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PA Health Policy Update for May 1

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 27 –May 1 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Rural Health Transformation Program

Applications are being accepted today for providers to submit their RHTP eligibility certification and required documentation to show they meet all of the qualifications for providers:

  • Licensed as a hospital, health care provider, or rural health facility;
  • Currently in operation in Pennsylvania at the time of application and at the time funding is received;
  • Located in one of the RHTP-eligible rural counties or in a HRSA-defined rural census tract of a county of the second class A or third class.

DHS released FAQs to help address provider questions. Submissions can be made via email to:  RA-HHRRLHLTHTRNSPLAN@pa.gov.

Submissions will be reviewed for those providers to receive Rapid Response Stabilization payments of at least $10,000 and up to $1 million to be used for the purchase of supplies, equipment, renovations, or structural improvements in alignment with the goals outlined in the commonwealth’s RHTP application to the federal government. 

General Assembly

The House held session earlier this week addressing the following healthcare related issues:

  • Monday
    • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held a public hearing on Rep. Maureen Madden’s HB 2435, providing for dementia training for EMS personnel.
  • Tuesday
    • The House Health Committee passed HB 916, legislation to update the Child Blood Lead Testing Act, as amended by a vote of 14-12.
    • The House Human Services Committee unanimously advanced House Resolution 134, a resolution directing a comprehensive review of home & community-based services waiver programs and areas of improvement that can be identified.

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

  • Rep. Darisha Parker introduced House Bill 2464 which would replace outdated terminology in PA’s Insurance Company Law.
  • Rep. Anthony Bellmon circulated a co-sponsor memo for a resolution designating May 2026 as Guillain-Barre Syndrome Awareness Month.
  • A co-sponsor memo issued by Rep. Russ Diamond proposes a resolution designating October 13th as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day in 2026.
  • Rep. Kerry Benninghoff released a co-sponsor memo for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September of 2026.
  • Rep. Arvind Venkat issued a cosponsor memo for legislation to establish timelines for the processing of Medical Assistance applications in long-term care and another for a resolution directing a study on medical schools and their promotion of careers in primary care.
  • Rep. Kathy Rapp issued co-sponsor memos for resolutions designating Surgical Technologist Week and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Awareness Week.
  • A co-sponsor memo was filed by both Rep. Tina Davis and Sen. Steve Santarsiero for legislation requiring the sharing of emergency plans and contacts for nursing facilities with local emergency responders.
  • Sen. Tina Tartaglione issued co-sponsor memos for resolutions designating Mental Health Awareness Month and Older Americans Month.
  • Sen. Amanda Cappelletti and Sen. Steve Santarsiero released a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring insurance coverage for breastfeeding and feeding support services.
  • Sen. Michele Brooks issued a co-sponsor memo for a resolution designating National Hospital Week.
  • Sen. Judy Ward released a co-sponsor memo for a resolution designating Nursing Week in Pennsylvania.
  • A co-sponsor memo circulated by Sen. Elder Vogel for a resolution designating May 14th as IgA Nephropathy Awareness Day in PA.

The House and Senate are scheduled to return to session this upcoming week where the following activity is anticipated:

  • Tuesday
    • The House Communications & Technology Committee will hold a voting meeting to consider HB 1925, which would provide regulations and parameters on the use of AI in Healthcare.
    • The House Aging & Older Adult Services and Human Services Committees will hold a joint public hearing on In Lieu of Services.
  • Wednesday
    • The House Health Committee will hold an informational hearing on the Uniform Healthcare Decision Act.
    • The House Insurance Committee will hold a voting meeting on HB 2427; consolidation of utilization management statutes, HB 2464; replacing outdated references in PA’s Insurance Law, and HB 2473; repealing obsolete insurance laws and completed statutorily required studies.
  • Thursday
    • The Senate Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee will hold a hearing on SB 792, which would provide for an increase in the Research & Development Tax Credit program in PA.

Department of Human Services

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

The Department released a bulletin notice announcing the approval of doula services’ inclusion in the PA Medicaid State Plan by CMS retroactive to Jan. 1, 2025, as required by Act 115 of 2024.

