Federal News We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to modernize and strengthen the outdated infrastructure behind our nation’s disability services system, Medicaid. Make it count and ACT NOW to tell Congress to fund home and community-based services through the Better Care, Better Jobs Act — a historic investment in disability services! #CareCantWait #BetterCareBetterJobsNow
Support the Better Care, Better Jobs Act. This proposed $400 billion funding would increase access to services as well as long-overdue investment in the direct care workforce.
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Click here to send an email to Sen. Schumer, Sen. Gillibrand, and your local congressional representative. Let them know you support this historic investment in home and community-based services.
Overnight Visits and Reimbursements. People with disabilities who reside in group homes cannot be treated as hospital patients. But, that is what is happening. In May of 2021, providers are now only able to bill at half the established rate when a person with I/DD chooses to spend a night away from their home or if they are admitted into a hospital or rehabilitation center. After 96 days, the provider cannot receive ANY reimbursement if the person is not sleeping in their bed. This is different from a hospital. There is no way to fill this bed. This is their home. . . This new policy is creating a grave impact on residential services, particularly on an agency’s ability to ensure sufficient staffing at each location. Due to these billing changes, the agency is now asking families to limit overnight stays which can result in reduction of family and community inclusion opportunities.
Send an email alerting Gov. Cuomo and New York State’s Office for People With Developmental Disabilities on the importance of change.
Workforce Advocacy. Federal and state advocacy is underway addressing the recruitment and retention crisis facing providers of IDD supports and services. The Arc New York seeks support for the Better Care Better Jobs Act, the establishment of a Direct Support Professional (DSP) Standard Occupational Classification, and grant opportunities for the recruitment, retention and advancement of DSPs.
