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.

Home-based care providers invited to share insights to shape the future of the industry

BerryDunn’s 2025 National Healthcare at Home Best Practices and Future Insights Study is underway. Providers have until August 18, 2025 to participate in the initial survey and help identify the top challenges, innovations, and best practices in home-based care.

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.

Federal Enforcement Paused, but State Wage Protections Still Apply

The U.S. Department of Labor has suspended enforcement of its 2013 rule limiting the companionship exemption for third-party employers, but Massachusetts home care agencies remain bound by state minimum wage and overtime laws. This pause reopens debate over balancing client care continuity with fair pay for direct care workers.

Earlier this week, HCA met with MassHealth and CHIA regarding the newly added supplemental cost report data being asked of Home Health and CSN agencies. HCA conveyed significant concerns that providers will be unable to meet the reporting deadline (mid-September) due to the difficulty in extracting the data being requested. HCA requested that CHIA reconsider this request, or at minimum, significantly delay its due date. HCA explained that many Electronic Medical Record systems are not currently configured to extract the

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?

Advocates for 10% Increase for Agencies, Cautions Against Independent Rate Boosts

At recent MassHealth and CHIA forums, HCA strongly backed a 10% CSN rate hike—but only for agency-based care. The Alliance raised safety concerns with the Independent Nurse program and warned against wage pass-throughs that could undercut agency-led training and benefits.

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.

Massachusetts Takes Step Toward Regulating Non-Medical Home Care Services

A key Alliance-backed bill has cleared its first legislative hurdle, paving the way for standardized licensure of non-medical home care. The early action gives advocates more time to educate lawmakers and push for passage before the session ends in 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.

This funding aims to cover budgetary shortfalls within the program from previous fiscal years.

As we informed you last month, $60 million in supplemental funding to home care services through the Department of Aging and Independence (AGE) Home Care Program was making its way through the legislative process, but stalled. This funding aims to cover budgetary shortfalls within the program from previous fiscal years

$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.

Effective July 31, 2025: New “Add Line Item” Features Aim to Streamline PA Requests and Reduce Errors

MassHealth’s LTSS Provider Portal update brings new data fields and automatic unit calculations to help home health providers cut down on manual errors and administrative work. Providers can also more easily adjust service phases, improving flexibility and accuracy in prior authorization requests.

Major immigration shift impacts care industry workforce.

DHS ends CHNV parole program; employers urged to review compliance and workforce plans

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.

Longer Hospital Stays, Less Post-Acute Care Are Reshaping Home Health Demands

A new study shows Medicare Advantage patients are spending more time in hospitals but receiving less post-acute care — sending sicker, higher-acuity patients home. Home care providers must navigate rising care demands while advocating for needed resources.

Thousands in Outstanding Payments Stall as Home Care Agencies Face Delays

The Home Care Alliance is advocating on behalf of members experiencing significant payment delays and billing problems with Commonwealth Care Alliance. Agencies are urged to report outstanding claims to strengthen collective action.

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.

Championing Fairness in Home Care Rate Setting

The Alliance testified in support of H.767/S.850, a bill aimed at ensuring home care rates reflect actual operating costs. Join us in advocating for fair rate setting—learn how to submit your written testimony today.

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.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has identified a fraud scheme targeting Medicare providers and suppliers. As reported in the June 26 MLN Connects® newsletter, scammers are impersonating CMS and sending phishing faxes that falsely claim to be part of a Medicare audit. These faxes request medical records and documentation—but they are not legitimate.

Alliance Argues for More Regulations To Strengthen Patient Safety

MassHealth held a public hearing to hear remarks on their proposed PCA regulations. During the public hearing, HCA testified that addition regulations are needed for PCA services to boost patient safety.

HCA to Provide Testimony on H.767/S.850, Advocating for Transparency in Rate Setting

The Joint Committee on Health Care Financing will hold a public hearing on Tuesday at 10:00 AM EST on H.767/S.850, a bill that seeks to ensure rate-setting processes for home health and home care services reflect actual operating costs. HCA will testify in support of this important legislation.

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.

Testimony Supports H.2408/S.1633, Giving DPH Authority to Regulate Staffing Costs for Home Health and Hospice Agencies

On Monday, HCA testified at a Joint Committee on Public Health Hearing in favor of H.2408/S.1633, a bill that would empower the Department of Public Health to set caps on the fees charged by temporary nurse staffing agencies. This bill aims to protect home health and hospice agencies from inflated staffing costs that have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about the Alliance's position in the full testimony.

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.

Potential Federal Changes Could Result in Loss of Coverage for Hundreds of Thousands and $1 Billion in State Funding Cuts

Proposed Medicaid cuts could devastate Massachusetts, putting healthcare access at risk for hundreds of thousands and threatening $1 billion in federal funding annually.

Feedback Collected on OMB RFI Drives Advocacy Efforts, with New Focus on Medicare Deregulation Ahead of June 10 Deadline

HCA submits formal feedback on deregulation to OMB and prepares for CMS's upcoming June 10 deadline. Your insights are vital to shaping smarter regulations in home care.

Massachusetts Agencies Collaborate to Improve Compliance with CMS and OSHA Disaster Preparedness Regulations

Home care providers across Massachusetts participated in a hands-on tabletop exercise on May 15, 2025, enhancing their emergency response strategies and strengthening compliance with CMS and OSHA disaster preparedness requirements.

CCA’s Acquisition by Care Source Resolves Financial Uncertainty, But Claims Issues Persist for Some Providers

Commonwealth Care Alliance (CCA) has been acquired by Care Source, resolving financial uncertainties and resuming health plan enrollments. While CCA will maintain its name in Massachusetts, some certified home health agencies have faced claim denials. CCA is working to improve communication and policies during this transition.

Deportation Threat to Caregiver Highlights Human Cost of Immigration Crackdown and Workforce Shortages

Alfredo Orellana, a committed caregiver for a young man with severe autism, is at risk of deportation due to a minor offense from years past. His situation underscores the escalating effects of stricter immigration policies on an already overstretched workforce, placing vulnerable individuals like Luke, Alfredo’s client, in jeopardy