DHS issued a provider tip for streamlining provider revalidation submissions.

The Department released their latest updated PA Managed Care Directory. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on May 7th from 10am-1:30pm.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on May 20th from 9am to Noon.

Federal Update

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

2026-05-01T20:28:03+00:00May 1st, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Rural Health Transformation Program|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 1
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PA Health Policy Update for April 24

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 20 –April 24 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Rural Health Transformation Program

Today, DHS announced the qualifications for providers to receive Rapid Response Stabilization payments of at least $10,000 and up to $1 million to be used for the purchase of supplies, equipment, renovations, or structural improvements in alignment with the goals outlined in the commonwealth’s RHTP application to the federal government. Providers may submit the eligibility certification and required documentation beginning on May 1 to show they meet all of the following criteria:

  • Licensed as a hospital, health care provider, or rural health facility;
  • Currently in operation in Pennsylvania at the time of application and at the time funding is received;
  • Located in one of the RHTP-eligible rural counties or in a HRSA-defined rural census tract of a county of the second class A or third class.

This program payment is limited to one payment per qualified entity. Under the first tranche of this program request, program payments are limited to two program payments per region. There is a planned second tranche of funds to be made available after June 1, 2026 and that second tranche will not be limited by region.

DHS will authorize program payments in the order eligibility certifications are received, as evidenced by the date and time the email containing the full eligibility certification and receipt of all required documents. Providers should begin preparing the required documentation and budget narrative now for email submission on May 1. Submissions can be made via email to: RA-HHRRLHLTHTRNSPLAN@pa.gov. 

General Assembly

The Senate held session earlier week addressing the following issues:

  • Monday
    • The Senate passed Sen. Rosemary Brown’s SB 998, by a measure of 43-4, which would provide an expansion of resources for accredited nursing programs in PA through the Nurse Education Capacity Expansion Grant program.
  • Tuesday
    • The Senate Local Government Committee advanced HB 1442, which would require that all autopsies include a review to whether a seizure or epilepsy was part of the cause of death.
  • Wednesday

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

  • Sen. Amanda Cappelletti circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring the inclusion of Gaucher’s Disease on Pennsylvania’s Newborn Screening Panel and a co-sponsor memo for legislation that would allow access to PrEP and PEP medications without prescriptions.
  • Sen. Elder Vogel issued a co-sponsor memo for a resolution recognizing IgA Nephropathy Awareness Day in Pennsylvania.
  • Senator Michele Brooks released a co-sponsor memo for a resolution to designate May 2026 as Lyme Disease & Tick-Borne Illness Awareness Month in PA.
  • Rep. Frank Burns introduced HB 2431 which would require PBMs to accept Medicaid prescriptions from any pharmacy and pharmacist in good standing with the State Board of Pharmacy and US DEA.
  • Rep. Maureen Madden introduced HB 2435, providing for dementia training for EMS personnel. This legislation will receive a public hearing in the House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee on Monday April 27th.  

The House is scheduled to return to session this upcoming week. In addition to the hearing on HB 2435, the following activity is anticipated:

  • On Monday, the House Human Services Committee will meet to consider House Resolution 134, a resolution directing a comprehensive review of home & community-based services waiver programs and areas of improvement that can be identified.
  • On Tuesday, the House Health Committee will meet to consider HB 916, legislation to update the Child Blood Lead Testing Act.

Both the House and Senate will return to session on May 4th. 

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 is currently hiring Regional Policy Specialists and an Executive Policy Specialist to help implement PA’s Rural Health Transformation Plan.

The Department issued its March 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

DHS announced its schedule for onboarding provider types to begin using the Qualitrac electronic prior authorization portal for MA fee-for-service claims. For each wave of the rollout, providers will receive a kickoff communication with instructions on how to register for the portal, then complete the registration and attend an initial training session focused on how to use the portal for their specific review type. There is no deadline at this time for mandatory use of Qualitrac for these authorizations, but DHS strongly encourages providers to use the portal once they are ready.

Department of Health

The Department released a Health Advisory Network alert for an increase in emergency department visits for tick bites and urging providers to heighten suspicion for tickborne diseases.

