Pure Home Care Services

WASHINGTON D.C. –The National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) today commented on the positive changes proposed by CMS in the “Medicare Program: Hospice Wage Index for Fiscal Year 2012” report:

“The proposals set forth by CMS for 2012 hospice care are an encouraging first step toward improving access to the valuable care that millions of Americans depend on,” said Val J. Halamandaris, NAHC’s president. “By modifying the current calculation of the hospice cap, caregivers will have more flexibility to account for the various patient needs they meet every day. In addition, by allowing for some flexibility and clarification within the face-to-face encounter rule for hospice care, caregivers and patients can better work together to meet the requirement with as little disruption to care as possible.

“While these changes begin to move us in the right direction, we need to build on this momentum and continue to find ways to advance and improve care, not stifle it. We therefore look to Congress to ensure that hospices receive a full market basket inflation update (as reflected in CMS’ proposal) so that they can continue to provide vital services to individuals at the end of life. We look forward working with CMS to strike the appropriate balance of ensuring responsible oversight, while preserving appropriate access to these important services.”

Source: nahc.org

If you would like more information about home care services in Grosse Pointe, MI and surrounding areas, call Pure Home Care Services at (586) 293-2457 today!

WASHINGTON D.C.  – The National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) today highlighted the results of recent studies by Genworth Financial and the AARP Research & Strategic Analysis that exemplify the multi-faceted value of home care.

Comparing the change in average costs in various care settings from 2010 to 2011, the Genworth Financial study showed that the cost of in-home care stayed relatively flat compared to as much as a 5.7 percent increase for an institutional care setting.

“As Congress debates the best way to move forward on deficit reduction, home care is the clear solution for reducing costs while preserving high quality health care for seniors and the chronically ill from the comfort of their own homes,” said Val J. Halamandaris, NAHC’s president. “Through sophisticated care and monitoring, caregivers are able to provide safe and cost-effective services by avoiding short and long-term stays in hospitals and nursing care facilities.”

In addition, the AARP Research & Strategic Analysis study showed that new technologies such as electronic devices that turn off appliances and prescription drug management systems are being used by an estimated 48 percent of Americans over the age of 65 in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle at home.

“Through Advances in technology and innovation are extending the ability of seniors to remain at home and still be connected to a health care provider. As a result, home care is making significant progress in managing chronic diseases, reducing re-hospitalizations and improving the quality of life for millions of America’s. If Congress is serious about improving the health of Americans and fixing our nation’s economy, then it is incumbent upon Democrats and Republicans to recognize the critical and value-based role that home care plays as part of the solution,” concluded Halamandaris.

Source: nahc.org

For more information about cost-effective home care options for you or your loved one in Grosse Pointe, MI and surrounding areas, call Pure Home Care Services today at (586) 293-2457