| Nursing Homes Warn of Third Spike of COVID Cases Due to Community Spread | aspx | | 10/19/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p></p><div><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong> - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, released a <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Report-Nursing-Homes-Cases-Oct19-2020.pdf" target="_blank">report</a> today showing nursing homes in the U.S. could see a third spike of increasing new COVID cases due to the community spread among the general population.</div><div><br></div><div>Recent data released by John Hopkins and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) show that with the recent spike in new COVID cases in the general U.S. population, weekly nursing home cases rose in late September for the first time in seven weeks after new cases dropped significantly throughout August and early September. According to John Hopkins, COVID cases in the general U.S. population rose by 62,139 cases per week in late September correlating with an uptick in nursing home cases during the week of September 27.</div><div> <br></div><p><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/Nursing-Homes-Warn-of-Third-Spike-of-COVID-Cases-Due-to-Community-Spread/chart%201.png" alt="chart 1.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p></p><div>As <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Analysis-COVID-Outbreaks-in-Nursing-Homes.pdf" target="_blank">experts</a> have repeatedly noted, COVID-19 cases in a surrounding community is a top factor in outbreaks in nursing homes. Dr. David Grabowski, professor of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School recently <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/covid-19-surges-back-into-nursing-homes-in-coronavirus-hot-spots/2020/08/13/edbff5fe-dd75-11ea-b205-ff838e15a9a6_story.html" target="_blank">stated</a>, “The strongest predictor of whether or not we’ll see cases in [a particular setting] is community spread.”</div><div><br></div><div>“The number one factor in keeping COVID out of our nursing homes, so we can protect our vulnerable population is reducing the level of the virus in the surrounding community,” stated Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. “While the support we have received from Congress, the Administration and other public health agencies have helped our facilities fight this battle, we could still see another wave of COVID cases caused by the sheer volume of rising cases in communities across the U.S. given the asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic spread of this virus.”</div><div><br></div><div>The report showed new COVID cases in nursing homes had declined significantly from 10,125 cases the week of July 26 —when the country experienced a growing number of cases in the <a href="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/Pages/REPORT-COVID-Cases-in-Nursing-Homes-Surpass-Peak-Level-Back-in-May.aspx" target="_blank">Sun Belt states</a>—but saw an uptick in new cases in the final week of September. </div><div><br></div><div><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/Nursing-Homes-Warn-of-Third-Spike-of-COVID-Cases-Due-to-Community-Spread/chart%202.png" alt="chart 2.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br><br></div><p>The report also showed COVID-related deaths in nursing homes had declined significantly, but industry leaders remain concerned about the recent uptick in new COVID cases in facilities.<br><br><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/Nursing-Homes-Warn-of-Third-Spike-of-COVID-Cases-Due-to-Community-Spread/chart%203.png" alt="chart 3.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><div>With new COVID cases now rising in the general population of 38 states, Parkinson said now more than ever Congress needs to end the partisan logjam and prioritize frontline health care workers and residents, particularly vulnerable elderly populations.</div><div><br></div><div>Most of the $175 billion Provider Relief Fund provided by the CARES Act back in April has already been distributed and Parkinson said health care providers, including long term care facilities, will need additional funds to continue its response to the COVID pandemic heading into the cold and flu season, which provides new challenges.</div><div><br></div><div>“Without replenishing funds for federal and state agencies, health care facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living communities, could find themselves less than completely prepared for the challenges of the upcoming winter season, which could inevitably result in an uptick in new COVID cases,” stated Parkinson. “Without adequate funding and resources, the U.S. will repeat the same mistakes made during the initial outbreak last spring and the major spike over the summer. We need Congress to prioritize our vulnerable seniors and their caregivers in nursing homes and assisted living communities, by passing another COVID funding package before they leave town for the elections.”</div><div><br></div><div>For more information, please visit www.<a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/pages/coronavirus.aspx" target="_blank">ahcancal.org/coronavirus</a>.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br></div> | With COVID cases increasing in 38 states, industry leaders call on public health officials to ensure nursing homes have resources needed and for Congress to pass additional funding | AHCA/NCAL released a report today showing nursing homes in the U.S. could see a third spike of increasing new COVID cases due to the community spread among the general population. |
| Financial Challenges Continue To Affect Nursing Homes, Emphasizing Need For Higher Medicaid Reimbursement Rates | aspx | | 10/14/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p></p><div>As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the country, widespread financial challenges loom over many long term care facilities. One of the root causes of these challenges is Medicaid underfunding. Prior to the pandemic, shortfalls in Medicaid funding had forced providers to operate on shoestring budgets and suffer net losses year after year. Now, these problems have been magnified due to the cost to fight the pandemic.</div><div><br></div><div>Here’s how Medicaid shortfalls occur:</div><div><br></div><div><ul><li>Medicaid, the primary payer for nursing homes, covers more than 60 percent of all nursing home residents and approximately 50 percent of costs for long term care services.</li><li>Medicaid reimbursements, on the other hand, only cover 70 to 80 percent of the actual cost of care.</li></ul></div><div><br></div><div>Low Medicaid reimbursement rates, coupled with the financial hardships from the pandemic, threaten the viability of the entire long term care sector. An American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Survey-SNF-COVID-Costs.pdf" target="_blank">survey</a> found that more than half of nursing homes are currently operating at a loss and 72 percent of nursing homes say they won’t be able to sustain operation another year at the current pace. </div><div><br></div><div>The consequences of these hardships are coming to fruition. Nursing homes and assisted living communities in <a href="https://www.kcra.com/article/woodland-nursing-home-covid-19-close-ceo/33395043#" target="_blank">California</a>, <a href="https://newcountry991.com/estes-park-nursing-home-faces-possible-closure/" target="_blank">Colorado</a>, <a href="https://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/2020/07/nursing-home-employees-shocked-after-learning-about-facilitys-closure-in-mlive-article.html" target="_blank">Michigan</a>, <a href="https://www.unionleader.com/news/health/merrimack-assisted-living-facility-closing-its-doors/article_ac8b9f8b-ee5e-55cf-a155-0ddc4d46c2ac.html" target="_blank">New Hampshire</a>, <a href="https://westchester.news12.com/105yearold-ossining-nursing-home-to-close-doors-for-good-42409607" target="_blank">New York</a> and <a href="https://www.wpri.com/health/coronavirus/providence-nursing-home-to-close-citing-covid-19-losses/" target="_blank">Rhode Island</a> have announced closures or have warned of possible closures, which will force residents to abruptly move and find new care. These relocations often lead to residents living further away from loved ones. </div><div><br></div><div>The situation is dire for many, and long term care leaders are calling for action.