Guthrie, Dingell Introduce EMPOWER Care Act

Statement

Congressman Brett Guthrie (R-KY) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) today introduced the Ensuring Medicaid Provides Opportunities for Widespread Equity, Resources (EMPOWER) and Care Act (H.R. 5306) to ensure that Medicaid beneficiaries can receive the best long-term care possible in their communities or in their own homes.

The federal Money Follows the Person Demonstration Program was first authorized in 2005 and allows certain Medicaid beneficiaries, mainly those with disabilities, to receive long-term care services in their own homes. The program provides a way for elderly and disabled patients to move from institutional care to home or community-based services. The Kentucky Transitions program has been able to help hundreds of Kentuckians make this transition.

"The Money Follows the Person program is a proven success that has allowed Medicaid patients to take charge of their health care in a commonsense, cost-effective way," said Congressman Guthrie."Kentucky's Money Follows the Person program, Kentucky Transitions, has helped hundreds of Kentuckians transition from health care facilities to receiving long-term care in their homes and communities. I was proud to introduce the EMPOWER Care Act with Congresswoman Debbie Dingell to ensure that people with disabilities receive the best care possible."

"Helping seniors and those with disabilities receive the care they need in the setting of their choice is something we can all agree on," said Congresswoman Dingell. "The Money Follows the Person Program has provided people in Michigan and across the country the opportunity to transition from a nursing home back into their homes and communities, where they can live independently, age with dignity and be with their family and friends. I'm proud to introduce the EMPOWER Care Act with Congressman Guthrie to reauthorize and strengthen this important program and help improve quality of life for all those who need long-term support."

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