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PA Health Policy Update for September 13

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 9 – 13.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro signed two executive orders this week related to gun violence prevention and affordable housing.

  • Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2024-02 updating an executive order issued by former Governor Tom Wolf and re-establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Gun Violence Prevention within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). Find more details in this press release.
  • Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2024-03 directing the administration to create Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive housing action plan to address the state’s housing shortage, address homelessness, and expand affordable housing options. Find more details in this press release. 

General Assembly

The state Senate will convene for voting session Monday, September 16 through Wednesday, September 18. The House of Representatives will remain recessed until Monday, September 30.

The Senate Aging & Youth and Banking & Insurance Committees will meet on Wednesday, September 18 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 156 of the Main Capitol for a joint informational hearing on protecting seniors from financial exploitation. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to announce changes to the Medical Assistance fee schedule, including changes resulting from clinical review, provider request, and recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  These changes are effective for dates of service on or after September 9, 2024.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of updates to the Medical Assistance program fee schedule for certain family planning and family planning-related services. The updates are effective for dates of service on or after July 1, 2024.
  • DHS has announced updates to the Medical Assistance program fee schedule for ophthalmology services. The updates are effective for dates of service on or after September 15, 2024. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced its intent to allocate $258 million for FY 2024-2025 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has published final notice of its intent to increase funding for a class of supplemental payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for FY 2023-2024 that treat a high volume of opioid use disorder patients in their emergency rooms. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced it will host a webinar next Monday, September 16 at 10:00am to discuss the details of new respiratory illness data submission that is required by CMS beginning in October. This event is meant for compliance staff, emergency management staff, IT professionals, and hospital leadership. DOH will explain its plans to continue using PA HIMS (currently Juvare’s EMResource) and automatic upload processes to meet these requirements. Click here to register to attend.

The Shapiro administration has announced that all school districts, intermediate units, career and technical centers, and brick-and-mortar charter schools will receive funding to provide free period products to students. Funding will be proportional to the total number of students enrolled in a school and based on a rate of $1.75 per student. Schools may use the funding for period product purchases made between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. Find additional information here. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced the availability of more than $26 million in funding to expand drop-in center services for individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) across Pennsylvania. DDAP will award approximately 14 grants of up to $1,875,000 each. Eligible applicants, including existing community organizations, Single County Authorities, and DDAP-licensed treatment providers, can find the grant application here. Find more details in this press release.

DDAP joined individuals in recovery, advocacy organizations, and providers this week to kick off National Recovery Month in Pennsylvania. Throughout September, DDAP will be holding several other recovery-focused events. Find those events and additional recovery resources offered by DDAP here. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has conducted a review of existing regulations at the request of legislative standing committees, including the House Health and Aging & Older Adult Services Committees. The review covered rulemakings from 10 different agencies, including 40 prior rulemakings, 103 additional Chapters of regulations, and two subchapters. IRRC’s final report, including its recommendations, can be found here. 

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – September 18

The Medical Marijuana Advisory Board has provided notice that it will meet on Wednesday, September 18 and Wednesday, November 13 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Capitol Media Center with an option for board members to participate virtually. These meetings will be broadcast live for the public through Commonwealth Media Services. Find additional details here.

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – September 25

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on September 25 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Register to participate here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – September 26

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on September 26 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Register to participate here.

2024-09-13T19:50:01+00:00September 13th, 2024|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 13
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PA Health Policy Update for August 23

