It is anticipated that by the year 2030, 1 in 3 Pennsylvanians will be age 60 or older. As this population continues to grow, we need to ensure that a variety of long-term care options are available. Since 2023, skilled nursing facilities have worked to meet the requirements pertaining to the hours of direct care per patient per day as well as the staffing ratios.

Many providers have noted the difficulty in meeting the staffing ratio requirements due to ongoing workforce challenges and the increased staffing costs including using temporary staffing agencies. They further note that the specific ratio requirements restrict their ability to address the unique needs of the residents.

To support facilities and to ensure access to long-term care options for older Pennsylvanians,  I will be introducing legislation to abrogate the staffing ratios. This will not impact the direct care per patient per day requirement of 3.2 hours of direct care so that the residents will continue to receive the quality and quantity of care that they deserve.

Please consider me in joining me as a co-sponsor.