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PA Health Policy Update for January 12

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from January 8 – 12.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly 

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate have released their respective FY 2024-2025 budget hearing schedules. Find the House Appropriations Committee’s schedule here and the Senate Appropriations Committee’s schedule here. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform providers that, effective February 1, 2024, doulas may enroll in the Medical Assistance (MA) Program, which will enable MA managed care organizations (MCOs) to enter into network agreements with doulas. The bulletin also contains information on provider enrollment.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through February 2024. Find the updated calendar here. 

Department of Health

DOH has requested input from stakeholders on what the state’s priorities should be for its Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, which is intended to improve the health and wellbeing of mothers, infants, children, and youth, including children and youth with special health care needs, and their families. Interested stakeholders can find additional information and details on how to submit feedback here. 

Board of Nursing 

The State Board of Nursing, along with DHS and DOH, has issued a joint statement of policy to clarify nursing standards and qualifications in the commonwealth for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) as it relates to the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced the establishment of a state-administered independent appeal process that allows Pennsylvanians to submit for an independent external review if they believe their insurer wrongly denied a claim for covering medical service, treatment, or other items. This is part of Act 146 of 2022, which reformed the state’s prior authorization and step therapy procedures. 

PID has also announced that Pennie’s open enrollment period for 2024 health care coverage will be extended until January 19. Pennie is Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced the Drug-Free Communities Program, which provides community coalitions with grant funding for substance use prevention efforts, will release its FY 2024 notice of funding opportunities on www.grants.gov in February 2024.   

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council 

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has released a new report – COVID-19, The Impact on Health Care in Pennsylvania – examining how the coronavirus pandemic affected Pennsylvania and its health care system. Find additional information in this press release issued by PHC4. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

DHS is maintaining an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Consumer Subcommittee of the MAAC – January 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will be held on Wednesday, January 24 at 1:00 p.m. Find details on how to participate here. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – January 25

The MAAC will hold a public meeting on Thursday, January 25 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find details on how to participate here.

Patient Safety Authority – January 25

The Patient Safety Authority has announced that it will hold a virtual public meeting on Thursday, January 25 at 1:00 p.m. Additional details on how to participate can be found in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – January 25

The state-wide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, January 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-01-12T23:48:27+00:00January 12th, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for January 12
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PA Health Policy Update for September 22

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 18 – 22.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building 

  • The state Senate convened for voting session this week. The following bills were passed on third and final consideration.
    • House Bill 1209 and House Bill 1407 make various changes to ensure Pennsylvania remains in compliance with the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement and isn’t exposed to litigation that would jeopardize tobacco settlement funding. Both bills will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
    • Senate Bill 712 allows clinical laboratories certified by the federal government to directly or indirectly advertise or solicit business for diagnostic laboratory testing under certain terms and conditions. Following passage, the bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Health Committee.
    • Senate Bill 773 makes various changes to the Medical Marijuana Act. Following passage, the bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The House Health Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, September 20 on House Bill 1657, which amends the Clean Indoor Air Act. A recording of the hearing may be viewed here.
  • Democrat Lindsay Powell won a special election Tuesday, September 19 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Representative Sara Innamorato (D – Allegheny), who’s running for Allegheny County Executive. Powell’s victory will preserve the Democrat’s one-seat majority in the House of Representatives.
  • The state House of Representatives will convene next Monday, September 26 and Tuesday, September 27 for voting session. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with updates to electronic visit verification requirements for pediatric home health aide services in the fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems.
  • DHS has announced its intent to allocate $258 million for FY 2023-2024 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through October. Find the updated calendar here.

Department of Health 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported this week that a team of epidemiologists from the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) was the first to identify the transmission of Legionella from an organ directly to a transplant patient. This finding will help protect transplant recipients from serious lung infections. The published research can be viewed in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

DOH has released a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 719) with recommendations regarding the updated (2023-2024) Monovalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is maintaining an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

DHS – Consumer Subcommittee of the MAAC – September 27

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a meeting on Wednesday, September 27 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda may be viewed here. The meeting will be held in person at the Keystone Building in the Forrest Room (400 North St., Harrisburg, PA). To participate virtually, register here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) – September 28

The MAAC will hold a meeting on Thursday, September 28 at 10:00 a.m. The agenda may be viewed here. The meeting will be held in person at the Keystone Building in the Forrest Room (400 North St., Harrisburg, PA). To participate virtually, register here. 