DOH, the Patient Safety Authority, and other stakeholders released updated guidance to acute care facilities regarding the definition of serious events, incidents, or infrastructure failures. 

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.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on May 20th from 9am to Noon.

Federal Update

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

2026-04-24T20:24:41+00:00April 24th, 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 24
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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 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 December 5

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

Shapiro Administration Staffing Changes

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

General Assembly

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

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

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

Department of Health

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

Department of Human Services

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

The Department issued Medical Assistance Bulletins on the following areas:

DHS released its October 2025 Managed Care Enrollment Report.

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

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

Independent Fiscal Office

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

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

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

Federal Update

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

2025-12-05T20:44:06+00:00December 5th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 5
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PA Health Policy Update for November 7

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

General Assembly and Budget Update

After Pennsylvania’s judicial and local election this past Tuesday, four members of the PA House won local elected offices which will require special elections early next year following their respective swearing-in to those offices. As Rep. Lou Schmitt, winner of a county judicial race indicated, “People were focused on the election… Now that the election is out of the way, people can go back to policy.” The House and Senate will have the opportunity to do so when both chambers are set to return on November 17th.

On Monday, November 10th at 10am, the Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on supporting home care workers and consumers. The hearing can be streamed live here.

Department of Health

The Department’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program released their approved covered drug list in their October Advisory Council meeting which will take effect on December 1st. The Department also updated its list of Medicare Part C and D plans with premium payment agreements with SPBP for 2026. 

Department of Human Services

DHS has issued helpful guidance and information to assist individuals in understanding the federal SNAP work requirements instituted earlier this fall.

DHS released MA Bulletins on updated prior authorization policies for several drug classes in response to recommendations from the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee.

State Board of Medicine

The State Board of Medicine shared Education and Volunteer Services proposed regulations to add new mandatory education requirements and clarify the process for a volunteer license. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold their public meeting on Wednesday Nov. 19th and Thursday November 20th both from 9am-3pm.

DOH’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday Nov. 13th from 10am – Noon.

The DHS Medical Assistance Advisory Committee plans to meet December 4th at 10am. You can register for the meeting here. 

Federal Update

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

2025-11-07T20:33:35+00:00November 7th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for November 7
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PA Health Policy Update for October 31

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

Budget Update

In a hopeful sign, top legislative leaders have met daily with the Governor and key staff throughout the week. The House and Senate are both set to return on November 17th. As negotiations continue, school districts and counties are adjusting services and payments to navigate the impasse.

General Assembly

During this week’s session, the House unanimously passed Rep. Ben Sanchez’s HB 446, allowing patients to take home unused medications following a hospital stay. The House also passed HB 1828, vaccine coverage and access legislation offered by Rep. Arvind Venkat, by a margin of 104-99. Both bills now move to the Senate for consideration.

The House Professional Licensure committee advanced Sen. Rosemary Brown’s SB 507. This legislation would update and modernize midwifery services in Pennsylvania.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee voted to advance SB 270 and SB 614. Senator Amanda Cappelletti’s SB 270 would restrict online sales of human donor milk. SB 614, Chairwoman Michele Brooks’ legislation on FQHC Preceptors, was amended to limit the program to only rural areas.

The Senate Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee met to consider HB 157, SB 804, and SB 998. Rep. Kathy Rapp’s HB 157 would create a Rural Health Care Grant Program within the Department of Health. Senate Bill 804 from Sen. Boscola would prohibit toxic additives in IV Bags and medical equipment. Senate Bill 998, introduced by Rep. Rosemary Brown, would create a Nursing Education Capacity Expansion Grant Program within the Department of Community & Economic Development.

The House Health Committee held an informational meeting on the Department of Health’s Newborn Screening program on October 28th where Rep. Sailsbury’s House Bill 1652 was discussed. This legislation would add Gaucher Disease to the Newborn Screening program.

The Senate State Government Committee held a hearing to discuss SB 125, Sen. Dush’s proposed constitutional amendment to address change of judicial venues.

