The Biden administration published regulations last month requiring most nursing homes to maintain specific staffing levels. As a result, roughly three in four nursing homes will have to hire additional personnel.
Progressives argue the rules will lead to better care. “For residents, this will mean more staff, which means fewer ER visits potentially, more independence,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. “For families, it’s going to mean peace of mind in terms of your loved one being taken care of.”
But government diktats, however well-intentioned, won’t address the issues behind staffing shortages. Nursing homes have long had to contend with low reimbursement rates from Medicaid, which make it hard to attract and retain employees. Simply telling nursing homes to hire more staff won’t address that problem.
Nothing contained in this blog is to be construed as necessarily reflecting the views of the Pacific Research Institute or as an attempt to thwart or aid the passage of any legislation.
Government shouldn’t micromanage nursing homes
Sally C. Pipes
The Biden administration published regulations last month requiring most nursing homes to maintain specific staffing levels. As a result, roughly three in four nursing homes will have to hire additional personnel.
Progressives argue the rules will lead to better care. “For residents, this will mean more staff, which means fewer ER visits potentially, more independence,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. “For families, it’s going to mean peace of mind in terms of your loved one being taken care of.”
But government diktats, however well-intentioned, won’t address the issues behind staffing shortages. Nursing homes have long had to contend with low reimbursement rates from Medicaid, which make it hard to attract and retain employees. Simply telling nursing homes to hire more staff won’t address that problem.
Click to read the full article in the Washington Examiner.
Nothing contained in this blog is to be construed as necessarily reflecting the views of the Pacific Research Institute or as an attempt to thwart or aid the passage of any legislation.