Proposed Federal budget cuts will put seniors at risk

The Health Facilities Association of Maryland (HFAM) today brought together U.S. Representative Frank Kratovil (MD-1) and residents, workers and leaders from the Salisbury Rehabilitation and Nursing Center to personalize the pending effects of a proposed $32 billion federal cut to Medicare.

"Congressman Kratovil understands the needs of Maryland seniors and we applaud his leadership to work to reduce the amount of cuts as much as possible to protect the quality of care," said Joseph DeMattos, Jr., president of HFAM. "The Congressman also understands how important Medicare and Medicaid are to the long-term care and rehabilitation of our seniors. The proposed cuts being debated in Congress, along with administrative cuts to Medicare and recent state budget cuts truly create a perfect storm putting our seniors at risk."

In Congressman Kratovil's district alone, proposed federal cuts totaling $44 billion over 10 years nationally will result in a $140.6 million reduction for care of seniors in skilled nursing facilities. These cuts will reduce business activity by more than $10 million and labor income by $5.3 million -- putting 147 jobs at risk.

"I'd like to thank the Health Facilities Association of Maryland for allowing me to tour their facilities and get a first hand view of the great work they do on behalf of local senior citizens," said Congressman Kratovil. "My conversations with the residents, staff and administration of the Salisbury Rehab and Nursing Center give me an opportunity to move beyond the rhetoric and see firsthand those who will be affected by healthcare reform and help inform my votes when the legislation reaches the floor."

"Everyone here sincerely appreciates Congressman Kratovil's effort to visit with the people we serve, our staff team and our volunteers," said Bob Lanza, executive administrator Salisbury Rehab and Nursing Center, Genesis Healthcare. "These deep cuts being discussed along with other imposed federal and state cuts will eliminate jobs and put seniors at risk."