Aging service providers remain chronically underfunded, and it is taking a devastating toll on older adults’ access to care and services in Pennsylvania. Nursing home providers still do not have the funding they need to address increasing staffing mandates or even come close to bridging the gap of historical under funding in their Medicaid reimbursement rates. Meanwhile, the LIFE program has seen only a net 2.8% increase in their Medicaid rates since 2008 and continues to be left behind in the face of dramatically increased costs. Without addressing these needs, the quality care our seniors need and deserve is at risk. 

Unfortunately Governor Shapiro did not include any Medicaid rate increases for nursing homes or the LIFE program in his FY 23-24 budget proposal. However, he holds a key seat at the negotiating table with the Pennsylvania General Assembly in crafting the final FY 24-25 state budget. In addition to using our Take Action page to contact your legislators, use this template to send a letter to Governor Shapiro, urging him to recognize the critical need for investment in aging services NOW.  

It is imperative that Governor Shapiro understand the implications of not properly funding aging services providers in our state. He needs to hear your story. Share what will happen if you don’t receive increased Medicaid reimbursement to help cover increased costs. Share what impacts other health partners, like your local hospital, are feeling as a result of your inability to take discharges. Explain the limitations on your programs being able to serve more older adults because you can’t afford to pay for necessary upgrades and service enhancements. Provide real-world examples demonstrating the challenges you continue to face with the workforce shortage. 

We’re seeing access to care crumble in real-time, with nearly 25% of licensed nursing home beds reported offline in our recent member survey as well as additional closures, bankruptcies, and sales announced in recent months. LIFE program operators have been unable to make needed investments in vehicles or pay increased costs for contracted care services that keep their programs operational. To start closing the gap of chronic underfunding and help address immediate needs for these settings, LeadingAge PA is advocating for $70 million (3.5%) to increase nursing facility reimbursement rates and a minimum $9 million (5%) to increase LIFE reimbursement rates in the FY 2024-25 state budget. 

Now is the time to contact Governor Shapiro and let him know why these urgent needs cannot go unfunded. We encourage you to edit the template email provided by sharing your own personal stories and experiences to make sure your voice is heard.