What Is Happening?
Congress has extended the AHCaH program through September 30, 2030, separating it from short-term government funding debates and eliminating the regulatory uncertainty that previously caused month‑to‑month instability for participating providers.
This extension:
- Provides stable federal authority for the hospital‑at‑home model.
- Follows strong bipartisan support.
- Responds to years of advocacy, including letters from more than 140 healthcare organizations urging long-term certainty.
- Comes after disruptions during the recent 43‑day government shutdown that forced some hospitals to shift patients back into facilities.
More than 400 hospitals across the country currently participate in hospital‑at‑home programs, and this long-term approval is expected to accelerate adoption.
What This Means for Right at Home Franchisees
The ripple effects are significant and overwhelmingly positive for franchise owners in the home care space.
1. Expanded Demand for Skilled In‑Home Support
As more patients transition from hospitals directly into home‑based acute care, families will increasingly need non‑medical support to maintain safety, comfort, and continuity between clinical visits.
This includes:
- Personal care (ADLs)
- Companion care
- Meal prep and hydration support
- Medication reminders
- Safety monitoring and fall prevention
Franchisees who already operate in this space may see increased referral flow as hospitals expand their at‑home programs and seek reliable community partners.
2. Stronger Partnerships With Hospitals and Health Systems
With hundreds of hospitals now authorized under the extended program, health systems will be looking for trusted in‑home care partners to support their operational models. Right at Home’s nationwide footprint and standardized training protocols position franchisees as ideal collaborators.
Additionally, with the AHCaH waiver now authorized through 2030, hospitals have the confidence to structure long-term partnerships instead of short, temporary contracting cycles.
3. Stabilized Industry Growth and Reduced Disruptions
Earlier lapses in federal authority caused disruptions, including forcing some patients back into hospitals.
This five‑year extension ends the cycle of short-term renewals, creating:
- Predictable demand
- More stable staffing and expansion planning
- Confidence to invest in new services and capabilities
For franchisees, that means a more predictable growth environment.
How This Impacts Clients and Their Families
A More Comfortable Healing Experience
Patients can receive care where they feel safest, at home, supported by non-medical caregivers who provide daily living assistance.
Lower Exposure to Hospital-Acquired Complications
Hospital-at-home models reduce risks such as infections, delirium, and mobility decline. This makes in‑home care not only a preferred setting, but often a safer one.
Better Care Coordination
With the program’s expansion, home care agencies like Right at Home can integrate more closely with clinical teams, ensuring timely communication and faster response to changes in a client’s condition.
Improved Access and Equity
By expanding care into rural and underserved communities, the extended program helps ensure more people have access to hospital‑level care without transportation or distance barriers. Telehealth and remote monitoring flexibilities also support this reach.
The Bottom Line for Right at Home
The five‑year extension of the AHCaH program is more than a policy update, it’s a validation of the growing role of home‑based care.
For franchisees, this is a moment of opportunity:
- A wider, more stable market
- More partnerships and referrals
- Greater integration into the healthcare continuum
- More ways to support clients where they want to be: at home
Right at Home is well-positioned to support hospital systems, clients, and caregivers as this transformation accelerates.
If you’re exploring franchise ownership or looking to expand your current operations, the future of healthcare is increasingly happening in the home. Explore opportunities: https://rightathomefranchise.com/