Fall Regional Meetings Spark Connection and Resolve Across Massachusetts

Over the past two weeks, the Alliance team met with members in Gardner and Dartmouth for our fall regional meetings—gatherings that reminded us why this work matters and how deeply our members care about the future of care at home. Full Article:

CMS suspends most routine surveys, MassHealth reinstates in-person face-to-face encounters, and Congress weighs a new telehealth parity bill

As the federal shutdown stretches into its second week, home care and hospice providers are navigating halted CMS survey activity, lapses in telehealth flexibility, and uncertainty around TRICARE reimbursements. A key state hearing next week could help expand long-term telehealth access in Massachusetts.

After distribution delay, vaccines due to arrive this week, DPH chief says Goldstein says purchasing began immediately after drawn-out federal process

Massachusetts is seeing “glitches” in vaccine distribution just as flu and COVID season begins, Public Health Commissioner Robert Goldstein reported Wednesday. ACIP’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, normally adopted in days, took three weeks—delaying shipments to clinics, which are now expected to arrive by next week. Goldstein also warned that the ongoing federal shutdown is disrupting CDC and FDA operations, adding pressure on state vaccination efforts as the Vaccine Purchasing Advisory Council will meet again

MassHealth Temporarily Keeps Telehealth Options in Place

After the federal government shutdown ended Medicare’s telehealth flexibilities, MassHealth announced it will continue allowing telehealth for its members—at least for now—while Congress negotiates a funding deal that could determine the program’s future.

New England Financial Management Conference brought together home care and hospice leaders for a full day of timely updates, practical tools, and strategic discussions.

Yesterday’s New England Financial Management Conference brought together home care and hospice leaders for a full day of timely updates, practical tools, and strategic discussions.

The inaugural Home Health Care News Executives to Watch report will spotlight top leaders driving innovation and impact in home health and home care.

The inaugural Home Health Care News Executives to Watch report will spotlight top leaders driving innovation and impact in home health and home care. This is a chance for companies to recognize executives whose work is shaping the industry during a dynamic period of change. Nominations are open through October 3—submit today to ensure your leader is considered.

New requirements on salary disclosures, reporting, and penalties aim to close pay gaps — covered employers must prepare now.

As of October 29, 2025, Massachusetts law will require employers with 25 or more employees to include pay ranges in job postings, and current employees to receive them on request. Employers with 100+ employees will also face new reporting duties. Penalties escalate with repeated violations — this guide breaks down the who, what, when, and how.

Author Michael Tougias Inspires at Care Central VNA & Hospice’s 17th Annual Leadership Breakfast

At the 17th Annual Leadership Breakfast in Fitchburg, MA, author Michael Tougias brought The Finest Hours to life, sharing harrowing stories and timeless lessons in leadership.

Bipartisan bill from Reps. Kevin Hern (R-OK) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) would pause Medicare home health payment cuts for 2026–2027

The Home Health Stabilization Act of 2025 (H.R. 5142) aims to halt CMS’s proposed reductions to home health payments—advocates warn cuts could limit access, increase hospital crowding, and raise overall Medicare costs. Massachusetts providers and patients would feel the impact acutely; email your Member of Congress to co-sponsor H.R. 5142.

Recognizing the leaders shaping the future of at-home care

Today’s home care executives are steering their organizations through complex challenges while driving innovation in care delivery, payment models, and technology. The Executives to Watch program highlights those making the greatest impact—visionaries whose leadership, strategy, and commitment are setting the course for the industry’s future.

Overlook Visiting Nurse Association transitions its Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care operations to Care Central VNA & Hospice, ensuring continuity of compassionate, community-focused care.

Two long-standing nonprofits join forces to strengthen home health and hospice care across Central Massachusetts.

2024 Serious Illness Scorecard Highlights State Leadership

Massachusetts ranks among the top states nationwide for access to high-quality palliative care, but opportunities for improvement remain.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) will be issuing new guidance for complying with the Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirement to providers early next week. T

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) will be issuing new guidance for complying with the Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirement to providers early next week.