The House Human Services Committee amended and advanced House Bill 1974 by Rep. Venkat. HB 1974 proposes to create a Contingency Management Support Grant Program within the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), enabling Single County Authorities to apply for grants supporting Contingency Management programs and activities like staff training, drug-testing supplies, incentive tracking systems, evaluation, and non-cash incentives.

The House Consumer Protection, Technology, and Utilities Committee voted out HB 1530 which would establish privacy protections for Pennsylvania consumers regarding their genetic data collected by direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies (e.g., commercial DNA testing services).

Below is a list of health and human services-related legislation and co-sponsor memos released this week.

Rep. Danielle Friel Otten released a co-sponsor memo for legislation to require coverage of obesity treatments.

Rep. Wendy Fink introduced HB 1997 which allows autologous or directed blood donations for certain medical procedures.

Department of Human Services

The Department issued several changes to the MA Fee Schedule, adding procedure codes, prior authorization requirements, and changing units and limitations on procedure codes.

State Board of Nursing

The State Board of Nursing issued final form regulations effective upon today’s publishing in the PA Bulletin, but with provisions relating to organ & tissue donation taking effect May 1, 2026.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC will consider DHS’ proposed Covered Outpatient Drugs Regulation at their November 20th public meeting. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold their public meeting on Wednesday Nov. 19th and Thursday November 20th both from 9am-3pm.

DOH’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday Nov. 13th from 10am – Noon.

DOH’s Spinal Cord Research Advisory Committee will meet on Friday Nov. 7th from 8:30am – 9:30am. 

Federal Update

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

2025-10-31T18:57:20+00:00October 31st, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 31
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PA Health Policy Update for September 26

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 22- 26 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Budget Update 

The state budget impasse continues to drag on. This week, the Senate was not in session but the House met for non-voting session. The Senate has scheduled a non-voting session day on October 3rd and voting session on October 6th through 8th. As highlighted in this Penn Capital Star article, with transit funding handled through other means, counties and schools will become the pressure point as negotiations continue.

Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced the creation of a $500 million loan fund for counties and Head Start providers as a bridge for funding through the budget stalemate.

General Assembly

The House will return for voting session beginning on Monday, September 29th.  For the House session week ahead, the following hearings and voting meetings are scheduled:

  • Monday, Sept. 29, 9:30am – The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational meeting on the PA CareKit Program. The Department of Aging will offer testimony.
  • Monday, Sept. 29, 10:45am – House Human Services Committee will meet to consider HR 290, a resolution recognizing the month of September 2025 as “National Recovery Month” in Pennsylvania.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 30, 10am – The House Consumer Protection, Technology, and Utilities Committee will hold a voting meeting to consider HB 1530 which would create privacy and transparency requirements genetic data collected through direct-to-consumer genetic testing.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 30, off-the-floor – The House Health Committee will hold a voting meeting on the following legislation:
  • HB 880 – Updating and closing loopholes within Pennsylvania’s Clean Indoor Air Act.
  • HR 271 – A Resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to establish an advisory committee and conduct a comprehensive study regarding the indoor air quality for seniors and children in this Commonwealth.

Below is some health care-related legislation introduced or co-sponsorship memos circulated this week:

  • Arvind Venkat introduced HB 1881 which would guarantee that Pennsylvania pharmacists’ vaccination practice authority can be guided by recommendations from Pennsylvania’s health authorities that may be informed by our state’s professional medical societies.
  • Rich Irvin filed a co-sponsor memo which proposed transferring the pharmacy delivery model in Medical Assistance (MA) from Managed Care back to a Fee-For-Service model as a means to impact reimbursements for pharmacies.
  • Cris Dush filed a co-sponsor memo proposing a Constitutional Amendment giving the General Assembly the authority to establish laws on venues for civil litigation in the Commonwealth as a way to address venue shopping in malpractice cases.
  • Lynda Schlegel Culver filed a co-sponsor memo to provide MA coverage for rapid whole genome sequencing (rWGS) for critically ill infants up to one year of age who are admitted to an inpatient intensive care unit with a complex illness.
  • Senators Michele Brooks and Lisa Boscola filed a co-sponsor memo for a resolution urging Congress to provide Pennsylvania with any and all assistance to help comply with the recent federal changes following the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued guidance to providers related to “Date of Death Recovery” following a recent audit noting recipient date of death discrepancies where recipients were deceased prior to the dates of service being billed.

