The Home Care Forum Podcast: Recent Episodes

Sasha Guillaume & Emina Poricanin

The Home Care Forum Podcast was established as a resource for the home care industry to debate the issues facing home care employers, patients, and employees. We want to use this platform to advocate for the critical services that we are providing to our community.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the NYS Budget updates on the following: wage parity and QIVAPP; the CDPAP RFO; the LHCSA RFO; MLTC accountability; the extension of the regulatory waivers, the Cost Report and DOH confirmed formula issues with the Medicaid rates for FFS; the OMIG compliance program changes; and CMS proposed rule changes.

For the full episode, please consider following and supporting us on Patreon as we can continue to deliver meaningful content on the home care industry. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the budget, the latest on the CDPAP RFO, what providers need to consider in the shadow of the banking crisis and the WARD Act, Associations advocate on the excess profits by MLTCs, news from the Public Health and Health Planning Council meeting minutes, new LHCSA licenses, the proposed rule on expansion of the noncompete clause, DOJ Lawsuit against home care agencies in Maine on wage collusion resulted in acquittal, updated sexual harassment policy, AI in hiring and updated AEDT rules, OMIG provider outreach sessions.

For the full episode, please consider following and supporting us on Patreon as we can continue to deliver meaningful content on the home care industry. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss President Biden’s 2024 Budget; the NYS Salary Disclosure Law amendments; the Senate and Assembly One-House Budget; and the sexual harassment regulation updates.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the CDPAP RFO repeal bill in the Assembly; QIVAPP update; eFMAP deadline and extension update; the Medicaid Global Spending Cap increased, and the Wage Theft Unit 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Nassau County Emergency Preparedness Meeting Scheduled; the Medicaid Episodic Payment System (EPS) billing problems;  DOH SOI for the “Nurses Across New York” (NANY) Loan Repayment Program; an update on Florida Nursing Schools Investigation; NYS Appeals Court  grants stay on recent vaccine ruling; Governor Hochul appoints new interim Budget Director; conflicts persist between the Executive Branch and the Two Houses; HCP Advocacy Day; the proposed tax credit for Private Pay home care; and the AARP Fair Pay for Home Care Webinar.

For the full episode, please consider following and supporting us on Patreon as we can continue to deliver meaningful content on the home care industry. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the DOH update to the Healthcare Worker Bonus Program; the LHCSA Statistical Reports; the mask mandate clarification/non-clarification; the Department of Health and Human Services Proposed Rule for the Administrative Simplification subtitle of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPAA) Act; the Supreme Court decision on overtime rule; mote on the Florida nursing degree scandal; the CMS waivers updates; and Governor Hochul’s extension of the COVID waivers; the Associations’ response to the governor’s budget proposals.

For the full episode, please consider following and supporting us on Patreon as we can continue to deliver meaningful content on the home care industry. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss Quite Quitting has turned into Loud Layoff; the NYS Office for Aging has finalized a rule that makes revise the Expanded In-Home Services for the Elderly Program (EISEP); the FMAP Reporting extension. We end with an unedited conversation about the Governor’s Budget proposal and the Association’s positions. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the NY State Senate MWBE aid package; personnel changes at MARO; Governor Hochul lobbying Congress for funds; more on the governor’s budget, new threats to LHCSAs and FIs and need for advocacy; LHCSA registration deadline and penalties for missed registrations, statistical report; vaccine mandate update; OMIG guidelines published.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the ending of the Public Health Emergency and the National Emergency Declaration; the NY Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act); and Governor Hochul's budget proposal

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On this episode Emina and I discuss celebrating the legacy of MLK and the current disparities in the health care industry; the FTC proposed rule on noncompete clauses; the attorney general’s recent $550,000 settlement with a NYC based home care agency for unlawful ‘No Poach’ agreements;  FMAP funding report deadline; the postponed contract awards date for the CDPAP RFO; the Onondaga County Supreme Court striking down the state’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers; the IRS issued 2023 optional standard mileage rates; Fair Pay update; the OSHA 2022 OSHA Form 300A deadline.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the 12th extension of the federal public health emergency, Damar Hamlin unites the nation, FDA approves Leqembi for Alzheimer’s treatment, Home Care Worker Bonus - vesting period two, the new chair of the Health Committee, the NYC Nurses Strike, the 2023 Medicaid levels, AARP data on cost of care for families and caregivers, and Emina takes us through the State of the State 2023 Address by Governor Hochul and her priorities as compared to the priorities of agencies and the home care associations.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the uptick in the XBB subvariant of omicron and how that is impacting agencies with COVID paid sick leave and vaccination leave; the SECURE Act 2.0; the (LHCSA) Statistical Report; Govenor Hochul’s last minute laws and vetoes including the Pay transparency laws, Additions to the Protection Characteristics for potential employees, the recent collaborations between the IRS and DOL on independent contractor misclassification, the Freelance Isn’t Free Act in NYS vs NYC and the NYS Contractor Equal Pay Reports; the Public Health Emergency; the Consolidated Appropriations Act and the impacts to Medicaid; expansion of the Medicaid cap and the Medicare Savings Program for New Yorkers age 65+ and those who have disabilities and including undocumented immigrants age 65+

