Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Nursing Home Finance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
County staff warn potential $2M pro-share shortfall; plan to propose private-pay rate changes
Summary
Staff told commissioners that a state change in the formula for pro-share payments, prompted by federal guidance, could reduce the county’s expected pro-share reimbursement by about $2 million, and staff will present rate-change options and analyses in coming weeks.
County staff informed the Merrimack County Board of Commissioners that changes in how the state calculates pro-share payments could reduce the county’s anticipated reimbursement by roughly $2,000,000 and that staff will bring rate-change options to the board.
The presenter said the state was advised by federal authorities that its prior calculation method was incorrect and that a new model is being recommended. The presenter said the county faces two choices: adjust private-pay rates upward toward actual cost per patient day or accept lower pro-share payments under the state’s recalculated model. Staff said 2024 is in the administrative “look-back” period and cannot be changed; the county would only be able to implement rate changes prospectively with appropriate notice.
According to staff, the county’s current charge and cost figures are under review: “Our rate is 3 50. Our cost is $5.10 ish,” the presenter said in the meeting record (units and exact basis not specified in the transcript). Staff said the pro-share shortfall would affect 2024 and 2025 calculations and that any change for private-pay residents requires a 60-day notice; roughly 40 private-pay residents could be affected.
Commissioners asked about market comparisons and outreach to other counties; staff said they are collecting comparative rates and will return with several options and a math-based impact analysis. Staff indicated a likely effective date for a rate change could be July 1 if the board agrees and proper notice is provided. The board did not vote on rates at the meeting; staff committed to returning with formal recommendations, options, and the finalized cost report by the end of the month.