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 19 – 23.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate are recessed until Monday, September 23 and Monday, September 16, respectively.
  • When they return, the Senate Aging and Youth and Banking and Insurance Committees announced they will meet on September 18 at 9:00 a.m. for a joint hearing on protecting seniors from financial exploitation. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a memo to hospitals outlining the department’s plan to comply with the federal government’s renewed data reporting requirements for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. CMS will require weekly reporting beginning November 1 and facilities have the option for DOH to facilitate reporting on their behalf. In the memo, the Bureau of Emergency Preparedness and Response strongly encourages facilities to utilize this reporting pathway. More information, including required data elements and a data dictionary is forthcoming.
  • The DOH policy office has temporarily paused its efforts to collect input on potential amendments to the hospital licensure regulations. The department commenced a stakeholder engagement process earlier this month that was designed to solicit feedback from various stakeholders, including hospitals. DOH will reconvene stakeholder meetings in the fall or winter to inform proposed regulations to be released in Spring 2025.
  • DOH issued a health advisory (PA HAN 766) related to recent Oropouche virus activity in travelers who have visited the Amazon basin and other areas of South America. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the results of the reprocurement of the Community HealthChoices program for plan years beginning in 2025 through at least 2029. Similar to today’s program, the selected applicants are identical for each of the five CHC operating zones and include Aetna Better Health of Pennsylvania, Health Partners Plans, PA Health and Wellness, UPMC For You, and Vista Health Plan (AmeriHealth). The plans will begin a readiness review with DHS shortly which will include an examination of their provider network adequacy. Find the DHS announcement here.
  • DHS issued a Medical Assistance provider bulletin to advise providers of changes to the manual edit thresholds for electronic visit verification records in both personal care and home health services effective with dates of service on and after January 1, 2025.
  • The DHS Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) encourages providers to participate in a survey of provider readiness to introduce additional tobacco interventions as part of the Pennsylvania Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative (PA STFRI) funded by the CDC. The Public Health Management Corporation conducted a similar survey in 2021, and this 15-minute survey will be a useful measure of the initiative’s progress. Click here to access the survey, which will close on August 31. 

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – August 29 – CANCELLED

The statewide Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Planning Group has cancelled its public meeting on Thursday, August 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

2024-08-23T20:40:15+00:00August 23rd, 2024|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for August 23
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PA Health Policy Update for July 12

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

FY 2024-2025 Budget Update 

Late Thursday evening the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 1001 – the General Appropriations Act – to fund Pennsylvania’s FY 2024-2025 budget. Governor Shapiro promptly signed Senate Bill 1001, as well as the various enabling pieces of legislation necessary to implement the budget, which marked the completion of the FY 2024-2025 budget process, more than 10 days after the commonwealth’s constitutionally mandated deadline.

In total, the FY 2024-2025 budget spends $47.6 billion, which represents a $2.7 billion, or 6.6 percent, increase over the prior fiscal year. It is nearly $700 million less than Governor Shapiro’s initial budget proposal. The FY 2024-2025 budget increases spending for K-12 and higher education. It also makes targeted investments in health and human services. The budget doesn’t include any tax increases or the Governor’s proposal to legalize cannabis. The final budget does include Governor Shapiro’s economic development proposal to create the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites (PA SITES) program and authorize up to $500 million in new funding to invest in site development, preparation, and readiness for businesses to locate or expand in Pennsylvania.

The following are key budget-related pieces of legislation.

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened in Harrisburg for session this week. The following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The Senate passed House Bill 1993, which seeks to reform certain practices by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that have an adverse impact on pharmacies and patients, by a vote of 48-1. The House of Representatives subsequently voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments and sent the bill to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The Senate passed House Bill 1633, which establishes restrictions on non-compete covenants for certain health care practitioners, on third and final passage. The House of Representatives subsequently voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments and sent the bill to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The House of Representatives voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments to House Bill 1664, which prohibits insurers from restricting their method of payment to participating health care providers so that the only payment method is by credit card. The bill will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The Senate passed House Bill 1853, which requires the Department of Health to meet annually with licensed nursing facilities in an effort to improve communication and collaboration around facility surveys, on third and final consideration. The bill will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 2339, which establishes hospital price transparency reporting and disclosure requirements. The bill also stipulates penalties for noncompliance. The bill, which passed by a vote of 168-34, will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives also passed House Bill 2344, which imposes more reporting requirements and additional oversight on health care facility mergers and acquisitions, on third and final consideration. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 1425, which directs the Department of Human Services to develop a five-year plan to offer evidence-based maternal home visiting programs for eligible families. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration. 

The House and Senate have recessed until Monday, September 23 and Monday, September 16, respectively. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that DHS will increase fees for certain ophthalmology services on the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule, effective for dates of services on and after August 1, 2024. 

