Sebelius Speaks Out on Long-Term Services and Supports

It’s official. The nominee for secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, cares about long-term services and supports. At least that’s what she told the Senate Finance Committee  during her confirmation hearing this week.

In her opening statement, Sebelius said: “I will strengthen [Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program's] roles in protecting Americans with the highest costs and lowest incomes. This includes ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive care that is high-quality and adaptable to their needs. And it includes improving their performance in providing long-term care, which is so critical to so many Americans.”

The Senate is expected to finish Sebelius’ confirmation hearings next week. Only time will tell if her words will lead to actions for the millions of Americans who need long-term services and supports.