Inspections, Testing Top Long-Term Care Priorities of House Task Force

Posted on May 5, 2020 by Jodi Boyne

A new blueprint introduced by the U.S> House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging and Families on will make long-term care and affordable seniors housing a priority for future pandemic relief. The blueprint includes:  

• prioritizing testing in long-term care settings,
• increasing the frequency of surprise inspections,
• making treatments and vaccinations affordable and accessible,
• promoting telehealth,
• providing transparency in the delivery of testing supplies and personal protective equipment, and
• tracking and publicizing coronavirus data. 

“We need strong infection control and PPE — it’s just as important in nursing homes and long-term care as it is in intensive care units and emergency rooms,” Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) said.

The announced principles build on the previously announced Older Americans Bill of Rights. 

While a blueprint for action is a step in the right direction, it does not provide the immediate support senior care providers need for PPE, testing and emergency funding.

LeadingAge, Argentum other senior care provider associations continue to strongly advocate for solutions and support on Capitol Hill.