Meetings and notices Archives - Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

PA Health Policy Update for February 27

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 23 – February 27 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee hearings were held this week examining the Governor’s 26-27 Budget with executive agencies. Below are links to watch the relevant health & human services hearings that have been held so far along with a schedule for forthcoming hearings in the next two weeks.

Senate Hearing for the Department of Human Services Morning Session
Senate Hearing for the Department of Human Services Afternoon Session
House Hearing for the PA Insurance Department and Pennie®

Upcoming Hearings:

Department of Human Services: House – Mar. 4^th at 10am
Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10^th at 1pm
Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4^th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12^th at 10am
Department of Health and Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: Mar. 12^th at 1pm

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Tarik Khan introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation allowing students to carry and self-administer pancreatic medications at school.
Sen. Michele Brooks introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation to implement reforms around the 340B program.
Sens. Tracy Pennycuick and Nick Miller released a co-sponsor memo requiring insurance coverage for fertility preservation for patients prior to cancer treatment.
Sen. Devlin Robinson issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to address the cost of topical medications in PA’s workers’ compensation system.
Sen. Maria Collett released a co-sponsor memo for legislation that would create benchmarks for healthcare cost growth to align with inflation.
Sens. Judy Ward and Maria Collett issued a co-sponsor memo for a resolution recognizing Rare Disease Day in PA.
Sen. Vince Hughes introduced, Senate Bill 1161, a General Fund Budget Bill for the 26-27 Fiscal Year
Rep. Kyle Mullins introduced House Bill 2173 to regulate and license medical imaging and radiation therapy.
Rep. Joe Webster released House Bill 2241 which would require broader medical price transparency

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS released its fee schedule rates for Personal Assistance Services in the OBRA Waiver and Act 150 Program.

The Department issued an MA Bulletin on Prior Authorization Guidelines for Blood Glucose Meters with Voice Synthesizer or Integrated Lancing Blood Sample.

DHS released its January 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

Department of Health

DOH released its list of hospitals that may not provide emergency contraception or sexual assault emergency services.

The Department issued notice of availability of its proposed Preventative Health and Human Services Block Grant Application to the US Department of Health & Human Services. A public hearing will be held on the application on June 10^th from 1:30-2:30pm. The Preventative Health & Human Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will also hold a public meeting on March 25^th from 1:30 to 2:30pm to discuss status of funding.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC scheduled public meetings for consideration of State Board of Medicine Education and Volunteer Services Regulations on March 19th.

The State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists & Professional Counselors released proposed regulatory updates for 30 day public comment. This proposed rulemaking includes amendments relating to qualifications for licensure, supervisor qualifications, supervision of clinical experience, including the provision of supervision through electronic means, codes of ethics, professional corporations and fictitious names and continuing education. This proposed rulemaking is also necessary to comply with recently enacted laws.

Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 issued notice of public meetings from March through May 2026.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening and Follow Up Technical Advisory Board will meet on March 3^rd from 10am to Noon.

The Department of Health’s WIC Advisory Board will hold their meeting rescheduled from January 26^th on March 5^th from 1pm to 2pm.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday Mar. 18^th from 10am to Noon.

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission will review proposed updates to the State Board of Pharmacy’s Final Immunization Regulation Updates at a public meeting on March 19^th at 10am.

DOH’s Medical Marijuana Advisory Board released their schedule of board meetings for 2026 with the first upcoming on March 26^th from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

The Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council released its 2026 Meeting Schedule.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-02-27T21:54:20+00:00February 27th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 20

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 16 – February 20 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

General Assembly

Senate and House Appropriations Committee Hearings relevant to healthcare and human services are underway this upcoming week with key hearings are as follows:

Insurance Department: House – Feb. 24^th at 10am
Department of Health & Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: House – Feb. 24^th at 1pm
Department of Human Services: Senate – Feb. 25^th at 10am; House – Mar. 4^th at 10am
Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10^th at 1pm
Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4^th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12^th at 10am

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Frank Burns released a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring prescriptions for MA recipients to be filled by any pharmacist in good federal & state standing.
Rep. Bridget Kosierowski and Rep. Natalie Mihalek issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation allowing the coverage of medically-tailored meals prescribed for Medicaid recipients.
A co-sponsor memo circulated by Senators Lynda Schlegel Culver and Nick Pisciottano

would provide for legislation to regulate and license medical imaging and radiation therapy.

