Colorado Assisted Living Association (CALA)

I received a fax this morning from a SEP case manager with new medicaid rate starting Dec 1, 2009 from 47.31 to 46.84.  Did I mention I received this from a case manager NOT the State or it’s handy web portal. What is wrong with that picture?

After the last cut I knew this would make an impact on activity, staff and food budget, but tried to not take drastic measures. I cut corners in other area that would not effect the staff and residents. After this cut though it is obvious I do have to make some drastic changes starting with cutting staff. I will also be cutting food budget so the availability, quality and quantity will be effected. There goes any sort of Christmas bonus and that hurts.

On the other hand the transportation companies seem to be doing well. The are receiving 47.70 per 1 WAY trip. I think I am in the wrong business. They are with a client for 5-10 minutes and get more than we do for a days services which include laundry, meds, appointment scheduling, food, snack (lets not forget the 24 hour food availability), room cleaning, hygiene care, protective oversight, and the list goes on.  

I will be doing everything possible to limit transportation such as using Volunteer drivers and family.

This is going to be hard letting staff go and cutting our resident goal program.