Links from the Episode

• Share Your Story -- > https://heartsforhomecare.quorum.us/campaign/h4hc-stories/
• Register for South Carolina Home Care & Hospice Advocacy Day! --> https://heartsforhomecare.quorum.us/event/29560/

Ho, ho, ho, advocates! We are in the middle of the holiday season and we have an all-new Home Care You Say? Update with host Bliss Pointer, as she delivers a quick look at the state of home care and advocacy across the nation.

As we say goodbye to 2025, Bliss breaks down the latest federal and state-level wins (and challenges) that will shape the industry in 2026. Whether you're a care recipient, a family member, or a caregiver, you won't want to miss our "naughty and nice" lists of important legislation to watch!

In this episode, we cover:

• Federal "Stocking Stuffers": A quick look into the CMS final Home Health Rule and what a 1.3% funding reduction actually means for the future of advocacy.

• The North Carolina Turnaround: How tireless storytelling led to a massive retroactive reversal of rate reductions—a true holiday win for families, but the fight is not over!

• State-by-State Sleigh Ride:

  • New Jersey & Delaware: Using social media and "home visits" to bridge the gap with lawmakers.

  • Pennsylvania: Gearing up for the big Advocacy Day.

  • Missouri: The fight for rate stability.

  • Florida & South Carolina: Early previews of 2026 budget proposals and upcoming legislative dates and Advocacy Days.

  • Mixed Weather: We track further State updates across the country to prepare for 2026.

• The Power of Your Story: Why legislators are more engaged online than ever, and how your personal experience can literally change the law.

Don't forget! If you have questions for our next Q&A segment, send them in! If your question is featured on the show, you’ll win a special prize. 🎁 Tag us on social media or send your questions to advocacy@heartsforhomecare.com.

So pull up a chair, grab some cocoa, and let’s get into the spirit of making a difference.

Produced by slanted.design