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On this episode Emina and I discuss NYS preparing emergency response assets ahead of the pending bomb cyclone; Governor Hochul vetoing the Bill introduced by Assemblymember Gottfried and Senator Harckham; the recent of the Assembly for Aging Committee Hearing; the LHCSA Registration form is due Dec 31, 2022; clarification of the minimum wage increase again on December 31, 2022; the Period 4 reporting requirements for providers who received PRF & ARPR funds; NY Attorney General Announces $3.2 Million Settlement with an NYC LHCSA; FMAP Communication regarding impacts for LHCSAs considering a merger or acquisition; Statewide pay transparency laws on salary range signed into law by Governor Hochul for Sept 2023; NY now requires electronic distribution of mandatory workplace posters; NYS model lactation policy; NY DOL new sexual harassment policy.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the US House of Representatives rescinding of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate and the concerns for the home care industry and society as a whole, New York Mayor Eric Adams’s directive to potentially involuntarily commit people experiencing a mental health crisis patients, the pending release of the Statistical Report, year-end bonus pitfalls; Kronso ransomware attack and subsequent threats to businesses; Mary Bassett, State Healthcare Commissioner, resignation and the possible implications for the industry; Marijuana testing prohibitions; minimum wage increases for the upstate regions; paid transparency and wage disclosure requirements; FSLA and Paid family leave guidelines expansion; AI (artificial intelligence) in employment/hiring practices; the Medicaid Pharmacy transition program

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefit, the CDPAP deadline, the Lower Hudson Valley Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition tabletop exercise, the DOH Extension of the Waivers of Regulatory Requirements, the DOH Return to Work Guidance, the intended or unintended consequences of the NYIA process, the Health Care Worker Bonus issues dues to EMDNY number, and the Governor’s new leave law (the Lawful employee Absences Law), effective Feb 19, 2023, and the new risks to home care agencies. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the latest on the Public Health Emergency, the 1% across the board increase to Medicaid, an eFMAP Clarification, the confusion around the 16-Hour Rule, the possible Plan shift to CDPAP due to staffing shortages, the proposed DOH GIS MA 20/07 on PAs use of persona vehicle to transport Consumer, the Health Care Worker Bonus New FAQ, the recent LS300 update, the Independent Contractor Rule Proposal, and how the rise in Flu and RSV impacts to the industry.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss Governor Hochul’s declaration of a weather emergency and the various scenarios of emergency preparedness and our take aways from the Fall 2022 Provider Symposium: Perspectives on Racism, Disparities, and Health Equity: Advancing Solutions. If you are interested in receiving a copy of the presentation, contact me via linked in with an email address and I will forward along.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the election results, the confusion around the eFMAP spending deadline. We go step by step through the New York Independent Assessor (NYIA) process, and finish with a discussion on the OSHA protocols, the continued public health emergency, the Healthcare Worker Bonus, the NHTD & TBI wage increases, COVID sick leave and answer the open question, if COVID pay is still required?

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the LS300, EVV attestation for personal care services, home health services and private duty nursing services; the NYSOA proposed rule changes for the EISIP program, advocacy effort against the Independent Assessor process, HRSA Single Audit requirements, the election outlook and impacts on CDPAP RFO and LHCSA RFO, and merger, acquisition, sales transaction considerations.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Cultural Competence Training requirements, Wage Parity Certification deadline end of month – EMEDNY, Election Day Reminders, Masks Requirements in Offices, Vaccination Requirement Status in NY, Recruitment and Retention Bonus vs The Healthcare Worker Bonus (HWB) vs eFMAP funds, and the DOH Letter to CDPAP Bidders & DOH Q&A Response on New FI Selection Process 

