Congressional leaders were unable to negotiate a federal funding bill this week, and a government shutdown is now in effect. It is unclear how long this lapse in funding will last; historically, some shutdowns have lasted a few days, and the longest, in 2018, was for 34 days. Among the programs impacted by the funding lapse is one of HPNA’s policy priorities: the extension of pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities, which are expired as of September 30 and will only be renewed if Congress provides funding for the extension in the next appropriations bill. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has provided some guidance for providers during this time, but it has not indicated whether claims for telehealth services delivered outside rural areas and other settings will be covered retroactively after the government reopens. HPNA’s advocacy team continues to monitor the funding lapse and telehealth extension. Please join the Advocacy Network for frequent updates and advocacy engagement opportunities, or reach out to the advocacy team with any questions.

The Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC) completed a Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse (CHPLN®) Feasibility Study in the spring and summer of 2025 alongside SeaCrest Consulting. The purpose of the study was to better understand interest in the certification and perceived value of the credential by Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses. The study also helped decipher how employers support and encourage certification, employer perceptions on the value of certification, and potential factors contributing to the low volume of exam takers.

HPNA hosted a briefing on Capitol Hill September 17 for House and Senate staff and representatives of partner organizations that highlighted the important work hospice and palliative nurses do every day and underscored the need for continued support of federal programs that support this work, such as the National Institutes for Nursing Research (NINR), Title VIII education and workforce grants, and palliative care research through the National Institutes of Health. 

The 2025 Brandon Hall Group™ HCM Excellence Awards® recognizes best practices for initiatives in Learning and Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, Sales Performance, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and the Future of Work.

Do you have a few minutes? Take part in the HPNA Membership challenge for your chance to win a $250 Amazon Gift Card! Simply complete the tasks. The deadline to submit is October 24.