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PA Health Policy Update for April 17

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 13 –April 17 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The House held session earlier week addressing the following issues:

  • Monday
    • The House Judiciary Committee voted out HB 1104, proposing to cap fees for obtaining medical records, by a margin of 14-12.
    • The House Human Services Committee held an informational hearing on the impacts of HR 1 on the SNAP Program in PA.
  • Tuesday
    • The House Health Committee held a voting meeting on HB 836, preserving access to fertility treatment, which passed out of committee with amendment by a measure of 17-9 and HB 2254, which would allow for medical marijuana usage in licensed healthcare facilities passed 22-3; along with several resolutions. HB 916, providing for further Blood Lead Testing was to be considered but was passed over.
    • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing on the LIFE Program. The hearing highlighted the current state of the program in PA and nationally, aired enrollment challenges experienced by providers, and vetted potential legislative and policy solutions that could help address barriers to care.
    • The House Democratic Policy Committee held a public hearing on Black Maternal Health and Hospital Accountability.

The Senate is scheduled to return to session this upcoming week. The House will return to session on April 27th.

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

  • Rep. Bridget Kosierowski circulated a cosponsor memo for legislation to ensure commercial and government insurance plan coverage for orthotics and prosthetics and another cosponsor memo requiring coverage of fertility preservation for cancer patients.
  • A cosponsor memo released by Rep. Maureen Madden providing for dementia training for EMS personnel.
  • Rep. Melissa Cerrato issued a cosponsor memo for legislation to require DHS to submit a waiver request to CMS to allow legally responsible family members to perform paid care for a care-dependent relative.
  • Rep. Maureen Madden introduced HB 2378, which would expand flu vaccine availability for patients age 50 and older.
  • HB 2379, sponsored by Rep. Marla Brown, would require continuing education in Trauma-Informed Maternity Care.
  • Rep. Rob Kauffman introduced HB 2399, which would place additional identification requirements for public assistance benefits.
  • Sen. Tracy Pennycuick introduced SB 1285, to establish the PA BioBonds Innovation Fund to help spur further bio-tech and life-sciences investment. 

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.

Recently highlighted in DHS’ Human Services Helpers Substack was a toolkit for Long-Term Care Services & Caregivers to help all parties better understand and navigate the enrollment process.

DHS issued its May 2026 Remittance Advice Dates.

PA Healthcare Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) announced the release of new data detailing ownership of hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) across Pennsylvania, along with updated access to care information on facility locations and services for hospitals, ASCs, and nursing homes.  

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public meeting on April 28th at 1pm.

DOH’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program will hold a public teleconference on April 30th from 10am to Noon.

The Department of Health’s Spinal Cord Research Advisory Committee Meeting will hold a public meeting on May 1st from 9am – 10am and the Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting will also hold their public meeting on May 1st from 10am – 3pm.

Federal Update

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

2026-04-17T19:33:18+00:00April 17th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 17
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PA Health Policy Update for April 10

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 6 –April 10 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The House returns to session next week where we anticipate the following actions:

  • Monday
    • The House Judiciary Committee is scheduled to vote on several bills, one of which is HB 1104 which proposed to cap fees for obtaining medical records.
    • The House Human Services Committee will hold a hearing on the impacts of HR 1 on the SNAP Program in PA.
  • Tuesday
    • The House Health Committee will hold a hearing on HB 836, preserving access to fertility treatment; HB 916, providing for further Blood Lead Testing; and HB 2254, which would allow for medical marijuana usage in licensed healthcare facilities; along with several resolutions.
    • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational hearing on the LIFE Program.
    • The House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on Black Maternal Health and Hospital Accountability.

The Senate is scheduled to return to session the following week.

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

  • Rep. Danilo Burgos introduced House Bill 2368 to create the Healthcare Human Trafficking Screening and Intervention Act to provider greater structure and increased requirements for human trafficking intervention protocols.
  • House Bill 2364, introduced by Rep. Nikki Rivera would expand the scope of physical therapy services to include dry needling.
  • Sen. Tracy Pennycuick released a co-sponsor memo for legislation to require drug & alcohol recovery residences to obtain licensure within three years.
  • A co-sponsor memo was released by Sen. Maria Collett for legislation to create a Commission on Comprehensive Health Coverage. 

