HCA Statement on Aide Registry Bill

For Immediate Release:

June 11, 2008

Contact:
Roger L. Noyes (518) 810-0665; (518) 275-6961 cell

Download: HCA President Joanne Cunningham's Statement on a legislative proposal to create a home health aide registry

A Statement from HCA President Joanne Cunningham On the State's Proposed Home Health Aide Registry

HCA commends Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Senate Health Committee Chairman Kemp Hannon and Assembly Health Committee Chairman Richard Gottfried for advancing a plan to mend critical gaps in the state's home health aide certification structure.

A statewide registry, like the one proposed through legislation advanced by these state leaders (A.11468/S.8449), will better equip providers with reliable, consistent and timely information on state-approved home health aide training programs and individuals credentialed through those programs, further supporting the home care community's efforts to ensure the best possible patient care.

We appreciate the openness of state leaders to our input throughout the development of this legislation. HCA looks forward to working with the Legislature, Attorney General and Governor Paterson's Administration on implementing this new system so that it meets the practical needs of providers, protects workers, and, above all, serves the interests of our patients.

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Committed to the principles of high-quality and cost-effective community based health care, the Home Care Association of New York State (HCA) assists its members on state and federal legislation, regulations and reimbursement issues pertinent to the home health field. As the premier home health care association in New York State, HCA represents more than 400 home health care providers, individuals and associate members who collectively provide service and support to thousands of New Yorkers.