A framework of the Bipartisan Emergency COVID Relief Act of 2020 has been released and it includes another $35 billion directed toward the Provider Relief Fund (PRF). It also includes a directive to HHS to consider an appropriate distribution of funds for providers underrepresented in previous allocations, as well as those at risk of imminent closure. Among that $35 billion allocation is $2 billion for testing and tracing directed to nursing homes, HCBS, long-term care, and assisted living communities.
“We are encouraged that the bipartisan agreement framework, for the first time, recognizes some of the essential needs of assisted living communities," said James Balda, Argentum president & CEO. "So many providers across the industry are still awaiting financial relief, and this additional funding will go a long way in supporting their ongoing operational needs to care for some of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens. But it is needed now: A recent survey of Argentum members showed almost 40% of respondents having 4 months or less of operating expenses and nearly half indicated they’ll have to close some communities if their financial situation does not improve.”