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On this episode Emina and I are live from the 2022 HCP conference, and we interview the conference goers on their takeaways from the conference sessions. Among the topics discussed were the minimum wage increases, wage parity, wage and hour issues, veteran’s affairs and the CDPAP RFO. We thank all those who took time to speak with us.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the DOH updated its framework for value-based payment, the CDPAP RFO newlypublished criteria for the attestation, and the DOL newly issued order calling for an increase in the minimum wage rate for workers outside of the lower state regions.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the multiple delays around the Wage Parity Certification, LS300 and LS301. We discuss the changes to the Paid Family Leave (FMLA); the ongoing struggles in negotiating with some plans for the minimum wage increase. We discuss the possible plans of action that provides are considering in response to the lower rates being offered. Lastly Emina provides and update regarding live in shift concerns that seem to be with us for the foreseeable solution. Emina gives our Patreon listeners clear guidance on how to address these concerns procedurally and with your legal representatives. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the HRSA PRF Reporting deadline, Wage Parity Certification via EMEDNY Portal, the Minimum Wage Increase negotiations, the worst kept secret in the industry… the Marketing reps the pitfalls of those arrangements. After wrapping the episode, we jumped back on to discuss the BREAKING NEWS from DOH regarding the CDPAP RFO

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Summary: On this episode Emina and I discuss the Cost Report and the upcoming audit kickoff webinar, the potential fate of Executive Order 4.12, Eric Adams’s decision on vaccine requirements for private employers, the new threat to agencies for increased fraud referrals by the Plans to OMIG/OIG, update to the processing of Management Agreements by DOH, the NYC City Council threat to limit the 24 Hour Live-In services, how Chair Jerome Powell announced a ¾ point interest rate hike and his other comments may directly impact the home care industry, and lastly a discussion on speaking with the Plan in order to meet the new minimum wage requirement. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the reporting season and the various upcoming due dates, the Health Care Worker Bonus, the LHCSA Application and change of ownership guidelines and the new Minimum Wage mandates. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Fidelis contract amendments, featured on CRAINS; the October minimum wage increase for home care providers, FMAP email notice, COVID-19 Capital Cost Tax Credit, Mask Mandate update. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the wage disclosure proposal, aide training on sexuality, gender identity, and expression, LHCSA survey on territory expansion, and the continued threats to home care due to “live-in” lawsuits.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss what is in and what is out following the close of the 2021-2022 Legislative Session: The Health Care Worker Bonus Bill, Wage Lien Bill, the LHCSA RFO, the CDPAP RFO, the Compensation or Range of Compensation Disclosures, extension of the Statewide Disaster Emergency declaration, the Healthcare Worker Vaccine Mandate, and the DOH DAL on HCS Role Assignments.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the end of the legislative session, the NY Home Care First Act and the proposed limits on live in cases and limits on nursing hours; extension of the executive order allowing remote nursing, the US DOL FMLA guidance related to mental health, and the new sexual assault protections for employees 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Department of Budget 2022-2023 report due May 19, the NYS Reserve Fund, the Medicare sequestration and its negative impact on CHHA, the NYSDOH Private Pay Program, the Iroquois Healthcare Association Workforce Summit, the FMAP funding and utilization guidelines, and the Fidelis reimbursement changes. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the NYC Salary transparency law, Home Care regulatory relief extended, independent assessor, delay of wage parity audits, Home Care Worker Minimum wage vs. Health Care Worker bonuses, CDPAP RFO updates, LHCSA RFO, eFMAP funding distributions 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss post budget legislation including advocacy on funding for reimbursement rates related to the mandated wage increases, the 401k bills introduces in Congress, the NYC Fair Workweek extension of Executive Order 11.5 and effects on paid COVID sick leave, Medicaid Personal Care Rates updates, 1.5% Medicaid cuts clarification by the MRT team, the CARES Act unused funds deadline, and the NYC Salary Disclosure Law. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss how the overtime rate language in the Health Care Bill and impact on CDPAP; how the $2 increase impact the minimum wage for home care and the indirect impacts they the minimum wage increase have on the private pay market; the extension of the proposed changes to the Independent Assessor process; the timeline for the CDPAP RFO attestation; the DALs regarding aide certification records and the guidance on agency training and employment of candidates; the wage parity audit and the remaining COVID mandates. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the 2022 NYS Budget!!!

