This ruling upholds the law as interpreted by the state Department of Labor, as applied by the state Department of Health, and as followed in good-faith by providers who have been directed to comply with the 13-hour rule.
HCA continues to support a structure of regulations and reimbursement that ensures proper compensation and coverage of direct-care staff.
We also continue to fervently advocate for state, federal and commercial payor reimbursement to provide wages and benefits reflecting the vital nature and value of the care our home care workers render every day.
In fact, several of our proposals have been advanced for consideration in the current state budget and legislative process. These include a set of bills that would pilot funds to support personnel needs such as transportation, child care, training and education. This package of bills would also require state agencies to conduct a competitive market and labor analysis leading to reimbursement levels necessary for competitive recruitment, retention and compensation of home care and hospice staff.
We call on the State Legislature and Governor to embrace these proposals.