Antipsychotic Drug Use in Nursing Homes Trend Update

The National Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes has had a specific focus on protecting residents from being prescribed antipsychotic medications unless there is a valid, clinical indication and a systematic process to evaluate each individual’s need. Together with CMS there has been an increased focus, along with additional training, and revised surveyor guidance.  The progress of the Partnership has been gauged by reviewing the progress on publicly reported antipsychotic quality measures.

According to the recent Antipsychotic Drug Use Trend Update, “In 2011Q4, 23.9 percent of long-stay nursing home residents were receiving an antipsychotic medication; since then there has been a decrease of 9.0 percent to 21.7 percent in 2013Q1.  Success has varied by state and CMS region, with some states and regions having seen a reduction of greater than 10 percent.” 

Upon comparing the performance of New York State with the region and nation, New York State decreased 11.2 percent, which is similar to the national average of 11.43 percent.  Region II had an overall decrease in antipsychotic use of 17.65 percent.

Contact:  Michelle Synakowski, msynakowski@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8850