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the litigation by agencies on the awarding of FMAP funding and how that could possibly delay the distribution of funds. We also discuss the various rumors in Albany in anticipation of the imminent release of the 2022 Budget; Fair Pay, Reimbursement Increases, CDPAP RFO and LHCSA RFO.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the One-House Bill including the proposals to repeal the CDPAP RFO, while the LHCSA RFO and the MLTC RFO moves forward, Fair Pay for Home Care, the Wage Parity Rate increases, the fixed reimbursement rate proposal, Medicaid Increase - 1% across the board and the 1.47% lump-sum, the Nurse Loan Reimbursement proposal, Healthcare Facility Transformation Program and the proposal to increase reimbursement for agencies providing Private Duty Nursing services.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss CMS’s approval of FMAP funds, unemployment insurance rating increases, CARES Act funding reporting and wage parity reporting, the DAL for 2021Medicaid Personal Care and Consumer Directed Rates, changes to arbitration guidelines, updates to the Independent Assessor process by Maximus, and the Hero Act. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Executive order for the continuation of remote aide monitoring, the Medicaid Budget OHIP Webinar where administrative efficiencies in the delivery of home care services was identified as part of the process for the LHCSA RFO, the LHCSA RFO likely this Spring, what does this mean for the CDPAP RFO, lobbying efforts against the CDPAP RFO repeal, Fair Pay gaining legislative support, FMAP funds, the Clean Slate Bill, and the arbitration agreement reach between a group of downstate agencies with the union on wage and hour claims. 

The info you're about to hear is home care news, gathered from public sources and our industry insiders. We offer our opinions on this podcast, but nothing we say should be construed as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney client relationship between any listener and the hosts. Before taking any action based on the information you hear, you should consult your counsel. The info we present should not be attributed to the hosts’ respective companies.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the end of COVID-19 and the elimination of the indoor mask, the transition of COVID to endemic status and the suspension of the Booster Mandate; Emina’s efforts to remove the Wage Parity requirements for independently audited financial statements; the different perspectives on the Fair Pay for Home Care bill, the increasing Unemployment Insurance Tax,

the Clean Slate Bill; DOH Releasing of New Procedures for Licensure Changes, the CDPAP RFO repeal legislation and the many efforts on both sides of the debate. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the latest with Fair Pay for Home Care, the Home Care First Bill, S6640 – Senator May co-sponsored by A7304 – Gottfried aims to repeal the LHCSA RFO/RFP, the CDPAP RFO, the MLTC RFO, the booster mandate, the HERO Act extension & the public health emergency extension. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss impact of the Cost Report delays, NYSDOH actions regarding the FMAP applications, mask mandates, Maximus independent assessor delays and extension of the supervisory RN visits via telephone/video. We also discuss work restriction and return to work guideline updates, the recent US DOJ indictment on healthcare managers for collusion and Fair Pay for Home Care

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On this episode Emina and I discuss OSAH mandate reversal, White House reversal on mandate, Supreme Court ruling on mandates, Booster requirements, NYC Paid Leave, advocacy in response the executive budget, MLTC RFO, FMAP funding timeline, HHS funding for NYS, and virtual assessments.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the booster guidance, quarantine pay, the Supreme Court rulings, and we end with a discussion on items in Governor Hochul’s budget proposals that directly impact the home care industry. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the FMAP Webinar, 1199 CEIU attempts to influence agency spending of the FMAP funds, vaccine mandates and booster shot a requirement, CDC and DOH updated guidance on return to work, quarantine and isolation rules, need for emergency funds for home care during this “state of emergency” resulting from workforce shortages, the inspiring state of the State speech by Governor Hochul, and the Supreme Court hearing on OSHA vaccine mandate and the CMS vaccine mandate.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the 2021 Health advisory #39, the DOH reduction in the quarantine period to 5 days, the Omicorn impact on recruitment and retention, the update on the NYSDOH website for RFO# 20039, the Minimum wage increase on December 31, 2021, the update to the Paid Sick Leave, and the FMAP letter issuance and questionnaire. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the rejection of Build Back Better by Senator Manchin, Leticia James issues more subpoenas to home care agencies, NYC vaccine mandate and CDPAP, Supreme Court to chyme in on OSHA mandate orders, COVID testing, Omicron impacts on businesses and CDP guidelines for quarantining and return to work, private business implementing their own vaccine mandates, new CDPAP RFO lawsuit, and Anti-Kickback activity is endemic in homecare. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the FMAP phase 1 and phase 2; the upcoming budget season and Gottfried retirement; Cares Act phase 4, Heroes Act extension, Mask protocol for NY indoor activities, CDPAP RFO, LHCSA RFO, and the NYC Vaccine guidelines & FAQ. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the FMAP distribution announcement, the Omicorn variant and subsequent vaccine mandates issued by NYC Mayor DeBlasio, the release of the Home Care Statistical Report, and the continued Live-In Case investigations and threats to home care agencies. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Attorney General settlement with two agencies for various labor law violations, CMF Final Rule increase, vaccination requirement updates, NY litigation upholding religious exemption has moved to the Supreme Court and we await notice if the case will be taken up by the Court.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the CMS COVID vaccination rule & OSHA ETS applicability to LHCSA and FI, fake vaccination cards and verification requirements for employers, paid time off implications for weekly testing options, wage parity audit requirement and how to consider PTO payout. We speculate on the impact of the Integra acquisition by Anthem to existing agencies and FIs an the reimbursement rates; MRT2 proposed regulatory changes in place, as of Nov 8, for the prohibition of Consumers receiving services from multiple FIs. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the takeaways from the CDPAANYS conference; CDPAP RFO seems to be on track, but politics are at play. We discuss the reversal of the religious exemption, possible Supreme Court challenge, NYC vaccine mandates; HERDS LHCSA County survey extended, Biden Infrastructure Bill update, FMAP funding methodology discussions; and the NYS Secure Choice Program. 

