WASHINGTON, DC—The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it has begun distributing funding for Skilled Nursing Facilities across the country, following the urging of Congressman Antonio Delgado (D-19th) and 18 other members of Congress.
According to the announcement, Skilled Nursing Facilities will receive $50,000, plus a distribution of $2,500 per bed. All certified nursing homes with six or more certified beds are eligible for this targeted distribution. These funds had been appropriated by Congress through the CARES Act and supplemental emergency relief legislation signed into law last month.
“I welcome this announcement by the Department of Health and Human Services—these funds are an overdue step for sorely needed supplies and relief to our most vulnerable populations. I’m glad HHS listened to our demands to distribute this support to nursing homes battling this disease every day. Additionally, the Department must provide answers to Congress as to why these already appropriated funds took so long to get to our health care providers. Every single moment in this pandemic matters and Secretary Azar must explain the delay,” Rep. Antonio Delgado said in a press release.
Earlier this month, Rep. Delgado and 18 members of Congress wrote to the Health and Human Services Secretary Azar urging him to distribute funding as soon as possible.
