Advocating for Change: The Crucial Need to Stand with Pennsylvania’s LIFE Programs
Current State
The LIFE program in Pennsylvania has a significant impact and reach throughout the state. With over 8,000 individuals receiving its services, Pennsylvania is home to 53 of the 300 PACE or LIFE centers in the country. These centers are an integral part of the care ecosystem that includes Continuing Care Retirement Communities, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Home and Community-Based Services, Assisted Living/Personal Care Homes, and Senior Affordable Housing.
Kirsten Crowe, who serves as the Director of Operations at Community LIFE in Pittsburgh, considers herself lucky to have had the opportunity to work with and care for older adults for more than 30 years. She has witnessed firsthand how they have thrived in the unique program. However, she is deeply worried about the future of LIFE in Pennsylvania.
“As other programs and service providers struggle with funding or, worse, shut their doors, we have experienced a significant increase in referrals, stretching our services thin,” said Crowe. “Some of these older individuals need behavioral health support to manage complicated daily lives. In spite of not receiving any increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates for years, we are beginning to manage their care even before they enroll, which puts even more pressure on us."
The reimbursement rate that Kirsten refers to has failed to keep pace with the rapid escalation of costs and inflation. While the consumer price index and market basket rates have surged by 31.3% and 31.1%, respectively, in the last decade, LIFE rates have seen only a 2.8% net increase since 2008. The consequences are stark, with operating margins shrinking, critical program elements being cut, and providers grappling with a risky financial balance.
Carrie Zahniser, the Human Resources Manager of Community LIFE located in Pittsburgh, highlights one of the biggest challenges faced by the organization, which is recruitment.
“Given a chronic lack of Medicaid funding, recruitment was already difficult in the best of circumstances. When the pandemic hit, the pool nearly bottomed out, and we still haven’t recovered,” said Zahniser. She added, “Every day, I come across resumes of highly skilled professionals who would make a significant impact. Unfortunately, many of them end up leaving for other industries.”
In Jeopardy
Preserving Pennsylvania's LIFE programs is crucial not only for providing essential care to older adults but also for maintaining the integrity of the entire aging services ecosystem. Without increased funding and an improved rate-setting process, more than 8,000 eligible participants may require placement in nursing facilities, which will worsen the existing access to care crisis. This will lead to a ripple effect, including increased pressure on hospitals and nursing homes, reduced service options, and higher costs to the state.
Moreover, the continued lack of adequate reimbursement will compel LIFE providers to make tough operational choices. They may have to defer physical investments, such as replacing floors and repairing roofs in LIFE center buildings. Additionally, the potential to adopt innovative technology and make improvements will decrease. This setback will hinder the implementation of technologies that could elevate the quality of life for older adults in their homes. It will also impede meaningful connections and frequent interactions.
Optimistic Outlook
Positive change in Pennsylvania's aging services ecosystem depends on implementing a better rate-setting process and increasing rates. This move will enable LIFE providers to expand operations, manage rising costs, invest in technology and infrastructure, and ultimately strengthen the services they provide. Addressing the existing challenges is critical for the health and happiness of countless Pennsylvanians. It will pave the way for a brighter future, where LIFE programs can flourish and continue to make a profound impact on the lives they touch.
Taking a Stand
The need to take action is evident - the LIFE program and its committed staff require urgent assistance to maintain the exceptional services thousands of people benefit from in Pennsylvania. Those affected by this cause, including individuals, their families, and dedicated professionals, deserve no less. This call for support is not just for them but for the overall improvement of the community, which includes you.
One way you can take action is to reach out to your legislators. Click here for information on how you can contribute.