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – October 2

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, October 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

2023-09-22T18:52:13+00:00September 22nd, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medicaid supplemental payments, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 22
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PA Health Policy Update for July 28

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from July 24 – 28.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is maintaining an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

General Assembly

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania will hold a public hearing Thursday, August 3 at 9:00 a.m. on rural hospital and healthcare sustainability to explore difficulties facing rural hospitals and health systems. The hearing will be held at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford and will be livestreamed here. More information on the hearing and a tentative agenda can be found here. 

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin notifying providers enrolled in the Medical Assistance (MA) Program that an updated version of the sterilization consent form (MA 31) is available for use.

DHS has shared the following presentations used at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on July 27.

Department of Health

  • The Department of Health’s (DOH) Healthcare Incident Management System (HIMS) has transitioned from the Corvena to the Juvare software platform. Hospitals, rehabilitation, psychiatric, and long-term care providers are strongly encouraged to attend training on the new platform. Learn more about HIMS here and register for an upcoming training webinar here.
  • DOH has announced it will be transitioning the LTC RISE program to its next phase – LTC RISE 2.0. The next iteration of the program aims to make regional best practices statewide. It will also scale back on COVID-19 crisis response activities; however, those capabilities will be preserved in the event of an increase in COVID-19 outbreaks. Learn more about LTC RISE 2.0 here.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 710) alerting health care providers that, effective July 10, 2023, the state Medicaid program no longer requires prior authorization for preferred hepatitis C agents on the DHS Statewide Preferred Drug List (PDL). This change applies to MA beneficiaries receiving benefits in both fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems. 

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has released a Policy Bulletin (No. 23-02) describing modifications to the DDAP Gambling Treatment Manual. 

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) is exploring the possibility of updating the Commonwealth’s Essential Health Benefits benchmark (EHB-benchmark) plan. As a part of that process, the department is seeking public input about which benefits to potentially include in an updated EHB-benchmark plan. Comments are due by September 1, 2023. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-07-28T19:51:21+00:00July 28th, 2023|COVID-19, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid COVID-19|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for July 28
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PA Health Policy Update for July 21

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from July 17 – 21.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is maintaining an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Governor Shapiro

The Governor’s Budget Office has issued a Budget Impasse FAQ that contains information relevant to commonwealth vendors, grantees, and other stakeholders.

Pennsylvania Executive Order 1996-1 requires all agencies under the jurisdiction of the governor to submit for semi-annual publication an agenda of regulations under development or consideration.  These agendas are compiled to give the regulated community advance notice of regulatory activity.  Learn more about what the agencies are contemplating and find contact information for seeking additional information from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

General Assembly

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania will hold a public hearing Thursday, August 3 at 9:00am on rural hospital and healthcare sustainability to explore difficulties facing rural hospitals and health systems. The hearing will be held at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford and will be livestreamed here. More information on the hearing and a tentative agenda can be found here. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced Pennsylvania will receive an estimated $42 million in federal funding from CMS through the Money Follows the Person (MFP) program to continue existing activities and support new initiatives focused on serving individuals in the community. Find additional information in this press release.
  • DHS has issued Provider Quip Tip #263 notifying providers that an electronic submission process is available in the Promise Portal for Office of Medical Assistance fee-for-service (FFS) and Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through August. Find the updated calendar here.
  • The Executive Board approved a reorganization of DHS. Additional information and a revised organizational chart is available in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 708) alerting health care providers to have heightened clinical suspicion of Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) infection in persons with clinically compatible symptoms (similar to West Nile and Powassan virus). 

Department of Aging 

The Department of Aging held its third regional town hall to seek input on Pennsylvania’s Master Plan for Older Adults, which will be a 10-year, state-led strategic plan designed to transform the infrastructure and coordination of services for older Pennsylvanians. Governor Shapiro’s executive order directing the department to develop the plan is available here. 

