House Bill 1391, introduced in Indiana on April 21, 2025, aims to enhance home care services for eligible individuals through a pilot program administered by the University of Notre Dame's Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities. The bill specifically targets Area 7 and Area 9 of the area agencies on aging, focusing on providing home modifications and telehealth-enhanced chronic care services.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of partnerships and grant funding opportunities to supplement available program resources. The pilot program is designed to assess the effectiveness of these services, with a report on its outcomes due by November 1, 2026. The program is contingent on available funding and is set to expire on December 31, 2026.

Debate surrounding House Bill 1391 has centered on its potential impact on the state's aging population and the effectiveness of telehealth services in improving care outcomes. Supporters argue that the bill addresses critical gaps in home care, particularly for seniors who may struggle with mobility or access to traditional healthcare settings. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the adequacy of funding and the long-term sustainability of the program.

The implications of this bill extend beyond immediate healthcare access; it reflects a growing recognition of the need for innovative solutions in elder care, particularly as Indiana's population ages. Experts suggest that successful implementation could serve as a model for similar initiatives in other states, potentially influencing future healthcare policy.

As the bill progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its development, particularly regarding funding and the effectiveness of the pilot program in meeting the needs of Indiana's aging residents.