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Montgomery, Ala. – Governor Ivey announced in a statement yesterday two separate $50 million grants to Alabama’s nursing homes and hospitals for the purpose of responding to and mitigating the coronavirus pandemic. $50 million will be set aside for nursing homes, while another $50 million will be made available to hospitals.
The funding will be allocated to costs related to the pandemic, such as buying additional personal protection equipment (PPE), cleaning and sterilization, as well as personnel costs for hospitals and nursing homes to hire and train more staff to handle coronavirus patients.
Nursing homes across the country have been particularly hard hit by the virus. In June, reports had over 40% of all coronavirus deaths in Alabama coming from nursing homes. “On behalf of Alabama’s nursing homes, I thank Governor Ivey for her continued commitment to assisting the residents and staff in our facilities,” Brandon Farmer, president and CEO of the Alabama Nursing Home Association, said. “Our nursing homes continue to provide high quality, compassionate care despite the challenges posed by COVID-19. These funds will help cover the unexpected and ongoing costs we incur during this pandemic and allow us to focus on caring for those most vulnerable to this virus.”
“Despite unprecedented challenges and financial strains as a result of the pandemic, Alabama’s hospitals have continued to rise to the occasion in meeting the health care needs of our citizens,” said Donald E. Williamson, M.D., President of the Alabama Hospital Association. “Our hospitals thank Governor Ivey and her administration for the continued support and financial assistance. This will go a long way to ensure hospitals are able to care for all patients who need hospital services and protect their employees while doing so.”
The funds are from the nearly $1.9 billion Alabama received as part of the initial CARES Act bill passed by Congress earlier in the Spring. Ivey has authorization from the Alabama Legislature to spend up to $250 million in support of the state’s healthcare system related to the pandemic.
Alabama reported 1,425 new cases of coronavirus earlier on Friday, with 20 additional deaths. Meanwhile, Congress is still negotiating a second round of stimulus. Yesterday leaders from both parties met with the Senate, which is also delaying its summer recess like the House. Both chambers plan to return to Washington, D.C. on Monday to continue working on the bill.