Written by Tracy Wodatch

Published Saturday 2/22/25 by Hearst Media in the New Haven Register, CT Post, CT Insider, Danbury News Times and the Record-Journal

 

Most people don’t think about receiving care in their own homes — until they or their loved ones need it. But for thousands of seniors, individuals with disabilities, and people recovering from illness across Connecticut, home-based care is the key to staying in their homes, surrounded by family and familiar comforts. Unfortunately, this essential lifeline is now at risk: the agencies that provide home care are struggling to survive because state funding has not kept up with the rising cost of providing care.

 

Other than temporary federal relief through ARPA funding during the pandemic, Connecticut has not meaningfully increased Medicaid rates for Home Health services in over two decades. Meanwhile, costs for labor, fuel, and essential supplies have continued to rise. This outdated funding model is making it increasingly difficult for agencies to retain staff and keep their doors open. At the same time, last year, the state approved a 26% wage increase for independent personal care attendants (PCAs) under SEIU’s (union) contract, but agency-based home care providers were left out entirely, even though they do largely similar work and serve overlapping populations in need. This imbalance is making it harder for agencies to find and keep caregivers, putting services at risk for those who rely on them.

 

Click HERE to read entire Op Ed.