Bill > S2558

This bill aims to improve the home care workforce in Massachusetts. It does this by: 1) Expanding the definition of home care programs covered under Medicaid (MassHealth) to include home health agencies providing services under Medicare. 2) Requiring the state Executive Office to adjust home care program rates on a biennial (every two years) basis, basing the rates on operating costs, including competitive wages and benefits for homemakers and personal care workers (at least $15 per hour by July 2019). The bill also sets minimum thresholds for the capitation rates for the home care and enhanced community options programs. 3) Requiring the state to consider the costs associated with changes in regulations, staffing, and program closures when setting rates for providers of senior services, such as adult day health programs. The goal is to ensure adequate and stable funding for home care services and the workforce that provides them, which are critical for supporting elderly and disabled individuals in the community.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S2558