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 a Medical Assistance Bulletin for Prior Authorization Guidelines for Pediatric Adaptive Seating Equipment.

The Department shared remittance advice alerts for Fee-for-Service Relative Weight Adjustments.

Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women

The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women has released a “State of the Woman” Survey to assess the experiences of women living in the Commonwealth. The survey is open through May 30th.

State Board of Pharmacy

The State Board of Pharmacy issued notice of final deemed approved regulations on Injectable Medications. 

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office provided a state budget and economic update to the Education Policy and Leadership Center.  The report highlights state population decline and migration, limited job growth with the largest driver being the health care sector, and state general fund revenue and spending trends.  The presentation can be found here. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Advisory Committee will hold their quarterly public meeting on April 17th from 10am-Noon.

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public meeting on April 28th at 1pm.

DOH’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program will hold a public teleconference on April 30th from 10am to Noon.

Federal Update

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

2026-04-10T21:18:43+00:00April 10th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 10
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PA Health Policy Update for April 3

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 30 –April 3 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Rural Health Transformation Program

The Department of Human Services held a webinar for PA’s Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) this week where the Department shared details on Pennsylvania’s approach to dispersing and operationalizing the $193M RHTP funds awarded to the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth is soliciting nominations for interested parties to join RHTP Rural Care Collaboratives or the RHTP Advisory Council. Nominations can be submitted here and the deadline for nominations is Friday 4/10 at 5pm. Webinar slides and information on upcoming regional forums can be found here. 

Maternal Health

The Shapiro Administration released PA’s Maternal Health Strategic Action Plan called, “Healthy Moms, Vibrant Futures.” The plan was developed collaboratively across DHS, DOH, DDAP, Insurance Department, with feedback from the Black Maternal Health Caucus in the General Assembly, and stakeholders across 16 roundtables statewide. 

General Assembly

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

  • Rep. Jason Ortitay introduced both House Bill 2341, which would provide grants to healthcare facilities to procure standardized threat and risk assessment platforms and House Bill 2342, which would provide consumer protections in the application for or switching of Medicare supplemental plans in PA.
  • Rep. Lisa Borowski introduced House Bill 2335 which would expand the scope of practice for certified nurse anesthetists.
  • Senate Bill 1206, introduced by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick, would provide for virtual manufacturer license for prescription drugs and medical devices.

The House will return to session the week of April 13th and the Senate is scheduled to return the week of April 20th. 

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 several Medical Assistance Bulletins for the following areas:

The Department shared their February 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

DHS published a bulletin notice of the availability of FY 26-27 Social Services Block Grant’s Intended Use Plan. The Department offered a 30-day public comment period.

The Department published final notice of its intent to allocate funding for Disproportionate Share and Supplemental Hospital payments at 55 Pa.B. 6643 (September 13, 2025).

Department of Health

The Department encouraged providers to complete the Respiratory Virus Dashboard survey. The purpose of this survey is to understand how healthcare personnel in Pennsylvania use the dashboard, what they would like to see in future iterations, and how the department can curate data and visualizations for you. Deadline for submission is April 10th and any questions about the survey can be sent to Hannah Lund at hlund@pa.gov

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC has either approved or deemed approved the following regulatory packages:

  • State Board of Medicine # 16A-4960: Education and Volunteer Services
  • State Board of Osteopathic Medicine # 16A-5337: Education and Volunteer Services
  • State Board of Pharmacy # 16A-5434: Immunization Updates 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Advisory Committee will hold their quarterly public meeting on April 17th from 10am-Noon.

DOH’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program will hold a public teleconference on April 30th from 10am to Noon. 

Federal Update

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

2026-04-03T23:18:45+00:00April 3rd, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Rural Health Transformation Program|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 3
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PA Health Policy Update for March 27

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

Budget Update

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jordan Harris has introduced and begun to advance budget bills to kick off the legislative budget process for this year. HB 2400, the General Appropriations Bill, HB 2401, the Capitol Budget Bill, and HB 2402, the Capitol Budget Itemization Bill, were all introduced and moved out of the House Appropriations Committee this week along with other budget-related bills. 

