LeadingAge Iowa is a statewide membership organization of non-profit providers of aging services and supports and the champion for advancement and innovation in aging services. Our mission is to be the voice, support and connector for non-profit members and the people they serve. Our membership is diverse, representing the spectrum of non-profit long-term support and service providers including skilled nursing, assisted and independent living, PACE, home health, adult day, respite, hospice and home delivered meals. Our members serve over 25,000 older adults in Iowa each day. Nursing Home Minimum Staffing and Medicaid Transparency Final RuleThe White House signaled the final rule release as part of an early morning announcement and fact sheet on April 22. Later that afternoon, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) posted the Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting final rule. The final rule will be published in the federal register on May 10 and effective on June 21, 2024, however, there are staggered implementation dates for different elements of the rule ranging from 90-days to 5 years in certain cases. The final rule includes provisions for minimum staffing standards that will be enforced as part of CMS’ existing survey, certification, and enforcement process for nursing homes. CMS will also display determinations of compliance on Care Compare and require nursing homes to post a public notice if they are out of compliance, so it is easily visible for staff and residents. Read MoreLeadingAge Illinois and LeadingAge Iowa Announce Plans to MergeLeadingAge Illinois and LeadingAge Iowa have announced plans to merge. The merger is expected to become effective November 1, 2024, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the final agreement. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for both organizations, aimed at enhancing their ability to serve and support the individuals and organizations who serve older adults in the states of Illinois and Iowa. Each association provides advocacy, education, and resources for aging services providers covering the full continuum of care. LeadingAge Illinois is headquartered in Lisle, Illinois, serving members across the entire state of Illinois and LeadingAge Iowa, based in Urbandale, Iowa, serves providers across Iowa. Both organizations provide regulatory support, government relations, education, resource development, research findings, and more. Read More |