Newsmakers: Sen. John Hoffman Talks Increasing Pay for Providers of Care
Part of the Senate omnibus bill for Health and Human Services includes legislation authored by Sen. John Hoffman (DFL-Champlin) regarding rates of providers of care for people with disabilities and the elderly. See SF 4410.
Hoffman says when you look at home and community-based services like nursing homes or group homes or even home health and personal care attendants, there are numerous vacancies in the state. Hoffman says the reimbursement rate is incredibly low, especially compared to current wages at fast food restaurants.
Sen. John Hoffman (DFL-Champlin)
“The only way they make money is if the state puts more money in the bucket or centers for medicaid services puts money in there,” said Hoffman.
Provisions of the omnibus bill include efforts to raise pay, offer incentives or reduce barriers to entry into fields such as healthcare, child care and elderly care.
“People who are doing this job are the people who are passionate about it,” said Hoffman. “How do we provide services and supports for people at home, knowing it’s also cost effective and it makes sense because people live longer and can be around the home they love.”
See also: Newsmakers: Rep. Samantha Vang Addresses Mental Health Barriers