</div><div><br></div><div><ul><li>Rhode Island Health Care Association Executive Director Scott Fraser <a href="https://turnto10.com/news/local/nursing-home-industry-in-ri-urges-the-state-to-raise-medicaid-funding" target="_blank">says</a> the industry is facing a “funding crisis” and is concerned about the future for nursing homes. A report submitted to the state shows that nursing homes lost $7 million in 2017 and 2018. He’s calling on the state to boost reimbursement rates to keep up with inflation. </li><li>Nursing home representatives in New Hampshire testified before a state legislative committee that without higher reimbursement rates, facilities will be unable to address staffing shortages and increase wages. One organization president <a href="https://manchesterinklink.com/state-criticized-for-low-medicaid-payments-to-nursing-homes/" target="_blank">said</a> that they lose $45 per day per Medicaid resident. Medicaid residents, he says, make up 80 percent of all of their residents.  </li></ul></div><div><br></div><div>CARES Act funding that long term care facilities have received thus far has helped, but with potential surges of COVID-19, it’s important that they continue to get needed support. AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson recently told <a href="https://skillednursingnews.com/2020/10/parkinson-cares-act-will-keep-nursing-homes-above-water-in-2020-but-closures-loom-in-2021/" target="_blank">Skilled Nursing News</a>, “If we don’t get assistance beyond that point, beyond the end of 2020 into 2021, that’s when you’re going to see that large percentage of buildings that say that they’re operating at a loss, that’s where you’re going to see potential closures.” </div><div><br></div><div>Long-term solutions are needed to ensure facilities can continue providing high-quality care for their residents. An important place to start is making sure Medicaid reimbursement rates keep up with the cost of care.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br><br></div> | | As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the country, widespread financial challenges loom over many long term care facilities. One of the root causes of these challenges is Medicaid underfunding. |
| AHCA/NCAL Kicks Off 71st Convention Virtually | aspx | | 10/8/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <div><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C. —</strong> Today the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) kicked off its first ever virtual Convention & Expo. The Association’s virtual Convention will take place through the rest of October, with 70 on-demand education sessions and 20 live or simu-live sessions.  </div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">“Our virtual Convention will safely connect long term care professionals with valuable on-demand education to help us identify solutions that improve and protect the lives of our most vulnerable individuals during this unprecedented time,” said Mark Parkinson, the president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Every Thursday during the Convention, AHCA/NCAL will offer general sessions that feature distinguished guest speakers. Today’s general session includes astronaut Captain Scott Kelly, presential historian and Pulitzer Prize winner Doris Kearns Goodwin, and Leon Logothetis, global adventurer and motivational speaker. The remaining “Get-Together Thursdays” include: </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">The 14th Annual NCAL Day on Thursday, October 15, where assisted living providers can enjoy thought-provoking education specifically tailored to the sector. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">An association update from Parkinson, AHCA Board Chair Debbie Meade, NCAL Board Chair Helen Crunk, and NCAL Executive Director Scott Tittle on Thursday, October 15. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Closing keynote speaker Kindra Hall, president and chief storytelling officer of Steller Collective on Thursday, October 22. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">The National Quality Award Program Ceremony on Thursday, October 22; and </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">A special concert and live Q&A session with singer, songwriter and record producer Andy Grammer on Thursday, October 22. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">“The staff on the front lines are fighting relentlessly to do the right thing, the right way, to protect our residents during one of the worst times most of us have ever experienced. We are resilient, and Convention allows us to come together, so we can get through these incredible challenges even stronger,” said AHCA Board Chair Debbie Meade. </span></div><div><br></div><div>As of October 8, more than 1,500 long term care professionals had registered to attend the AHCA/NCAL Virtual Convention & Expo, although individuals are welcome to register throughout the entire month of October. To see the full schedule and learn more visit <a href="https://www.eventscribe.com/2020/AHCANCAL/" target="_blank">www.ahcaconvention.org</a>. </div><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL </strong><br></div><div><br></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represent more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit www.ahca.org or www.ncal.org. <br></div><p><br></p> | Remarks from Captain Scott Kelly, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Leon Logothetis featured in Opening Session | |
| AHCA/NCAL Elects Board of Governors, Directors | aspx | | 10/7/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <div><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C. —</strong> Today, the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) elected AHCA’s Board of Governors and NCAL's Board of Directors for the 2020/2021 term. Debbie Meade of Georgia was re-elected as AHCA Chair, and Helen Crunk of Nebraska was re-elected as NCAL Chair.  </div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">“I am proud to work alongside these extraordinary titans in our sector,” said Mark Parkinson, the president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. “This has been our most challenging year, and their leadership is critical as they guide us through this unprecedented time.” </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">New AHCA Board members include Randy Bury, CEO of the Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society; Sarah Schumann, the vice president of operations at Brookside Inn; and Heath Boddy, the president and CEO of the Nebraska Health Care Association and president of the Affiliated State Health Care Association Executives (ASHCAE).  </span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">The members of AHCA’s 2020-2021 Board include:  </span></div><div><ul><li>Debbie Meade of Health Management (Georgia), AHCA Chair </li><li>Phil Fogg of Marquis Companies (Oregon), AHCA Vice Chair </li><li>Phil Scalo of Bartley Healthcare (New Jersey), Secretary/Treasurer </li><li>J. Mark Traylor of Traylor Porter Healthcare (Alabama), Independent Owner Representative </li><li>Steve Flatt of National Healthcare Corporation (Tennessee), Multifacility Representative  </li><li>Randy Bury of The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society (South Dakota), Not for Profit Representative </li><li>Derek Prince of HMG Healthcare, LLC (Texas), At-large Representative </li><li>Joe Mitchell of Summit Care (Florida), At-large Representative </li><li>Sarah Schumann of Brookside Inn (Colorado), At-large Representative </li><li>Julianne Williams of Dycora Transitional Health (California), At-large Representative </li><li>Chris Wright of iCare Health Network (Connecticut), At-large Representative </li><li>Helen Crunk of Pemberly Place Management & Archer Place Medical Clinic (Nebraska), NCAL Representative </li><li>Heath Boddy of Nebraska Health Care Association (Nebraska), ASHCAE Representative </li><li>Betsy Rust of Plante Moran (Michigan), Associate Business Member (ABM) Representative; and  </li><li>Michael Wylie of Genesis HealthCare (Pennsylvania), Immediate Past Chair. </li></ul><p><br></p><p>The NCAL Board of Directors welcomed newcomers Todd Dockerty, CEO of Dockerty Health Care Services; Stacy Hejda, the vice president of regulatory compliance at Assisted Living Partners; and ASHCAE Vice President Jessie Samples of the Tennessee Health Care Association. <br></p><p><span style="font-size:11pt;">The members of NCAL’s 2020-2021 Board of Directors include:  </span></p><p></p><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Helen Crunk of Pemberly Place (Nebraska), Chair </span></li><li>Gerald Hamilton of BeeHive Homes of Albuquerque (New Mexico), Vice Chair <br></li><li>Mark Maxfield of The Cottages, LLC (Idaho), Secretary/Treasurer <br></li><li>Patricia Giorgio of Evergreen Estates (Iowa), Immediate Past Chair <br></li><li>John Bolduc of Odd Fellows' and Rebekahs' Home of Maine (Maine), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Rod Burkett of Gardant Management Solutions (Illinois), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Megan Campbell of IntegraCare Corporation (Pennsylvania), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Sue Coppola of Sunrise Senior Living (Virginia), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Ana de la Cerda of Aegis Living (Washington), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Todd Dockerty of Dockerty Health Care Services (Michigan), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Darryl Fisher of Mission Senior Living (Nevada), At-large Representative<br></li><li>Denise German of Medicalodges Inc. (Kansas), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Stacy Hejda of Assisted Living Partners (Iowa), At-large Representative  <br></li><li>Barbara Mitchell of Magnolia Manor, Inc. (Georgia), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Sean Mockbee of Sunshine Village (Arizona), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Gail Sheridan of Tealwood Care Centers, Inc. (Minnesota), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Sarah Silva of Avamere Health Services (Oregon), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Elizabeth Wheatley of Five Star Senior Living, Inc (Arizona), At-large Representative <br></li><li>Doug Farmer of Colorado Health Care Association (Colorado), State Affiliate Representative <br></li><li>David Voepel of Arizona Health Care Association (Arizona), State Affiliate Representative; and <br></li><li>Shawn Scott of Medline Industries (Illinois), ABM Representative. </li></ul><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><p></p></div><div><br></div><div> <span style="font-size:11pt;">The ex-officio members on the NCAL Board of Directors include Meade as the AHCA Chair and Fogg as the AHCA Vice Chair, as well as ASHCAE Vice President Jessie Samples. </span></div><div><br></div><div>“This year’s NCAL Board incorporates leaders from across the nation that will go above and beyond to help our assisted living members succeed,” said Scott Tittle, the executive director of NCAL. “Now more than ever, we need strong individuals to lead us in this fight against COVID-19, and this group is prepared to do just that.” </div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Members of the AHCA Board of Governors are elected by the association’s governing body, the Council of States. The NCAL Board of Directors is elected by current members of the NCAL Board and by NCAL State Leaders.  </span></div><div><br></div><div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL </strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represent more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit www.ahca.org or www.ncal.org. <br></div><br></div> | | Today, the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) elected AHCA’s Board of Governors and NCAL's Board of Directors for the 2020/2021 term. |
| Nursing Homes Need Additional Congressional Support To Survive The COVID-19 Pandemic | aspx | | 10/6/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><br></p><div>Long term care facilities across the country have faced the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic. As lawmakers in Washington continue discussions around the next COVID-19 stimulus bill, the health and well-being of America’s seniors and caregivers deserve to be kept top of mind. With winter looming, it’s more important than ever that long term care facilities are equipped to deal with a potential surge. Lawmakers need to ensure every nursing home and assisted living community has the adequate testing, personal protective equipment (PPE) and staff support they need to protect themselves against the virus.</div><div><br></div><div>The American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has <a href="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/Pages/Nursing-Homes-Request-Priority-and-Funding-From-Congress-in-Next-COVID-Bill-to-Protect-Residents-and-Caregivers.aspx" target="_blank">called on Congress</a> to make seniors and their caregivers a priority in the next round of stimulus funding. AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson recently called on Congress to prioritize frontline health care workers and residents. He <a href="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/Pages/Nursing-Homes-Warn-Congress-Don’t-Leave-Town-Without-Delivering-Additional-COVID-Funding-for-Health-And-Long-Term-Care-Prov.aspx" target="_blank">said</a>, “Without replenishing funds for federal and state agencies, health care facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living communities, could find themselves less than completely prepared for the challenges of the upcoming cold and flu season, which could inevitably result in an uptick in new COVID cases.”</div><div><br></div><div>These facilities need the full support of Congress to ensure every resident and their caregivers have the means to fight off this virus. Their requests include:<br><br></div><div><ul><li>A two-pronged approach to testing that provides financial support for increased and prioritized testing for providers and residents.</li><li> <span style="font-size:11pt;">An additional $100 billion to the Provider Relief Fund with a substantial portion dedicated to long term care.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:11pt;">Vaccine priority to residents and staff.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Additionally, AHCA/NCAL <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/Letters/NGA-Letter-Vaccine-Priority.pdf" target="_blank">sent a letter</a> last week to the National Governors Association urging states to give long term care residents and staff priority access to the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. In the letter, AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson and NCAL Executive Director Scott Tittle outlined the need to make these individuals a priority: <br></span><br></div><div><ul><li>The average age of residents in long term care facilities is 85 and almost every one of them has an underlying health condition, and some have multiple chronic conditions. According to CDC data, the risk of mortality in this age group is 630 times higher than those 18-29 years old. </li><li> <span style="font-size:11pt;">The virus is highly contagious and can spread through individuals who show know symptoms. Data shows that nearly 40 percent of individuals with COVID-19 are asymptomatic. Without access to regular testing resources, congregate settings like long term care facilities are prone to rapid spread.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:11pt;">Hundreds of thousands of health care workers have been on the frontlines since the start of the pandemic. They are working day and night to protect our most vulnerable and are also at risk of contracting the virus.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:11pt;">The combination of these factors, as well as a severe lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) and testing at the outset, led to a disproportionate impact on long term care residents. Current data shows that while COVID-19 cases in all long term care facilities account for eight percent of total cases nationwide, they account for 41 percent of all COVID-19 related deaths.    </span></li></ul></div><div>Congress has the opportunity to ensure long term care facilities have the necessary means to mitigate this crisis. Temporary funding allocated to these facilities have been a tremendous help but more is needed. The threat of a second surge, coupled with the fall and winter seasons, is too great for long term care facilities to face alone. They need Congressional support to prevail. </div><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br></div> | Long Term Care Facilities Need Support To Weather The Storm Through the Fall and Winter | As lawmakers in Washington continue discussions around the next COVID-19 stimulus bill, the health and well-being of America’s seniors and caregivers deserve to be kept top of mind. |
