Jan. 20, 2006
Contact: Lauren Shaham, AAHSA, (202) 508-1219

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from Larry Minnix, AAHSA President and CEO About the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Report "Nursing Homes: Despite Increased Oversight, Challenges Remain in Ensuring High-Quality Care and Resident Safety,”

The GAO’s latest report raises some valid issues about the nursing home survey and certification process. We agree with the GAO that this process is highly inconsistent from state to state, and AAHSA is currently supporting federal legislation that makes common sense reforms in these processes.

We also recognize the GAO’s concerns about fire safety in skilled nursing facilities. AAHSA is also backing another bill that set reasonable timetables for all nursing homes to have automatic sprinkler systems and to provide essential funding for their installation. We are hopeful that as a result of this report, members of Congress will act on survey and certification reform in the coming session.

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About AAHSA
The members of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (www.aahsa.org) help millions of individuals and their families every day through mission-driven, not-for-profit organizations dedicated to providing the services that people need, when they need them, in the place they call home. Our 5,800 member organizations, many of which have served their communities for generations, offer the continuum of aging services: adult day services, home health, community services, senior housing, assisted living residences, continuing care retirement communities and nursing homes. AAHSA’s commitment is to create the future of aging services through quality people can trust.