Sen. Doug Mastriano has issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to enhance EMS within PA by elevating the EMS Director position in DOH to a Deputy Secretary role, along with additional regulatory flexibilities and educational requirement changes.
PBM reforms highlighted in a co-sponsor memo released by Senators Wayne Langerholc, Judy Ward, and Pat Stefano would institute Attorney General reviews to the PBM contracting and adjudication process, allowing PBMs to appear in PA courts for legal cause of action, among other reforms expanding on the PBM reforms of Act 77 of 2024.
Rep. Emily Kinkead introduced House Bill 2226 which would ensure that all patient out of pocket costs like co-pays and other assistance are credited towards out-of-pocket cost limits of insurance plans.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS released 2026 Income Limits for presumptive eligibility of pregnant women in Medicaid.

The Department issued its March 2026 remittance advice as well as remittance advice for date of death recovery.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Commission will review proposed updates to the State Board of Pharmacy’s Final Immunization Regulation Updates at a public meeting on March 19^th at 10am.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening and Follow Up Technical Advisory Board will meet on March 3^rd from 10am to Noon.

DOH’s Medical marijuana Advisory Board released their schedule of board meetings for 2026 with the first upcoming on March 26^th from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

The Department of Health’s WIC Advisory Board will hold their meeting rescheduled from January 26^th on March 5^th from 1pm to 2pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-02-20T21:51:13+00:00February 20th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 6

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 2 – February 6 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Budget Update

Governor Shapiro issued his fourth budget address before a joint session of the House and Senate this past Tuesday, sharing his priorities for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year Budget. In total, the FY 2026-2027 budget proposes spending $53.26 billion, $2.7 billion more than the current fiscal year. The proposed budget, which exceeds anticipated revenues by $4.6 billion, represents a $2.72 billion, or a 5.4 percent, increase over the prior fiscal year. The budget is balanced primarily by utilizing $4.6 billion in Rainy Day Fund reserves, leaving approximately $3 billion in the fund’s balance. This budget does not include a broad-based tax increase but it once again proposes legalization and taxation of skill games and recreational adult use cannabis and raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour.

General Assembly

The House and Senate both were in session this week but will break from session until March 23^rd for the House and March 16^th for the Senate. Both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees will begin their hearings to examine the Governor’s Budget Proposal. Key hearings are as follows:

Insurance Department: House – Feb. 24^th at 10am

Department of Health & Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: House – Feb. 24^th at 1pm

Department of Human Services: Senate – Feb. 25^th at 10am; House – Mar. 4^th at 10am

Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10^th at 1pm

Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4^th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12^th at 10am

Dates for all five special elections to fill vacancies in the House have now been scheduled. House District 22 in Lehigh County & House District 42 in Allegheny County are scheduled for February 24^th. Elections for House District 79 in Blair County and House District 193 in Adams County will be held on March 17^th. Lastly, the special election for the vacancy in York County’s House District 196 will be on May 19^th to coincide with this year’s primary election.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Bridget Kosierowski and Rep. Jim Struzzi released a co-sponsor memo for legislation directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee (LBFC) to study the financial and administrative impacts of compliance with hospital regulations, and recommend action on any duplicative or outdated regulations currently in effect.
Rep. Joe Webster issued a co-sponsor memo soliciting support for legislation banning facility fees for outpatient services by healthcare providers and creating “site-neutral” payment caps.
In support of Gov. Shapiro’s Innovate PA 2.0 budget priority, Rep. Tim Briggs circulated a co-sponsor memo in the House for legislation to implement the program and Chairman Vince Hughes released a corresponding version in the Senate.
Sen. Michele Brooks has also released a co-sponsor memo directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee (LBFC) to study the burden of regulations on healthcare facilities and providers in PA.
Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Sen. Frank Farry issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to establish the Biobonds Innovation Fund, modeled after the federal “Loans for Biomedical Research Act.”
Reps. Emily Kinkead, Andrew Kuzma, Tarik Khan, Liz Hanbidge, and Darisha Parker have issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation prohibiting co-pay accumulator policies.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS issued Medical Assistance prior authorization guidance for the following:

DHS’ Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) issued an MA Fee Schedule Bulletin announcing the addition of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services to the MA Fee Schedule.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

Independent Regulatory Review Commission issued comments to the DHS’ proposed Mental Health Procedures Regulations.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Tues. Feb. 10^th at 1pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-02-10T21:33:52+00:00February 6th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for January 30

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from January 26 – January 30 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Governor’s Office

Governor Shapiro will offer his annual budget address, laying out his priorities for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year Budget, before a joint session of the House and Senate on Tuesday Feb. 3^rd. You can watch the address live at 11am on Tuesday.

