STORY CONTRIBUTED BY BRETT HEIMOV, MANAGING PARTNER, ENVISION STRATEGY
Situation Report | September 13, 2021
This week, the House Energy and Commerce Committee will mark up their portion of a $3.5 trillion reconciliation package that includes $190 billion for home care services under Medicaid, the majority of which would be distributed through an increase in FMAP funding should states meet the requirements set forth in the bill to “expanding and enhancing home and community-based services.”
The criteria to receive these funds would include “adopting or improving training programs for direct care workers and family caregivers,” as well as expansion of technology, modifying rate setting processes and other federal mandates in an attempt to improve access to home care.
The Senate has yet to provide legislative text for their version of the reconciliation bill, but their overall package will be considerably less than the House’s $3.5 Trillion price tag. Should the Senate reach an agreement, which is becoming more of a difficult task each week, the overall funding levels will be smaller, which will decrease what is available for any potential home care investment.
During the month of September, Congress will still need to pass a debt ceiling extension, which allows the federal government to continue borrowing money, as well as a continuing resolution to fund the daily activities of the Federal Government.
As reported last week, there is growing concern over the size and scope of the reconciliation package by a number of Democratic Senators and House Members. As Congress inches closer to the end of the fiscal year, it may prove more difficult to pass a reconciliation bill in any form.