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has released a new Cardiac Procedures Report. The report focuses on the performance of acute care hospitals for five types of cardiac procedures. Find the report and a press release issued by PHC4 here. 

Stakeholder Events 

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – July 26

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will meet on Wednesday, July 26 at 1:00 p.m. Click here to register to participate.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – July 26

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will meet on Wednesday, July 26 and Thursday, July 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – July 27

The MAAC will meet on Thursday, July 27 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Click here to register to participate. 

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – July 27

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, July 27 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person. The agenda will include discussions about Board member terms; updates from the Bureau of Family Health; and updates from the Lysosomal Storage Disorders/X-ALD, Cystic Fibrosis, Hemoglobinopathy and Critical Congenital Heart Defects subcommittees. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 

 

2023-07-21T20:21:56+00:00July 21st, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for July 21
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PA Health Policy Update for June 9

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from June 5 – 9.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is maintaining an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here. 

General AssemblyHouse Chamber of the State House

The state House and Senate returned to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 5. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

  • The House Human Services Committee held a joint hearing with the House Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee Monday, June 5 on the next generation of emergency and mental health response. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee held a voting meeting Monday, June 5 and considered the following bills and resolution:
    • HB 1184, which extends the Act 92 COLA moratorium until December 2025. The bill was reported as committed.
    • HB 1300, which adds a member of the Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s Office to the Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council. The bill was reported as amended.
    • HR 77, recognizing the month of June 2023 as “Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. The resolution was reported as committed.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

  • The House Health Committee held a voting meeting Tuesday, June 6 to consider HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios and HB 754, which provides a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission into a nursing home facility that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits. HB 106 was reported as amended along party lines and HB 754 was reported as committed. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
  • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Tuesday, June 6 and considered the following bills and resolution.
    • SB 514, which requires a blood screening for lead exposure of all children by the age of two. The bill was reported as committed.
    • SB 520, which addresses Medicaid coverage for Assisted Living Residences. The bill was reported as amended.
    • SR 120, which directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study on the financial impact to EMS providers due to non-reimbursement from Medicaid for “treat and release” services. The bill was reported as amended.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

  • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee held a public hearing Tuesday, June 6 on Pennsylvania’s EMS crisis and long-term sustainability. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Wednesday, June 7 to consider HB 1305, to establish funding for Pennsylvania’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here. 

The Senate now stands in recess until Monday, June 19. The House will return to Harrisburg Monday, June 12 for voting session. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

  • The House Insurance Committee will hold a voting meeting Monday, June 12 at 11:00am to consider HB 1050, requiring health insurers to cover preventive health care services without cost-sharing. The meeting will be held in Room 60 East Wing and will be live streamed here. The Insurance Committee will reconvene on Wednesday, June 14 to consider HB 1140, expanding access to contraceptives. The meeting will be held in Room B31 of the Main Capitol. 

Department of Health

  • The Acting Secretary of Health wrote to hospitals this week to explain that the Department of Health (DOH) order requiring hospitals to make daily reports of specific data regarding supplies and equipment, dated March 24, 2020, will be terminated effective June 9, 2023. CMS requirements for reporting will remain. View the secretary’s letter here.
  • DOH has issued updated guidance for health care settings on how to identify and report COVID-19 outbreaks originating within the facility.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 703) with currently available information regarding the status of the ongoing fungal meningitis outbreak and highlights interim recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 702) regarding poor air quality conditions resulting from wildfires in Canada and current weather conditions.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 699) regarding Pennsylvania’s 2023 West Nile Virus (WNV) season and notifying providers that the first WNV-positive mosquito pools of were identified in Delaware, Fayette, and York counties.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) announced this week it has “completely eliminated [the] backlog of Medicaid provider enrollment and revalidation applications.” Additional information may be found in this press release.

DHS has released the minutes of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting held on May 25, 2023. 

Stakeholder Events

Department of Aging – Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – June 15

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee Meeting – June 22

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will meet on June 22, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Individuals interested in participating may register here. 