| Long Term Care Profession to Hold a National Moment of Silence for Residents and Caregivers Lost to COVID-19 | aspx | | 10/5/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><strong style="font-size:11pt;">WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong><span style="font-size:11pt;"> - The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) is calling upon long term care professionals, residents, their loved ones and members of the public to join together in a national moment of silence on Thursday, October 8, to honor the tens of thousands of lives lost in these settings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“We’re asking fellow Americans to take part in this moment of silence to honor our residents and caregivers who have tragically lost their lives to COVID-19,” said Debbie Meade, AHCA Board Chair. “In long term care, we become a family, and to lose even one resident or colleague is heartbreaking. This pandemic has been devastating—for our vulnerable residents who the virus uniquely impacts, for their family members who haven’t been allowed to visit, and for our heroic caregivers who continue to put their lives on the line and provide the best possible care.” <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than 80,000 individuals from long term care facilities (a combination of nursing homes, assisted living communities, adult day care centers, intermediate care facilities and other long term care facilities) have died from the virus, or approximately 40 percent of the nation’s total COVID-19 deaths. Older adults and those with underlying conditions are especially susceptible to the virus; the risk of mortality in this age group is 630 times higher than those 18-29 years old.  <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“We must bear witness to the greatest challenge our profession has ever faced,” said Mark Parkinson, the president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. “What our members have fought against and seen in their buildings has been traumatic, but they have shown unparalleled resilience and commitment. While we have experienced great loss, we have also seen tens of thousands of residents recover. We must continue to fight and never give up.” <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The moment of silence will take place on Thursday, October 8 at 3:30 pm Eastern Time. The moment of silence will coincide with the opening general session of the AHCA/NCAL Virtual Convention & Expo, which also begins at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Individuals are not required to register for the conference in order to pay tribute to our fallen residents and caregivers. Members of the public are encouraged to participate in their homes and communities however they deem appropriate.  <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The AHCA/NCAL Virtual Convention and Expo runs October 8-31. To learn more, please visit: </span><a href="https://www.eventscribe.com/2020/AHCANCAL/" target="_blank" style="font-size:11pt;">www.ahcaconvention.org</a><span style="font-size:11pt;">. </span></p><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br></div><div><br></div> | National Moment of Silence to Take Place Thursday, October 8 | AHCA/NCAL is calling upon long term care professionals, residents, their loved ones and members of the public to join together in a national moment of silence on October 8, to honor the lives lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic. |
| Nursing Homes Warn Congress: Don’t Leave Town Without Delivering Additional COVID Funding for Health And Long-Term Care Providers | aspx | | 9/28/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><strong></strong><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong> - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, warned Congress today that if they don’t pass another COVID funding package public health agencies and health care providers could find themselves less than completely prepared heading into the cold and flu season, as well as underfunded to handle another major spike in COVID cases.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>With 70% of the $175 billion Provider Relief Fund provided by the CARES Act back in April already distributed and remaining funds likely to be allocated by early October, health care providers, including long term care facilities, will need additional funds to continue its response to the COVID pandemic heading into the cold and flu season, which provides new challenges.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Michael T. Osterholm, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/coronavirus-states-cases-increase/2020/09/22/105826b4-f9ef-11ea-a275-1a2c2d36e1f1_story.html" target="_blank">recently pointed out</a> the challenges with the upcoming flu and cold season: “I think we’re just in the beginning of what’s going to be a marked increase in cases in the fall. And it won’t be just a testing artifact, either. This is real.” Further complicating the flu and cold season ahead is the fact that COVID cases are rising as CNBC <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/09/22/coronavirus-cases-grow-in-more-than-half-of-us-states.html" target="_blank">reported</a>, “Coronavirus cases in the U.S. are beginning to rebound following weeks of reported declines and warnings from top U.S. health officials that the country could be vulnerable to fresh outbreaks coinciding with the forthcoming flu season.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), stated that Congress needs to end the partisan logjam and prioritize frontline health care workers and residents, particularly vulnerable elderly populations.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“Without replenishing funds for federal and state agencies, health care facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living communities, could find themselves less than completely prepared for the challenges of the upcoming cold and flu season, which could inevitably result in an uptick in new COVID cases,” stated Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living. “With the cold and flu season adding a real complication to the ongoing COVID pandemic response, the need for extra testing, personal protective equipment and staffing, will need to be met in order to keep caregivers and residents safe.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Parkinson is urging Congress to provide an additional $100 billion for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Provider Relief Fund, which is accessible for all health care providers impacted by COVID-19. A sizeable portion of the fund should be dedicated to helping nursing homes and assisted living communities acquire resources associated with protecting vulnerable residents and staff from the virus, including constant testing, PPE and staff support.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“Without adequate funding and resources, the U.S. will repeat the same mistakes made during the initial outbreak last spring and the major spike over the summer. We need Congress to prioritize our vulnerable seniors and their caregivers in nursing homes and assisted living communities, by passing another COVID funding package before they leave town for the elections.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>For more information, please visit <a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/pages/coronavirus.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org/coronavirus</a>. </span></p><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx">www.ncal.org</a>.<br></div><div><br></div> | With nearly all of the initial Healthcare Provider Relief Fund from CARES Act spent and COVID cases rising in 22 states, U.S. will be unprepared heading into cold and flu season | AHCA/NCAL warned Congress that if they don’t pass another COVID funding package, public health agencies and health care providers could find themselves underfunded to handle another major spike in COVID cases heading into the cold and flu season. |