DHS’ Office of Developmental Programs issued guidance for flu, RSV, and COVID vaccinations.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) issued general immunization guidance to clinicians in response to last week’s federal ACIP meeting. The list clarifies organizations for doctors and families to consult on vaccine recommendations.

DOH issued a health alert to providers with guidance on when and how to exclude health care personnel from direct patient care when they are experiencing respiratory illness symptoms.

DOH reminded long-term care facility providers that the annual long-term care questionnaire is due by October 24. Facilities were contacted directly with instructions to complete the web-based questionnaire. Any questions should be directed to Aicha Hassane Noma at ahassaneno@pa.gov or email RA-dohbhssurveys@pa.gov.

Insurance Department

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has confirmed the private insurance companies operating in the Commonwealth will continue to cover all of the vaccines covered under ACIP’s 2024 recommendations.

Around the State  

A group of statewide researchers have compiled a website which aims to track opioid settlement fund spending data in Pennsylvania, which is driven out primarily through counties.

Stakeholder Meetings

Medical Assistance Advisory Committee

The following materials presented at the September 25th meeting of the MAAC have been posted on the MAAC website:

2025-09-26T19:05:37+00:00September 26th, 2025|Governments, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget, Pennsylvania state budget issues, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 26
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PA Health Policy Update for May 2

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 28 – May 2.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate will reconvene in Harrisburg next Monday, May 5 through Wednesday, May 7. The following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity currently scheduled.

  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational meeting on Monday, May 5 at 10:00 a.m. regarding Pennsylvania’s Older Adult Protective Services Act (OAPSA). The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Building and livestreamed here.
  • The House Judiciary Committee will meet on Monday, May 5 at 11:00 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 282, which authorizes the Department of Corrections (DOC) to establish a medical assistance (i.e., Medicaid) reentry program for incarcerated individuals who are scheduled to be released and returning to the community. The meeting will be livestreamed here.
  • The Senate Institutional Sustainability & Innovation Committee will hold an informational hearing on Wednesday, May 7 at 9:30 a.m. regarding hospital and health system sustainability in Pennsylvania. The hearing will be held Room 8E-B and livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee will meet on Wednesday, May 7 at 9:00 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 1269, which establishes a Brain Injury Advisory Board at the Department of Health (DOH). The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Building and livestreamed here.
  • The House Insurance Committee will meet on Wednesday, May 7 at 10:00 a.m. to consider House Bill 1088, which expands maternal blood pressuring monitoring coverage, and House Bill 1140, which expands access to contraceptives. The meeting will be held in Room B-31 of the Capitol and livestreamed here. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued an updated Pennsylvania Medicaid Managed Care Directory.

DHS has issued its report on Medicaid managed care enrollment in Pennsylvania for the month of March 2025. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) commemorated its 120th Anniversary this week, reflecting on its history and mission of safeguarding the public’s health, and strengthening its commitment to improving health outcomes for all Pennsylvanians. Find additional information in this press release. 

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $6.2 billion in General Fund revenue in April, which was $363.2 million, or 6.2 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $39.4 billion, which is $328.8 million, or 0.8 percent, above estimate. 

Around the State  

  • City & State Pennsylvania has published an article about the federal funding challenges currently confronting medical and higher educations institutions.
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Harold Brubaker has written an article about the closure of Crozer Chester Medical Center in Delaware County. 
  • The Erie Times-News has published an article about Pennsylvania health experts’ reflections of COVID-era missteps amid an increase in measles cases. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – HIV Planning Committee – Meeting Cancelled

The Statewide HIV Planning Group public meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 14 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Thursday, May 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. has been cancelled. Find additional information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2025-05-02T20:27:52+00:00May 2nd, 2025|Financial, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 2
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PA Health Policy Update for October 4

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 30 – October 4.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened in Harrisburg this week. Following is a selection of relevant health care-related legislative activity.