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – June 28

The Medical Marijuana Advisory Board will meet on June 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to discuss Medical Marijuana Program updates. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced it is accepting public comment on its 1332 State Innovation Waiver Reinsurance Program beginning June 1 and ending June 30. PID will also hold an in-person forum for public comment on Thursday, June 28 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-06-09T20:34:23+00:00June 9th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Department of Health and COVID-19, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 9
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PA Health Policy Update for June 2

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from May 29 – June 2.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is maintaining an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here. 

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

The state House and Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 5. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

  • The House Human Services Committee will hold a joint hearing with the House Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee Monday, June 5 on the next generation of emergency and mental health response. The hearing will be held at 10:30am in Room 140 of the Main Capitol and will be live streamed here.
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold a voting meeting Monday, June 5 at 11:00am to consider the following bills and resolution:
    • HB 1184, which extends the Act 92 COLA moratorium until December 2025.
    • HB 1300, which adds a member of the Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s Office to the Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council.
    • HR 77, recognizing the month of June 2023 as “Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.

The meeting will be held in Room 205 of the Ryan Office Building and can be livestreamed here.

  • The House Health Committee will hold a voting meeting Tuesday June 6 to consider HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios and HB 754, which provides a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission into a nursing home facility that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits. The meeting will be held at 10:00am in Room 205 of the Ryan Office Building and will be live streamed here.
  • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee will hold a voting meeting Tuesday, June 6 to consider the following bills and resolutions.
    • SB 514, which requires a blood screening for lead exposure of all children by the age of two.
    • SB 520, which addresses Medicaid coverage for Assisted Living Residences.
    • SR 120, which directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study on the financial impact to EMS providers due to non-reimbursement from Medicaid for “treat and release” services.

The meeting will be held in Room 8E-A East Wing and will be live streamed here.

  • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee will hold a public hearing Tuesday, June 6 on Pennsylvania’s EMS crisis and long-term sustainability. The hearing will be held in Room 8E-A East Wing and will be live streamed here. 

Department of Health

The Secretary of Health has issued two final orders temporarily scheduling xylazine as a schedule III controlled substance and nitazenes as a schedule I controlled substance. Following are the two final orders published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

View this press release issued by DOH for additional information about the Shapiro’s administration’s efforts to limit overdose deaths.

Department of Human Services

  • The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) has published a document with the public comments submitted to DHS as part of the re-procurement of the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program. Comments were submitted between March 6 and April 14, 2023. Find a summary of the CHC RFI public comments here.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance (MA) Bulletin advising providers of the updates to the evaluation and management (E & M) procedure codes on the MA Program Fee Schedule, as a result of the 2023 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) updates. In addition, DHS is also making changes to E & M codes currently on the MA Program Fee Schedule. These updates are effective for dates of service on and after June 1, 2023.
  • DHS has issued an MA Bulletin advising providers that DHS is end-dating three procedure codes related to the COVID-19 specimen collection by pharmacies and testing by laboratories, effective with dates of service on and after May 12, 2023.
  • DHS has issued an MA Bulletin advising providers about certain billing updates for the provision of COVID-19 vaccine counseling-only visits for beneficiaries under the age of 21 when a COVID-19 vaccine is not administered.
  • DHS has issued an MA Bulletin advising providers about billing updates for the provision of vaccine counseling-only visits for beneficiaries under the age of 21 for pediatric vaccines provided through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit when no pediatric vaccines are administered. 

State Board of Medicine 

The State Board of Medicine issued final rulemaking relating to the application for temporary graduate perfusionist licenses. Find the final rule in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Stakeholder Events

Department of Aging – Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – June 15

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee Meeting – June 22

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will meet on June 22, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Individuals interested in participating may register here.

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced it is accepting public comment on its 1332 State Innovation Waiver Reinsurance Program beginning June 1 and ending June 30. PID will also hold an in-person forum for public comment on Thursday, June 28 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-06-05T14:57:31+00:00June 2nd, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 2
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PA Health Policy Update for May 19

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from May 15 – 19.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced it will maintain an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here. 