The Governor’s Office of Policy & Planning released its updated Regulatory Agenda detailing estimated timelines for the release of proposed or final regulations to the Independent Regulatory Review Commission. The Department of Health estimates that it will publish proposed changes to the hospital regulations in May 2026.

General Assembly

The House and Senate will both convene next week in session Monday through Wednesday and will convene in joint session for the Governor’s Budget Address Tuesday morning.

The House also has another vacancy as Rep. Seth Grove of York County resigned his office effective January 31st. Rep. Grove most recently chaired the House Labor & Industry Committee and previously chaired the House Appropriations Committee. Until special elections are finalized this leaves the House with five vacancies and a balance of power at 100 (D) – 98 (R).

The House passed HB 348, sponsored by Rep. Tim Bonner, by a measure of 199-0. This legislation would require nursing facilities to make residents aware of the option to have legal counsel assist residents with their eligibility for Medical Assistance. The bill now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Justin Fleming issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to create a tax credit program for Direct Support Professionals.
Rep. Brenda Pugh released two emergency services-related co-sponsor memos. The first would require additional transparency for the Emergency Services Operating Fund (EMSOF) and the other would create a Fire & EMS Recruitment & Retention Grant program.
A co-sponsor memo released by Rep. Kyle Mullins and Rep. Bryan Cutler would create regulations and licensure requirements for medical imaging professionals.
Representatives Lisa Borowski, Paul Friel, and Thomas Kutz introduced HB 2162 which would allow for companies to apply for a state pharmaceutical licensure concurrently with FDA approvals.
Rep. Bridget Kosierowski introduced HB 2164 which would create a Complex Care Assistant certification for family members of medically fragile children.
Sen. Cris Dush released a co-sponsor memo directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to perform a study examining the PA Medicaid program.
Senators Katie Muth, Lindsey Williams, and Nikil Saval circulated a co-sponsor memo establishing combined tax reporting for businesses in Pennsylvania.
Sen. Maria Collett released a co-sponsor memo for legislation maintaining coverage for Affordable Care Act- required preventative services.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department highlighted nine grants totaling $1.9M for Single County Authorities supporting fourteen counties to support the expansion and development of recovery houses and recovery support services.

Department of Health

DOH issued notice of the inclusion of Deuchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP) supplemental conditions list for the Newborn Screening Program effective Jan. 1, 2027.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS issued notice of Medical Assistance Day One Incentive (MDOI) payments for nonpublic nursing facilities.

The Department released notice of renewal of the OBRA Waiver and the Community Health Choices Waiver. Both waiver updates would add teleservice delivery, behavior therapy, and benefits counseling, among others.

DHS shared Prior Authorization guidelines for Manual Hospital Beds and Accessories and Face and Ear Prosthesis.

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 issued a report detailing data behind the closures of Brandywine Hospital and Jennersville Hospital.

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office released its 2026 Mid-Year Revenue Update. The report details prior revenue estimates vs actual revenues for the Commonwealth. The IFO continues to issue caution on a structural deficit for the Commonwealth at current spending & revenue levels.

Joint State Government Commission

As directed by House Resolution 170 of 2023, the Joint State Government Commission released a report and advisory committee recommendations on the Adoption and Use of Artificial Intelligence in Pennsylvania.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Organ Donation Advisory Committee will meet on Thurs. Feb. 5^th at 10am.

DOH’s Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Fri. Feb. 6^th from 10am to 3pm.

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Tues. Feb. 10^th at 1pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-01-30T21:48:31+00:00January 30th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for January 23

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

Hospital Sustainability

The Hospital & Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania released a commissioned report on the sustainability of PA hospitals over the next five years which details challenges faced by hospitals and opportunities to preserve healthcare access. The report and a fact sheet are available online

General Assembly

The House and Senate will both convene next week in session for an abbreviated time due to the impending snowstorm. The House cancelled Monday and Tuesday session and will convene for one day on Wednesday the 28^th. As of this writing, the Senate is still planning on a full session week but that is subject to weather cancellations or delays.

