February 09, 2016
Contact: Eric Kiehl, 717-221-7935
Cell: 717-599-2077

PHCA Responds to Gov. Wolf’s 2016-17 Budget Proposal

Grateful for the continued support

HARRISBURG — Russ McDaid, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA), issued the following statement in response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed 2016-17 General Fund budget, which provides additional funding for nursing homes:

“Throughout the state’s budget impasse last year, the governor and General Assembly ensured that our sickest, frailest elderly residents never went without high-quality care. Facilities that provided around-the-clock skilled care to those with advanced dementia or severe chronic health conditions never missed a payment. Our elected officials, even as they debated spending priorities, ensured seniors remained a priority.

“That same commitment carries over today with the governor’s latest budget proposal. We’re very grateful for the continued support.”

“Even with this support, Pennsylvania nursing homes continue to face serious challenges. The state’s Medicaid program still falls short of covering the real cost of care, and rising costs are making it more difficult to operate. That gap is growing wider.”

“Right now in Pennsylvania, nursing homes lose about $8,500 annually for each Medicaid resident in their care, and two-thirds of all nursing home residents rely on Medicaid. It’s unsustainable, and would put additional financial stress on our nursing homes at a time when it is essential that they have the necessary funding to invest in quality care for the residents under their care.”

“We recognize that this is the first step in a very long budget process. We also recognize the unprecedented fiscal situation we’re in here with ongoing state budget issues. Both sides have very strong opinions about the direction they want to take our state. But one issue they all agree on — preserving care for our seniors. PHCA remains committed to working with the administration and legislature to ensure our sickest, frailest elderly residents continue to receive the quality care and services they need.”

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