Members should review the full guidance to ensure their policies align with state expectations.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued updated guidance for health care personnel with respiratory viral infections or exposures, effective September 1, 2025. The new standards outline when staff may safely return to work, masking requirements, and considerations for exposures and immunocompromised workers. This replaces earlier COVID-specific guidance and now applies broadly to illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV.

The Program for Evaluating Payment Patterns Electronic Reports (PEPPER) is on its way back.

The Program for Evaluating Payment Patterns Electronic Reports (PEPPER) is on its way back. These reports, distributed annually by CMS, provide valuable data to help home health agencies and hospices monitor potential areas of improper Medicare payments. Many agencies have relied on PEPPERs as a benchmarking tool and as part of their compliance and quality improvement programs.

Submit your comments to CMS by Friday, August 29

CMS has proposed a fourth straight year of Medicare home health payment cuts—threatening patient access and agency stability. The Alliance has prepared draft comments and member toolkits to help you craft and submit your own response. Even if your agency is private pay or hospice, your voice is vital to showing CMS the ripple effects these cuts create across the entire care-at-home industry.

CMS seeks additional payment reductions alongside major policy changes

CMS’s proposed rule for 2026 would slash Medicare home health payments by another $1.135 billion—on top of nearly 9% in cuts already imposed. HCA has drafted detailed comments opposing these changes and created a Member Action Kit with customizable templates to help your agency submit personalized feedback by the August 29 deadline.

Save the Date! two in-person Member Meetings this fall

We’re hitting the road this fall to reconnect with members across the Commonwealth! Join us for one of our upcoming Regional Member Meetings.

New MassHealth Guidance on EVV Compliance Reporting

MassHealth has issued step-by-step instructions for Home Health and Group Adult Foster Care providers on accessing Fee-for-Service EVV Compliance Reports. Providers can request technical support through Sandata On-Demand, call 833-511-0164, or reach the MassHealth LTSS Support Center at 844-368-5184 / support@masshealthltss.com . ⚠️ Remember: the LTSS Provider Portal works best with the latest versions of Chrome, Edge, Safari, and Firefox.

Stay ahead on EVV compliance—MassHealth and Sandata share new guidance and tools to keep your agency on track.

Download the latest job aides, learn who to contact for support, and avoid common pitfalls in meeting EVV requirements.

MassHealth is bringing back referral requirements you haven’t needed since 2020.

MassHealth has updated referral requirements for services covered under the Primary Care Accountable Care Organizations (ACO) and the Primary Care Clinician (PCC) Plan. As of August 1, 2025, home health services are now exempt from referral requirements under these plans. This change is intended to streamline access and reduce administrative barriers for MassHealth members needing home health care. During this week's stakeholder call, MassHealth announced the Bulletin will be released in a week or two.

Short-staffing jeopardizes patient safety and increases costs, leaving agencies scrambling and families without essential care. If your agency has been affected, share your story with Jake Krilovich to advocate for solutions

Massachusetts' healthcare system faces escalating risk as the sudden end of the CHNV parole program strips vital caregivers of work authorization, according to Alliance Executive Director Jake Krilovich.

Alliance Advocacy Leads to Reduced Reporting Burden for Agencies

Following strong advocacy from the Home Care Alliance and feedback from members, CHIA has dropped the FY24 NSR Supplemental Schedule requirement for Home Health and Continuous Skilled Nursing cost reports—streamlining compliance without changing core reporting deadlines.

Act now—this deadline will not be extended again.

Your participation matters—help us make sure Massachusetts agencies are well represented and have the data they need to stay competitive in recruitment and retention.

TACPAC Task Force Completes Work

The Massachusetts TACPAC Task Force, including Alliance Executive Director Jake Krilovich, has completed its work to address barriers in moving patients from acute to post-acute care. Recommendations call for streamlined payer authorizations, workforce investments, and greater public awareness of community-based care options.