| AHCA/NCAL Issues Statement Following Release of Independent Commission Report | aspx | | 9/16/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Washington, D.C.</strong> – The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) released the following statement following the release the final report by the independent Coronavirus Commission for Safety and Quality in Nursing Homes (Commission) on the safety and quality in nursing homes in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Mark Parkinson, president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL, will attend a discussion on the findings of the report tomorrow at the White House with Vice President Mike Pence, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr. Robert R. Redfield, some members of the Commission and other public health and senior care experts.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The following statement is attributable to Mark Parkinson:<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“We are pleased to see the Commission acknowledge what we have been saying from the beginning - there must be shared responsibility with public health officials prioritizing our residents in long term care and helping facilities acquire necessary resources to combat this global pandemic. The Commission’s review and findings lay out some of the important work that is needed to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in nursing homes and further improve the quality of care we deliver.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“As we prepare for a potential rise in cases this fall, we must arm nursing homes and other long term care facilities with a steady stream of resources to ensure they have adequate tests, personal protective equipment and staff support.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“We appreciate the members of the Commission who contributed to this important discussion and look forward to working with the Administration to bring aspects of this report to fruition and keep our residents and staff safe.”</span></p><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br><br></div> | | AHCA/NCAL released the following statement following the release the final report by the independent Coronavirus Commission for Safety and Quality in Nursing Homes (Commission) on the safety and quality in nursing homes in relation to the COVID-19. |
| America’s Assisted Living Communities Convey Why “Caring is Essential” | aspx | | 9/13/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong> – Beginning today and continuing through Saturday, Sept. 19, America’s assisted living communities are participating in National Assisted Living Week® (NALW). The national observance—which begins each year on National Grandparents’ Day—honors the individuals who reside, work and volunteer in assisted living and residential care communities with special activities and events. <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Created by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, this year’s NALW theme is “Caring is Essential,” reflecting the hard work and dedication of all the essential caregivers in assisted living communities across the country. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed much of the day-to-day life of the staff and the residents for the time being. Despite these hurdles, staff continue to provide high-quality care to residents in senior living and should be honored for the incredible work they do every day.</span></p><div><br></div><div>“With many friends and family still unable to enter the buildings due to COVID, caregivers in assisted living communities are playing an even more critical role to residents,” said <strong>Scott Tittle, Executive Director of NCAL</strong>. “This National Assisted Living Week, in addition to the hundreds of thousands of heroes working in assisted living today, we must recognize the special relationships residents have with staff and how those bonds enrich everyone’s lives.”</div><div><br></div><div>The annual observance encourages assisted living communities around the country to offer a variety of events and activities to bring together residents, staff and volunteers, while adhering to infection control requirements and precautions in place for COVID-19. Participants are asked to share their celebrations throughout the week on social media with the hashtag, <strong>#NALW</strong>. </div><div><br></div><div>For more information on National Assisted Living Week, please visit <a href="/Education-Events/Pages/NALW.aspx" target="_blank">www.nalw.org</a>.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit<a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank"> www.ahca.org</a> or <a href="/Education-Events/Pages/NALW.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br><br></div> | Caregivers commemorate National Assisted Living Week® | Beginning today and continuing through Saturday, Sept. 19, America’s assisted living communities are participating in National Assisted Living Week®. |
| AHCA/NCAL Renews Call For Residents, Staff In Long Term Care Facilities To Receive Prioritization For COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution | aspx | | 9/2/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Washington, D</strong></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>.C.</strong> – The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country, reiterated its call today for long term care facilities to receive prioritization for distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>At a public listening session organized by the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) convened to solicit comments on its Discussion Draft of the Preliminary Framework for Equitable Allocation of COVID-19 Vaccine, AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson stressed the importance of getting a vaccine to long term care providers who have been on the front lines of the pandemic protecting one of our nation’s most vulnerable populations.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“Long term care was forgotten at the start of the pandemic, but we cannot be forgotten now,” Parkinson said. “Members of our country’s greatest generation and the brave men and women who keep them safe deserve our support. Ensuring long term care residents and staff are among the first to receive a vaccine when it becomes available will help mitigate the risk and prevent further deaths.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>NASEM’s final study will provide recommendations to the National Institutes for Health (NIH) and the Center for Disease (CDC) as they consider initial allocation once a vaccine is available for use. A recent <a href="https://www.axios.com/who-gets-coronavirus-vaccine-first-4ff87ff8-39d7-49d6-8d25-fa2307119235.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosam&stream=top" target="_blank">Harris survey</a> of more than 1,900 Americans revealed that the vast majority of Americans support providing the vaccine to high-risk individuals first. This includes seniors and those who care for them.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>While long term care providers have taken unprecedented action to protect those in their care, research shows that a high rate of spread in a community is all but certain to lead to outbreaks in nursing homes and assisted living communities. “As long as the virus is a threat to the general public, it is a threat to our residents and staff,” Parkinson added. “If we can vaccinate long term care residents and caregivers first, they will be less at risk in the event we see a rise in cases within our communities.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>AHCA/NCAL will continue to work closely with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, NIH and CDC to ensure those who most urgently need the protection of a vaccine are able to access it as soon as possible.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>For more information, please visit </span><a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/pages/coronavirus.aspx" target="_blank" style="font-size:11pt;">www.ahcancal.org/coronavirus</a><span style="font-size:11pt;">.</span></p><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.<br><br></div> | | AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson stressed the importance of getting a vaccine to long term care providers who have been on the front lines of the pandemic protecting one of our nation’s most vulnerable populations. |
