New licensing regs for homecare agencies go into effect soon
The state is now going to have more oversight over the agencies.
Another healthcare plight for the elderly: Living in a rural area
The recession and cuts to programs for aging Americans have made growing old in isolated areas even tougher, reports the New York Times.
The hubbub over potential cuts to Medicare Advantage funding
Supporters of the cuts say that they can cut funding to the program to make it more efficient without effecting seniors’ care, but opponents say that that’s not possible.
Inquirer: Seniors on front line of healthcare battle
They’re especially concerned, of course, with a Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and a public option.
House bill likely to include long-term health care
AP reports:
By RICARDO ALONSO-ZALDIVAR (AP) – 16 hours ago
WASHINGTON — House health care legislation expected within days is likely to include a new long-term care insurance program to help seniors and disabled people stay out of nursing homes, senior Democrats say.
The voluntary program would begin to close a gap in the social safety net overlooked [...]
PA nursing homes worry about Medicare cuts
In early October, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services adjusted its Medicare rates, cutting approximately $12 billion nationwide over the next ten years.
Medical experts say that many elderly nursing home residents get futile end-of-life care
Sometimes, care given actually worsens their pain and discomfort.
Cost of Medicare Advantage plans will rise for some seniors in 2010
In Philadelphia, seniors will pay $52 premiums, up from zero, for the least expensive plan from IBC.
Senior advocacy group leader says PA needs to finally stablize senior regulations
Says that the senior population is growing, health care costs are increasing, and we need to establish a system of senior services that is accessible and affordable.
Home care programs for seniors to expand
PA’s senior population is growing, and it costs less to pay for seniors to receive care at home than paying for nursing home care.