The Affordable Care Act (ACA) promises to provide additional benefits to all Americans, including enhanced preventive care and greater access to affordable coverage. Many changes have already gone into effect, and more are on the way. Here we look at how the ACA will specifically affect nursing homes.
More Information for Consumers
The ACA will make more information available to consumers about nursing homes, such as who owns a particular nursing home and the amount the home spends on care versus administrative costs. This information will enable people to make more informed decisions about which nursing home to choose for their loved ones and to better monitor the care their loved ones receive.
Better Training for Nurse Aides
Nurse aides at nursing homes that participate in Medicare and Medicaid must be trained in resident abuse prevention and dementia care under the ACA.
Nursing Home Websites
Each state is required under the ACA to have a nursing home website with comprehensive information about nursing homes in the state.
Nursing Home Closure Notices
Under the ACA, residents of nursing homes and their families must be told well in advance of an impending nursing home closure, to allow adequate time for alternate arrangements.
Filing Complaints
Each state will be required to have a process in place to resolve complaints about nursing homes. Those who file complaints cannot be retaliated against under the law, and the law also requires that those who file complaints be kept up-to-date on the status and resolution of their complaint.
These are some of the improvements for nursing homes under the ACA, all aimed at protecting residents of nursing homes and their families. The Affordable Care Act aims to make health insurance more attainable and affordable for all Americans. Many changes, including the mandatory insurance rule, have yet to be implemented.
Benefit Packages will be an Exchange Certified Agency and can help individuals and businesses understand the new healthcare law and find comprehensive, affordable health plans with companies like Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Visit our website for more information, or call us toll free at 1-800-356-3615.