2023 Primary Election

Pennsylvania’s 2023 primary election was held on Tuesday, May 16.  In addition to judicial and municipal elections, Pennsylvanians in two legislative districts voted in a special election to fill vacancies in the state House of Representatives. Democrat Heather Boyd defeated Republican Katie Ford to represent the 163 Legislative District and Republican Michael Stender defeated Democrat Trevor Finn to represent the 108 Legislative District. The outcome of these two special elections enables the Democrats to maintain their one-vote majority in the House. 

General Assembly

  • The House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee held a public hearing on May 18 to discuss access to rural medicine and health care in Pennsylvania. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The state House will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Health Committee will hold a voting meeting Monday, May 22 at 10:00am to consider, among several resolutions, HB 1131 sponsored by Representative Lisa Borowski, which would remove the requirement for counties to operate state health centers in counties establishing their own local health departments. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be live streamed here.
    • The House Human Services Committee will hold a voting meeting Tuesday, May 23 at 9:00am to consider, HB 849 sponsored by Representative Mike Schlossberg, to allocate funding for the Behavioral Health Commission on Adult Mental Health’s recommendations for funding, and HB 931 sponsored by Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, to establish the Kinship Care Legal Assistance Grant Program. The meeting will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and can be live streamed here.
  • The state Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 5. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health began to register Temporary Health Care Services Agencies (THCSA) this month, as directed by Act 128 of 2022.  THCSAs are entities engaged in the business of procuring temporary employment in health care facilities for nurse aides, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and direct care staff. The statute requires any person that owns or operates a THCSA to register annually with the department and provide a list of each separate location. An application, instructions, and additional resources can be found on the THCSA website.

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) released the agenda for the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s (MAAC) May 25 meeting. 
  • Personal care homes and assisted living residences are reminded that after May 11, they should report any COVID-19 outbreaks through the department’s Reportable Incident and Condition form for reporting. If a facility experiences a significant outbreak, it can contact the regional licensing office and ongoing assistance with infection prevention and control is available through the LTC-RISE program.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through June.  Find the updated calendar here. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) met May 18 and considered the following health-related regulations:

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – May 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, May 24 at 1:00 pm. Go here to register to participate. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, May 25 at 10:00 a.m.  Go here to register to participate.

 

2023-05-19T20:25:32+00:00May 19th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 19
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PA Health Policy Update for April 28

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 24 -28.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination 

Medicaid unwinding has officially begun, and recipients will begin to receive their renewal packets and additional communications from the Department of Human Services 90 days prior to their individual renewal date. Individuals can view their renewal dates in COMPASS and can begin the renewal application online up to 60 days early. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here. 

General Assembly

  • The state House and Senate returned to Harrisburg on April 24 for voting session. Below is coverage of selected health-related committee proceedings.
    • The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a public hearing Monday, April 24 at 10:00am on professional licensing delays in health care. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
    • The House Insurance Committee held a voting meeting on Monday, April 24 to consider, among other bills, SB 8 which requires insurers to cover all costs associated with genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or Ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer. The bill advanced from committee and received a unanimous vote on final passage in the House.  SB 8 will move to the Governor’s desk for his consideration upon signature in the Senate.
    • The Senate Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee held a voting meeting to consider SB 81, which codifies the ability for EMS providers to leave a dose of Naloxone with an on-scene caregiver. The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
    • The House Health Committee held an informational meeting Wednesday, April 26 on unregulated intoxicants and psychoactive substances. A recording of the hearing can be viewed  here.
    • The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Wednesday, April 26 to consider the following bills.
      • HB 409, which would establish a mental health care services clearinghouse. The bill was reported without amendment.
      • HB 754, which would provide a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits. The bill was re-referred to the House Health Committee.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

    • The House Professional Licensure Committee held an informational meeting on the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
  • The state House and Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 1. Following are selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing Tuesday, May 2 at 9:30am on HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing ratios. The hearing will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and can be live streamed here.
    • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee is holding a voting meeting on Tuesday, May 2 at 11:00 to consider among other bills:
      • SB 100, Establishing the Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illness Diagnosis and Treatment Act.
      • SB 262, Amends the Maternal Mortality Review Committee Act regarding reportable events.
      • SB 414, Expanding access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE).
      • SB 500, Provides for Medicaid Coverage for Pasteurized Donor Human Milk.
      • SB 549, Requires consent for pelvic, rectal, and prostate exams.
      • SB 555, Reducing the loaded mileage requirements for EMS Medicaid reimbursement.