DHS has published the transcript and a recording of the July 2 meeting of the Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee. 

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 

The Centers for Medical and Medicaid Services (CMS) has proposed amending the Medicaid clinic services regulation, which currently permits Medicaid payment for clinic services furnished outside of the four walls of a clinic only to individuals who are unhoused, to authorize federal reimbursement for services furnished outside the four walls of a freestanding clinic by IHS/Tribal clinics.  In addition, at state option, federal reimbursement also would be available for services provided by behavioral health clinics and services provided by clinics located in rural areas.  For clinics located in rural areas, CMS is not proposing a specific definition of rural but is seeking public comment on different alternative definitions for consideration in final rulemaking. 

Stakeholder Events   

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – August 8

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – July 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on July 24 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. It will be located in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building – 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – July 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on July 25 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in person. It will be located in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building – 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120.

2024-07-12T20:34:18+00:00July 12th, 2024|Federal Medicaid issues, Financial, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for July 12
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PA Health Policy Update for June 7

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from June 3 – 7.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for voting session this week. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1102, which increases the availability of long-term care training courses for nurse aides and expands eligibility for individuals to take the nurse aide competency exam, by a vote of 42 – 8. The bill was subsequently sent to the House and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1104, which allow high school juniors and seniors to earn up to two credits toward their graduation requirement for employment in a congregate health care setting, by a vote of 29 – 21. It was subsequently sent to the House and referred to the Education Committee.
  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1165, which makes certain statutory changes that will enable the state to join, among others, the medical and nursing interstate licensure compacts, by a vote of 46 – 4. The bill will now be sent to the House for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2234, which creates a pilot program to give small grants to individuals to assist them with purchasing health insurance on Pennie, Pennsylvania’s state-based insurance exchange, by a vote of 106 – 96. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2137, which establishes the Maternal and Newborn Supply Kit Program, by a vote of 123-79. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 851, which establishes the menstrual hygiene products grant program under the Public School Code, by a vote of 117-85. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 1867, which prohibits health insurers from restricting the method of payment for in-network clinical services, by a vote of 181 – 21. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational meeting on Alzheimer’s Disease and other related dementias on Monday, June 3. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Insurance Committee convened on Monday, June 3 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1754, which requires public and private insurers to cover biomarker testing, and Senate Bill 739, which provides for coverage of telemedicine services. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The Senate Aging & Youth Committee met on Tuesday, June 4 and favorably reported Senate Bill 840, which creates an Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Division in the Department of Aging, and House Bill 1853, which requires the Department of Health to meet annually with licensed nursing facilities in an effort to improve communication and collaboration around facility surveys. A recording of the meeting in viewable here.
  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee convened on Tuesday, June 4 and favorably reported Senate Bill 1000, which seeks to reform certain practices by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that have an adverse effect on pharmacies and patients. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee met on Wednesday, June 5 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2037, which enables pharmacists to administer injectable medications, biologicals, and immunizations, and House Bill 2175, which creates a permanent Office of Child Advocate. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee convened Wednesday, June 5 and favorably reported House Bill 2283, which requires operating rooms to utilize surgical smoke evacuation systems. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for voting session again next Monday, June 10 through Wednesday, June 13.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of the updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) program dental fee schedule.

DHS has issued Provider Quick Tip #207 with information about fee schedule updates to Act 62, the Autism Insurance Act, procedure codes. 

Department of Health

  • DOH, in partnership with the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center and Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), has announced the start of the Pennsylvania LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment Survey, which is a biannual survey conducted to evaluate health needs, health disparities, and barriers to care impacting LGBTQ+ Pennsylvanians. 

Department of Aging 

The Department of Aging has announced the release of Aging Our Way PA, which is the state’s 10-year strategic plan that will help transform service delivery and serve as a roadmap for older adult services in Pennsylvania, ensuring services meet the needs of older adults as they address everyday issues such as healthcare, transportation, housing, long-term care and social connections. 

Department of State 

Several of the state’s professional licensure boards have adopted a statement of policy regarding conversion therapy. Following are the respective boards’ conversion therapy statements of policy.

