Hospice Services: S9875 Webb / A10290 Kelles

MEMORANDUM OF SUPPORT

S9875 Webb / A10290 Kelles
Authorizes individuals receiving hospice services to enroll in managed long-term care plans 

The above-referenced legislation would eliminate barriers that prevent individuals receiving hospice services from enrolling in managed long-term care plans and promotes coordinated delivery of hospice and long-term care services. The New York State Catholic Conference supports this bill.

Managed long-term care plans allow individuals to receive necessary personal care, transportation, and community-based assistance, which can be critical for patients with terminal illnesses. Unfortunately, current law effectively forces them to choose between hospice care and managed long-term care. This loophole leads to incomplete services and unmet needs.

Hospice provides wonderful care for individuals at end-of-life, as well as their families. New York sadly ranks almost last in the country for hospice utilization. With assisted suicide soon to be legal, the elderly and terminally ill will undoubtedly feel pressure to end their lives amidst a lack of options. We must do more to make end-of-life care accessible. We urge you to pass this legislation and to continue improving the landscape for the elderly and terminally ill.