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PA Health Policy Update for June 9

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

General AssemblyHouse Chamber of the State House

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

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

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

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

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

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

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

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

Department of Health

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

Department of Human Services

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

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

Stakeholder Events

Department of Aging – Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – June 15

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee Meeting – June 22

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

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – June 28

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

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

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

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

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

2023 Primary Election

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

General Assembly

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

Department of Health 

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

Department of Human Services 

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

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

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – May 24

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 25

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

 

2023-05-19T20:25:32+00:00May 19th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 19
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PA Health Policy Update for May 5

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from May 1 – 5.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) published the first section of an online dashboard with Medicaid continuous coverage unwinding data. The data on this dashboard tracks the renewal process by county and zip code.

Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here. 

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro signed the first bill of his administration on Monday. Act 1, formerly Senate Bill 8, requires insurers to cover all costs associated with genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or Ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer. View this press release for additional information.

The Shapiro administration announced today that all commonwealth agencies completed a comprehensive review of their respective licensing, certification, and permitting processes as directed in the governor’s January 31 executive order. The administration will now work to establish “efficient processing times” for all permits and licenses. 

General Assembly

  • The state House and Senate returned to Harrisburg on May 1 for voting session. Below is coverage of selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Health Committee held a public hearing Tuesday, May 2 on HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
    • Representative Jennifer O’Mara (D-Delaware), Representative Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne) and Senator Carolyn Comitta (D-Chester) held a press conference Wednesday on hospital closure reform. More information can be found here.
    • The House Republican Policy Committee held a public hearing Thursday, May 4 on hospital pricing transparency. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
    • The Senate voted to confirm Governor Josh Shapiro’s nominee for the Secretary of Aging, Jason Kavulich, this week. A recording of the confirmation hearing in the Senate Aging and Youth Committee can be viewed here.
    • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Tuesday, May 2 to consider among other bills:
      • SB 100, Establishing the Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illness Diagnosis and Treatment Act. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 262, Amends the Maternal Mortality Review Committee Act regarding reportable events. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 414, Expanding access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 500, Provides for Medicaid Coverage for Pasteurized Donor Human Milk. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 549, Requires consent for pelvic, rectal, and prostate exams. The bill was unanimously reported as amended.
      • SB 555, Reducing the loaded mileage requirements for EMS Medicaid reimbursement. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

  • The state Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 8. The state House is recessed and will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an information meeting Wednesday, May 10 at 10:00am to receive updates from local Area Agencies on Aging and to discuss scams targeting older adults. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here. 

Office of the Attorney General 

Attorney General Michelle Henry issued the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document regarding medication abortion and mifepristone access in Pennsylvania. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health’s (DOH) Division of Newborn Screening and Genetics, with support of the Newborn Screening and Follow-up Technical Advisory Board, is proposing that Guanidinoacetate Methyltransferase (GAMT) deficiency screening be added effective January 1, 2024 to the supplemental conditions mandated for screening. Additional information can be viewed in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to increase the funding and amend the payment methodology for the COVID-19 disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for FY 2022-23. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS published final notice of its intent to allocate funding and amend the qualifying criteria and payment methodology allocation for DSH payments to acute-care general hospital trauma centers. These payments will amount to $18.034 million in total funds.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS published final notice of its funding allocation for FY 2022-23 supplemental payments to promote the continuation of quality medical services to individuals enrolled in the Pennsylvania Medical Assistance (MA) Program, and to provide financial relief to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS published updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program Fee Schedule for administration of a booster dose of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced the temporary extension of the Alternative Payment Methodology (APM) for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Rural Health Clinics (RHC) for the administration of COVID-19 vaccines administered during a COVID-19 vaccine-only visit. The APM will be extended beyond the end of the federal PHE to September 30, 2024. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has issued an updated Provider Quick Tip (#263) regarding the electronic submission process in the PROMISe Portal for Office of Medical Assistance Fee-for-Service (FFS) and Office of Long Term Living (OLTL) 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation.

