Gov. Ralph Northam and Secretary of Health and Human Resources Dan Carey both expressed deep appreciation for the work that VHCA-VCAL members do in caring for vulnerable Virginians as they described their own experiences finding care for their parents.  Sec. Carey added, “Your mission is near and dear to my heart. I know very well the tenderness and care you provide every day.”  Both leaders expressed a commitment working with VHCA-VCAL to resolve regulatory issues, including CCC Plus implementation.

After framing the challenges facing long term care providers—the rising costs of providing care while more individuals live longer with more memory issues—Gov. Northam outlined his proposed solutions.  He indicated the focus of his administration would be to use resources wisely in making policy decisions in the best interests of the health and business of Virginia.  He noted specifically, “I understand that CCC Plus has some serious issues and I want to work with you on this.” 

Continuing on the theme of working in partnership with the association, new Director of the Department of Medical Assistance Services Dr. Jennifer Lee and Health Commissioner Dr. Marissa Levine explained that their priorities will be working to improve health and quality of life for all Virginians.  Dr. Levine also noted that the Department of Health will be hosting regional training exercises that will help nursing centers comply with the new emergency preparedness regulations. 

AHCA/NCAL Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Clif Porter described the association’s national legislative and regulatory policy goals.  He noted that the Trump administration has made a real commitment to regulatory relief and that AHCA expects that additional action related to the Requirements of Participation will be forthcoming.  Porter called upon VHCA-VCAL members to thank members of Congress for their support and to offer them the opportunity to tour centers in their districts. 

Additional speakers included: 

• Bob Holsworth described the political landscape in Virginia.
• Corie Tillman Wolf discussed activity underway at the Board of Long Term Care Administrators.
• Randy Lindner and Ben Higgins discussed the new Health Services Executive (HSE) credential and the NAB CE Registry.
• VHCA-VCAL’s lobbying team detailed the efforts to-date to respond to legislation affecting members from nursing facility staffing, liability issues, and the state budget.
• April Payne provided an update on the Assisted Living Facility Standards noting that the Department of Social Services is preparing technical assistance and conducting inspector training to improve standardization across regions.
• Abraham Segres of the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association, along with Payne, described the efforts underway to enhance the relationships between hospitals and nursing centers to reduce preventable hospital readmissions.
• Mark Hubbard and Ginny Boland of McGuireWoods Consulting offered advice on how to develop a plan to respond to a crisis and protect your reputation by establishing a crisis team, knowing your audience, and controlling your key messages.
• Karen Mathura of RCM&D reviewed what to do following a serious adverse event by conducting a thorough and timely investigation.