Rural Health Transformation Program

The Department of Human Services has released a registration link for their Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Webinar scheduled for March 31st at 3:30pm where the Department will share information and details on Pennsylvania’s approach to dispersing and operationalizing the $193M RHTP funds awarded to the Commonwealth. We will be joining to monitor the webinar but we encourage you to sign up as well to hear the Shapiro Administration’s plans to deploy these dollars in Year 1. 

General Assembly

Both the House and Senate were in session this week. Four new members of the House, Ana Tiburcio (D) in HD 22 from Lehigh County, Jen Mazzocco (D) in HD 42 from Allegheny County, Andrea Verobish (R) in HD 79 from Blair County, and Catherine Wallen (R) in HD 193 from Adams County were seated this week following special elections. The House still must fill a vacancy in the 196th District from York County and will have a new vacancy at the end of the month with the resignation of Stephanie Scialabba of Butler County.

In the Senate, SB 1211, legislation to include Medicaid Fee for Service coverage for biomarker testing, passed unanimously and will now advance to the House Human Services Committee for consideration. The Senate also advanced SB 614, FQHC Preceptorship legislation, which included an amendment to broaden eligible entities and to address role of and opportunity for Rural Health Transformation Program funds to be used for this purpose, among other changes. The bill passed by a measure of 26-23, sending it to the House Health Committee. Lastly, the Senate advanced SB 804 which prohibits usage of IV solutions or medical equipment with certain additives. The bill passed 49-1 and now moves to the House Health Committee.

In the House, the House Health Committee met for a public joint hearing held along with the House Communications & Technology Committee on Tuesday examining the role of AI in Healthcare. The Health Committee met again for a voting meeting on Wednesday to consider several resolutions as well as House Bill 2265, which would require onsite, board-certified or board-eligible Emergency Physicians in all hospital emergency departments. The bill advanced out of committee with an amendment further clarifying some of the bills requirements and aligning with existing regulations, addressing some stakeholder concerns. The House also unanimously passed HB 1851 which would expand midwifery services in PA.

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

  • Rep. Paul Friel formally introduced HB 2315, legislation to compel the creation of regulations to allow direct primary care providers to submit referrals for individuals covered under HMO plans.
  • Rep. Justin Fleming introduced a co-sponsorship memo for additional safety measures around the sale and usage of compounded GLP-1 products in PA.
  • Rep. Bridget Kosierowski issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to expand insurance coverage of wheelchair maintenance.

The House will return to session the week of April 13th and the Senate is scheduled to return the week of April 20th.

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 the following notices in the PA Bulletin effectuating special legislative payments for certain nursing facilities as outlined by the Budget and various code bills:

The Department released a bulletin notice for the Nursing Facility Assessment Program for FY 25-26.

Department of Health

DOH shared an announcement from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) regarding the future implementation of Track-Kit, Pennsylvania’s statewide sexual assault kit (SAK) tracking system. This change is in response to Act 122 of 2024, which directed PCCD to establish and operate a statewide system to track sexual assault kits throughout the custody and testing process.

The Department released an RFA for neurodegenerative research with a due date of April 23rd. This funding was a result of new state dollars included in last year’s budget legislation.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold their public meeting on March 31st from 9am-11am.

The Department of Health’s Renal Advisory Committee will hold their quarterly public meeting on April 17th from 10am-Noon.

DOH’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program will hold a public teleconference on April 30th from 10am to Noon. 

Federal Update

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

 

2026-03-27T20:36:44+00:00March 27th, 2026|Federal Medicaid issues, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget, Pennsylvania Rural Health|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 27
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PA Health Policy Update for March 20

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

General Assembly

Both the House and Senate will be in session from Monday March 23rd through Wednesday March 25th.

This past week, the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee advanced SB 1211, legislation to include Medicaid Fee for Service coverage for biomarker testing.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee held a public hearing on Medication-Assisted Treatment and its utilization in PA.

