In just five years, the number of Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older will surpass those Pennsylvanians aged 19 and younger. This dramatic shift demands we prioritize a corresponding shift in our state budget priorities.

Despite recent investments and reimbursement increases, Pennsylvania’s long-term care continuum remains in crisis. Nursing home closures, bankruptcies and ownership changes, coupled with declining occupancy driven by ongoing caregiver shortages, paint a stark picture. Our elected officials must be a true and willing partner in protecting our most vulnerable—and ensuring they continue to receive the care they deserve in their communities.

The Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA) is committed to working with members of the General Assembly and the Shapiro administration to address the needs of our aging population and secure the resources necessary to stabilize senior care in the commonwealth. This will require enacting meaningful changes to ensure access to care today and in the future, including:

Addressing workforce shortages that create long wait lists by working directly with providers and caregivers on the frontlines;

Simplifying and streamlining the Medicaid application process to ensure our seniors and adults with disabilities receive timely funds to pay for their care;

Reforming a reimbursement model that no longer supports the evolving needs of those relying on it for the care they need; and

Expanding Medicaid to ensure residents can receive care in assisted living communities, giving Pennsylvanians more care options.

Today’s state budget address marks the beginning of a months-long process, and PHCA stands ready to fight for our long-term care providers, caregivers and the residents they serve.

Zach Shamberg is the president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association, a statewide advocacy organization for Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable residents and their care providers. It represents more than 400 long-term care and senior service providers and more than 50,000 elderly and disabled individuals. For more information, visit www.phca.org.