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On this episode Emina and I are live at the HCP Annual Conference on Long Island to discuss the latest in home-care news. Make sure to listen to the end for a handful interviews with vendors and providers following the news portion of the podcast. Our topics include the ongoing nursing shortage, the COVID-19 impacts on worker’s comp, general liability and paid leave, vaccine mandates, DOL marijuana guidelines, HRSA phase 3 recalculations and phase 4 funding deadlines, COVID vaccinations for ages 5-11, the new Delta Plus variant, the third-dose vaccine, the LHCSA RFO and the CDPAP RFO.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the latest on the COVID vaccines, FDA authorizations for boosters and ages 11-5, Merck’s new oral COVID treatment, the HERDS LHCSA survey, CARES Act Phase 4 deadline, the Religious Exemption, 2021 Minimum Wage Increases, COVID Vaccination a Quality Measure, vaccine card/pass expirations, the latest on the HERO Act, COVID mandates and HIPPA, and the COVID Sick Leave.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the vaccination mandate and exemptions, the law suite by the United Patriots of America, the 2nd Circuit vaccine mandate lawsuit, the religious accommodation, recruitment and retention concerns for home care where restaurants in NYC are paying $25/hr. for staff is adding pressure to the already high demand for workers which is also leading to Governor Hochul is considering using the National Guard to address the healthcare workforce shortages. We make some announcement on the Cost Report seminars, the new DOH LHCSA HERDS survey and we close with the Dept of Labor having released updated model airborne infectious disease prevention plans as related to the Heroes Act. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the reopening of the HHS Provider Relieve Fund Application, the SBA COVID EIDL, the FDA panel decisions on the COVID booster shots, the court challenged to the COVID vaccination mandates, updates on the DOH and DOL guidance on the mandates, the temporary I9 flexibility extension and what it may or may not mean for home care agencies.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Biden Administration’s 6-Pronged approach to dealing with the COVID pandemic, NYS vaccine mandates and pending lawsuits; Legislative Breakfast held by the NYSHCP to set agenda for 2021-2022 session; Massachusetts activates the National Guard due to workforce shortages; and we close with an update on the Heroes Act. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the effects of IDA to the Tri-State Area and the tragic death suffered in the eldercare industry, which is still reeling from COVID-19, the local response to IDA by NYC Mayor’s Committee Affairs Unit; the pausing of the Biden Infrastructure Bills. On the State level, we discuss the enacting of the Heroes Act by Governor Hochul and we issue a reminder on the Care Act. We close with a discussion on the Vaccine Mandate regulations and the DOH issuing final regulation on MLTCSs including new guidance on patient assessments, agency collaboration and potential DOL implications. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the COVID-19 vaccine and legislation introduced in Albany to mandate it use in schools and healthcare settings. We discuss Governor Hochul’s public statements about mandates and the pressures she is facing from the 1199 Union. Also, our topics include the rent moratorium and the end of the emergency unemployment insurance and lastly the pending disbursement of recruitment and retention funds. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the DOH & Public Health Council’s public hearing tomorrow, August 26, 2021, to consider emergency regulations to mandate the COVID 19 vaccination for Article 36 providers, including home care workers. We discuss the DOH’s latest guidance for HCBS regarding the pandemic-related waivers. We discuss the 2020 Cost Reports, Governor Hochul’s inauguration and the challenges facing Legislators and consequently businesses during this election year. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the Cuomo resignation and the potential impacts on the CDPAP RFO and the LHCSA RFO. We take a brief look at Madam Hochul’s voting history and speculate on the impact on her future from the Union and a potential challenge to her election bid verse a possible challenge by DA Tish James. We discuss the Vaccine mandates, the recent clarifications to the vague of the announcement by the outgoing governor. We conclude on the impact of the vaccine mandate to the already depleted home care workforce. 

