Press "Enter" to skip to content

Health care will continue to hemorrhage staff unless changes made, advocates say

Lawmakers introduced proposals to help improve standards at Virginia nursing homes and facilities, and to address the health care worker shortage exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Del. Bobby Orrock Sr. (R-Caroline) introduced House Bill 1446, which would set minimum staffing requirements for certified nursing facilities. A nursing facility, which includes nursing homes, provides health-related services on a continuing basis, according to state code.

The measure passed the House on a nearly unanimous vote of 95-2 and was put in a finance committee after unanimously clearing a Senate health committee.

“At the end of the day, I do think it’s going to be a step forward in the quality of patient care,” Orrock said.

Del. Vivian Watts (D-Fairfax) introduced HB 1564, which would have established regulations for minimum staffing and care standards in nursing homes. The bill was never heard in committee and is dead for the session.

A decreased supply and an increased demand f...

To view the rest of this article, you must log in. If you do not have an account with us, please subscribe here.