Across our industry, long term care facilities are experiencing severe challenges in recruiting and retaining staff – specifically the CNA role. The NYS Medicaid reimbursement rate is the main cause of the CNA shortage. Here’s why… NYS “shorts” nursing homes by up to 30% of the cost-of-care for all Medicaid residents. And since over 70% of nursing home residents are on Medicaid, nursing homes are operating on extremely thin (and often negative) margins, finding it impossible to pay Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) a competitive wage that honors the demands and nature of the job.
Thank you for taking the time to help us with this important issue. The more concerned family, friends, and staff that politicians hear from, the more likely we are to change the Medicaid reimbursement policy that is the primary cause of the CNA shortage.
What can you do?
1. Fill out the form found here to send a letter to your lawmakers TODAY!
2. Call your legislators and tell them why they should enhance wages for CNAs – tell your story!
2. Contact your State Senator and Assembly Member and request a meeting with them to ask for support!