MADISON, WI –Today, the Joint Committee on Finance advanced the state budget after reaching agreement with Governor Evers. Included in the budget now advancing to the full legislature is critical funding to maintain access to long-term care services, including the cost-to-continue for Medicaid nursing home payment standards and the minimum fee schedule for Family Care home and community-based services. The committee also provided $2 million in additional funding for the WisCaregiver Careers program, a valuable pipeline to grow our workforce.
The Legislature and Governor also sent a strong signal to the next generation of health care leaders and caregivers – Wisconsin values our long-term care workforce.
“Increased funding for Family Care has enabled our mission to serve seniors by passing on wage increases to our valued caregivers. The funding has allowed us to eliminate the need to limit the number of Medicaid-eligible seniors we serve, and to explore further growth opportunities to expand access to care and meet the needs of our rapidly aging population.”
Pamela Klingfus, CEO, Christian Community Homes and Services, Hudson, WI
Policymakers are focused on maintaining access to quality long-term care services for their constituents, particularly the most vulnerable elderly, blind, and disabled Medicaid recipients.
“Maintaining payment systems that relate to provider’s costs for quality care is a laudable achievement. It will serve Wisconsin well into the future as demographics of the state continue to change and the need for aging services continues to increase.”
Rene Eastman, SVP of Policy & Finance, LeadingAge Wisconsin
LeadingAge Wisconsin is a statewide trade association representing over 500 nonprofit and mission driven member organizations, including nursing homes, assisted living communities, and other long-term care and retirement living providers. A leader in senior advocacy, education, and formulation of collaborative strategies, LeadingAge Wisconsin is committed to advancing the fields of long-term care and senior living. We strive to develop a continuum of aging services that meets the holistic needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities to encourage maximum independence and enhance quality of life. We serve as a resource for our members, assisting them in problem resolution, and providing services and programs to meet their needs.
