Pa. Speaker Joanna McClinton Visits Little Flower Manor, Prompts Discussion about Challenges in Long Term Care

MEADOWBROOK, PA - SEPTEMBER 2024-Pennsylvania Speaker of the House, Rep. Joanna McClinton (D-191), engaged Redeemer Health employees in discussion at Little Flower Manor, a skilled nursing facility in Darby, Pa.

The discussion included the Redeemer Health CEO, the Little Flower Manor executive director and board chair, and direct patient care employees. Two themes that surfaced in a dialogue about Pennsylvania's challenges in long term care were staffing in a post-COVID job market, and Medicaid reimbursement shortfalls.

"It was an honor hosting Speaker McClinton," said Redeemer Health CEO Greg Wozniak. "Her genuine concern and awareness of the challenges in long term care reflect her allegiance to the families in her district and across the Commonwealth."

Speaker McClinton also toured Little Flower Manor, giving her the opportunity to talk with employees who provide direct patient care. "Meeting my neighbors who work on the front lines delivering patient care informs the policy development I do in Harrisburg," said Speaker McClinton. "I appreciate the staff and administrators at Little Flower Manor for providing useful insight that made my tour extremely valuable."

Improving the wellbeing and quality of life for residents in Delaware and Philadelphia counties are among Speaker McClinton's top priorities, and that begins with their health, she explained. Speaker McClinton and House colleagues have fought tirelessly to advance initiatives that would help recruit more care providers and ensure the providers are adequately compensated for care they offer.

The 127-bed Little Flower Manor routinely scores the highest ratings in US News' and Newsweek's "Best Nursing Homes" editions. Originally founded in 1977, Little Flower Manor became part of the Redeemer Health system in 2017.