Advocating for Quality Care: A Nonprofit CEO’s Perspective on Amending New York's Residential Health Care Facility Rates

As a CEO? of nonprofit nursing homes dedicated to providing compassionate care to our residents, I wholeheartedly endorse the proposed legislation to amend the public health law regarding rebasing of residential health care facility rates. The last time the expense basis was determined was fifteen years ago. As a result, their rate has not changed in fifteen years. Other states that surround NY rebase expense calculations as the basis for Medicaid rates on a regular basis. These amendments represent a crucial step forward in ensuring that nursing homes can sustainably deliver high-quality care while navigating the complex landscape of healthcare economics.

?Enhancing Financial Stability

For nonprofit nursing homes like ours, financial stability is essential to our mission of serving vulnerable populations. The bill’s focus on updating rate-setting methodologies to reflect actual operating costs is a welcome change. By incorporating direct and indirect statewide price components, as well as facility-specific factors, the amendments promise to provide more equitable reimbursement rates. This adjustment is not just about financial fairness; it's about securing the resources needed to maintain and improve our care standards.

Addressing Economic Realities

In today’s economic climate, managing healthcare costs is a constant challenge. The bill’s provision for periodic updates to wage equalization factors and other adjustments acknowledges the impact of economic fluctuations on our operational expenses. By ensuring that reimbursement rates keep pace with economic realities, the amendments offer much-needed stability, allowing us to focus on what matters most: the well-being of our residents.

Promoting Quality Care Initiatives

Quality care is at the heart of our nonprofit mission. The bill’s proposal to establish a nursing home quality pool, funded through adjustments in medical assistance rates and state appropriations, is particularly encouraging. This initiative incentivizes facilities to invest in quality improvements, such as staff training and enhanced patient care practices. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, these measures will undoubtedly benefit our residents and strengthen our community’s healthcare infrastructure.

Emphasizing Collaboration and Accountability

Collaboration is key to effective healthcare policy. As a nonprofit CEO deeply committed to transparency and accountability, I appreciate the bill’s emphasis on consultation with stakeholders. The establishment of a technical assistance workgroup, comprised of external experts and industry representatives, ensures that regulatory changes are informed by practical insights and best practices. This collaborative approach not only enhances the credibility of the regulatory process but also ensures that the voices of nursing home operators and resident advocates are heard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the amendments proposed under this bill are a testament to New York's commitment to improving residential health care. By updating rate-setting methodologies, fostering quality improvements, and promoting transparency and collaboration, the bill aligns with our nonprofit values and mission. Supporting this bill is not just about legislative compliance; it's about ensuring that nonprofit nursing homes like ours can continue to provide compassionate care that meets the highest standards.

As advocates for quality care and responsible governance, we urge policymakers to support these amendments. Together, let's empower nonprofit nursing homes to thrive and continue serving our communities with dignity and excellence in care.

?NYS Nursing Home Rebasing Bill