Senate Approves Singer Measure to Study Impact of Medicaid Reimbursement Changes on Nursing Homes

A commission to study the health of nursing homes in the state would be created under a bill sponsored by Senator Robert Singer and approved today by the Senate. The commission would scrutinize the impact of increased hourly reimbursements on nursing homes.

“To ensure quality care for our most vulnerable residents, it’s essential that we understand what the rate changes mean to the important services provided at these facilities,” said Singer (R-30). “Have these new rates affected staffing, the cost of care for residents, or the financial stability of nursing homes? This measure will help us get the answers.”

Singer’s measure (S-51) would establish the nine-member “Impact of Medicaid Personal Care Services Reimbursement Change on Nursing Homes Study Commission” to collect and evaluate data from nursing homes, including whether any facilities closed after the effective date of the rate changes.

Under the bill, the commission is required to submit a written report to the Governor and Legislature not more than 12 months after its first meeting.

New Jersey nursing homes say they are losing more than $400 million a year. Homes providing care for Medicaid residents lose close to $50 a day for each client, according to the Health Care Association of New Jersey.