Revenue Collection Update

The Department of Revenue announced Pennsylvania collected $5.7 billion in General Fund revenue in April, which was $51.1 million, or 0.9 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $37.9 billion, which is $1.2 billion, or 3.3 percent, above estimate. 

Stakeholder Events

DOH – WIC Advisory Board – May 10

The WIC Program Advisory will meet on May 10 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Additional information and details on how to participate can be viewed in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

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

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

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 18

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, May 17 and Thursday, May 18. For information on how to participate, review this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – May 24

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 25

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

 

2023-05-05T21:19:20+00:00May 5th, 2023|Federal Medicaid issues, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 5
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PA Health Policy Update for April 28

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

Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination 

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

General Assembly

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

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

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

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

Department of Health 

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

Department of Human Services

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

Stakeholder Events

PHC4 –Executive Committee & Council Meeting – May 4

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

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

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

2023-04-28T20:48:32+00:00April 28th, 2023|long-term care, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 28
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PA Health Policy Update for April 21

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

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro announced this week his administration submitted a notice of intent to temporarily add xylazine, commonly known as “tranq,” to the list of schedule III drugs under Pennsylvania’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act. This step is an effort to limit access to xylazine, which is increasingly being found in Pennsylvania’s illicit drug trade. The administration also intends to schedule nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids, as a schedule I drug. 

General Assembly

  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing Thursday, April 20 on The State Master Plan on Aging. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee held a public hearing Thursday, April 20 on overcrowding in Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Detention Facilities. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The state House and Senate will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 for voting session. Following are selected health-related committee proceedings.
    • The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee will hold a public hearing Monday, April 24 at 10:00am on professional licensing delays in health care. The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building and will be livestreamed here.
    • The House Insurance Committee will hold a voting meeting on Monday, April 24 at 11:00 a.m. to consider among other bills, SB 8 which requires insurers to cover all costs associated for genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or Ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer. The meeting will be held in Room B31 of the Main Capitol and will be livestreamed here.
    • The House Health Committee will hold an informational meeting Wednesday, April 26 at 9:00 a.m. on unregulated intoxicants and psychoactive substances. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.
    • The House Human Services Committee will hold a voting meeting Wednesday, April 26 at 9:15 a.m. to consider the following bills.
      • HB 409, which would establish a mental health care services clearinghouse.
      • HB 754, which would provide a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits.

The meeting will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.

    • The House Professional Licensure Committee will hold an informational meeting April 26 at 10:00am on the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs. The hearing will be held in Room 140 of the Main Capitol and will be livestreamed here.

Department of Health

  • DOH reminded long-term care facilities that the obligation to report COVID-19 cases and deaths through the ERS will continue beyond the end of the federal PHE on May 11. These records are reportable within 24 hours of diagnosis. Only new cases should be reported and positive cases that later result in death should be amended rather than entered as a new data record.  Find details on the reporting process here.
  • DOH encouraged nursing care facilities to make every effort to help temporary nurse aides to schedule and complete the required exams to become permanent certified nurse aides as soon as possible. When the federal PHE ends on May 11, candidates will have four months to complete the required testing as long as they are enrolled in an Approved Nurse Aide Training Program and candidates may continue to work in facilities while they complete the training program. Information on preparing and scheduling tests can be found here.   

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) released the agenda for the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s (MAAC) April 27 meeting. In advance of the meeting, DHS also issued a briefing document outlining proposed changes and clarifications to the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
  • DHS issued proposed regulations to strengthen and clarify the Adult Protective Services Act (Act 70). Implementation of Act 70 began in 2015 but has operated under agency guidance and contract amendments rather than formal regulation. Find additional information and the proposed regulations in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks into late May.  Find the updated calendar here. 

