Expanded Access to Home Care and Better Wages for Caregivers.
This act aims to significantly improve access to long-term Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) under Medicaid. It introduces financial incentives for states to expand these services, reduce waiting lists, and ensure better compensation for direct care workers. Citizens will gain greater choice in receiving care outside institutional settings and permanent financial protection for the spouses of those receiving these services.
Key points
Expanded Home Care: States will receive increased federal funding (FMAP boosts) to expand home and community-based care services, aiming to reduce waiting lists and increase service availability.
Wage Increases for Caregivers: Requirement that states ensure increases in payment rates for care services are proportionately passed through to the wages of direct care workers (aides, assistants).
Permanent Financial Protection: Spouses of individuals receiving long-term home care gain permanent protection against impoverishment, safeguarding their assets and income.
Greater Control Over Care: Promotion of self-directed care models and permanent funding for the "Money Follows the Person" program, facilitating transitions from institutions back home.
Expired
Citizen Poll