U.S. Representative John Rutherford (R-Jacksonville) recently cosponsored H.R.8114, vital legislation introduced by Representative Kat Cammack (R-Gainesville) on April 23, 2024. This bill aims to block the implementation of the Medicaid 80-20 payment adequacy provision, finalized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) the day prior to the bill's introduction. Effective industry advocacy efforts at the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) advocacy event in Washington, D.C., on April 17 paved the way for the bill's introduction.

The 80-20 provision, part of the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services rule, mandates that a minimum of 80% of Medicaid payments for home and community-based services (HCBS) be allocated directly to worker compensation. However, this rigid requirement fails to acknowledge the diverse landscape of the Medicaid program across states, including significant variations in reimbursement rates, the presence of managed care, and overhead costs. Consequently, it poses a significant threat to the financial stability of Medicaid providers, particularly in Florida.

In comments submitted to CMS last summer, HCAF expressed concerns about the impact of this provision, which is set to take effect in 2030. The time for action is now.

Call to Action

We urge home care industry professionals to join us in advocating for the protection of Medicaid payments for HCBS. Representative Rutherford, along with Florida Representatives Cammack, Gus Bilirakis (R-Palm Harbor), and Neal Dunn (R-Panama City), has taken a crucial step in cosponsoring H.R.8114. Now, we need your support to amplify our advocacy efforts further.

Act now by using the HCAF Legislative Action Center to send a message to your elected official in just a few clicks. Your voice is crucial in safeguarding Medicaid payments and ensuring access to essential health care services.

Click here to take action.

More Ways to Advocate

In addition to supporting the Medicaid provider community, please urge your members of Congress to support the following bills that would prevent further Medicare home health cuts, expand access to in-home care under Medicare and Medicaid, and address the health care workforce shortage.

1. Preserving Access to Home Health Act (S.2137/H.R.5159): This legislation would halt CMS from implementing certain permanent and temporary payment reductions, ensuring sustainable Medicare home health services. Take Action
2. Direct Support Professionals Act (S.1332/H.R.2941): This bill addresses the shortage of direct support professionals in the home care sector by revising the Standard Occupational Classification system and establishing tailored workforce training programs. Take Action
3. Credit for Caring Act of 2024 (S.3702/H.R.7165): This act offers a federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for eligible working family caregivers, providing crucial financial support and recognition for their invaluable contributions. Take Action
4. Medicare Home Health Accessibility Act (H.R.7148): This legislation aims to enhance access to occupational therapy services in Medicare home health by allowing occupational therapists to be ordered as standalone services. Take Action
5. Better Care Better Jobs Act (S.100/H.R.547): This proposed legislation seeks to improve Medicaid home- and community-based services by increasing federal funding, enhancing workforce investments, and expanding access to essential care and supports. Take Action