Long-term care providers in Kansas expressed gratitude for the newly rebased Medicaid rates and the fiscal year 2025 Medicaid add-on for nursing facilities during a recent government meeting. However, they emphasized that ongoing rising costs will require sustained support to effectively serve the aging population in the state.

A significant concern raised was the prolonged processing times for Medicaid applications, which often exceed 45 days. This delay not only impacts payments to long-term care providers but could also hinder admissions for seniors in need of care.

The Kansas Adult Care Administrators Association recently held its annual convention, attended by over 200 adult care executives. A major topic of discussion was the new staffing requirements mandated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Many long-term care facilities, particularly in rural areas, are struggling to meet these requirements due to a shortage of nurses. The inability to comply could lead to facility closures, leaving many rural Kansans without access to necessary long-term care services.

In response to these challenges, some providers may consider changing their licensing from long-term care to residential care facilities, which are state-licensed only. This shift could have significant implications for Medicaid and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), as those relying on Medicaid for long-term care would need to transition to HCBS waivers to receive services in residential care settings. The potential impact on the availability of care for vulnerable populations in Kansas remains a pressing concern.