Insurance Department

The Insurance Department issued a request for comments on a proposal to suspend the reinsurance program for the state-based insurance exchange, PENNIE®, and potentially replace it with a possible “state subsidy wrap.” Additional information on the proposal and details on how to comment may be found in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Office of the Attorney General 

Attorney General Michelle Henry joined a coalition of seventeen other Attorneys General submitting a letter in support of the Federal Trade Commission’s proposal to prevent businesses from having employees sign non-compete agreements as a condition of employment. Find additional information in this press release. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) released the agenda for its May 18 meeting. Following are certain health-related regulations IRRC will consider.

Stakeholder Events

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27

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

Patient Safety Authority – April 27

The Patient Safety Authority’s board will meet virtually on Thursday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.

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

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

DDAP – Xylazine: A New Drug Additive – June 12

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) will host two additional sessions of “Xylazine: A New Drug Additive,” presented by Savage Sisters Recovery, in Harrisburg on June 12, 2023. Please visit the Training Management System for details and to register.

2023-04-21T20:06:37+00:00April 21st, 2023|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 21
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PA Health Policy Update for April 14

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 10 -14.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

General Assembly 

  • The House and Senate Appropriations Committees concluded their budget hearings this week.
    • On Tuesday, April 11, the Department of Human Services appeared before the House Appropriations Committee. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here and here.
    • On Wednesday, April 12, the Department of Human Services appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here and here.
    • On Thursday, April 13, the Department of Health appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Health Committee held an informational hearing Wednesday, April 12 on prescription drug affordability boards. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Democratic Policy Committee held a public hearing Thursday, April 13 on black maternal health. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing Thursday, April 13 on PACE/PACENET, the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and AARP. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational hearing Thursday, April 20 at 1:00pm on The State Master Plan on Aging. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and can be livestreamed here.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee will hold a public hearing Thursday, April 20 at 10:00am on overcrowding in Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Detention Facilities. The hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and can be livestreamed here.
  • The state House and Senate are currently recessed. They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24.

Department of Health

The Department of Health posted new documents related to the implementation of the long-term care nursing facilities regulations that become effective July 1, 2023:

  • Guidance for long term care regulations (effective July 1, 2023)
  • LTC Licensure Regulations Provider Updates – Presentation
  • LTC Licensure Regulations Provider updates – slides

View these and other guidance documents on the dedicated webpage here.

The Department of Health issued a health advisory with information about the Pennsylvania Childhood Blood Lead Act that took effect on January 2, 2023, and requires certain blood lead assessment and testing for children and pregnant women. Find more information in the health advisory. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for ages 18 years or younger, United States, 2023. This bulletin replaces the 2022 recommended vaccine schedule.
  • DHS issued Provider Quick Tip #41, which is an updated Medical Assistance (MA) Desk Reference with provider contacts.
  • DHS issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform MA providers that DHS added Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes 0164A (Moderna, Inc.) and 0173A (Pfizer, Inc.) to the MA Program Fee Schedule for the administration of additional bivalent doses of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines.
  • DHS issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform providers of updates to the Emergency Medical Condition Information Eligibility form. 

Around the State      

  • The Pennsylvania Capital Star reported on the House Appropriations Committee’s examination of Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2023-24 budget for DHS.
  • The Scranton Times Tribune wrote about the continued nursing shortage in Pennsylvania and its impact on the health care system.

Stakeholder Events

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27

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

Patient Safety Authority – April 27

The Patient Safety Authority’s board will meet virtually on Thursday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program – May 4

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, May 4, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The SPBP Advisory Council will provide program guidance and recommendations to the Department’s SPBP in regard to the following: drug formulary; covered lab services; drug utilization review; clinical programs; eligibility; and program management. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.

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

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

DHS – Dual Diagnosis Conference – May 18

The Office of Developmental Programs and Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services will host a state-wide Dual Diagnosis Conference virtually on May 18, 2023. The conference will include a variety of perspectives for supporting individuals who have experienced trauma. You may register here.

Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council – 2023 Meeting Dates

The Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council released an update list of its remaining meetings for the 2023 calendar year. Additional details may be viewed here.