  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 2295 and House Bill 2294, which allow a physician assistant to work with either an allopathic or osteopathic physician without having to obtain a license from both medical boards. The bills were subsequently received in the Senate and referred to the Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee.
  • The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Monday, September 30 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2548, which requires employers to provide paid sick leave. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Monday, September 30 for a public hearing on House Bill 2320, which addresses Medicaid dependency and timely reimbursement for long-term nursing home care. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Insurance Committee met on Monday, September 30 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2562, which prohibits annual and lifetime health care coverage limits. A recording of the hearing is viewable here. The Insurance Committee also met on Tuesday, October 1 for a public hearing on House Bill 1663 and the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in health insurance claims processes. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The Senate Aging & Youth Committee met on Tuesday, October 1 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 1303, which lowers the influenza vaccine offering from age 65 and older, down to age 50 and older. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met on Tuesday, October 1 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 155, which allows two-way video calls to satisfy the face-to-face requirement for job interviews for direct care workers.
    • House Bill 1608, which requires coverage of doula services in the Medical Assistance program.
    • House Bill 2084, which establishes a license for virtual prescription drug manufacturers.
    • House Bill 2127, which allows hospitals, birthing centers, physicians, and midwives or nurse-midwives to provide patients with information about postpartum depression and counseling resources.

A recording of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee is viewable here.

  • The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, October 2 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 2094, which establishes certain limitations on filial responsibility for outstanding medical bills.
    • House Bill 2549, which requires an autopsy to include an inquiry to determine whether the death was a direct result of a seizure or epilepsy.
    • Senate Bill 840, which creates an Alzheimer’s Disease and related disorders division within the Department of Aging and establishes an Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Related Disorders Advisory Committee.
    • Senate Bill 1080, which allows licensed practical nurses to make death pronouncements in the hospice setting.

A recording of the Health Committee meeting is viewable here.

    • The Human Services Committee met on Wednesday, October 2 for a public hearing on House Bill 2560, which makes statutory changes to ensure Pennsylvania is in compliance with CMS’ “four walls” requirement. Immediately following, the Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on House Bill 2560 and House Bill 2533, which creates a 988 public education campaign. A recording of the meetings is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene again for voting session Monday, October 7 through Wednesday, October 9. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced a Request for Applications (RFA) seeking managed care organizations to administer services for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) program. 
  • DHS has announced its intent to increase rates paid in its Behavioral HealthChoices program, which provides access to mental health, substance use disorder, and other behavioral health services for Medicaid recipients. Once approved by CMS, the new rates to the Behavioral HealthChoices Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) will be retroactive to July 1, 2024 for their current 2024 contract agreements. 
  • DHS announced an increase in the assessment fee that managed care organizations (MCOs) will pay per member per month as a means to generate federal matching funds to support the capitation payments. The increase, which becomes effective in January, is expected to generate an additional $223.531 million in assessment revenue for FY 2024-2025. 
  • DHS has shared the following presentations from the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) Consumer Subcommittee meeting on September 25.
  • The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) approved the DHS Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services regulations that were first proposed in 2022. With this revision, the regulations expand eligibility for psychiatric rehabilitation services to include individuals 14 years of age or older but under 18 years of age and expand the diagnoses that allow individuals to access PRS without going through the exception process. Find more information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 772) regarding health care and long-term care facility preparedness for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 771) with information about the outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and prevention strategies for U.S. travelers visiting countries with an outbreak.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 770) announcing that has received adequate supplies of Benzathine Penicillin G (Bicillin L-A®) and is now lifting the restrictions for the administration of Bicillin L-A® for individuals who are diagnosed with or suspected of having syphilis. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has issued a licensing alert regarding DDAP’s implementation of the updated federal regulations for the certification of Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs).

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $4.2 billion in General Fund revenue in September, which was $33.7 million, or 0.8 percent, less than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $10.1 billion, which is $20.2 million, or 0.2 percent, above estimate. 

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – October 10

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, October 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 18

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, October 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council – October 24

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a hybrid public meeting on Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find more information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – November 1

The Brain Injury Advisory Board (Board) will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-10-07T15:57:14+00:00October 4th, 2024|Governments, 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 October 4
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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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