New York State Association of Health Care Providers, Inc.
Contact: Kathy Febraio
518.463.1118 and febraio@nyshcp.org
Downloadable version: HCP Press Release Affordability Agenda 12.17.24
December 17, 2024
Governor Hochul Urged to Prioritize Home Care Investments in Affordability Agenda
Albany, NY — As Governor Kathy Hochul advances her Affordability Agenda to ease the financial burdens of New Yorkers, the New York State Association of Health Care Providers (HCP) is calling on the Governor to prioritize critical investments in home care services. Ensuring fair Medicaid reimbursements is essential to supporting Licensed Home Care Services Agencies, strengthening New York’s health care infrastructure, and improving access to care for families across the state.
“New York’s licensed agencies provide affordable, high-quality home care that helps families avoid the high cost of nursing home care,” said Kathy Febraio, HCP President. “Governor Hochul’s leadership on affordability provides a clear opportunity to strengthen home care, keeping more money in families’ pockets while helping New Yorkers age with dignity at home.”
Governor Hochul’s affordability platform focuses on reducing the cost of living, expanding economic opportunities, and easing financial strain on households. Increasing Medicaid reimbursements for home care aligns directly with this vision by reducing reliance on expensive institutional alternatives and limiting the need for families to pay out-of-pocket for care.
“For many families, the greatest gift this holiday season is keeping their loved ones at home, where they belong,” Febraio added. “But we can only make this possible if we invest in strengthening the home care system.”
Why Home Care Investments Matter
Home care offers a cost-effective solution that delivers significant savings across the state’s healthcare system. By providing care at a fraction of the cost of hospitals and nursing homes, home care reduces the financial burden on both families and taxpayers.
It also supports independent living, allowing aging and disabled New Yorkers to remain in their homes and communities, preserving their dignity and improving their quality of life. At the same time, home care keeps local economies strong by enabling seniors to remain active members of their communities.
Home care further addresses health disparities by ensuring equitable access to services for underserved populations, particularly those who face barriers to institutional or clinical care. By easing pressure on family caregivers, home care also reduces stress and financial strain for households, allowing families to focus on their loved ones without sacrificing their own economic stability.
“The State must make home care a priority in 2025,” Febraio concluded. “This affordable, essential care option should be available to every New York family, ensuring that our most vulnerable residents can thrive at home, where they want to be.”
About HCP: The New York State Association of Health Care Providers, Inc. (HCP) is a leading advocate for the home care industry, shaping its future through advocacy, information, and education. Committed to setting high standards for quality and cost-effective care, HCP influences the future of the home care industry and leads the industry in adapting, evolving, and thriving in a changing health care environment.
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