RESOLUTION OPPOSING ANY ELIMINATION OF FUNDING FOR ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE CENTERS AS A MEDI-CAL BENEFIT IN CALIFORNIA

WHEREAS, Butte County has one adult day health care center, the Peg Taylor Center for Adult Day Health Care, serving the needs of approximately 127 frail elders, persons with disabilities and their families; and

WHEREAS, the Peg Taylor Center was established in 1986 through a grass roots community effort because of the needs in Butte County, which has a higher percentage of  older residents than the statewide average; and

WHEREAS, for low income individuals on Medi-Cal, fees for adult day health care are covered as a Medi-Cal benefit, and the Peg Taylor Center also accepts private pay for those participants not receiving Medi-Cal; and

WHEREAS,  elimination of the Medi-Cal benefit for adult day health care would reduce access to these services for participants in need, thereby resulting in the elimination of services both for Medi-Cal and non-Medi-Cal participants, such as veterans and individuals with developmental disabilities; and

WHEREAS, if the Peg Taylor Center is required to close its doors, within six months the program anticipates approximately 35 current participants will be placed in skilled nursing facilities at a significantly greater cost to taxpayers; and

WHEREAS, as a result, approximately16 family caregivers would have to quit work to stay home and care for their loved ones in order to prevent such premature skilled nursing placement; and

WHEREAS, the overall effect of the elimination of this critically needed program will be to leave vulnerable adults without adequate care and contribute to California’s growing unemployment rate, while resulting in lost jobs for approximately 23 employees and 5 independent local contractors and significantly reducing business for dozens of local vendors.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Butte County Board of Supervisors hereby expresses its opposition to any elimination of funding for adult day health care centers as a Medi-Cal benefit in California.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Butte County Board of Supervisors this 25th day of May, 2010 by the following vote:

AYES: Supervisors Dolan, Kirk, Lambert, Yamaguchi and Chair Connelly

NOES: None

ABSENT: None

NOT VOTING: None

Signed by Bill Connelly, Chair of the Butte County Board of Supervisors

Dear Cori & Staff,

Tom and I wanted to let you know how greatly we appreciate all you did for our Uncle Don. Once he adjusted to the idea of receiving care from others, he enjoyed the program more than I can say. It took so much pressure off of the family to know that Don was safe and supported during the day. He was able to receive much of his health care and support services at the center, ensuring that we were able to really enjoy our time together once he arrived home each afternoon.

In light of the great care Don received, we would like to help ensure that others are able to take part in your program. A small donation is enclosed–perhaps this can help with the costs of transportation.

Again, thank you for helping to make Uncle Don’s life so much better.

Sincerely,

Dayle Luke

Margaret “Peg” Taylor was a pioneering nurse who inspired the founding of the Peg Taylor Center for Adult Day Health Care. Early in Peg’s distinguished career she recognized the value of providing support and rehabilitation to help both older and younger adults with health problems improve their quality of life.

Peg’s work continues today with the help of many wonderful people in our community. On behalf of those we serve, I would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the hard work and caring of the members of Soroptimist International of Chico. Through generous support of the Peg Taylor Center’s nursing services, the members of Soroptimist International are ensuring that adults of all ages in our area coping with serious health problems have the care and attention they need.

We deeply appreciate Soroptimist International for all they do for those in need in our community.

— Diane Cooper-Puckett, Chico

The Peg Taylor Center for Adult Day Health Care is a wonderful experience. It is a nonprofit facility that provides so much more than health care. The staff is extraordinary in their stimulating, fun and varied program presentations, interesting activities, pleasant entertainment, and friendship to clients and their families. The regular needed medical monitoring by registered nurses and physical therapists allows clients to have their needs evaluated on a daily basis. A nutritious and delicious lunch is provided each day, Monday through Friday. Transportation is provided in specified circumstances. The cost of attending this amazing facility depends on one’s income.

My sister has been a client and friend of the Peg Taylor Center since 2005. Our family is eternally grateful for the care and concern that is given to her. Her health and well-being has improved dramatically with the help of the wonderful staff and program at the Peg Taylor Center.

— Judy Simmons, Chico