 Stakeholder Events   

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – June 17

The Department of Aging’s Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 17 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 

2024-06-07T20:44:00+00:00June 7th, 2024|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 7
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PA Health Policy Update for May 3

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 29 – May 3.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for voting session this week. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The House unanimously passed House Bill 2200, which makes certain changes to Pennsylvania statute that will enable the state to join, among others, the medical and nursing interstate licensure compacts. The bill will now be sent to the Senate.
  • The House Human Services Committee met on Monday, April 29 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1783, which requires the development of opioid-related overdose public information, and House Bill 2137, which establishes the Maternal and Newborn Supply Kit Program. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee met on Tuesday, April 30 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 2127, which requires clinicians to distribute information related to postpartum depression and conduct a postpartum screening for depression.
    • House Bill 2208, which strengthens the Department of Health’s oversight of laboratories that test medical marijuana.
    • Senate Bill 721, which establishes the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) State Advisory Board.

A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational meeting on Tuesday, April 30 at 10:00 a.m. regarding local Area Agencies on Aging. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Human Services Committee held an informational meeting on Wednesday, May 1 regarding performance-based contracting for the Department of Human Services’ Office of Developmental Programs. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for voting session in Harrisburg next Monday, May 6 through Wednesday, May 8. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity currently scheduled next week.

  • The House Insurance Committee will convene on Monday, May 6 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 60 of the East Wing to consider, among others, the following bills.
    • House Bill 1021, which prohibits insurers from discriminating against individuals because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile.
    • House Bill 1867, which prohibits health insurers from restricting the method of payment for in-network clinical services.
    • House Bill 2138, which requires insurance coverage for blood pressure monitors for home use as a pregnancy-related service.

The meeting will be livestreamed here.

  • The House Labor & Industry Committee will meet on Tuesday, May 7 at 9:30 a.m. in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building to consider House Bill 2247, which requires the establishment of workplace violence prevention committees in health care facilities. Immediately following the voting meeting, the committee will hold an informational meeting on the nursing workforce crisis. The meeting will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 746) with important information about Lyme Disease and other tickborne diseases in the commonwealth. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of additions and updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule.
  • DHS has provided final notice of its funding allocation for FY 2023-2024 for several classes of inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) and supplemental payments to qualifying acute care general hospitals enrolled in the Medicaid program. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced the final annual case-mix per diem payment rates for FY 2023-2024 for non-public and county nursing facilities that participate in the Medicaid program. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) has issued a bulletin regarding the removal of lifetime employment bans for individuals convicted of certain criminal offenses in the Older Adults Protective Services Act.
  • DHS has added information to its website about the Technology Assessment Group (TAG), which reviews requests for new and emerging technologies and recommends coverage decisions for the MA program. Find the TAG’s website here.
  • DHS has announced the peer group, peer group medians, and peer group prices for non-public nursing facilities, including hospital-based nursing facilities and special rehabilitation facilities. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced that Pennsylvania collected $5.7 billion in General Fund revenue in April, which was $373.3 million, or 7.0 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $38.5 billion, which is $739.3 million, or 2.0 percent, above estimate. 

Around the State   

  • The Tribune-Review reported about the many professional counselors that could be approved for associate licenses soon due to the implementation of Act 4, which establishes two new license types in Pennsylvania.
  • Spotlight PA has published an article about the counties’ use of tens of millions of dollars in opioid settlement funds.
  • A news segment published by KDKA highlighted the drug shortage challenges that health care providers and patients are currently confronting in Pennsylvania and across the country.  
2024-05-03T20:07:01+00:00May 3rd, 2024|Financial, Governments, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 3
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PA Health Policy Update for April 19

