Fair Rates for Care at Home Can’t Wait

Massachusetts providers need a transparent, data-driven rate setting process—now more than ever.

Last week, the Massachusetts House Ways & Means Committee released its FY2027 state budget. With reimbursement rates expected to remain flat, legislators have introduced a targeted amendment to address a longstanding problem: how the Commonwealth determines payment rates for care at home.

The Issue

Amendment #562, filed by Representatives Carmine Gentile and Thomas Stanley, would require the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) to formally analyze and establish reimbursement rates based on the actual cost of delivering care.

This is not about increasing spending in the budget today. It is about creating a clear, accountable process for how rates are set moving forward.

Why It Matters

Home care, home health, and continuous skilled nursing providers are operating in an increasingly strained environment. Flat rates, rising costs, and workforce pressures are making it harder to sustain access to care across Massachusetts.

• Ground decisions in real cost data
• Provide clarity for providers and policymakers
• Strengthen accountability in how rates are determined
• Support long-term access to care at home

“Flat funding is not neutral in an inflationary environment. It erodes access, strains the workforce, and puts care at risk.” 

What the Amendment Does

Amendment #562 would require EOHHS, including MassHealth and the Department of Aging and Independence, to:

• Analyze the true cost of delivering care at home
• Establish a consistent methodology for determining rates
• Submit a report to the Legislature outlining its findings and decisions

This would create a stronger foundation for informed policymaking and give the care-at-home industry and state leaders a clearer understanding of how reimbursement decisions are made.

The Bigger Picture

Massachusetts continues to face pressure across the health care system, from hospital capacity challenges to rising overall costs. Care at home is a critical part of the solution. But without a sustainable and transparent approach to reimbursement, the system cannot expand to meet demand.

Link to Advocacy Alert

Fair rates support a stable workforce.

A stable workforce supports access to care.

Access to care strengthens communities.

Fair Rates. Strong Care. Stronger Communities.