The Pennsylvania Coalition of Affiliated Healthcare & Living Communities (PACAH)

Overview

The Pennsylvania Coalition of Affiliated Healthcare & Living Communities (PACAH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to representing long-term living and support providers in Pennsylvania. Established in 1951, PACAH has evolved from primarily advocating for county nursing facilities to also supporting veterans', private, and non-profit nursing facilities across the state.

Mission and Activities

PACAH's mission is to be the leading voice for Pennsylvania's diverse healthcare and living communities, focusing on advancing excellence and improving the quality of care and life. This is achieved through legislative and regulatory advocacy, innovation, education, and professional networking. PACAH provides a platform for its members to engage in various activities that enhance the quality of long-term care, including policy development and advocacy efforts in collaboration with state-level organizations.

PACAH is affiliated with the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP), which enhances its advocacy capabilities and provides a strategic position within CCAP's Human Services Committee. This affiliation allows PACAH to contribute to human services policy development at the state level.

Membership and Programs

Membership in PACAH offers access to resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs. Members include a wide range of long-term care providers and associated businesses. PACAH also sponsors PELICAN Insurance, a Risk Retention Group (RRG) offering liability insurance coverage to nursing homes in Pennsylvania and Maryland, emphasizing personalized risk management for its members.

Conferences and Events

PACAH organizes conferences and events to facilitate professional networking and education in the long-term care sector. The annual spring conference includes vendor shows, educational sessions, and sponsorship opportunities, providing a platform for businesses and professionals to engage with the long-term care community.

Achievements and Recognition

PACAH members have been recognized for their excellence in care, with nearly fifty percent of Newsweek's "America's Best Nursing Homes" in Pennsylvania being PACAH members. The organization also actively participates in state-level policy discussions, such as addressing nursing home funding issues with state officials.

Classification and Status

PACAH is classified as a social welfare organization, operating to benefit the community through its advocacy and support for healthcare and living communities.

External Partnerships

PACAH collaborates with various state and national organizations to ensure comprehensive resources and support for its members. These partnerships include working with state departments like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Office of Long-Term Living, as well as national organizations related to long-term care administration and regulation.