| NCAL Issues Statement Following HHS Announcement On Funding For Assisted Living Communities | aspx | | 9/1/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <strong>Washington, D.C.</strong> – The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) released the following statement following today's announcement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding funding for assisted living facilities as provided by the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act.<br> <br>The following statement is attributable to Scott Tittle, executive director of NCAL:<br> <br>“This financial aid is welcome news for the tens of thousands of assisted living providers and the hundreds of thousands of seniors they serve. For six months, assisted living caregivers have been diverting significant resources to help acquire personal protective equipment, testing, and additional support for staff. Funding from the federal government will help ensure assisted living providers continue these efforts to keep their residents and staff safe as well as remain a reliable long term care option for their local communities. Coupled with today's news that rapid, antigen tests are being delivered to assisted living communities across the country, we greatly appreciate HHS for recognizing the importance of supporting our long term care sector during this crisis."<br><div style="text-align:center;"><br></div><div style="text-align:center;">###<br></div><div style="text-align:center;"><br></div><div style="text-align:left;"><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong><br><br><p>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.ahcancal.org/">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="http://www.ncal.org/">www.ncal.org</a>.<br></p><br><br><br></div> | | Scott Tittle, executive director of NCAL, comments on the announcement from HHS regarding funding for assisted living facilities as provided by the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. |
| REPORT: COVID Cases in Nursing Homes Surpass Peak Level Back in May | aspx | | 8/17/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><br></p><div><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong> - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, released an <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Report-Nursing-Homes-Cases-Aug17-2020.pdf" target="_blank">updated report</a> today showing the major spike of new COVID cases in nursing homes has now surpassed the peak level back on May 31, according to updated data released from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). <br></div><div><br><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/REPORT-COVID-Cases-in-Nursing-Homes-Surpass-Peak-Level-Back-in-May/Confirmed%20covid%20cases%20in%20US%20Nursing%20Homes%201.png" alt="Confirmed covid cases in US Nursing Homes 1.png" class="ms-rtePosition-2" style="font-size:14.6667px;margin:5px;width:525px;" />The report shows the increase of COVID cases in U.S. nursing homes is a direct result of the major spikes in the general population of the Sun Belt region with 78 percent of new cases in U.S. nursing homes coming from those states by the end of July. <br></div><div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">According to the </span><a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Report-Nursing-Homes-Cases-Aug17-2020.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:11pt;">report</a><span style="font-size:11pt;">, COVID-related deaths in nursing homes had declined significantly, but have started to increase again with 69 percent of COVID-related deaths in U.S. nursing homes coming from the Sun Belt. </span><br></div><div style="color:#555555;font-size:14.6667px;"><br></div><div style="color:#555555;font-size:14.6667px;">In an article in The Washington Post last week, Dr. David Grabowski, professor of Health Care Policy at Harvard Medical School stated, “The strongest predictor of whether or not we’ll see cases in [a particular setting] is community spread. We saw that in the Northeast and now, unfortunately, we’re seeing it in the Sun Belt states.”<br></div></div><div style="color:#555555;font-size:14.6667px;"><br></div><div>“With the recent major spikes of COVID cases in many states across the country, we were very concerned this trend would lead to an increase in cases in nursing homes and unfortunately it has,” stated <strong>Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living</strong>. “This is especially troubling since many nursing homes and other long term care facilities are still unable to acquire the personal protective equipment and testing they need to fully combat this virus.” </div><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/REPORT-COVID-Cases-in-Nursing-Homes-Surpass-Peak-Level-Back-in-May/Percent%20of%20COVID%20Cases%20in%20US%20Nursing%20Homes%202.png" alt="Percent of COVID Cases in US Nursing Homes 2.png" class="ms-rtePosition-2" style="font-size:14.6667px;margin:5px;width:525px;" /><div><br></div><div>While PPE shortages continue to be a major concern for long term care facilities, especially the lack of available N95 masks, the lack of reliable and rapid result testing has been the top concern among nursing home providers.</div><div><br></div><div>In the <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/AHCA-NCAL-Survey-Testing-Results.pdf" target="_blank">survey</a> AHCA/NCAL conducted back in June, 87 percent of nursing homes said tests for residents and staff was taking two days or longer to obtain results. One out of four nursing homes said it was taking five days or longer.</div><div><br></div><div>“What we need – now more than ever – is for our government leaders and lab companies from the private sector to work together to find a solution to prioritize and expedite the processing of tests for nursing home residents and caregivers,” stated Parkinson.                                    </div><div><br></div><div>In a recent CNN <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxbpOHuh4T8&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">interview</a>, Parkinson said governors and state public health agencies need to focus on reducing the level of COVID in the general population and ensuring nursing homes obtain the PPE supplies and reliable testing they need. </div><div><br></div><div>“If everybody would wear a mask and encourage their friends and family to wear a mask and social distance, we know we would dramatically reduce these rates. When people are making the conscience decision not to wear a mask, they are making a decision that is resulting in greater community spread and increasing the presence of the virus in long term care facilities resulting in senior deaths,” stated Parkinson. “Every governor needs to make a priority, particularly in states with an exploding number of cases, to make sure every long-term care facility has the N95 mask and testing they need. It’s the only way to bring the case counts down.”</div><div><br></div><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/REPORT-COVID-Cases-in-Nursing-Homes-Surpass-Peak-Level-Back-in-May/Percent%20of%20COVID%20Related%20Deaths%20in%20Nursing%20Homes.png" alt="Percent of COVID Related Deaths in Nursing Homes.png" class="ms-rtePosition-2" style="font-size:14.6667px;margin:5px;width:525px;" /><div>Recently, AHCA/NCAL sent a <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/Letters/AHCA-NCAL%20NGA%20Letter%207.14.20.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a> to the National Governors Association (NGA) warning states of imminent outbreaks at nursing homes and assisted living facilities given the major spikes in new cases in several states across the U.S., combined with serious PPE shortages and <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/AHCA-NCAL-Survey-Testing-Results.pdf" target="_blank">significant delays</a> in getting testing results.</div><div><br></div><div>Parkinson is also urging Congress for an additional $100 billion for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Provider Relief Fund, which is accessible for all health care providers impacted by COVID-19, and that a sizeable portion of the fund be dedicated to helping nursing homes and assisted living communities acquire resources associated with protecting vulnerable residents and staff from the virus, including constant testing, PPE and staff support. Thus far, assisted living communities have not received any assistance from the federal government administering to the novel coronavirus, most pronounced testing, PPE and staffing costs.</div><div><br></div><div>“Without adequate funding and resources, the U.S. will end up repeating the same mistakes from several months ago. We need Congress to prioritize our vulnerable seniors and their caregivers in nursing homes and assisted living communities in this upcoming legislation.”</div><div><br></div><div>For more information, please visit <a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/pages/coronavirus.aspx">www.ahcancal.org/coronavirus</a>. </div><div><br><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the nearly 5 million seniors and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our facilities each year. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx">www.ncal.org</a>.<br><br></div> | 78% of new cases in nursing homes from Sun Belt States | 78% of new cases in nursing homes from Sun Belt States |