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives convened for voting session in Harrisburg this week. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The House passed House Bill 1633, which prohibits non-compete agreements for health care practitioners and establishes certain notification requirements, by a vote of 150-50. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Professional Licensure Committee met on Monday, April 15 and favorably reported House Bill 2200, which makes certain changes to Pennsylvania statute that will enable the state to join, among others, the medical and nursing interstate licensure compacts. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee met on Tuesday, April 16 and favorably reported House Bill 1059, which updates the definition of sexual abuse or exploitation in the Child Protective Services law, and House Bill 321, which establishes an implementation deadline for the Department of Human Services’ enterprise case management system. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, April 17 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1608, which extends Medicaid coverage to doula services and creates a doula advisory board, and House Bill 2097, which provides Medicaid coverage of blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum beneficiaries. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Judiciary Committee met on Wednesday, April 17 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2012, which establishes a state antitrust statute and expands notification requirements for health care facilities when there is a merger, acquisition, etc. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Democratic Policy Committee held a roundtable discussion on Tuesday, April 16 examining maternal health deserts. Find the agenda and testimony presented to the committee here.
  • The Senate Democratic Policy Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, April 15 examining pharmacy deserts. Find a recording of meeting and testimony presented to the committee here.

The state House of Representatives and the Senate are in recess until Monday, April 29. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 745) with information regarding recent increases in reported congenital syphilis. The department is recommending that pregnant individuals be offered a test for Syphilis at the first prenatal visit, at the third trimester of pregnancy, and at delivery. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin with the 2024 recommended child and adolescent immunization schedule.
  • DHS has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that the department will begin paying for ground ambulance mileage for each loaded mile in addition to increasing the fees for certain ambulance services on the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule, effective with dates of service on or after January 1, 2024.
  • DHS has published the minutes of the March 28, 2024 Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through May 2024. Find the updated calendar here. 

Stakeholder Events  

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – April 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on April 24 at 1:00 p.m. Find the agenda here and register to participate here. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on April 25 at 10:00 a.m. Find the agenda here and register to participate here. 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 1

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday and Thursday, May 1-2, 2024. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – May 2

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, May 2 from 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually and in person. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – May 3

The Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, May 3, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-04-19T20:14:21+00:00April 19th, 2024|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 19
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PA Health Policy Update for April 12

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

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for voting session in Harrisburg this week. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.
    • The House passed House Bill 1512, which provides for the coverage of telemedicine services, by a vote of 197-3. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
    • The Senate unanimously passed House Bill 1795, which aligns state statute with federal requirements for source plasma donation centers. The bill was subsequently presented to the governor.
    • The House Human Services Committee met on Monday, April 8 and favorably reported House Resolution 373, which recognizes the week of April 11 through 17, 2024, as “Black Maternal Health Week” in Pennsylvania. The full House subsequently adopted the resolution. The committee also held an informational hearing on the delivery of quality home care services under Community HealthChoices. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
    • The House Health Committee held an informational meeting on Thursday, April 11 on advancing social equity through cannabis legalization. A recording of the meeting is viewable here. 
  • The House will reconvene for voting session on Monday, April 15. The Senate is recessed until Monday, April 29.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 1059, which updates the definition of sexual abuse or exploitation in the Child Protective Services law, and House Bill 2175, which codifies the Office of Child Advocate as a permanent office in the Department of Human Services. The hearing will be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, April 17 at 9:30 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 1608, which extends Medicaid coverage to doula services and creates a doula advisory board, and House Bill 2097, which provides Medicaid coverage of blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum beneficiaries. The hearing will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) released updated guidance at the end of March for hospitals to submit attestations for new services and new or replacement equipment. The revised guidance narrows the scope of new and replacement equipment. Find the updated guidance here. 
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 744) to alert health care providers of an increase in invasive meningococcal disease. Providers should have a heightened suspicion for invasive meningococcal disease and initiate antibiotic treatment immediately, particularly in people who are disproportionately affected by the current increase, including people ages 30-60 years, Black or African American people, and people with HIV.
  • DOH has invited stakeholders to a session with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to discuss pharmacy best practices when ordering and dispensing controlled substances, with a focus on medications for opioid use disorder. The session will be held virtually on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 12:30-2:00 p.m. Register here. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that DHS provides coverage and payment for over-the-counter (OTC) oral contraceptives. 
  • The Office of Long-Term Living has made changes to the MA 376 based on recommendations from CMS and nursing facility admissions should use the updated form as of March 1. Click here for a bulletin outlining those changes and here for the updated form.
  • DHS has issued Provider Quick Tip #273 to remind providers of the policy for benefit limit exceptions (BLE) for certain dental services.
  • DHS has published a statement of policy to clarify the meaning of “purchase service agreement” relating to the contracted delegate function for the delivery of emergency involuntary commitment services. The statement of policy obsoletes Bulletin OMHSAS-21-05 regarding contracted delegate services. Find the statement of policy in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – WIC Program Advisory – April 16

