James November-December 2024 web - Flipbook - Page 39
“We are also supportive of tort reform efforts to reduce costly and predatory healthcare litigation that only
benefits the wealth of the lawyer and shifts resources
away from bedside care and into the courtroom,” Downing said. “Our state’s long term care communities are
committed to meeting the needs of Georgia’s growing
population of seniors, and the reform efforts that have
been taken up by the governor are vital to fostering accountability and ensuring resources are directed where
they are needed mos— on high-quality health care of our
patients and residents.”
A Commitment to Excellence
DOWNING PICTURED WITH MISS GEORGIA AND THE WINNER OF
THE 2023 MS. GEORGIA HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATION PAGEANT.
“Further, many of Georgia’s nursing centers participate in the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) National
Quality Award Program and are recognized nationally for
their ongoing commitment to quality,” he emphasized.
“Georgia has 143 Joint Commission accredited centers.
Receiving the Joint Commission accreditation is a voluntary process that also demonstrates a high commitment
to quality and safety.”
The GHCA CEO, however, says that while demand for
its services is increasing and members are making every
effort to advance quality care, the viability of nursing
centers is being threatened due to workforce shortages
and chronic Medicaid underfunding. Georgia’s nursing
centers are committed to meeting the needs of their residents, but they need help to do so in the future.
In this context, Downing stresses that Georgia is
fortunate that Gov. Brian Kemp and state lawmakers have
adopted a policy to update annual reimbursement rates for
nursing centers to reflect current costs to provide care.
“Rather than unfunded mandates that will reduce
access to care, we need our federal government to follow
suit and put forth supportive policies that will bolster
the healthcare workforce so that we have the caregivers
needed to meet the needs of our residents and patients,”
he added.
In our interview Downing praised Kemp for a “remarkable job” ensuring Georgia remains the number one state
in which to do business. “To ensure this legacy, we must
continue to invest in Georgia’s healthcare infrastructure,
of which long term care is a vital pillar. Innovative service
models and payor strategies are necessary to ensure we
can meet the evolving needs of Georgians,” he said.
The association’s work is a testament to the power of
collaboration, education and advocacy. As the challenges
of long-term care evolve, GHCA remains steadfast in its
mission to improve the lives of those who depend on its
services. Through its efforts, GHCA ensures that Georgia’s
elderly and disabled populations can age with dignity,
receiving the highest standard of care available.
In an industry that faces mounting challenges, from
workforce shortages to regulatory hurdles, GHCA’s role is
more vital than ever.
And a final note. GHCA is not just improving healthcare in our state, it is setting an example for the nation.
Cindy Morley is a staff writer for James and James Magazine Online.
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