2024 SHPBest™ Awards Highlight Excellence in Home Health and Hospice Patient Experience

From Norwell to Pittsfield, home health and hospice agencies across Massachusetts have been nationally recognized for their exceptional commitment to patient-centered care. The 2024 SHPBest™ Awards spotlight providers in the top 5% and 20% nationwide—along with a rare honor for sustained excellence achieved by just a handful of agencies across the U.S. Massachusetts is proud to be home to several of them.

Personalized, around-the-clock care helps seniors stay safe, independent, and supported at home.

Excel Nursing Services, led by Rebecca Paquette, has reaffirmed its dedication to providing high-quality, 24-hour home care for seniors in Springfield, MA. The agency emphasizes personalized support, safety, and companionship to help clients age with dignity at home. With a team of trained caregivers and a focus on individualized care plans, Excel continues to be a trusted partner for families seeking compassionate, around-the-clock support.

Finding Purpose Through Connection

Over lunch with members, we talked about more than work—we talked about why we do this. Community, purpose, and showing up for one another. As we launch our renewal campaign, we’re asking: What is your why?

Massachusetts Providers Report Layoffs, Job Uncertainty Amid Federal Enforcement

Recent federal immigration actions are forcing home care agencies to reverify hundreds of workers, leading to immediate layoffs and threatening care access for seniors. “Any number of aides—whether it’s five or 10—has a significant impact,” says HCA Executive Director Jake Krilovich.

Key Legislation Advances to Health Care Financing Committee Ahead of Schedule

A top priority for the Home Care Alliance, legislation to establish licensure for non-medical home care cleared its first hurdle this week. With more time this session, HCA plans to ramp up advocacy to ensure it reaches the finish line by July 2026.

How Local Training Programs Are Shaping the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers

From students like Ana Mihal to countless others, aide training programs across Massachusetts are launching meaningful careers and strengthening communities. Share your organization’s success stories and help us spotlight the future of home care.

$50,000 Commitment Expands Access to Special Needs Trusts and Community Support

PLAN of MA & RI has partnered with Boston Senior Home Care to help older adults and people with disabilities stay in their homes and communities. With a $50,000 investment, the partnership offers families access to essential Special Needs Trust services, ensuring financial security and continued independence.

Alliance Member Shares Expertise on Telemedicine’s Role in Home Care and Hospice

Advancing Telehealth: Kathy Duckett Featured in Home Healthcare Now: An in-depth look at how telemedicine improves outcomes, reduces hospitalizations, and strengthens home care services — as presented by Alliance member Kathy Duckett in Home Healthcare Now.

Top National Ranking Highlights Both Achievements and Challenges for Home Care Providers

Massachusetts leads the nation in health system performance, but gaps remain in supporting older adults and reducing hospital readmissions. Home care agencies are key to sustaining this success — and advancing equity, access, and outcomes across the Commonwealth.

Showcasing Innovative Telehealth Approaches from Massachusetts Home Care Providers

Alliance member Kathy Duckett, MSN, BSN, RN, is featured in the July/August issue of Home Healthcare Now with the article Telemedicine Today: Integral to Healthcare. The piece explores how telemedicine improves patient outcomes, reduces hospitalizations, and expands care access in home care and hospice settings.

Strengthening Our Industry Through Collective Advocacy and Support

As we celebrate Independence Day, it's time to reflect on the power of unity. The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts is more than just a membership—it's a movement for change. Join us as we come together to fight for fair regulations, advocate for better care standards, and empower each other to build a stronger future for home care and hospice services across the state. Your voice is critical in this collective effort.

Comprehensive reports offer valuable insights into salary trends, staffing issues, nursing vacancy rates, and employee incentives, drawing data from over 1,000 home health and hospice agencies.

The HCS Home Care and Hospice Salary & Benefits Studies are underway, marking the 5th consecutive year of collaboration between the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts and Hospital & Healthcare Compensation Service (HCS). These comprehensive reports offer valuable insights into salary trends, staffing issues, nursing vacancy rates, and employee incentives, drawing data from over 1,000 home health and hospice agencies.

