HOME-BASED HEALTH CARE SERVICES

SB 558 requires New Mexico's Health Care Authority to apply to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by August 1, 2025, for a Medicaid waiver program. This program would provide home-based health care services - including skilled nursing, therapy, and palliative care - to seniors aged 65 or older diagnosed with a chronic debilitating disease (defined as a long-term condition significantly impairing daily life). The bill appropriates $2 million from the state general fund for fiscal years 2025-2026 to develop the waiver application, with unused funds reverting to the general fund by 2026. If approved, the program would enable qualifying seniors to receive covered services in their homes instead of institutional care.