They kept this program for chronically ill adults going for three years. Now what happens?
The only adult day health program in
Rising costs, stagnant revenues and increased governmental regulations were the reasons for the decision, according to a statement from
"We had approved the subsidization of this health and wellness program while staff was diligently working to increase enrollment to a level that would allow the program to at least break even or significantly decrease the financial gap," said
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"Rising costs and flat reimbursement rates prevented that goal from being achieved so we had to make the difficult decision to close the program," Kok said.
He said the board was "completely committed to these individuals."
"We want to make sure they are taken care of as this program ends," Kok added.
The nonprofit said it has had to "significantly subsidize" adult day health and could no longer do so in order to maintain its financial integrity. The organization also operates a nursing home.
Representatives declined to reveal the amount of the subsidy.
It also will try to put affected employees -- there are 14 -- into other jobs in its system. Some workers already have made other plans, including retirement and moving on to other jobs, officials said.
Background
Under an agreement that began at the start of 2015,
That allowed adult day health services to continue there until
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Older adults and people with chronic health conditions, including diabetes, Parkinson's and early onset Alzheimer's, receive help from health care providers at the center. The goal is to build strength and help older adults continue living in their homes.
Services are provided Monday through Friday, although some clients access them at the center just once or twice a week. They include monitoring clients' overall health, managing their medications and improving balance and mobility as well as meeting social, spiritual and creative needs.
The center also offers Caregiver Connection meetings in
Industry difficulties
The issue is that Medicaid reimbursements, which is how most clients pay for their services, have increased by just 2.5 percent since 2015. Expenses, including wages, benefits and insurance, have risen well beyond that level, representatives said.
"Our focus between now and
That includes giving clients' families a list of other resources, including for adult day care, in-home care and assisted living.
The organization will decide what to do with the building at
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