The Public Policy Committee for CALTCM continues its efforts to “make a difference.” With nursing homes continuing to be in the news in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are committed to assuring that our clinical voice is heard.  CALTCM’s Board recently approved letters to Secretary Becerra and Administrator Brooks-LaSure related to appropriate staffing and transparency. There would “appear” to be a lot of controversy related to staffing issues, but CALTCM’s position is based on the clinical experience and evidence that inadequate staffing is associated with poor care.  To minimize this in the face of staffing shortages does a disservice to the residents and the staff who care for them under less than ideal conditions.  CMS recently requested comments on a New Proposed Rule on Nursing Home Ownership Transparency, we submitted our comments, please click here to view.  These efforts continue what we started over two years ago in California that helped lead to the passage of SB 650.

While CALTCM has no legislation that we’ve put forward this year, we are actively engaged in supporting bills that we find pertinent.  On April 18, CALTCM is testifying on behalf of AB 1537.  This bill, AB 1537 (Wood) Skilled Nursing Facilities: Direct Care Spending Requirement, is modeled after laws in other states that require a specific percentage of nursing home revenues to be allocated towards the direct care of residents.  We have submitted comments in support of AB 1537, please click here to view.

CALTCM’s Public Policy Committee has also voted to support Assemblyman Wood’s bill AB 1417, which simplifies the mandated reporting process for elder abuse and neglect.  Over the years, the reporting process has become more complex, and this bill, which is supported by the California Long Term Care Ombudsman Association, is focused on simplifying the process.

CALTCM continues to be committed to being engaged in policy and making a difference.  Our members are critical to this effort.  Let us know if you have any issues that matter to you.  Take some time to reach out to your state representatives and congressperson.  Developing a relationship with them and their staff is essential to our ongoing efforts.