As expected, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized their Medicaid Access Rule today. Among many other things, the rule includes a problematic provision that mandates that 80 percent of Medicaid reimbursement dollars paid to providers be allocated to caregiver wages. Although HCAOA supports certain aspects of this rule, the 80/20 provision will cause many Medicaid providers to either curtail services or cease providing services entirely, resulting in reduced patient access.

Today, HCAOA members and home care advocates from across the country are uniting on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, to urge our national lawmakers to support laws and policies that help make home care more affordable and more accessible for every American who needs it.

Support from neighbors can make a real difference. Your clients know this first-hand. They’re able to remain at home and active within their communities longer, thanks to the care you provide.

The Connecticut Appropriations Committee decided not to move forward with a home care provider registry.

52 Weeks Marketing just launched a new 3-part home care series that will provide insights into additional revenue streams that can help grow your agency.

Relias recently partnered with the American Hospital Association (AHA) to create a report on the 2024 Health Care Workforce Scan, an annual snapshot of hospital and health system employment based on a review of reports, studies, and other data sources from leading organizations and researchers.

Thank you to all the members who have referred new HCAOA members! It’s exciting to receive these referrals, but we’re not done yet! The Member-Get-a-Member program runs until August 31. You have time to get those new members in. Your name will be entered into the drawing for EACH new member you refer. The more referrals, the higher your chances of winning!

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the release of the final rule, Streamlining Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, and Basic Health Program Application, Eligibility Determination, Enrollment, and Renewal Processes (CMS-2421-F2), making it easier to enroll in and retain Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Basic Health Program (BHP) coverage. This rule is a response to President Biden’s Executive Orders (January 2021 and April 2022) to strengthen Medicaid and access to quality health coverage by simplifying enrollment and ensuring continuity of coverage, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

Are you ready to elevate your business's profile and make a lasting impact in your community? Here's your chance! We're excited to invite you to become a sponsor at one of HCAOA's upcoming state chapter conferences.

The transition of ostomy patients from acute care to post-acute or home-based care can be a fragmented experience, leading to the increased risk of peristomal complications and adverse care outcomes for the patient. Care organizations must provide staff and patients with the proper knowledge, resources, and tools to effectively support their wellness journey.

Littler's article "Divergent Paths on Regulating Artificial Intelligence" highlighted the United Nations’ approval of a resolution on advancing secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI) systems, offering a framework for global deployment and utilization of AI technologies. The European Union's (EU) recent enactment of the Artificial Intelligence Act marks a significant milestone, establishing uniform regulations across its 27 member states to ensure human-centric and trustworthy AI deployment, with compliance obligations placed on AI stakeholders. Categorizing AI applications based on potential risk levels sets standards for AI practices, with implications for employers, particularly concerning the use of AI in employment decision-making.