2023-04-14T20:25:48+00:00April 14th, 2023|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 14
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PA Health Policy Update for April 7

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

General Assembly

  • The House and Senate Appropriations Committees will resume budget hearings next week. 
    • On Tuesday, April 11 at 10:00 a.m., the Department of Human Services will appear before the House Appropriations Committee. The hearing will be held in the House chamber and will also be live streamed here.   
    • On Wednesday, April 12 at 9:30 a.m., the Department of Human Services will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee. The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building and will also be live streamed here.  
    • On Thursday, April 13 at 9:30 a.m., the Department of Health will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee. The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building and will also be live streamed here.   
    • A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be found here.  
  • The House Health Committee will hold an informational hearing Wednesday, April 12 at 10:00 a.m. on prescription drug affordability boards. The hearing will be held in in Room 205 of the Ryan Office Building and will be live streamed here. 
  • The House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing Thursday, April 13 at 12:00 p.m. on black maternal health. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be live streamed here. 
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational hearing Thursday, April 13 at 1:00 p.m. on PACE/PACENET, the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and AARP. The hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and will be live streamed here.
  • The state House and Senate are currently recessed.  They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) published the Pennsylvania State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) that outlines goals, objectives, and strategies to improve the health of Pennsylvania residents over the next five years. The 2023-2028 SHIP was developed in collaboration with the Healthy Pennsylvania Partnership, which is made up of nearly 300 health care professionals, associations, health systems, health and human services organizations, community collaborations, local public health agencies, and government agencies. 
  • DOH issued a health update reminding healthcare facilities, providers, and laboratories to have heightened awareness for C. auris in their patients and updating a previous alert with information on new confirmed cases in Cumberland, Erie, and Monroe counties.  C. auris has been detected in ventilator-capable skilled nursing facilities, long-term acute care hospitals, and acute care hospitals since the current outbreak began in March 2020.  Find more information in this Health Update.  
  • DOH has alerted providers and laboratories to current outbreaks of Marburg virus in Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea and recommends they consider Marburg virus in patients with recent travel to those areas.  Find details in the Health Alert here.  

Department of Human Services   

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved the Office of Long-Term Living’s (OLTL) Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver amendment, which took effect April 1, 2023. Changes in the approved waiver include benefits counseling, home health aide services, nursing services, and occupational, physical, and speech and language therapy services. The current approved CHC Waiver can be found here. 
  • OLTL released a transition plan to phase out temporary changes to the CHC 1915(c) Waiver. Effective May 11, 2023, OLTL will phase out its emergency flexibilities to coincide with the end of the federal Public Health Emergency. 
  • DHS announced CMS has approved OLTL’s OBRA Waiver amendment, which took effect April 1, 2023, for home and community-based services. The current OBRA Waiver can be viewed here.
  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to notify dental providers enrolled in the Medical Assistance program that DHS will begin accepting the 2019 American Dental Association (ADA) Claim Form upon issuance of this bulletin and will no longer accept the 2012 ADA Claim Form for dates of service on and after June 1, 2023.
  • DHS released a Provider Quick Tip (#263) notifying providers about an electronic submission process for FFS 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation will soon be available in the Promise Portal. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs and DHS jointly issued a bulletin to update the guidance in OMHSAS bulletin 06-03 dated February 10, 2006. This bulletin includes the definitions of co-occurring capable and co-occurring enhanced programs as set forth in The ASAM Criteria. The information may be used to assist SCAs, BH-MCOs, and treatment providers in identifying co-occurring capable and co-occurring enhanced programs and in referring individuals to those programs.  

Revenue Collection Update  

The Department of Revenue announced Pennsylvania collected $6.2 billion in General Fund revenue in March, which was $499.4 million, or 8.8 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $32.3 billion, which is $1.1 billion, or 3.7 percent, above estimate.  

Around the State   

WHYY reported about the end of continuous Medicaid enrollment, beginning April 1, 2023, and how individuals can prepare for renewals.   