The House plans to vote on HB 348, sponsored by Rep. Tim Bonner, which would require nursing facilities to make residents aware of the option to have legal counsel assist residents with their eligibility for Medical Assistance.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Senators Chris Gebhard and Cris Dush released a co-sponsor memo to prohibit state funds going to entities providing gender affirming care to children.
Sen. Doug Mastriano, Sen. Michele Brooks, and Sen. Lisa Baker introduced SB 1147 which allows for Medicaid reimbursement of EMS treatment without transport
Sen. Pennycuick, Sen. Bartolotta, and Sen. Devlin Robinson introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation to allow veterans the “right-to-try” psilocybin-assisted therapies and SB 1149, which would automatically align Pennsylvania’s drug scheduling with Federal scheduling of psilocybin if any change is made.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS released its Managed Care Enrollment information for December 2025.

The Department shared its remittance guidance for February 2026.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH’s WIC State Advisory Board meeting will be held on Tues. Jan. 27^th from 1-2pm.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefit Program Advisory Council will meet on Thurs. Jan. 29 from 10a.m. to 12p.m. The Council will offer guidance and recommendations to the Department on the program’s drug formulary, covered lab services, drug utilization review, clinical programs, eligibility and program management.

DOH’s Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Fri. Feb. 6^th from 10am to 3pm.

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Tues. Feb. 10^th at 1pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-01-23T21:20:13+00:00January 23rd, 2026|Advocacy, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for January 16

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

General Assembly

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Joe Webster introduced House Bill 2115 which creates antitrust review processes in healthcare transactions.
Rep. Greg Scott introduced HB 2134 to modernize the State Fire Commission Fire Company & EMS Grant Program
House Bill 2135, introduced by Rep. Morgan Cephas, would provide workplace protections and accommodations for menopause and perimenopause.
Sen. Nick Pisciottano introduced SB 1113, which would regulate the use of AI in healthcare.
Senate Bill 1133, sponsored by Sen. Frank Farry, would add two additional members to the State Board of Pharmacy – a pharmacy tech and an additional acute care institutional pharmacist.
Reps. Borowski, Friel, and Kutz have released a cosponsor memo to allow for companies to apply for a state pharmaceutical licensure concurrently with FDA approvals.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS issued an MA Bulletin on Orthopedic footwear.

The Department released its proposed renewal of the Adult Autism Waiver for a 30 day public comment period. Proposed updates would change the lifetime limit on assistive technology to an annual limit, continue supports for competitive, integrated employment, and update Specialized Skill Development services.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold public meetings on Jan. 21-Jan. 22 from 9am-3pm on both days.

DHS has a scheduled Medical Assistance Advisory Committee meeting for Thurs. Jan. 22^nd at 10am.

DOH’s WIC State Advisory Board meeting will be held on Tues. Jan. 27^th from 1-2pm.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefit Program Advisory Council will meet on Thurs. Jan. 29 from 10a.m. to 12p.m. The Council will offer guidance and recommendations to the Department on the program’s drug formulary, covered lab services, drug utilization review, clinical programs, eligibility and program management.

DOH’s Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Fri. February 6^th from 10am to 3pm.

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Tues. Feb. 10^th at 1pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-01-16T22:13:12+00:00January 16th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for January 9

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

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Schedules for the House Appropriations Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee have been released in advance of the Governor’s forthcoming 2026-2027 Budget Proposal.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Joe Webster issued a cosponsor memo for legislation requiring price transparency for all medical offices and ensuring compliance with federal price transparency legislation for hospitals;
Chairman Dan Frankel released a cosponsor memo seeking increased transparency on the 340B Drug Pricing Program

Department of Aging

The Department is soliciting public comment on an evaluation of the PA Link and a strategic refresh plan. A listening session will be held on Jan. 27^th at 2pm.

Department of Health

The Department published a listing of laboratories authorized to perform blood lead analysis or erythrocyte protoporphyrin content analysis.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department published final form regulations for Covered Outpatient Drugs effective as of Jan. 3^rd 2026.

DHS released a transcript of the December 4^th Medical Assistance Advisory Committee meeting.

The Department published annual notice of Inpatient Hospitals Qualifying for Medical Assistance Disproportionate Share Payments (DSH Payments).

