The Ohio Health Care Association is lobbying state legislators to allocate another $600 million to nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and assisted living facilities to offset operating costs, Ideastream Public Media reported Nov. 28.
The money could come from the state's allocation of federal COVID-19 dollars, which need to be spent soon. If legislators approve the request, nursing facilities could receive a considerable portion of the remaining funds.
Nursing homes across the country are struggling with increased staff and operating costs, causing many to close.
Pete Van Runkle, Ohio Health Care Association executive director, said some nursing homes he represents are not breaking even. He is not only requesting extra funds to keep many of these facilities afloat, but also has called for long-term solutions.
Mr. Van Runkle has advocated for Ohio to reset its Medicaid reimbursement rates, including how they are calculated. He recommended reimbursements be based on what the lowest 50 percent are paying instead of the lowest 25 percent.