Staff Empowerment & Retention CNAs engaged in RNPs build confidence and feel more connected to resident success.
What a Restorative Program Can Do for Your Facility
Implementing a restorative program doesn’t just check a box—it drives real, measurable outcomes across your facility:
- Promotes Independence
With improved ADL and Section GG performance, residents are more likely to maintain or regain independence, leading to better outcomes and greater dignity.
- Reduces Falls & Pressure Injuries
Consistent restorative care leads to fewer incidents and complications, supporting both resident safety and compliance.
- Decreases Hospital Readmissions
Facilities with structured restorative programs have seen hospital readmissions reduced by up to 32%, improving care continuity and lowering penalties.
- Boosts Medicare Reimbursement
Enhanced documentation and resident progress can increase daily Medicare reimbursement by $9–$14 per resident.
- Improves Quality Ratings & Census
Better clinical outcomes translate to higher Quality Measures, improved Five-Star ratings, and increased resident trust and referrals.
- Lowers Avoidable Costs
Preventing one fall or pressure injury can save tens of thousands in treatment and liability costs—making prevention a cost-saving strategy.
- Increases Staff Engagement
Restorative programs empower CNAs to take ownership of resident outcomes, boosting morale, efficiency, and job satisfaction.
Restorative care isn’t a “bonus”—it’s a regulatory standard and clinical necessity. Every facility should have an active, interdisciplinary RNP strategy. Reignite your program. Train your team. Prioritize function.
Decline isn’t destiny. Let’s reclaim what restorative care was always meant to be. Reach out to your Polaris Consultant for implementation guidance regarding your Restorative Nursing Program.
Sources
CMS PDPM Resources: cms.gov PDPM
JAMDA (2020): “Restorative Nursing’s Role in Reducing Readmissions”
AHCA Quality Initiative: ahcancal.org
NPIAP Guidelines: npiap.com
MedPAC LTC Data Book
Chou et al., 2022: “Impact of Restorative Care on Outcomes & QOL”
CMS MDS 3.0 GG Guide: MDS 3.0 Public Reports