The meeting will be held in Room 8E of the East Wing and will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health issued a Health Alert (PAHAN – 693-04-28) with updated recommendations regarding the Monovalent and Bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a press release highlighting how the Shapiro administration has reduced the backlog for Medicaid provider enrollment from 34,682 applicants waiting more than 30 days to less than 8,500. The press release notes the backlog has been reduced by 75 percent in the administration’s first 100 days.
  • DHS has issued Provider Quick Tip (#263) with an update notifying providers that the electronic submission process for Office of Medical Assistance Fee-for-Service (FFS) and the Office of Long Term Living’s 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation is available in the PROMISe Portal.

Stakeholder Events

PHC4 –Executive Committee & Council Meeting – May 4

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has scheduled an executive committee meeting at 9:30 a.m. and a council meeting at 10:00 a.m. on May 4, 2023. Go here for additional information and details on how to register to participate.

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee – May 12

The Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) Subcommittee will hold a meeting on Friday, May 12 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Department of Education Building’s Honors Suite, 1st floor, at 333 Market Street in Harrisburg, or via webinar. You may register for the webinar here.

2023-04-28T20:48:32+00:00April 28th, 2023|long-term care, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 28
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PA Health Policy Update for March 31

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 27 to March 31.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

 General Assembly 

  • The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, March 29 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 155, which removes the requirement that direct-care workers be interviewed in person for a position, and House Bill 507, which requires medical schools, teaching hospitals, and medical institutions to receive explicit patient consent for all procedures and exams performed under anesthesia by medical students or for training purposes.
  • The Departments of Health, Aging, and Drug & Alcohol Programs appeared before the House Appropriations Committee for their respective budget hearings this week. A recording of the hearings can be viewed here. 
  • The House and Senate Appropriations Committees will continue budget hearings the week of April 10. A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here, and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be viewed here. 
  • The state House and Senate are currently recessed. They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) is evaluating a future purchase and distribution of devices that can eliminate viruses, bacteria, mold and other pathogens from air and surfaces simultaneously. DOH would purchase and distribute the devices free of charge to small businesses, non-profit entities, and other facilities throughout the Commonwealth to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, flu, and other diseases. Long-term care facilities that are interested in receiving a device if this program moves forward should complete this application.  The application is being used to gauge interest in receiving a device and those who complete the application are not guaranteed to receive one.  

In response to the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, DOH announced the establishment of a community-based health resource network this week to connect Pennsylvania residents impacted by the derailment with local health care providers for long-term assistance.   

Department of Human Services   

The Office of Medical Assistance Programs (OMAP) issued a bulletin to advise providers of additions and updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program Fee Schedule and the issuance of updated physician and general hospital provider handbook pages regarding the prior authorization procedures for proton therapy services. These changes are effective for dates of services on and after April 1, 2023.  

The Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) issued a memorandum to address stakeholder concerns about the impact of ending OMHSAS’ bulletin suspensions regarding signature requirements specific to consent for treatment, service verification, and treatment plans on March 31, 2023, and clarifying the use of audio-only for telehealth in the delivery of services licensed by OMHSAS.  

Board of Nursing  

The State Board of Nursing published Interpretations Regarding the Administration of Drugs-Statement of Policy in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. This statement of policy clarifies that registered nurses may administer a specific amount of conscious sedation medication during minor therapeutic and diagnostic procedures upon a written order of either a physician or a CRNP when either a physician or CRNP is present during the administration. This statement of policy is expected to eliminate confusion about CRNPs’ authority to order and supervise registered nurses’ administration of conscious sedation under certain circumstances.  

Around the State   

The Pennsylvania Capital-Star reported Pennsylvania long-term care facilities will share $14.2 million from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). The funds are intended to support workforce development, staff retention, and infrastructure improvements.   

