Massachusetts bill would license home care agencies
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Massachusetts is one of 15 states that don't require all home care agencies and workers to be licensed.
- A proposal on Gov. Maura Healey's desk would change that.
Why it matters: Lawmakers and senior care advocates say the legislation will ensure residents can age in place with access to quality services, like dressing, meal preparation, bathing and companionship.
Context: Massachusetts has a program that sets standards for agencies it contracts, but there is no statewide license or oversight in place for all non-medical home care agencies.
How it works: The bill, which passed both the state House and Senate on Friday, would create a licensure process for home care workers that includes background checks and, for workers expected to drive clients, driving record checks.
- Licensed workers would have to undergo annual training that covers infection control, privacy rights, emergency response, Alzheimer's and dementia care, and other skills.
- The proposal would also let the state review, investigate and penalize any home care agency or worker that violates the new regulations or operates without a license.
Pro tip: The state would require a process to accept complaints from clients and workers, and it would publish a list of licensed agencies.
- Elders and their loved ones could use the published list to find a home care agency that's in good standing.
What they're saying: "It provides important safeguards. Right now, it's buyer beware because you didn't know the quality — not only of the services, but the quality of the worker," says Paul Lanzikos, a coordinator for the advocacy group Dignity Alliance Massachusetts.
Reality check: Lawmakers praised the bill as a game-changer for aging adults, but some of the biggest changes might not materialize for years.
- The bill would create several commissions to make recommendations on licensing updates, family caregiving policies (including paying spouses as caregivers) and the prospect of a public insurance program to help cover long-term services.
What's next: Healey has until Aug. 10 to act on the bill.