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC Program) Advisory will meet on April 16, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to collaborate to gather suggestions of strategies for increasing participation and improving the WIC program to better support participants. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Patient Safety Authority – April 25

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a meeting of the authority’s board on Thursday, April 25 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – April 25

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee established under the Infant Hearing Education, Assessment, Reporting and Referral (IHEARR) Act will hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 25 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-04-12T20:43:51+00:00April 12th, 2024|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 12
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PA Health Policy Update for March 15

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 11 – 15.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro 

The Shapiro administration has published its semi-annual agenda of regulations under development or consideration across the various state agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction, including the Departments of Health and Human Services. Find the comprehensive regulatory agenda in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for a voting session next week. Following is a selection of health care policy-related legislative activity currently scheduled.

  • The House Professional Licensure Committee will hold an informational hearing on Monday, March 18 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss House Bill 1354, which enables boards and commissions within the Department of State’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs to issue advisory opinions to licensees. The meeting will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office building. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Care and Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Corrections will hold an informational meeting on Wednesday, March 20 at 9:00 a.m. regarding the criminal justice implications of adult-use cannabis legalization. The meeting will take place in Room G50 of the Irvis Office building. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee will hold an informational meeting on the Office of the Child Advocate. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 20 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 60 of the East Wing. It will also be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a health advisory regarding elevated levels of lead in certain ground cinnamon products from discount retail stores. Prolonged exposure to these products may be unsafe. Find additional information here.

DOH also issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 740) to make clinicians aware of updated recommendations for prenatal hepatitis B and hepatitis C testing. These infectious conditions can lead to profound consequences for pregnant individuals and their infants. Hepatitis B and C testing and linkage to care in pregnancy is critical to the prevention and control of viral hepatitis in Pennsylvania. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the extension of an alternative payment methodology for services provided by Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), including FQHC look-alikes in Philadelphia, that serve a high volume of Medicaid beneficiaries. The alternative payment methodology will be extended through March 31, 2029. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Insurance Department

The Insurance Department has announced it will hold a public informational hearing regarding Highmark Health’s request to modify the department’s 2013 order and terms approving the merger of Allegheny Health Network and Highmark Health. Find additional information, including details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it has contacted individuals that had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • 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 Sub-MAAC – March 27

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 27 at 1:00 p.m. Register to participate here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 28

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 28 at 10:00 a.m. Register to participate here.

2024-03-15T21:29:51+00:00March 15th, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 15
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PA Health Policy Update for March 8

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 4 – March 8.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

  • The Department of Human Services appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, March 5 for its FY 2024-2025 budget hearing. A recording of the first part of the hearing is viewable here and the second part is viewable here.
  • The Department of Human Services also appeared before the House Appropriations Committee this week to review its FY 2024-2025 budget proposal. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The Department of Health appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday, March 7 for its FY 2024-2025 budget hearing. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The state House of Representatives and Senate have concluded their FY 2024-2025 budget hearings. Both chambers are scheduled to return to session Monday, March 18. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has published guidance related to Act 43 of 2023, which requires fentanyl and xylazine testing when a urine drug screening is conducted in an emergency department within an acute care hospital.
  • DOH has published a corrected list, as required, with a list of hospitals that have provided notice to the department that they may not provide emergency contraception or sexual assault emergency services due to various factors. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DOH has announced that it will hold a statewide Health Equity Summit from April 4 – 5 in Harrisburg and virtually. The theme of the summit is “Joy and Justice.” Learn more from this press release.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA HAN – 738), which contains guidance for health care facilities related to infection prevention and control for podiatric care. 

