Healthcare Dive: Nursing home staffing regulations are crucial to protect our seniors, Ed Dudensing writes
August 9, 2024
Originally published by
Healthcare Dive
In April, the Biden Administration established staffing minimums for nursing homes across the country. These regulations require 3.48 nursing hours per patient per day, including 0.55 registered nursing hours and 2.45 nurse assistant hours. In a piece for Healthcare Dive, Ed Dudensing describes the importance of maintaining these regulations as a baseline rather than a ceiling for staffing levels.
Despite the positive impact increased staffing levels have on overall quality of care, some legislators and industry executives are attempting to overturn these regulations, arguing that they will worsen workforce issues. With the aging population growing, adequate staffing is crucial.
“The introduction of these regulations is a significant stride in the right direction. In fact, these minimum requirements should serve as a baseline, rather than a ceiling, for staffing levels in nursing homes. Each resident’s needs are unique, and staffing must be tailored to meet these individual requirements to ensure the highest quality of care.”
– Ed Dudensing in Healthcare Dive