| DATA: Nursing Homes See Spike in New COVID Cases Due to Community Spread | aspx | | 8/11/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>WASHINGTON, D.C.</strong> - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, released a <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Report-Nursing-Homes-Cases-Aug11-2020.pdf" target="_blank">report </a>today showing nursing homes in the U.S. have experienced an alarming spike in new COVID cases due to community spread among the general population according to recent data recently released from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The CMS data shows COVID cases in nursing homes significantly increased last month after having dropped significantly throughout the month of June.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/DATA-Nursing-Homes-See-Spike-in-New-COVID-Cases-Due-to-Community-Spread/chart%201.png" alt="chart 1.png" class="ms-rtePosition-4" style="margin:5px;" /><br><br><br><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/DATA-Nursing-Homes-See-Spike-in-New-COVID-Cases-Due-to-Community-Spread/chart%202.png" alt="chart 2.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br><br><img src="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/PublishingImages/Pages/DATA-Nursing-Homes-See-Spike-in-New-COVID-Cases-Due-to-Community-Spread/chart%203.png" alt="chart 3.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br><br>As <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Analysis-COVID-Outbreaks-in-Nursing-Homes.pdf" target="_blank">experts</a> have repeatedly noted, COVID-19 cases in a surrounding community is a top factor in outbreaks in nursing homes. Dr. David Grabowski, professor of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School recently stated, “According to preliminary research presented, larger facilities located in urban areas with large populations, particularly in counties with a higher prevalence of COVID-19 cases, were more likely to have reported cases.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“With the recent major spikes of COVID cases in many states across the country, we were very concerned this trend would lead to an increase in cases in nursing homes and unfortunately it has,” stated Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living. “This is especially troubling since many nursing homes and other long term care facilities are still unable to acquire the personal protective equipment and testing they need to fully combat this virus.”</span></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Report-Nursing-Homes-Cases-Aug11-2020.pdf" target="_blank">report</a> also showed COVID-related deaths in nursing homes had declined significantly but have started to uptick again in recent weeks.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Parkinson and AHCA/NCAL recently sent a <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/Letters/AHCA-NCAL%20NGA%20Letter%207.14.20.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a> to the National Governors Association (NGA) warning states of imminent outbreaks at nursing homes and assisted living facilities given the major spikes in new cases in several states across the U.S., combined with serious PPE shortages and <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/AHCA-NCAL-Survey-Testing-Results.pdf" target="_blank">significant delays</a> in getting testing results for long term care residents and caregivers which has been taking up to five days or more.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“Given the fact we are several months into the response of this pandemic and the lack of PPE supplies is still an issue is very concerning. We request governors and state public health agencies to help secure and direct more PPE supplies to nursing homes and assisted living communities, especially N95 masks,” Parkinson wrote in the letter.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Using data from Johns Hopkins University, AHCA/NCAL released a <a href="/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/State-Breakdown-COVID19-Testing-Positivity-Rates-PPE.pdf" target="_blank">state-by-state breakdown</a> showing 33 states with a positive COVID-19 test rate of higher than five percent and <a href="https://data.cms.gov/Special-Programs-Initiatives-COVID-19-Nursing-Home/COVID-19-Nursing-Home-Dataset/s2uc-8wxp/data" target="_blank">data</a> from CMS indicating many nursing homes are still facing significant PPE supply shortages especially for N95 masks and gowns.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>AHCA/NCAL is calling on public health officials to take immediate steps to protect nursing homes and assisted living communities especially in areas with significant uptick in new COVID cases.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Parkinson is also urging Congress for an additional $100 billion for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Provider Relief Fund, which is accessible for all health care providers impacted by COVID-19, and that a sizeable portion of the fund be dedicated to helping nursing homes and assisted living communities acquire resources associated with protecting vulnerable residents and staff from the virus, including constant testing, PPE and staff support.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“Without adequate funding and resources, the U.S. will end up repeating the same mistakes from several months ago. We need Congress to prioritize our vulnerable seniors and their caregivers in nursing homes and assisted living communities in this upcoming legislation.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>For more information, please visit <a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/pages/coronavirus.aspx" target="_blank">www.ahcancal.org/coronavirus</a>. <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br><span class="ms-rteFontSize-2"><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></span><br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the nearly 5 million seniors and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our facilities each year. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">www.ncal.org</a>.</span></p> | Industry leaders call on public health officials to send resources to long term care facilities and on Congress to provide additional funding in next COVID legislation | Industry leaders call on public health officials to send resources to long term care facilities and on Congress to provide additional funding in next COVID legislation. |
| Nursing Home Industry Applauds the Trump Administration for Providing An Additional $5 Billion to Help Protect Residents and Caregivers | aspx | | 7/22/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <p><strong style="font-size:11pt;">WASHINGTON, D.C</strong><span style="font-size:11pt;">. - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, released the following statement today after President Trump announced $5 billion in additional Provider Relief Funds allocated for nursing homes.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The following statement is attributable to Mark Parkinson, president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>"We appreciate the Administration sending this much-needed funding to our nursing homes to help ensure our facilities have the personal protective equipment (PPE), access to testing and staffing needed to keep our residents and caregivers safe. This funding is an important step forward for nursing homes in our fight against this deadly virus.” <br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“</span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Overall nursing homes are making progress as data shows that new cases are down; however, the growing number of new COVID cases in </span><span style="font-size:11pt;">states across the country is very concerning, which is why continued support, like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing today, is vital to helping long term care facilities keep this virus out of our buildings.