The home health industry is seeking exemption from the employer mandate under the Affordable Care Act that requires many employers to offer sponsored health care plans to employees.
The mandate is one of the most controversial under the landmark piece of legislation that is being phased in over the next several years, with home health providers fighting against the requirement through lobbying efforts in Washington.
The National Association for Home Care and Hospice is leading the charge through its representation of more than 30,000 providers of home care and hospice services; seeking permanent exemption from the requirement to provide employer-sponsored plans.
“We are grateful that the Obama Administration has heard the cries of small employers who want very much to comply with the provisions of the ACA but simply cannot do so,” said NAHC President Val Halamandaris. “Postponing the effective date for imposing a penalty of $2,000 per employee on companies who do not provide them with health care coverage is a good start but it is only a delay on the way to a permanent solution.”
While compliance with the employer mandate, which applies to companies with 50 or more full time employees, has been postponed for one year, NAHC says it will continue to work on a “permanent fix.”
“NAHC asks the Administration to show consideration for home care and hospice providers who are being stretched to capacity as they care for increasing numbers of the 78 million baby boomers in the U.S.,” the organization says.
Written by Elizabeth Ecker