01/26/2026
The legislative session has officially begun, and unfortunately, lawmakers are moving forward with continuing the 4% Medicaid cuts, with additional cuts this year. While we have some information indicating that skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, home care, and long-term care providers may not be included in the additional cuts, nothing is guaranteed. That’s why we are continuing to fight, for providers, residents, families, and employees.
We are also offering a real solution: how to reduce Medicaid expenses while improving care. By using technology in place of calling emergency services, such as wearables, AI, telehealth, and on-call nursing groups that involve physicians more quickly than dialing 911, we can significantly reduce Medicare and Medicaid costs while delivering better outcomes. The Governor and key legislators have agreed that if we can track and prove these savings, they are willing to restore the 4% Medicaid rates. But to get there, we must keep pushing back against these cuts.
If staffing is reduced, providers will be forced to call 911 more often, driving costs up, not down. These cuts are already having real consequences. One assisted living community has already had to discharge their Medicaid residents. The question is: where do those residents go?
We are asking every provider, family member, employee, and advocate to take action by writing a letter to their legislator. We’ve made it easy with the link below. So far, more than 400 letters have been sent, but we need thousands. Legislators need to hear how these cuts are impacting loved ones, staff, and care communities across Idaho. Send a letter here: https://standbyseniors.com/idaho/
Finally, we urge you to join us in person at the Legislative Luncheon during the Winter Workshop on February 11. This is a critical opportunity to sit down with legislators and discuss these issues directly. Please come to Boise and be part of the solution. Learn more about the luncheon here: https://www.idhca.org/events/winter-workshop-legislative-luncheon/
Together, we can make a difference. Thank you for standing with us.
If you have questions or would like to know how to get more involved contact the IHCA office at www.idhca.org
