AHCA/NCAL Releases The Better Way Policy Agenda

Bold Solutions for Quality Long Term and Post-Acute Care

Last week the American Healthcare Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) released the preliminary framework of their 2025 federal Policy Agenda, focusing on four key priority areas to address efficiency, efficacy and quality for long term care in the U.S.

Strengthening the Long Term Care Workforce:

Solutions proposed by AHCA seek to build the pipeline, recruit & retain, develop skills, and remove barriers. These include making it easier for skilled international caregivers to work in the U.S., repealing the staffing mandate, and ending bans on in-house CNA  training programs.

Protecting Medicaid:

Staff and members from AHCA/NCAL continue to work with Congress to protect Medicaid from cuts, and to bring Medicaid rates up to the actual cost of care, keeping pace with increasing costs.

Reaffirming the Promise of Medicare Advantage:

Working to ensure that Medicare Advantage works, so that seniors can make choices, changes and have timely access to necessary medical care. Making sure that savings are shared so that patients, policymakers, and taxpayers are getting the best deal.

Rationalizing the Regulatory Environment:

AHCA/NCAL is working to create a more effective and balanced oversight that prioritizes quality care while maintaining safety, accountability, and transparency. Reforms are needed to update the Five-Star Rating System, expand the Risk-Based Surveys nationwide, improve access to the Civil Monetary Penalty Reinvestment program, and strengthen the Special Focus Facility Program.

AHCA/NCAL continues to work with Congress and the Administration to implement these policy priorities which will help improve quality, efficiency, and efficacy of long-term care in the U.S.  WHCA/WiCAL looks forward to continue to work with AHCA/NCAL to strategically work to implement these changes to benefit our members and nursing homes across the country.