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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2007
Contact: Tracy Polovick
Coordinator of Communications and Outreach
(717) 787-8524
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Vance Legislation Responding to DPW Inspection Backlog Passes Committee

HARRISBURG – The Senate Aging and Youth Committee today advanced legislation sponsored by Sen. Pat Vance (R-Cumberland/York) that would give families information on the licensure status of facilities that provide care to the elderly and disabled.

In addition, Vance today disclosed that three personal care homes in the central region of the state have been operating on licenses that expired in 2005 – some more than two years ago. Many other personal care homes' licenses have been expired for more than a year. This information was uncovered in a limited survey done by the Association of Personal Care Administrators. The central region is one of four in the state and consists of 22 counties including those represented by Vance.

The Department of Public Welfare was forced to disclose a few months ago that 73 percent of personal care homes in the state have not been inspected on time. "I find it unbelievable that the department is as much as two years behind in inspecting these homes,” said Vance. “While many of these facilities are providing good care, families and residents have a right to this important information."

Senate Bill 811 would require the creation of a Web site with licensing and certification information on nursing homes, personal care homes and domiciliary care homes. This data would include information on violations of statute or regulation by the facility and any corrective action taken.

The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.

Vance's district includes all of Cumberland County and Carroll, Fairview, Franklin, Monaghan, Warrington and Washington townships and Dillsburg, Franklintown and Wellsville boroughs in York County.