Nursing homes provide 24-hour care with licensed nurses for people with disabilities and the elderly, who represent the most vulnerable adults in our communities. The needs of these people cannot be met in other types of settings such as adult homes, assisted living or boarding homes because of the clinical complexity of their medical conditions, which necessitate 24 hour care.

Earlier this week, Washington legislators initiated nursing home cuts that will reduce Medicaid reimbursement approximately 8 percent for all nursing homes and up to 10-15 percent in rural facilities. These rate cuts will affect staffing, dietary needs, supplies, activities, etc.

The state of Washington has made a commitment to improve the quality in nursing homes over the last several years; this is a significant step back. The needs of residents in nursing homes are once again in jeopardy.

Baby boomers beware. The recent decision to cut Medicaid rates in the state of Washington is a decision that will affect all of us in the future, whether first-hand or through a family member or loved one, if medically necessary. The low priority our legislators give to looking after our state’s rapidly aging population should alarm and frustrate you.

– Bryan Lindsay