A bill to provide short-term housing with supportive care services to eligible adults experiencing homelessness advanced from a public application on February 15th.
LB905, introduced by Ralston Sen. Merv Riepe, would require the state Department of Health and Human Services to apply for a Medicaid waiver or state plan amendment to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by January 1, 2025, and provide two health care providers with It is mandatory to specify. A shelter for homeless people in Nebraska.
Facilities (one located in a tier-1 city and the other in a metropolitan-class city) would receive compensation for services to eligible individuals. Lincoln is the state's only tier one city, and Omaha is its only large city.
Riepe said LB905 is a positive step toward addressing the health care needs of the state's homeless population while also demonstrating fiscal responsibility. Eleven other states have implemented similar programs, he said, resulting in reductions in hospital stays, readmission rates and treatment costs.
One study found that for every $1 spent on medical respite care programs, there was a savings of $1.81, Riepe said.
“By investing in medical respite care, we will not only uphold our obligation to provide compassionate care to those in need, but also realize cost savings,” he said. [to] situation. “
Lincoln Sen. Anna Wishart spoke in support of the proposal, saying recent subzero temperatures across Nebraska have further highlighted the needs of homeless residents. She said long-term exposure to extreme elements can frequently result in medical problems that require emergency care settings.
“[LB905 is] This is an opportunity to commit to providing unsheltered populations in our communities with evidence-based health services for as long as they need to truly heal,” Wishart said. Ta. “meanwhile, [they also will] They can connect you with housing options, job options, sobriety support, and other essential services that can help someone get back on their feet. ”
Senators filed a bill selecting File 38-0.
