State Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) introduces House Bill 5974 on Sept. 25, 2024.
LANSING, Mich., Sept. 26, 2024 — State Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo), chair of the House Health Policy Committee, introduced House Bill 5974 yesterday with bipartisan support to create a framework for the licensure of Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) facilities in Michigan. These facilities allow children with medically complex conditions to receive ongoing medical care in a non-residential and non-restrictive setting during the day.
“I was thrilled to tour one of the original PPEC facilities in Kentucky recently,” Rogers said. “At the facility, I observed children playing and learning with others in a safe environment while being supervised by trained pediatric nurses, aides and rehabilitation therapists who were offering medical, therapeutic and developmental support. It truly touched my heart seeing a PPEC in action.”
Currently in Michigan, children with complex medical conditions that require nursing care and other medical services often receive such care one-on-one in their homes. This option is often more expensive and can be quite isolating for the child. Creating pathways for these facilities in Michigan will allow children with medically complex conditions to be able to play and socialize with other children while their parents are at work, creating peace of mind for parents and guardians. Currently, 16 other states have legislation that creates the infrastructure for these facilities. Should the bill pass, Michigan will be the 17th state to have such legislation.
Being in the workforce has created childcare access challenges, which are even more complicated for families caring for children who have medically complex conditions. These facilities not only offer peace of mind to parents but also allow children to gain valuable life skills as they learn to communicate and interact with one another in a safe and healthy environment.
“By creating the framework for licensure for these facilities, we will continue to make Michigan a state where healthcare is affordable and accessible to all,” Rogers said.
###