Pennsylvania is in the midst of a growing caregiving crisis, with a shrinking workforce unable to meet the demands of its aging population.
As Medicaid funding hangs in the balance, caregivers and industry leaders warn of devastating impacts on care access statewide.
What Happened
Pennsylvania caregivers are sounding the alarm over severe workforce shortages in the state’s long-term and in-home care sectors.
Over 400,000 residents depend on in-home care services. Yet, more than 112,000 shifts go unfilled every month, while nursing homes face similar shortfalls.
New federal proposals to cut Medicaid could worsen the crisis dramatically.
Key Details
A joint survey of Pennsylvania hospitals and nursing homes revealed troubling impacts:
- 70% of hospitals reported longer ER wait times due to staffing shortages.
- 68% saw delays in scheduling appointments and procedures.
- 53% of nursing homes had to cap admissions.
- 42% are limiting admissions due to 2023 staffing ratio laws.
- Nearly 2,600 care providers are needed now — with a 20,000+ annual shortfall projected through 2032.
CEO of the Pennsylvania Homecare Association, Mia Haney, warns the state is heading toward a demographic tipping point — with 1 in 3 Pennsylvanians expected to be over 65 by 2030.
Reactions or Statements
Haney called the current workforce situation “dire” and pointed to burnout among in-home care nurses as a major concern.
Zach Shamberg, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association, said these findings must be a “wake-up call” for lawmakers. He warned of facilities being forced to close units and increase costly contract labor.
Sen. David Argall (R) introduced a legislative package to address the issue, including:
- SB 114: Allowing nursing students to take the CNA exam post-coursework.
- SB 115: Allowing caregiver applicants to test without a GED.
- SB 116: Offering high school credit for work in health care settings.
- A bill to stabilize Medicaid reimbursements through a Budget Adjustment Factor (BAF) floor.
Investigation or What’s Next
Care advocates are urging lawmakers to raise Medicaid reimbursement rates by 10% to attract and retain caregivers.
Over 85% of the funding directly supports caregiver wages and benefits — yet rates have only increased by $1.91 in 12 years.
If Congress advances proposed Medicaid cuts, Pennsylvania could lose $3.4 billion in funding, affecting care for 3 million vulnerable residents.
SEIU Healthcare PA President Matt Yarnell warned that these cuts could lead to widespread loss of coverage and access to care.
FAQs
How many Pennsylvanians rely on in-home care?
Over 400,000 residents currently use in-home care services.
What is causing the caregiver shortage?
Low wages, burnout, lack of training pipelines, and Medicaid reimbursement constraints are key drivers.
What’s being done to fix the issue?
State legislation is in progress to expand training access and stabilize funding. Advocates are pushing for Medicaid rate increases.
What are the consequences if Medicaid is cut?
Experts say cuts could strip billions from the state’s health budget, forcing reduced services and potential homelessness for those relying on in-home care.
Is the crisis affecting hospitals and nursing homes equally?
Yes. Both sectors report increased delays, admissions limits, and heavy reliance on costly contract labor.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Pennsylvania’s caregiving system is at a breaking point. With an aging population, rising burnout, and legislative uncertainty, immediate action is essential to prevent a collapse in care access.
Lawmakers face increasing pressure to raise Medicaid reimbursement rates, pass supportive legislation, and reject federal cuts that would endanger millions of lives across the commonwealth.