Public Hearing Held on June 27, 2025, with Details on Proposed Changes to Personal Care Attendant Services

On Friday, June 27, 2025, Harrison testified at the MassHealth public hearing regarding proposed PCA regulations. HCA submitted both verbal and written testimony to provide feedback on the potential impact of the changes on proposed amendments to the Personal Care Attendant (PCA) services regulations. The changes are set to enhance the PCA program’s sustainability and ensure quality of care for MassHealth members.

Your Agency’s Data Can Shape Policy and Strengthen Home Care Advocacy

Participation in this state-backed workforce survey is lagging — and we need your voice. The deadline is Monday, June 30. Responses help shape credible, data-driven policy, and agencies that complete the survey receive a tailored benchmark report.

Welcome to the New 2025-2026 Board of Directors

The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts is pleased to announce the election of its new Board of Directors, a group of dedicated professionals committed to advancing high-quality home care services statewide. Learn more about the new leadership team and how you can get involved in shaping the future of home care in Massachusetts.

Submit Your Agency’s Data and Save on Report Pricing

The 2025 HCS Home Care and Hospice Salary & Benefits studies are now underway. This year marks the fifth collaboration between HCA-MA and Hospital & Healthcare Compensation Service. Home care and hospice ag

Proposed Legislation Aims to Regulate Temporary Nurse Staffing Charges in Home Health and Hospice

The Joint Committee on Public Health held a hearing on June 23 to discuss H.2408/S.1633, a bill aimed at regulating temporary nurse staffing rates in home health and hospice agencies. The legislation would have empowered the Department of Public Health to set caps on what staffing agencies can charge, providing much-needed relief for agencies facing rising costs. While the hearing has passed, individuals can still submit their testimony in support of the bill by emailing JointCommittee.PublicHealth@malegislature.gov. HC

Celebrating the Strength, Compassion, and Leadership of Our Home Care Community

Your Continued Support Powers Advocacy and Access to Essential Benefits

Your membership with the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts is more critical than ever. Stay connected and ensure uninterrupted access to vital resources, advocacy, and updates. Don’t let changes in the coming year affect your agency’s support—renew today!

American Dream Homecare and El Roi Homecare Achieve Prestigious Accreditation

We are proud to announce that American Dream Homecare Agency of Brockton and El Roi Homecare of Weymouth have recently earned accreditation through the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts. This achievement reflects their dedication to upholding the highest standards of care and providing clients with peace of mind. Congratulations to these exemplary agencies!

Holly Chaffee, CEO of Care Central VNA & Hospice, speaks out about the growing challenges for nonprofit home health providers.

Nonprofit home health care providers are struggling to keep up as Medicare Advantage reimbursement rates fall short. Holly Chaffee of Care Central VNA & Hospice shares her concerns and the urgent need for change.

Please help us by using this ACTION ALERT to write to Legislators on the FY26 Conference Committee to support home care programs!

The State Legislature is in the midst of their budget deliberation and we need your help to make sure that ASAP home care programs receive the funding they need to support the growing demand for services!

Avoiding "Baby Talk" Can Improve Caregiver-Patient Relationships and Enhance Patient Dignity

Elderspeak, often seen as "baby talk," can unintentionally undermine the confidence and autonomy of older adults. Learn why it’s crucial for home care providers to communicate respectfully and effectively, and discover best practices to ensure your approach fosters dignity and trust.

Last Call: Home Care Alliance Annual Meeting

The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts is hosting its Annual Meeting on June 11, 2025, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Marlborough. This is your final opportunity to register and join us for a day of networking, celebrating excellence, and reflecting on the successes of the past year. Don't miss out on the Caregiver and Innovation Awards, a business meeting to review key initiatives, and valuable networking opportunities. Secure your spot today before it’s too late!

New 60-Day Authorization Process and Clearer Rules Aim to Reduce Confusion When Both HHAs and PCAs Provide Care

MassHealth is rolling out an updated protocol that clarifies who can assist with medications when both Home Health Agencies and Personal Care Attendants are involved. Agencies must review the changes and engage in determining appropriate care pathways for each patient.