DHS issued final notice of its $23 Million Supplemental Payments to Qualifying Hospitals funding allocation for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-2025 to establish a new class of supplemental payments to qualifying Medical Assistance (MA) enrolled general acute care hospitals to promote the availability of emergency department services to the MA population in an area of this Commonwealth with the highest number of MA beneficiaries.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC issued comments on DHS’ proposed Crisis Intervention Services Licensure Regulations.

The Commission also issued a Notice of Comments on the State Board of Optometry’s proposed Continuing Education Regulation changes.

The State Board of Social Work Examiners proposed rulemaking following (Act 4 of 2024) that directs the board to promulgate regulations to implement the amendments to the act, which provides for the licensure of Associate Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Disease Advisory Committee will meet for its quarterly public meeting on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold public meetings on Jan. 21-Jan. 22 from 9am-3pm on both days.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefit Program Advisory Council will meet on Thursday Jan. 29, 2026, from 10a.m. to 12p.m. The Council will offer guidance and recommendations to the Department on the program’s drug formulary, covered lab services, drug utilization review, clinical programs, eligibility and program management.

DOH’s Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, February 6^th 2026 from 10am to 3pm.

The Department of Health released its 2026 ABC-MAP Meeting Schedule.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-01-10T08:32:53+00:00January 9th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for December 31

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from December 22 – December 31 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Rural Health Transformation Program

The Shapiro Administration announced Pennsylvania’s $193 million portion of federal Rural Health Transformation Program funds. As previously shared in other updates, the Administration’s plan focuses on several initiative areas to drive federal investment:

Technology & Infrastructure
Workforce
Maternal Health
Behavioral Health
Aging & Access
EMS & Transportation

Investments will be coordinated through Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) organizations, already existing regional economic collaboratives, and coordination with locally created Rural Care Collaboratives steered by regional stakeholders and healthcare leaders. Updates on these investments will be shared as more information becomes available.

Reorganizations

The Shapiro Administration released departmental reorganizations for both the Office of Administration and the Department of General Services.

General Assembly

The House and Senate will briefly convene Session on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026. House Session will be non-voting. The House shared scheduled Session days through 2026 and Senate Session days are released through June.

Department of Human Services

DHS launched Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department issued proposed notice for Disproportionate Share and Supplemental Payments to Qualifying Hospitals for 2025-2026.

DHS issued updated Emergency Medical Services Rates for Publicly Owned Providers which will be effective 1/1/2026.

The Department released a Bulletin notice regarding the Medical Assistance Program Compensable Service Change: GLP-1 Drugs to Treat Overweight and Obesity and issued an MA Bulletin notice revising Prior Authorization Requirements for GLP-1 medications.

DHS issued an MA Bulletin updating the EPSDT Periodicity Schedule to reflect vaccine schedule changes.

The Department released an MA Bulletin with guidelines for Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps.

DHS shared an MA Bulletin with updates to Limited English Proficiency Requirements.

Department of Health

The Department published final-form Sexual Assault Victim Emergency Services Regulations listing hospitals that do not provide emergency contraception due to a stated moral or religious belief.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Disease Advisory Committee will meet for its quarterly public meeting on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefit Program Advisory Council will meet on Thursday Jan. 29, 2026, from 10a.m. to 12p.m. The Council will offer guidance and recommendations to the Department on the program’s drug formulary, covered lab services, drug utilization review, clinical programs, eligibility and program management.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2026.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-01-02T17:06:07+00:00December 31st, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Rural Health|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for December 19

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

SNAP Eligibility Screening Tool

DHS issued a new screening tool designed to help Pennsylvanians determine their eligibility for SNAP benefits. This tool follows new federal rules implemented by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act which changed eligibility requirements for public assistance programs such as SNAP.

General Assembly

The House concluded its voting days for the remainder of the year. As the year concludes, so does the tenure of service for some in the legislature. State Representatives Dan Miller in Allegheny County and Josh Siegel in Lehigh County both have tendered resignations to the Speaker to assume local offices won in November’s elections. The Speaker has set dates for special elections on Feb. 24^th to replace these members. Two additional resignations will also be forthcoming between now and early 2026 for Reps. Torren Ecker of Adams County and Lou Schmitt of Blair County, also to assume local elected positions.

