A recent Biden administration rule mandating increased staffing levels in nursing homes has sparked controversy, particularly in rural areas. The rule, finalized last April, requires nursing homes receiving Medicare and Medicaid funding to provide more nursing care per resident per day and have a registered nurse onsite at all times. This mandate will be phased in over three years, with rural communities granted up to five years to comply, and some temporary exemptions will be available.
The rule has divided Congress, with nearly 100 House members from both parties expressing concerns in a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services. They fear that the mandate could lead to the closure of many nursing homes, impacting the care of elderly residents.
