Senate Approves Legislation to help citizens “age in place”

(NASHVILLE, TN), February 11, 2008 -- The Tennessee State Senate has passed legislation, SB 2614, sponsored by Senator Diane Black (R-Gallatin), to broaden the definition of assisted living to include hospice services.  The bill is part of a series of bills sponsored by Black, which she says will help citizens “age in place.”

“We must look at all of our laws to help give citizens receive more options regarding their health care so that they can age in place in their homes with dignity,” said Senator Black.  “This is one of several bills we hope to pass this year aimed at providing more choices and options to elderly and disabled Tennesseans to help them stay in their homes as long as they can.”

Currently, hospice cannot receive reimbursement for assisted living services after a ruling by the Department of Health.  This bill would make it clear that any assisted-care living facility resident who qualifies for hospice care under Medicare can continue those services and also receive reimbursement for assisted living services.

“This is simply one more step towards making our laws friendlier to assisted-care living,” Black added.  “I am pleased the Senate has passed this legislation and hopeful that the House of Representatives will take it up soon.”

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