The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), representing more than 14,000 nursing homes and long term care facilities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year, released the following statement after HHS announced $4.9 billion in funding to help skilled nursing facilities respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The following statement is attributable to Mark Parkinson, president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL.

“We appreciate HHS sending this much-needed funding to skilled nursing facilities. Long term care providers are privileged to care for our country’s Greatest Generation. The Administration has given us the ability to care for them with the resources that they deserve. 

“We are working around the clock to protect the people who are most vulnerable to COVID-19. That work makes this funding more important than ever. These resources are an important step toward ensuring residents in long term care facilities receive the vital support needed during this unprecedented public health crisis.

“Given the gravity of the situation we are facing with this deadly virus and its impact on our vulnerable residents, long term care facilities require additional support and funding from state and federal governments to reduce its spread. Notably, assisted living communities have yet to receive any direct aid, despite also serving vulnerable seniors. While building on support received from HHS, we are asking for additional consideration for all long-term care facilities, whether it be in regard to additional testing, personal protective equipment, or funding.

“Long term care facilities appreciate the Administration’s support in prioritizing long term care residents. We need everyone around the country to rally around nursing homes and assisted living communities the same way they have around hospitals. We will continue to work with local, state and federal health officials to take every possible step to keep our nation’s long term care residents and staff safe.”