Department of Human Services

  • DHS has issued instructions advising providers participating in the Medical Assistance program on how they may continue to bill DHS directly for fee-for-service (FFS) claims while Change Healthcare’s billing and claims management systems remain unavailable due to a cyber-attack. Learn more here.
  • DHS has shared a federal funding opportunity for community programs for outreach and intervention with youth and young adults at clinical high risk for psychosis. Find additional information here.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through March 2024. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise FQHCs and rural health clinics (RHCs) of certain updates to the PROMISe™ Provider Handbook. The department has updated Appendix E, which is a compilation of federal and state requirements and standards for the provision and payment of FQHC and RHC services. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it has contacted individuals that had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • 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  

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 28

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted both in person and as a virtual teleconference. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee Meeting – March 27-28

The Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold public meetings on Wednesday, March 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Thursday, March 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meetings will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-03-08T21:58:12+00:00March 8th, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 8
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PA Health Policy Update for February 16

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 12 – 16.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

  • The Senate Republican Policy Committee held an informational meeting on Wednesday, February 14 examining challenges in rural health care. A recording of the meeting, as well as copies of the testimony offered to the committee, are viewable here.
  • The House Democratic Policy Committee held an informational meeting on Wednesday, February 14 to discuss the future of artificial intelligence, including how it may impact the field of medicine. A recording of the hearing in its entirety is viewable here, while testimony can be viewed here.
  • Next week the state House of Representatives and Senate Appropriations Committees will begin their hearings to examine Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2024-2025 spending plan. The Department of Aging is the only health-related agency that will have a budget hearing next week – it will be held on Thursday, February 22 at 10:00 a.m. Find the House Appropriations Committee’s complete schedule here and the Senate Appropriations Committee’s complete schedule here.
  • The House Republican Policy Committee will hold an informational meeting on Thursday, February 22 at 1:00 p.m. regarding, “A State Lost in Addiction: Pennsylvania’s Path to Recovery.” The meeting will take place at The Crane Room Grille (3009 Wilmington Rd.) in New Castle, PA. 

Department of Human Services 

  • Last week DHS announced that pharmacists may enroll in the Medical Assistance (MA) program to provide services to MA beneficiaries effective March 1, 2024. The following guidance has subsequently been issued by DHS related to pharmacists’ enrollment in the MA program.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin indicating the procedure codes that can be billed for pharmacists services. DHS also published notice of intent to add procedure codes for pharmacists to the MA program fee schedule in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, which is viewable here.
  • Additional information related to the enrollment requirements and application process, pharmacists should refer to the DHS website here.
  • DHS has issued a remittance advice alert notifying providers of a claims recovery that was done to recoup monies paid in error due to the department’s eligibility records indicating recipients being deceased prior to the dates of service being billed.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a revised template for nursing facilities to use in calculating their nursing staffing ratios. Click here to download the updated spreadsheet tool. 

DOH has published a Pennsylvania Bulletin notice, as required, with a list of hospitals that have provided notice to the department that they may not provide emergency contraception or sexual assault emergency services due to various factors.  

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has published comments in response to the proposed regulations submitted by DHS that would make changes to comply with CMS’ final rule – ”Medicaid Program; Covered Outpatient Drugs.” The proposed regulation also makes technical changes to add diabetic supplies, opioid overdose agents, and immunizations to the list of services excluded from copayments. In addition, it recognizes the prescriptive and dispensing authority of certified nurse practitioners (CRNP) and midwives. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it contacted any individuals that have had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • 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 Sub-MAAC – February 21

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on February 21 at 1:00 p.m. Register to participate here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – February 22

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on February 22 at 10:00 a.m. Register to participate here.

DOH – Preventive Health & Health Services Block Grant Advisory Board – February 27

The Preventative Health and Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, February 27 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the status of the funding for the block grant. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 28

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted both in person and as a virtual teleconference. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Long-Term Care Council – 2024 Meeting Dates

The Long-Term Care Council has published its 2024 bi-monthly meeting dates. Council meetings are open to the public and held virtually unless otherwise specified. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-02-16T20:34:54+00:00February 16th, 2024|Financial, 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 February 16
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  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

Home / About Us / Advocacy / Why Join? / SNAPShots / Contact Us

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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