Wisconsin Long Term Care Advisory Council Open Meeting Minutes
The meeting included general updates from the Department of Human Services (DHS) regarding administrative services, including the expected announcement of the Request for Proposal (RFP) results for a single Fiscal Employer Agency (FEA) and concerns over approximately 600 Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) members who have not paid required premiums, which may lead to loss of care. Council feedback addressed timelines for new contractors and strategies for reaching members at risk of losing coverage. The Wisconsin Owns Wellbeing (WOW) Collaborative encouraged participation in Reframing Aging webinars and outlined five regional learning exchanges. Secretary Johnson provided updates on the state budget, highlighting full funding of the minimum fee schedule and a significant $203 Million award for the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, noting that some funds will support workforce development. Discussions continued regarding ageism, ableism, and age-friendly health systems, emphasizing the importance of incorporating the 4Ms (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, Mobility) into care. Updates were also provided for the Workforce Charge, noting an ad hoc group will meet in February, and the Medicaid Long-Term Care Charge, focusing on technology like Assistive Technology and Remote Supports, with an ad hoc group forming to analyze 2024 and 2025 data. Future meeting topics suggested included the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and resources for family caregivers.