Next week, the House Health Committee will meet twice. First, there will be a joint public hearing held along with the House Communications & Technology on Tuesday, the 24th, examining the role of AI in Healthcare. Second, the Committee will hold a voting meeting on the 25th to consider several resolutions as well as House Bill 2265, which would require onsite, board-certified or board-eligible Emergency Physicians in all hospital emergency departments.

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

  • Paul Friel issued a cosponsor memo for legislation to compel the creation of regulations to allow direct primary care providers to submit referrals for individuals covered under HMO plans.
  • Senators Chris Gebhard and Kristin Phillips-Hill released a cosponsor memo for legislation to require Commonwealth agencies to perform a review and assessment of programs vulnerable to improper payments, as well as reports of improper payments data.
  • Melissa Shusterman introduced HB 2292which would create limitations on immigration enforcement operations in hospitals.
  • House Bill 2270, introduced by Rep. Rob Matzie, would require DHS to utilize a Pharmacy Benefit Administrator model in the Medicaid program.
  • Vince Hughes introduced SB 1175which would create the Innovate in PA Tax Credit program to help spur further investment in biotech and life sciences.

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 April 2026 Remittance Mailing Date Advice.

DHS released an MA Bulletin for the enrollment of Community Health Workers in the MA Program.

Department of Health

DOH released updates to the 2026-2026 Nursing Home Patient Safety Trust Surcharge.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC issued comments on the proposed updates the Social Workers, Marriage/Family Therapists, & Professional Counselors Associate MFT and PC and Supervision regulations.

Stakeholder Meetings

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

DOH’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold their public meeting on March 31st from 9am-11am.

The Department of Health’s Renal Advisory Committee will hold their quarterly public meeting on April 17th from 10am-Noon.

Federal Update 

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

2026-03-20T19:39:21+00:00March 20th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 20
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PA Health Policy Update for March 13

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

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee hearings concluded this week examining the Governor’s 26-27 Budget with executive agencies. Below are links to watch the relevant health & human services hearings:

The Senate returns to session from Monday March 16th through Wednesday March 18th. During the week the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee scheduled a voting meeting on Tuesday to consider SB 1211, legislation to include Medicaid Fee for Service coverage for biomarker testing.

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

  • Rep. Justin Fleming released a co-sponsor memo for a resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a Behavioral Health Crisis Study.
  • Senators Christine Tartaglione, Judy Ward, and Frank Farry introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation to ensure coverage of orthotics and prosthetics in both commercial and government insurance programs.
  • Rep. Tarik Khan introduced House Bill 2267 proposing to allow students to carry and self-administer pancreatic medications at school.
  • Rep. Joe Webster introduced House Bill 2268 which would ban facility fees for outpatient services by healthcare providers and creating “site-neutral” payment caps.
  • Senate Bill 1186, introduced by Sen. Lisa Boscola and Sen. Judy Ward, would require the Department of Human Services to shift to a Single PBM model for the Medicaid program.
  • Senators Katie Muth, Nikil Saval, and Lindsey Williams introduced SB 1208 which would require combined reporting for multi-state corporations operating in PA.
  • Senators Devlin Robinson and Chris Gebhard released SB 1211, legislation to include Medicaid Fee for Service coverage for biomarker testing.

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 a Remittance Advice Alert for Revisions to the Participating Drug Company list for the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program.

Department of Health

DOH shared public comment opportunities for the 2027 WIC State Plan which include public meetings beginning in May.

State Board of Pharmacy

The State Board of Pharmacy released income limits for participation in the 2026 Cancer Drug Repository Program. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday March 18th 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 19th at 10am.

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

Federal Update

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

2026-03-13T17:42:49+00:00March 13th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 13
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PA Health Policy Update for March 6

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 2 – March 6 (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.

Upcoming Hearings:

  • Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10th at 1pm
  • Governor’s Budget Office: House – Mar. 12th at 10am
  • Department of Health and Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: Mar. 12th at 1pm

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

  • Senators Devlin Robinson and Chris Gebhard released a co-sponsor memo for legislation to include Medicaid Fee for Service coverage for biomarker testing.
  • Sen. Michele Brooks issued a co-sponsor memo for two-year licensure for programs licensed by the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs.
  • Rep. Paul Takac and Rep. Tina Pickett introduced House Bill 2265, which would require on-site Emergency Physicians in all Hospital Emergency Departments.
  • Rep. Dan Frankel sponsored House Bill 2254, which would require healthcare facilities in PA to allow certain medical marijuana use for terminally ill patients.