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On this episode Emina and I review the “Better Care Better Jobs Act” part of the Biden Human Infrastructure; Senator Gellibrand signing onto the Modernization of Older American’s Act which calls for more investment in elder care funding. We touch on the new struggles facing agencies in Western NY now that the $15 minimum wage for fast food is in effect. We discuss the latest on the HERO Act, COVID Testing Rules Change, EVV training postposed to from Aug 1 to Oct 1, Emergency Regulatory Relief for TeleHealth, MLTCs begin to make moves on the CDPAP front, the DAL Regarding False or Inaccurate Info, HRSA Provider Relief Fund Reporting Portal, and the COVID 19 protocols as part of the Emergency Temporary Standards. 

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On this episode Emina and I review the CDPAP RFO Q&A sessions held by the DOH on June 21, 2021 & June 23, 2021; we discuss the November 1 timeline, we discuss historical precedents for this, extension of emergency telehealth allowances, DOH guidance on inactive aides. We discuss the announcement of the dual track infrastructure bills making their way through Congress; traditional & human infrastructure, and the Emergency Temporary Standard for home care now in effect. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the expiration of the NYS Emergency Disaster Declaration and the implications to home care, the debate around advocacy for the Caring Majority legislation and the opportunity to present at the Home Care Workforce Virtual Hearing held by the Legislators on July 27, 2021, the NYS Attorney General entering into a settlement with Albany Health System around a case involving the recruitment of healthcare workers from overseas, the updating by the DOH of the Provider Relief Fund guidance, the possible timeline on the LHCSA RFO, the NYSDOH webinar on the FI Surveys, the upcoming Cost Report Webinar to be held on August 10, 2021, the ruling by the Federal Court in favor of a Texas Hospital that terminated employees for refusing to take the available COVID-19 vaccination, the July 9, 2021 deadline for implementation of the new biometric equipment guidelines, what the failure of the legislation to unionize Uber drivers signals for home care.

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the release of the CDPAP RFO surveys, the LHCSA repeal efforts, the impact of NYS reaching 70% herd-immunity, NY HERO Act Amendments signed by the governor June 11th which includes the Workplace Safety Committee guidelines. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the continued home care workforce shortage and the possible need to reconsider the caring majority legislation as a recruitment and retention tool for workers, COVID Quarantine Leave for fully vaccinated staff, EVV training deadline Aug 1, Arbitration Agreements for CDPAP, Marijuana drug testing, OHIP update for LEAD Fiscal Intermediaries, New Medicaid Director TBD, Wage Parity certification troubles. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the efforts to repeal the LHCSA RFO and advocacy opportunities; EEOC updated guidance on vaccination on mandatory vaccination requirements by employers; takeaways from the DOH & KPMG Webinar; Unemployment benefits continue to negatively impact aides returning to work but we discuss another possible reason than could be even more disastrous for home care. 

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On this episode Emina and I discuss the latest OHIP guidance to CHHAs and MLTCs on their wage parity audit requirements, the updated EVV guidelines, the pending OIG audits of agencies having received Care Act Provider Relief Funding, and the implications of the Hero Act and screening staff to maintain a safe working environment for all staff. 

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On this episode we discuss the “Re-Open”, the Hero’s Act, the latest updates on the CDPAP RFO Survey and timeline, and the impacts on LDSS contracting requirements for CDPAP services. We close with a discussion on the new guidance for Wage Parity audits by the MLTC & the EMEDNY Certification. 

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On this episode we discuss the announcement of the CDPAP survey to be released by DOH in June. Additionally, we discuss the NYS Senate introduction of legislation to repeal the LHCSA RFO; The Hero’s Act, & the Wage Parity Attestation via EMEDNY for Providers and Plans.

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On this episode we discuss the latest efforts to repeal the LHCSA RFO and report on our lobbying efforts with the Legislators, we discuss the Safe Staffing Bill which just passed the Assembly and the unintended consequences to the home care industry. We discuss the Federal and State plans to improve daycare access to allow families to return to the workforce. We discuss the Heroes Act and the risks to employers associated with the reopening of the economy from both the employees and the customers and the use of liability waivers. We discuss the continuing of regulatory waivers allowing telephonic and telehealth case openings and case supervisions. We close with a discussion on our advocacy for a direct pass through of the FMAP funds to home care agencies and the Biden Administration’s repeal of the independent contractor rule and how that impacts the gig economy.

