Q: Working with Washington officials and lawmakers has disappointed you. Why?
A: I truly, truly believe we are the most efficient and effective providers in the continuum. Nobody seems to see us for that.
Q: Can you give an example?
A: We’re not perfect, but we’re paid $400 per day for what a hospital is doing the day before for $3,400. How does that make sense? Why is it no one’s talking to us, and we’re not a bigger player in the overall scheme of things?
Q: So what is the strategy?
A: We have a great story to tell. We need to better articulate that message.
Q: … because others already have?
A: It upset me so much to see hospitals, insurance companies and drug companies all get their private deals cut [for health reform] before the Senate and House even got a chance to do what they wanted. It’s like we don’t count. But it’s a big mistake and I’m tired of it.
Q: And you think corporate America will listen, if only because providers can ease pressures on employees?
A: This is what we do—take care of [workers’] ailing parents.
From the December 01, 2010 Issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News