During House Session this week, the House Communications & Technology Committee held a public hearing on HB 1925, Rep. Arvind Venkat’s AI in Healthcare legislation. The hearing can be viewed here.

The House Health Committee unanimously voted out both HB 1202 & HB 1851 this week. Rep. David Zimmerman’s HB 1202 would create a Commonwealth Medical Stockpile which could be accessed by healthcare facilities. HB 1851, sponsored by Rep. Gina Curry, would allow nurse-midwives to sign fetal death certificates.

Additionally, the House acted on the following healthcare-related bills this week:

Receiving Second Consideration
- HB 348, by Rep. Tim Bonner, which requires nursing facilities to make residents and their families aware of their rights and options to apply for Medicaid benefits at the time of entering a nursing home;
- HB 1129, sponsored by Rep. Paul Friel, which provides for the sale of Net Operating Losses and unused Research & Development Tax Credits.
Final Passage from the House
- HB 1530, by Rep. Danilo Burgos, which establishes privacy protections for Pennsylvania consumers regarding their genetic data collected by direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies (e.g., commercial DNA testing services). This bill was passed unanimously.
- HB 1957, by Rep. Melissa Shusterman, which would establish the reproductive right in the Pennsylvania Constitution. This legislation passed 102-101.
- HB 1881, by Rep. Arvind Venkat, passed 106-97. This bill would mirror an executive order by Governor Shapiro, allowing pharmacists’ practice authority to provide vaccines recommended by Pennsylvania’s health authorities that may be informed by our professional medical societies.

Department of Human Services

DHS launched Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department issued an MA Bulletin regarding prior authorization for Lynkuet.

DHS updates to the Pennsylvania Medicaid Managed Care Directory and issued its MCO Enrollment Report for November 2025.

The Shapiro Administration announced the launching of a suite of new technology and tools to support the Commonwealth’s administration and management of public assistance programs and improve customer experience.

State Board of Pharmacy

The State Board of Pharmacy proposed rulemaking that sets forth the board’s criteria for eligibility for licensure by endorsement, including the specific methods required for an applicant to demonstrate competency. It also sets forth the requirements for granting a provisional endorsement license.

Independent Fiscal Office

The IFO published a new budget brief that uses the latest SNAP benefits data for November 2025. The data show that the number of enrollees declined by 158,000 (-8%) from the prior year as new work requirements take effect.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Disease Advisory Committee will meet for its quarterly public meeting on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-12-19T21:18:56+00:00December 19th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for December 5

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from November 24 – December 5 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Shapiro Administration Staffing Changes

The Shapiro Administration announced a change in senior leadership with Budget Secretary Uri Monson leaving his post to serve as Executive Director at the PA Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS). The Governor has appointed Zach Reber, current Deputy Secretary for Fiscal Policy and Program Coordination in the Budget Office, to serve as the next Secretary of the Budget.

General Assembly

The Senate returns next week for three voting session days from December 8^th through the 10th. The House will return for non-voting session on December 15^th and voting session on the 16^th & 17^th.

On Monday, Dec. 15th at 1pm, the House Communications & Technology Committee is holding a public hearing on HB 1925, Rep. Arvind Venkat’s AI in Healthcare legislation.

Rep. Bryan Cutler released a cosponsor memo for Certificates of Merit in Healthcare liability claims.

Department of Health

DOH updated its respiratory virus outbreak toolkit with minor changes and issued a new FAQ about Fall 2025 respiratory viral illness guidance.

Department of Human Services

DHS is launching Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department issued Medical Assistance Bulletins on the following areas:

DHS released its October 2025 Managed Care Enrollment Report.

The Department issued revisions to its list of drug companies participating in the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program.

DHS issued a notice of intent to update its Chapter 5100 Mental Health Procedures Regulations to align with Act 32 of 2022.

Independent Fiscal Office

The IFO released a report detailing its assessment of factors contributing to anticipated structural deficits for Pennsylvania’s budget.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC approved the final form covered outpatient drug regulations, which updated the payment methodology for pharmaceutical services, recognized the prescriptive and dispensing authority of certified registered nurse practitioners and midwives as well as made technical amendments to recognize advances in information technology.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) released its 2024 Hospital Performance Report, which examines trends on mortality and readmissions, among other data points.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. Find registration and details here.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-12-05T20:44:06+00:00December 5th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off

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