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On this episode we impacts of the COVID19 Pandemic on the home care industry and the technology solutions developed to assist agencies to continue to train their staff throughout the pandemic. Or guest, James Cohen, CEO of Nevvon, talks to us about the solutions that his company has devised to address the need for remote and virtual training.

In addition, Emina provide a legal update on the homecare industry, topics include the FOIL requests as part of the CDPAP RFO, the Employer Safety Protocols Bill, and new OSHA requirements.   

For more information, you can reach out to Paul using his contact info below:

James Cohen, CEO

Nevvon

james@nevvon.com

1-416-617-1446

1-855-963-8866 (Toll-Free)

Want to chat? Click HERE

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On this episode we discuss the latest developments with the CDPAP RFO; the transition notice and the FOIL requests. We continue with the LHCSA RFO; the extension of the OSHA respiratory training requirements to home health aides treating COVID patients, MLTCs requesting Wage Parity Annual Audited Financial documents. We finish with a discussion of the PMPM contracting model and what to expect now and in the near future. 

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Summary: On this episode we discuss the ramifications of the legalization of recreational marijuana on the insurance industry and home care agencies. Paul Essner, Principal at TSG Financial, a Division of Risk Strategies and Mike Howlett, a Cannabis Risk Analyst with Risk Strategies, join us and share their expertise gained while operating in the western states where recreational marijuana has been legal for several years now.

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On this episode we discuss the rejection of the Gottfried amendment targeting the CDPAP RFO; we delve into the details of the final language included in the CDPAP RFO amendment passed in the Governor’s Budget; and recreational marijuana and how this law impact drug testing and the related pitfalls for employers. 

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On this episode we discuss this year’s NYS Budget as we approach the April 1 deadline. The Gottfried amendment seems dead in the water while the Governor’s proposed compromise for the amendment to the CDPAP RFO seems to be the soup-de-jure. We discuss the Governor’s proposal and what it would mean to the initial winners; the FIs looking to be included in the next round of awards; and those who do not qualify to participate further. We discuss the impending passage of the LHCSA RFO and lessons learned from the CDPAP RFO. Our third topic is the Fair Pay for Home Care movement which seems likely to pass. If passed and starts tomorrow, will the agencies have contracts in place and their reimbursement rates in place to meet these new obligations? We react, in real-time, to the breaking news that the Governor has just signed the Bill to legalization the recreational use of marijuana in NYS and how this will impact home care. 

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On this episode we discuss this year’s Budget as negotiations continue despite the governor’s troubles and an outbreak of COVID-19 among the legislators and their staff. We discuss Assembly Member Gottfried’s amendment (A6479) – what is in the amendment and the reaction from the awarded agencies, the losing agencies, the legislators, and the 1199 Union. 

We discuss the likelihood of the LHCSA RFO to stay in the Budget and the need to advocate at the grassroot level to make sure that the process is clear and fair. We discuss the Fair Pay for Home Care legislation and the need for protections in the bill to make sure that Providers are funded adequately to meet the new obligation. 

We discuss the COVID-19 Vaccination Paid Time Off obligations and some of the hurdles experienced throughout the home care industry in getting our work force access to vaccines. We tackle the pitfalls of patients requesting their aides be vaccinated and what agencies need to consider - the ADA requirements to protect employee medical records. We close with a discussion on the Domestic Worker Bill of Rights. 

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We are back, after a long hiatus due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, with some exciting news on a Sasha’s new overseas venture and Emina and Sasha’s collaboration on the CDPAP RFO application that resulted in Principle Homecare, LLC being selected as a LEAD agency. Later in the episode, we discuss the FI PMPM guidance issued by DOH, MLTC Policy 21.02 regarding the implementation of the FI rate structures and what the Comptroller’s review process will look like. Lastly, we tie the FI RFO to what the LHCSA RFO could look like based on this experience.

Also, we discuss President Biden’s Rescue Plan and the Family’s First Coronavirus Relief Act impact on employer’s ability to recruit employees to return to the workforce. We discuss the long-term impact of the remote working experience on the future of agencies. 

We discuss how Cuomo’s controversies have castrated him and left him impotent in his ability to influence this year’s Budget. We discuss the Fair Pay for Home Care Act and what its adoption will likely mean to agencies and the Medicaid budget. 

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On this episode we discuss the long awaited CDPAP RFO announcement due tomorrow, July 17, 2020 and the accompanying changes in legislations. We review the E.V.V. guidelines and the changes in Wage Parity regulations. We review what opening up looks like as agencies continue to struggle with to acquire PPE.

