State Senator Mary Lou Rath Connects With Home Care

• by New York State Association of Health Care Providers

EAST GREENBUSH, NY (08/06/2007)(readMedia)-- Williamsville, NY – State Senator Mary Lou Rath (R,C,I-Williamsville), today visited the residence of home care recipient Dorothy Goldman to experience first-hand the value and benefit of home care for constituents in her district and across the State.

Mrs. Goldman receives home care services from Interim Home Care of Buffalo which allows her to continue living at home rather than at a skilled nursing facility. She receives 24-hour care seven days a week during which an aide provides personal hands-on care services such as dressing, bathing and assisting with an exercise program.

“It was wonderful to see how Mrs. Goldman is able to stay in the comfort of her own home in a manner that is cost-efficient,” said Rath. “Our country is on the eve of millions of baby boomers needing care, which is why it is vital that State and Federal government continue to provide support and adequate resources for home and community-base care. That’s why I support initiatives that help people stay where they are comfortable – at home.”

Providing cost-efficient and quality health care is a major concern for many New Yorkers, which is why Senator Rath took advantage of “Home Care Connect,” a home care visitation program sponsored by the New York State Association of Health Care Providers, Inc. (HCP). Home Care Connect provides State and Federal Legislators the opportunity to observe the benefits of home and community-based care in action.

Judy Ketteman, Vice President, Interim Home Care of Buffalo, said, “It is such a pleasure to see the positive impact home care has on people like Mrs. Goldman and thousands of other home care recipients. The support for home care by government officials like Senator Rath is critical to the future of our nation’s health. The demand for quality, cost-efficient home and community-based services will only grow as the population continues to age and live longer.”

“Home care is cost-efficient and it’s what patients want. The result of home care is a better quality of life because patients are able to stay home and live independently,” said Phyllis Wang, HCP President. “With the State’s health care system undergoing a transformation to a patient-centered system, the continued support of Senator Rath is much appreciated. With her help, we will continue to expand access to home care services.”

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HCP is a statewide trade association representing the full spectrum of home care and hospice agencies in New York.

High-resolution photos available upon request