October 24, 2023 Washington, DC — Statement from Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO, LeadingAge, the association of nonprofit providers of aging services, including assisted living, home health, hospice, adult day and PACE programs on the HCBS Relief Act of 2023, introduced today by Sen. Bob Casey:

​“Older Americans increasingly want choices that allow them to stay in their homes and communities as they age—but it’s increasingly difficult for people to access the care and services they need. Home health providers are already forced to reject referrals due to workforce shortages, an extremely competitive labor market, financial pressures, and drastic cuts to Medicare payment rates in 2023 (with more anticipated in 2024). The kind of support Senator Casey’s bill offers for providers of Medicaid home health and other services is massively needed to keep the country’s ability to support older adults intact.

The nonprofit, mission-driven providers in our membership who are likely to benefit from this legislation—including home care, adult day, Programs for All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), personal care and other programs—appreciate that federal leaders recognize the critical role they play in the lives of American families.

Older adults and families are facing a crisis in access to care in HCBS and across aging services—a situation that, given our aging population, will only grow more dire if no action is taken. We urge every lawmaker to sign on to this important legislation.”