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“With the recent major spikes of COVID cases throughout the nation and recent </span><a href="/News/news_releases/Documents/Analysis-COVID-Outbreaks-in-Nursing-Homes.pdf" style="font-size:11pt;">independent research</a><span style="font-size:11pt;"> showing the level of COVID cases in the surrounding community serving as the top factor in outbreaks in long term care facilities, conducting more testing with reliable and rapid results is paramount. We are hopeful that the announcement today will help accelerate the rollout of improved testing, and that the Administration will continue to support long term care providers in carrying out this endeavor.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“While this funding is a significant step forward, it is equally important for Congress to provide an additional $100 billion for the HHS Provider Relief Fund, which is accessible to all health care providers impacted by COVID-19, and that a sizeable portion of the fund be dedicated to helping both </span><a href="/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/Pages/Nursing-Homes-Request-Priority-and-Funding-From-Congress-in-Next-COVID-Bill-to-Protect-Residents-and-Caregivers.aspx" style="font-size:11pt;">nursing homes</a><span style="font-size:11pt;"> and </span><a href="/News/news_releases/Documents/COVID_AL_Funding_Joint_Letter_Jul16.pdf" style="font-size:11pt;">assisted living communities</a><span style="font-size:11pt;"> to cover the enormous costs associated with protecting vulnerable residents and staff from the virus.”</span></p><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the nearly 5 million seniors and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our facilities each year. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx">www.ncal.org</a>.<br></div><p></p> | Call On Congress To Prioritize Additional Resources and Support For Long Term Care Providers In Next COVID Legislation | |
| Nursing Homes Request Priority and Funding From Congress in Next COVID Bill to Protect Residents and Caregivers | aspx | | 7/21/2020 4:00:00 AM | | <ul><li><strong></strong><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Nursing homes and assisted living communities ask for funding for testing, PPE supplies and workforce, and priority for vaccine distribution. </strong></span></li><li><strong>Nursing homes received only 4.3 percent of $175 billion Provider Relief Fund from CARES Act; zero funding for assisted living communities</strong></li><li><strong>By nearly a five-to-one margin (71 percent), women voters ages 34 to 65 say long term care facilities need more support from the government to save lives and take care of loved ones.</strong></li></ul><p><strong style="font-size:11pt;"><br>WASHINGTON, D.C</strong><span style="font-size:11pt;">.</span><span style="font-size:11pt;"> - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, called on Congress today to ensure dedicated funding and priority attention is given to long term care residents and caregivers.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>The long term care industry is requesting an additional $100 billion for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Provider Relief Fund, which is accessible for all health care providers impacted by COVID-19, and that a sizeable portion of the fund be dedicated to helping nursing homes and assisted living communities cover the enormous costs associated with protecting vulnerable residents and staff from the virus, including constant testing, personal protective equipment (PPE) and staffing.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Currently, nursing homes have only received approximately 4.3 percent of the $175 billion funding allocated from the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund for healthcare providers. Meanwhile, assisted living communities have yet to receive any direct federal aid.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“With the recent major spikes of COVID cases in many states across the country, we are very concerned this trend will lead to a dramatic increase in cases in nursing homes and assisted living communities,” stated Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living.  “Without adequate funding and resources, the U.S. will end up repeating the same mistakes from several months ago.  We need Congress to prioritize nursing homes and assisted living communities in this upcoming legislation.”<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>According to a recent national <a href="/News/news_releases/Documents/Survey-Summary-COVID-LTC-July2020Update.pdf">survey</a> of women voters ages 35 to 64 undertaken by AHCA/NCAL, a key voting block in the upcoming November election,<strong> 62 percent</strong> felt that the government did not make long term care facilities a top priority. By nearly a <strong>five-to-one margin</strong>, these voters (<strong>71 percent</strong>) say that long term care facilities need more support from the government so they can save lives and take care of our loved ones.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Parkinson said PPE supply shortages and a lack of access to reliable, rapid testing is still a major issue for many nursing homes. Nearly nine in 10 (87 percent) nursing homes and assisted living communities said obtaining test results back from the lab companies is taking two days or longer (63 percent – two to four days, 24 percent five days or more) according to a recent survey. Nearly 12 percent of nursing homes report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that they have less than a one-week supply of N-95 masks, and more than half of assisted living communities have less than a two-week supply of N-95 masks and gowns.  N-95 masks were not included in the last FEMA shipments to nursing homes and remain difficult to acquire.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>Recent <a href="/News/news_releases/Documents/Analysis-COVID-Outbreaks-in-Nursing-Homes.pdf">independent research</a> by Harvard Medical School, Brown University’s School of Public Health and University of Chicago showed the level of COVID cases in the surrounding community was the top factor in outbreaks in nursing homes.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>AHCA/NCAL recently sent a letter last week to the National Governors Association (NGA) warning states of imminent outbreaks at nursing homes and assisted living facilities given the major spikes in new cases in several states across the U.S., combined with serious PPE shortages and significant delays in getting testing results for long term care residents and caregivers.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>“Given the fact we are several months into the response of this pandemic and the lack of PPE supplies is still an issue is very concerning.  We request governors and state public health agencies to help secure and direct more PPE supplies to nursing homes and assisted living communities,” Parkinson wrote in the letter.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>As part of their funding request to Congress, the long term care industry is requesting a $5 billion fund to which labs and nursing homes or assisted living communities can apply to cover the costs of any testing ordered by a governmental entity.  At present, it is not clear who is covering the cost of surveillance testing and how much needs to be done, especially for staff.  AHCA/NCAL said funding for testing should be available until an effective vaccine is fully deployed.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>AHCA/NCAL also requested Congress to direct the CDC to ensure that nursing home and assisted living residents and staff are the first and </span><span style="font-size:11pt;">highest priority for vaccine distribution since they are the most vulnerable and at risk.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>A full list of the long term care industry’s request for Congress in the next stimulus package can be found <a href="/News/news_releases/Documents/Stimulus-4-Asks.pdf">here</a>.<br></span><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br>For more information, please visit <a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/pages/coronavirus.aspx">www.ahcancal.org/coronavirus</a>. </span></p><div><br></div><div><strong>ABOUT AHCA/NCAL</strong></div><div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the nearly 5 million seniors and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our facilities each year. For more information, please visit <a href="/Pages/default.aspx">www.ahcancal.org</a> or <a href="/Assisted-Living/Pages/default.aspx">www.ncal.org</a>.<br><br></div> | | The long term care industry is requesting an additional $100 billion for the HHS Provider Relief Fund, which is accessible for all health care providers impacted by COVID-19. |