​With Washington’s new state long-term care insurance program pulling payroll deductions in 9 weeks, employers and employees have a lot of questions. Home care providers can learn more about the program and have questions answered from WA Cares’ Office Chief Andrea Meewes Sanchez at the HCAOA Washington Chapter Conference on Wednesday, May 17. 

​Additionally, hear from leaders of the WA Department of Health about health survey insights, ways to diversify your home care business from three industry experts, Representative Kelly Chambers about legislative updates, and ask your labor law questions from Littler attorneys.
 

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​Last week, Eric Hicks, owner of Right at Home franchises in WV and Chapter Chair, hosted the first meeting of the HCAOA West Virginia Chapter at his office in Charleston.

​The day’s agenda included a presentation on VA-funded home care by Greg Bean from Paradigm Senior Services, a legislative update by Matt Walker, owner of Village Caregiving and Chapter Legislative Chair, and an update from Deputy Commissioner for Medical Services Cindy Beane.  Evan Worrell, member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, also spoke to members during last week’s chapter meeting.

​Ms. Beane discussed the state’s plan to review rate setting methodologies for Medicaid, a new policy manual, and the possible elimination of the Certificate of Need (CON) for personal care agencies.  She also announced that the state plans to do a study on the impact of benefit cliffs on direct care workers. 

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​Late last week, Home Care Association of America CEO Vicki Hoak announced her resignation. She will continue to lead the organization until her last day, October 24, 2023, after the National Home Care Conference. After three years at the association full of growth and many accomplishments, Hoak intends to focus on other areas of interest and spend time with her family.
 
“I look forward to the next six months to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition,” Hoak said. “We will concentrate on continuing our strong advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. as well as our state chapters’ advocacy efforts. [I am also focused] on making this year’s national home care conference in Chicago, the biggest and best yet.  No other home care conference has the breadth of excellent and relevant education, superb information that focuses on technology and business opportunities and of course, productive networking opportunities with both providers and HCAOA’s associate members.”

Attendees at the Illinois Chapter Conference have the opportunity to hear directly from the Department of Public Health (IDPH) and have their questions answered. From licensing questions and concerns to changes in home care regulations, IDPH Home Services & Home Nursing Licensing Supervisor Rani Harms will share updates and tips to help home care providers navigate the system with ease.