Date of Conferral
4-24-2025
Date of Award
April 2025
Degree
Doctor of Healthcare Administration (D.H.A.)
School
Health Services
Advisor
Kourtney Nieves
Abstract
Background: Insufficient Medicaid reimbursement threatens the financial stability and quality of care in assisted-living facilities (ALFs). Fragmented funding, rising costs, and the absence of federal standards exacerbate financial challenges, highlighting the need for sustainable funding solutions. Purpose: This integrative review was conducted to examine Medicaid reimbursement challenges and to explore best practices for enhancing financial sustainability in ALFs through innovative funding strategies, alternative payment models, and policy reforms. Method: Using the Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice model, peer-reviewed literature from 2020–2025 was analyzed through the Donabedian model of healthcare quality to assess how Medicaid funding impacts care delivery and resident outcomes. Thematic analysis identified key financial and policy trends. Results: Four key themes emerged: (a) expanding and diversifying funding, (b) building financial resilience post-COVID-19, (c) implementing sustainable payment systems, and (d) enhancing financial management. Notably, compelling subthemes included the need to align payment systems with resident-centered care and the call for integrated federal and state Medicaid funding models to streamline reimbursement and increase access. Findings confirm that Medicaid alone is inadequate, reinforcing the need for alternative funding models, public–private partnerships, and stronger financial oversight. Conclusion: The innovative financial solutions for assisted living model provides a framework for addressing Medicaid funding challenges and ensuring ALF sustainability. Expanding funding sources, strengthening financial resilience, and reforming payment models are critical for reducing financial strain, improving care quality, and ensuring long-term stability.
Recommended Citation
Mason, Melissa Darlene, "Best Practices to Expand Funding for Assisted-Living Facilities in Mississippi." (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 17646.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/17646
