The recent meeting of the Oregon Senate Committee on Human Services highlighted significant developments regarding nursing facility oversight in the state. The discussion centered on the implementation of new federal regulations aimed at enhancing ownership transparency and improving care standards in nursing facilities.

The Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) Nursing Facility Survey Unit oversees 128 nursing facilities across Oregon, ensuring compliance with federal guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). These facilities provide essential services, including short-term rehabilitative care and long-term care for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

A key focus of the meeting was the new federal regulations adopted on January 16, 2024. These regulations mandate increased transparency regarding facility ownership, financial reporting, and staffing ratios for nursing homes participating in Medicare and Medicaid programs. The updated rules define terms such as "private equity" and "real estate investment trust," enabling states to better identify the ownership structures of nursing facilities.

Oregon's participation in a learning collaborative with four other states aims to address gaps in data collection related to new ownership. This initiative seeks to ensure compliance with the new CMS regulations while identifying best practices for utilizing ownership data to enhance the quality of care. The APD is exploring the possibility of collecting additional ownership data beyond what CMS requires, which could include information on all individuals with ownership interests in facilities.

The meeting also revealed that in 2024, 22 nursing facilities, or 17% of the total, changed ownership, with the majority being out-of-state entities new to Oregon. This shift raises concerns about the ability to maintain quality care and compliance with regulations, particularly as many new owners are publicly traded companies.

The APD currently uses ownership data to assess licensing qualifications and determine accountability in cases of regulatory non-compliance. However, navigating ownership information has become increasingly challenging for consumers, prompting discussions on improving transparency. The committee emphasized the importance of Senate Bill 34, which aims to enhance public access to ownership data and support informed decision-making for families seeking nursing care.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight of nursing facilities in Oregon. As the state adapts to new federal regulations and seeks to improve transparency, the implications for quality care and consumer choice remain critical. The committee's next steps will involve identifying resources and strategies to enhance the public's ability to access vital information about nursing facility ownership and performance.