Better Care Better Jobs Act

Better Care Better Jobs Act

This bill establishes programs and provides funds for state Medicaid programs to improve home- and community-based services (HCBS), such as home health care, personal care, case management, and rehabilitative services.

Specifically, the bill provides funds for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to award planning grants, develop quality measures, and provide technical assistance to states regarding specified HCBS improvements, particularly with respect to access, utilization, and the associated workforce. The bill also increases the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (i.e., federal matching rate) for HCBS in states that develop plans and meet specified benchmarks for improvements.

The bill also makes permanent (1) the Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration Program (a grant program to help states increase the use of HCBS for long-term care and decrease the use of institutional care), and (2) certain provisions regarding Medicaid eligibility that protect against spousal impoverishment for recipients of HCBS.

The Better Care Better Jobs Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 4131, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to improve the quality of care for individuals who require long-term services and supports, such as those with disabilities or the elderly.

One of the key provisions of the Better Care Better Jobs Act is to increase funding for Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS). This funding would help to expand access to these services for individuals who wish to receive care in their own homes or in community settings, rather than in institutional settings like nursing homes.

Additionally, the bill aims to improve the quality of care provided through HCBS by implementing new standards and requirements for providers. This includes ensuring that individuals receiving care have access to a consistent and well-trained workforce, as well as promoting person-centered care that respects the preferences and needs of each individual. Furthermore, the Better Care Better Jobs Act seeks to address the workforce challenges facing the long-term care industry by investing in training programs, increasing wages for direct care workers, and providing support for family caregivers. By improving the quality of care and investing in the workforce, the bill aims to enhance the overall well-being and independence of individuals who require long-term services and supports. Overall, the Better Care Better Jobs Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to improve the quality of care for individuals in need of long-term services and supports. By increasing funding for HCBS, implementing new standards for providers, and addressing workforce challenges, this bill aims to ensure that individuals receive the care and support they need to live fulfilling and independent lives.