Demand for home health services has continued to grow as more older adults choose to recover at home rather than in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities. Home-based care can often reduce hospital readmissions, improve recovery after surgery, and help seniors maintain greater independence, making access to qualified providers increasingly important as the U.S. population ages. If you’ve ever had a loved one who relied on this care, you know how incredibly important it can be.
Recently, CMS has proposed increasing Medicare payments to home health agencies by an estimated 2.4% in 2027, a move that could affect provider availability, quality of care, and access to services in communities across the country. While the proposal is primarily aimed at healthcare providers, it could have real-world implications for seniors and their families. Here are the key things seniors should watch.