State Policy · PA
Pennsylvania Budget Excludes Home Health Nurse Rate Increase Despite Workforce Shortages
Pennsylvania's enacted budget does not include funding increases for home health nursing services, despite workforce shortages in the sector. Industry representatives report that current Medicaid reimbursement rates make it difficult to recruit and retain home health nurses. The budget outcome means existing rate structures will continue, affecting access to home-based nursing care for Medicaid beneficiaries. Home health agencies serving Medicaid populations face ongoing challenges competing for nursing staff without enhanced reimbursement.
Why it mattersStagnant Medicaid rates for home health nursing services will continue to constrain provider capacity and network adequacy for agencies serving Pennsylvania Medicaid beneficiaries requiring skilled nursing at home.