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On this episode we discuss the various changes in regulations for the industry prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and newer regulations since. We discuss the reopening process and the requirements by the State on the agencies to screen employees returning to the office and testing. We discuss the lack of guidance on the CDPAP RFO as the June 1, 2020 deadline has come and gone. We review the new back to work guidance for previously quarantining employees. We close with a discussion the of the latest amendment to the CARES Act. 

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On this episode we discuss the latest developments in the home care industry including discussion of the newly released NYSDOH guidance on Paid Sick Leave for healthcare workers, Medicaid cuts, Cost Report relaunch, OSHA COVID-19 reporting requirements and guidelines, COVID-19 testing and the CMS Reopening guidelines. 

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On this episode we discuss the latest developments in the home care industry: Cost Reports for CDPAP,

Cost Reports for LHCSA, Home Care Registry requirements back in affect, Essential Worker Bill of Rights & hazard pay discussed at City Council Committee hearing, CDPAP RFO, LHCSA RFO, DOH Daily Surveys, MARO Infection Control Surveys, PPE donations & supply chain interruptions, COVID testing as part of back to work strategy, Telehealth in home care & policies and procedures, HHA staff shortage.

We also discuss the PPP Loans included in the CARES Act. Should you keep the money? What are some of the other benefits of the CARES Act?

We end with a discussion on COVID19 general liability protections for health care providers leaves out home care agency owners.

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On this episode we discuss the ramifications of the 2020 NYS Budget on LHCSAs and MLTCs 

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On this episode we discuss the Federal SBA loan/grant proposal and NYC small business grants. We also the new threat to the industry where aides are presenting MD orders for quarantine. We discuss the “limited applicability” of the Federal Leave and/or the NYS Paid Family Leave laws to home health aides as they are considered essential health care employees. We provide some clarity on the Federal Sick Leave law and how the tax credits are to be applied for by employers. 

Lastly, we tackle the questions of remote nursing assessments, remote in-services and remote orientations.

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On this episode we discuss the Families First Corona Virus Response Act, NYS Paid Family Leave and NYS Sick Leave; the latest DALS, working remotely, and the MRT2 impacts or home care.

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On this episode we discuss the national emergency resulting from COVID19 and the various implications on employers. We also touch on the impact of the crisis on the State budget, Medicaid cuts, and the CDPAP RFO. Other Topics discussed include:

NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave Law

Westchester County Paid Safe and Sick Leave Law

State of Emergency not a State of Public Health Emergency and why it is important

NY Paid Family Leave Law

Work from home considerations for employees

What happens to the Unemployment Insurance rating following this crisis?

The implications of the Warn Act if employers decide to use mass layoffs as a means to restructure during this crisis

DOH DAL for COVID19 screening of employees

Technology solutions needed for this new paradigm in home care and health care

DOH, Medicare Waiver do not include language about home care

Cancelled Cost Reports Training Sessions

Senator Summer’s amendment

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On this episode we discuss the coronavirus and the labor concerns for agency owners as relates to PTO, Paid Leave and the OSHA requirements of owners to provide protective equipment. We touch on HIPPA considerations affecting the assigning of aides to infected patients. We discuss how participating in the DOH seminars can help agencies avoid future risk.

Now that we are passed CDPAP RFO submission deadline, we discuss the new DOH Memo to MLTCs regarding the patient transition process.

Lastly, we look to the future and the need for a tele-med solution in home care.

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On this episode, we speak RFO, MRT2, Legislative Hearing on Health and Emina breaks down the long awaited RAQs for the CDPAP RFO

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We speak with a Plan representative on the reaction of the Plans to the CDPAP RFO

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In this episode, we discuss the CDPAP RFO and CDPAC (the PAC organized by providers to fight the RFO and PMPM), the 1% Medicaid Budget Cut, MRT2, and the Governor's Budget.

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On Episode 3 of the Home Care Forum Podcast, we discuss the newly required joint employment requirements for fiscal intermediaries in the CDPAP.  

This new paradigm where the FI is also the employer of PAs may result in new and unexpected troubles for the unwary fiscal intermediaries.  Tune in to find out more!

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Emina Poricanin & Sasha Guillaume sit to discuss the takeaways from the Meeting of Fiscal Intermediaries in NYC where Emina hosted the lobby firm, O'Donnell & Associates, to discuss establishing a coalition to advocate and litigate the RFO.

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This pilot episode, hosted by Emina Poricanin & Sasha Guillaume, of the Home Care Forum Podcast is taped prior to a meeting of Providers, in NYC, to discuss the new RFO issued by the NYSDOH to determine the future of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). Providers gather to discuss advocacy around the RFO and the proposed PMPM methodology

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