Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Family caregivers, older adults, people living with disabilities, healthcare partners, community leaders, and members of the public are invited to participate in community listening sessions addressing the urgent need for Personal Care, Home Health Aide, respite, and other Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS).

CMS has approved Personal Care and Home Health Aide Services under the American Samoa Medicaid State Plan. However, the Medicaid Office has advised that implementation is delayed because of insufficient local matching funds, the need for additional community data, and administrative challenges associated with managing the approved services.

The sessions will allow families to share directly with Medicaid officials, legislators, and other decision-makers:

• The daily realities of caring for elderly, bedridden, medically frail, or disabled loved ones;
• The physical, emotional, and financial burden of caregiving;
• Jobs, education, or income sacrificed to provide care;
• The need for personal care supplies, equipment, respite, and in-home assistance;
• The impact of delayed services on families and vulnerable residents; and
• Recommendations for improving long-term care in American Samoa.

Government officials, legislators, healthcare providers, village leaders, faith-based organizations, and members of the media are invited to attend, listen, and help elevate the concerns of local families.

There are planned Listening Sessions, which will be held from 5:30 pm –7:00 p.m with schedule, locations, and hosts subject to final confirmation. For latest update for schedule and additional information, including if you wish to participate, contact: Empowering Pacific Island Communities (EPIC) Email: epic.samoa@gmail.com

Families and caregivers who cannot attend in person are encouraged to submit written statements or arrange an interview.