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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has warned Congress that if the federal government doesn’t pass another COVID-19 funding package, public health agencies and healthcare providers could find themselves less than completely prepared heading into the cold and flu season, as well as underfunded to handle another major spike in COVID-19 cases. The Washington, D.C.-based organization represents more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately 5 million people each year. About 70 percent of the $175 billion Provider Relief Fund provided by the CARES Act is already distributed, and remaining funds are likely to be allocated by early October. Healthcare providers, including long-term care facilities, will need additional funds to continue their response to the pandemic heading into the cold and flu season, which provides new challenges, the organization stated in a press release on Monday. Mark Parkinson, president and CEO for AHCA/NCAL, says that Congress needs to end the partisan logjam and prioritize frontline healthcare workers and residents, particularly vulnerable elderly populations. “With the cold and flu season adding a real complication to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic response, the need for …