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette wrote about the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s budget hearing this week and noted the focus on the state’s response to the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment and Pennsylvania’s post-COVID public health landscape.   

A report issued by Kaufman Hall noted that hospital finances continue to struggle in the face of macroeconomic headwinds but they appear to be beginning to stabilize. Fierce Healthcare details the challenges hospitals continue to confront here.   

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – April 12 

The Medical Marijuana Advisory Board will meet on April 12, 2023, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.   

DHS – Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board – April 26 

The DUR Board will meet Wednesday, April 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26 

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on April 26, 2023, at 1:00 pm. Go here to register to participate.  

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27 

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, April 27 at 10:00 a.m.  Go here to register to participate. 

2023-04-05T18:10:50+00:00March 31st, 2023|COVID-19, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 31
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PA Health Policy Update for March 24

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 18 to March 24.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

General Assembly

  • The House Appropriations Committee will hold a budget hearing next Tuesday, March 28 at 10:00 for the Department of Health and at 1:00 for the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.  The hearings will be held in the House chamber and also will be live-streamed here.  A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be found here.
  • The House Health Committee will convene on Wednesday, March 29 to consider, among other bills, House Bill 155, which removes the requirement that direct-care workers be interviewed in person for a position, and House Bill 507, which requires medical schools, teaching hospitals, and medical institutions to receive explicit patient consent for all procedures and exams performed under anesthesia by medical students or for training purposes.
  • The state House and Senate are currently recessed.  They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings.

Department of Human Services

Department of Health

  • The Department of Health has added Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II Disorder (MPS II) screening to the supplemental conditions mandated for screening and follow-up under the state’s newborn screening program effective July 1.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • The Department of Health, which last month joined the Department of Agriculture and Department of Environmental Protection in establishing a temporary physical presence in Darlington Township, Beaver County to assist residents affected by the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, has announced that the three departments will maintain a weekly presence there to continue addressing the needs and concerns of local residents.  Learn more about when the departments will be on site and what services they will offer from this Department of Health news release.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs has announced an expansion of its free substance use disorder prevention and education tool “Just Five.”  Learn more about the expansion of this tool and its new components from this Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs news release.

COVID-19:  By the Numbers           

  • The number of new COVID-19 cases reported in Pennsylvania fell 26 percent last week after 19 percent declines in each of the two previous weeks.  The number of weekly deaths is holding steady.
  • In the past week the state surpassed 2.9 million confirmed cases of COVID-19; another 637,000 cases are considered “probable.”
  • According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 fell 10 percent last week after falling 14 percent the previous week and 16 percent the week before that.  The number of COVID-19 patients on ventilators rose slightly in the past week and the number in hospital ICUs fell slightly.
  • The CDC reports a 10 percent decline in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19 after an 18 percent decline the previous week and a 13 percent decline the week before that.
  • For the week ending March 22, one Pennsylvania county (Sullivan) experienced a low rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 28 counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 23 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and 15 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee Meeting April 5

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s managed long-term services and support subcommittee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, April 5 at 10:00 in Harrisburg.  For information about how to join the meeting in person or participate remotely, see this DHS notice.

Department of Health – Spinal Cord Research Advisory Committee Meeting – April 10

The Department of Health’s Spinal Cord Research Advisory Committee will meet in Sellersville and be available for participants virtually on Monday, April 1 at 1:00.  For information about the committee, the location of the meeting, and how to join virtually, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs – Adolescent ASAM Criteria – May 16

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs is offering training on adolescent ASAM criteria, to be delivered virtually, for participants who already understand the foundational aspects of the ASAM criteria.  The purpose of this training is to explore and discuss the adolescent-specific aspects of the ASAM criteria and offer participants a practical focus through lecture, real-world clinical vignettes, and case studies.  The program will be held on May 16 at 8:30.  Continuing education credits are available.  Learn more about the program, including requirements for participation and how to join, from this Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs notice.  Please note that this program is identical to one offered on March 9.

2023-03-24T20:58:02+00:00March 24th, 2023|COVID-19, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 24
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Home / About Us / Advocacy / Why Join? / SNAPShots / Contact Us

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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