Chicago, IL — January 12, 2026 Vitaline (formerly Dript IV Therapy), the nation’s largest provider of clinically driven IV hydration services for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), has announced concerns regarding a documented pattern of arbitrary claim denials issued by Myers and Stauffer LC (M&S).
These denials reportedly occur without explanation or clarification, even when claims are:
- Fully compliant
- RAI-approved
- Supported by complete clinical documentation
- Backed by positive outcomes data demonstrating reduced falls and hospitalization rates
The company states that despite adherence to:
- RAI Manual Section K
- CMS-recognized clinical standards
- Complete supporting documentation
Myers and Stauffer LC has:
- Dismissed submitted evidence
- Overlooked full clinical records
- Failed to provide guidance when clarification is requested
Documented Issues with the Review Process
- Clinical documentation reflecting appropriate triggers, assessments, interventions, and outcomes is not referenced in denial rationales
- Providers following the RAI Manual precisely are being penalized despite full compliance
- Requests for standard guidance remain unanswered, leaving providers without direction
Clinical Impact on Residents
Preventative hydration is a CMS-recognized intervention proven to reduce complications associated with dehydration—one of the leading causes of:
- Hospital transfers
- Comorbidities among seniors
Denying valid claims directly undermines:
- Resident health
- Facility quality initiatives
“Our nurses deliver a fully compliant, fully documented preventative care model that improves outcomes and reduces total system cost. Myers and Stauffer’s denials are not only inconsistent with the RAI—it is the residents who ultimately bear the consequences.”
— Avi Lev, CEO of Vitaline
“The evidence is clear that proactive intervention prevents the ‘dehydration cascade’—the process through which mild fluid deficits escalate into significant clinical complications.”
— Dr. Steve Merahn, Chief Medical Officer
“These are physician-ordered, medically necessary interventions that improve health and reduce total cost of care.”
“Since implementing preventive hydration protocols at Empire Care Centers, we have seen measurable reductions in emergency transfers related to dehydration and infection.”
— Dr. LeAnthony Hardy, Medical Director (Cartersville and Fulton Centers)
“These programs improve resident comfort, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, and keep patients in their familiar environments.”
“Preventive IV hydration reflects the type of proactive, patient-centered care encouraged under CMS value-based models.”
— Dr. Tom Klein, Geriatrician (Jade, Aperion, and Infinity Care facilities)
“When hydration challenges are managed proactively and compliantly, it reduces hospitalizations, urinary tract infections, and overall morbidity among high-risk seniors.”
System-Wide Implications
Preventative hydration programs have demonstrated:
- Significant reductions in preventable hospitalizations
- Substantial cost savings across the healthcare system
However, denial of properly documented claims:
- Undermines these improvements
- Increases both financial costs and clinical risks
“Denying clinically appropriate, RAI-supported hydration does not protect the health system—it increases costs and risk.”
— Avi Lev
Request for Immediate Corrective Action
Vitaline calls on Myers and Stauffer LC to:
- Conduct a comprehensive review of previously overlooked documentation
- Issue clear guidance aligned with the RAI Manual and CMS expectations
- Align audit processes with clinical realities and preventative care standards
- Engage collaboratively with providers to improve audit accuracy
About Vitaline
Vitaline is the nation’s largest clinical IV hydration provider serving skilled nursing facilities. The company supports preventative care initiatives that:
- Improve resident outcomes
- Enhance facility quality performance
- Reduce total system cost
Media Contact
Alexandra General
Marketing & Communications Manager ageneral@vitalinehc.com
