Today, the Wisconsin Association for Home Health Care (WiAHC) announced that State Senator Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) has been recognized as a “Champion of Home Health Care” for the 2023-2024 state legislative session.  This designation is meant to publicly identify legislators for their exceptional work to promote the expanded utilization of skilled home health care as an effective, affordable option for post-acute medical care.

As the Senate Co-chair of the Joint Committee on Finance, Sen. Marklein led the approval of the Fiscal Year 2023-2025 budget that included a continuation of the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) five percent increase from April 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.  This rate increase has been invaluable to skilled home health providers throughout Wisconsin, as it has helped home health agencies attract and retain a highly qualified workforce and ensure access to care. 

“Senator Marklein’s leadership ensured that the increase in funding for Home and Community Based Services was included in the state’s Fiscal Year 2023-2025 budget,” said WiAHC Board Chair Jayne Thill. “Home health care agencies in Wisconsin are grateful for his support and leadership,” concluded Thill.