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 updated prior authorization guidelines for GLP-1 medications in the MA program.

The Department issued fee schedule rate updates for Office of Developmental Programs’ Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed Support Waivers and Targeted Support Management.

Department of Health

DOH released notice for their MCARE Act Surcharge for Ambulatory Surgical Facilities in PA.

Department of Aging

The Department of Aging released a bulletin notice for a reorganization of the Department. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday Mar. 18th 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 19th at 10am.

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

The Council on Aging released their 2026 Meeting Schedule. 

Federal Update

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

2026-03-06T17:30:01+00:00March 6th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 6
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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.

Upcoming Hearings:

  • Department of Human Services: House – Mar. 4th at 10am
  • Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10th at 1pm
  • Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12th at 10am
  • Department of Health and Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: Mar. 12th 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 10th from 1:30-2:30pm. The Preventative Health & Human Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will also hold a public meeting on March 25th 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 3rd from 10am to Noon.

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

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday Mar. 18th 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 19th at 10am.

DOH’s Medical Marijuana Advisory Board released their schedule of board meetings for 2026 with the first upcoming on March 26th 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.

2026-02-27T21:54:20+00:00February 27th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for February 27
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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. 24th at 10am
  • Department of Health & Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: House – Feb. 24th at 1pm
  • Department of Human Services: Senate – Feb. 25th at 10am; House – Mar. 4th at 10am
  • Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10th at 1pm
  • Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12th 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 19th at 10am. 

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

Federal Update

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

2026-02-20T21:51:13+00:00February 20th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for February 20
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PA Health Policy Update for February 13

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

Governor’s Office

As highlighted in the Governor’s Budget Proposal, Governor Shapiro released his Housing Action Plan this week proposing strategic initiatives to compact housing instability and increase affordability. 

General Assembly

Beginning next week, the Senate Appropriations Committee will begin their work reviewing the Governor’s Budget Proposal inviting Commonwealth Agency heads to testify on their respective budget proposals. The House Appropriations Committee will begin their hearings the following week. Key hearings are as follows:

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

On Wednesday, the House Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing in Scranton which can be viewed here on threats and strains on community hospitals across the Pennsylvania.

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

  • Rep. Melissa Shusterman and Rep. La’Tasha Mayes issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation placing restrictions on the activities of US Immigration & Customs Enforement (ICE) in Pennsylvania hospitals.
  • A co-sponsor memo released by Rep. Maureen Madden and Rep. Darisha Parker for a bill that would broaden PA’s age requirements for the flu vaccine from age 65 to age 50.
  • Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and Rep. Mike Schlossberg circulated a co-sponsor memo for a resolution designating May as Mental Health Awareness Month in PA.
  • Sen. Judy Ward released a co-sponsor memo designating March 7th as Suddenly Sleepy Saturday for Narcolepsy Awareness in PA.
  • Rep. Joe Hogan introduced House Bill 2201, which would create the PA Physical Health Improvement Tax Credit program.
  • House Bill 2212, introduced by Rep. Steve Malagari would require health insurers in integrated delivery networks to allow patient access to physician-owned facilities that meet certain standards.
  • Reps. Jeanne McNeill, Chris Pielli, and Greg Scott issued House Bill 2215 which regulates the use of AI by minors through implementing age verifications for use, prohibiting sexually explicit content, and prohibiting encouragement of self-harm or sexual violence.

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’ Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services is seeking new members for its Mental Health Planning Council. Applications must be received by March 31st. More information on how to apply can be found here.

Independent Fiscal Office

The IFO released its long-term budget outlook this week once again highlighting concerns with projected deficits in the coming fiscal years. 

Federal Update

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

2026-02-13T21:10:06+00:00February 13th, 2026|Governments, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for February 13
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Home / About Us / Advocacy / Why Join? / SNAPShots / Contact Us

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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