Read this special message to NCAL members from Executive Director Scott Tittle:

COVID-19 has taken a toll unlike anything we could have anticipated. Our hearts go out to those assisted living residents and staff who have tragically lost their lives due to this virus. Despite our shared grief, the assisted living profession has shown amazing resilience in continuing to fight. We at AHCA/NCAL are inspired by your commitment and compassion for your residents.

You have such a pivotal role in serving our nation’s seniors and most vulnerable during this historic time. Unfortunately, our assisted living heroes on the frontlines have not received the attention or assistance they deserve from public health officials at virtually every level. We share in your frustration and continue to fight on your behalf.

Since this pandemic began, AHCA/NCAL has been working at the federal level to encourage the Trump Administration and Congress to help assisted living. Despite repeated requests, assisted living has yet to receive any direct, federal assistance along with other non-Medicare providers. On June 8, the association sent its third letter to the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), requesting funding and resources for assisted living communities, similar to the assistance skilled nursing centers have received. 

Read our letter to HHS. 

We hope this renewed call for much needed aid will put further pressure on the administration to act swiftly. Our ongoing discussions with them are encouraging, and we remain focused on providing solutions to officials to help facilitate and expedite critical resources to every assisted living community, regardless of size or payor source. In addition, this letter has been sent out to members of the media to continue to elevate the importance of this issue. Meanwhile, we are encouraging members of Congress to give special consideration to assisted living in any forthcoming stimulus packages to provide further assistance. 

We know this progress report is of little consolation while you have been fighting COVID-19 every day for months. AHCA/NCAL is committed to continuing to sound the alarm for as long as it takes until assisted living providers receive considerable support to protect their residents and staff. 

At the same time, our state affiliates across the nation are working tirelessly on your behalf to fight for resources at the local level. Governors as well as state and local health departments are key in helping you acquire the testing, supplies and staffing you need to battle COVID-19.   

Now as spring becomes summer, many are eager to re-open assisted living communities, reconnect residents with loved ones, and put COVID-19 behind us. But until there is a vaccine, we must remain vigilant in doing everything we can to protect our residents. We must balance the need to keep residents safe with the need to keep them engaged, since both are important for their health and wellbeing, and that means adapting to this new normal. As you prioritize direction from local and state authorities, please also continue to check our website, www.ahcancal.org/coronavirus for the latest resources and guidance.

We have a long road ahead of us, but AHCA/NCAL remains at your side every step of the way. Thank you for your incredible sacrifice and partnership during these turbulent times. 

Sincerely,

Scott Tittle
NCAL Executive Director