The Erie Times-News published an article about the drug-resistant fungus, Candida auris, which was found in a patient at a health care facility in Erie County.    

Stakeholder Events  

PHC4 – Data Systems Committee – April 10 

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has scheduled a Data Systems Committee meeting on April 10 at 10:00 a.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.   

DOH – State Child Death Review Team – April 20 

The State Child Death Review (CDR) Team will hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 20 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – April 21 

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, April 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26 

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27 

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

Patient Safety Authority – April 27 

The Patient Safety Authority’s board will meet virtually on Thursday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

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

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

2023-04-20T17:15:29+00:00April 7th, 2023|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 7
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PA Health Policy Update for March 31

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

 General Assembly 

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

Department of Health 

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

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

Department of Human Services   

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

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

Board of Nursing  

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

Around the State   

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

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

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

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – April 12 

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

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26 

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27 

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

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

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

General Assembly

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

Department of Human Services

Department of Health

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

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

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

COVID-19:  By the Numbers           

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

Stakeholder Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

2023-03-24T20:58:02+00:00March 24th, 2023|COVID-19, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 24
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PA Health Policy Update for March 17

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 11 to March 17.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

General Assembly

  • The General Assembly will begin hearings examining Governor Shapiro’s FY 2023-24 budget proposal next week.  A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be found here.  The following are the schedules for the Department of Health and the Department of Human Services budget hearings.
    • Tuesday, March 28:  Department of Health – House Appropriations Committee
    • Tuesday, April 11:  Department of Human Services – House Appropriations Committee
    • Wednesday, April 12:  Department of Human Services – Senate Appropriations Committee
    • Thursday, April 13:  Department of Health – Senate Appropriations Committee
  • The House and Senate are currently recessed.  They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings.

Department of Health

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has informed the Department of Health that the approved CMS waiver extending the deadline for temporary nurse aides to complete required examinations is in effect until May 11, 2023.  Learn more about the implications of the expiration of this waiver and how nurse aide candidates can continue to work while pursuing certification from this Department of Health notice.

The Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Advisory Board will add chronic hepatitis C as a qualifying serious medical condition for medical marijuana use in Pennsylvania.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

COVID-19:  By the Numbers           

  • The number of new COVID-19 cases reported daily in Pennsylvania fell 19 percent last week after a similar 19 percent decline last week and 17 percent the previous week.  The number of daily deaths is holding steady.
  • According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 fell 14 percent last week after a 16 percent decline the previous week and a nine percent decline the week before that.  The number of COVID-19 patients on ventilators and in hospital ICUs held steady over the past two weeks.
  • The CDC reports a 10 percent decline in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19 after an 18 percent decline the previous week and a 13 percent decline the week before that.
  • For the week ending March 15, 24 Pennsylvania counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 20 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and the remaining 33 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – Consumer Subcommittee – March 22

The consumer subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Wednesday March 22 at 1:00.  Go here to register to participate.

March 22 – Medicaid and CHIP Continuous Enrollment Unwinding Webinar – March 22

CMS will hold a webinar on the unwinding of Medicaid and CHIP continuous enrollment and what providers need to know and how to prepare for that unwinding on Wednesday, March 22 at noon (eastern).  During the webinar, CMS officials will review recently released CMS unwinding resources to help partners with their outreach efforts and respond to questions about Medicaid renewals and terminations, Medicaid to marketplace transitions, Medicaid to Medicare transitions, communication and outreach strategies, and more.  Go here to register to participate.  CMS will offer the same webinar on April 26, May 24, and June 28.  Go here and scroll down for materials from previous webinars on Medicaid unwinding.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 23

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will hold its next public meeting virtually on Thursday, March 23 at 10:00.  Go here to register to participate.

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

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

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

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

2023-03-17T19:46:43+00:00March 17th, 2023|COVID-19, Federal Medicaid issues, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2024 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 17
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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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