CHOICES program increases sought

TennCare created the CHOICES program nearly 11 years ago. Our caregivers prepare meals for eligible Tennessee seniors, assist them with bathroom visits, clean homes and even take them to doctor appointments.

The program has been incredibly successful, with nearly 22,000 Tennesseans enrolled as of 2017, and saves the state $350 million annually.

Unfortunately, the program is being threatened because there has not been an increase in reimbursement rates for providers since the program began.

Every year our costs increase, and it becomes more difficult to pass along wage increases to caregivers. CHOICES providers like me cannot recruit or retain caregivers when our employees could make higher wages in the fast food or retail industries, doing less demanding work.

We ask that state lawmakers urgently increase the state’s reimbursement rates.

Join me in telling Gov. Bill Lee and members of the legislature our seniors and individuals with disabilities deserve the right to keep their CHOICES.

Teresa Wright

Addus HomeCare