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PA Health Policy Update for December 22

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from December 18 – 21.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). There will be no update the week of December 25. The next update will be Friday, January 5, 2024. 

Governor Shapiro 

The Shapiro administration has issued a press release highlighting its first-year public health accomplishments, including the expansion of maternal health services, support for emergency medical services, and more.  

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate are in recess until 2024. The Senate is scheduled to return to voting session on January 16 and the House is scheduled to return to voting session March 18. Find the House’s current 2024 session schedule here and the Senate’s schedule here. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued two Medical Assistance (MA) bulletins regarding the submission of claims, including those claims outside the 180-day timeframe, for MA beneficiaries whose MA coverage has been reinstated.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through January 2024. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin relating to prior authorization of pharmacy services for hypoglycemics, incretin mimetics/enhancers.
  • The public comment period for Pennsylvania’s proposed 1115 waiver application – Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania – is open through January 2, 2024. During this period, interested stakeholders can review the draft waiver application and provide comments online, in writing via mail, or during multiple advisory and stakeholder meetings. Those details can be found here. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has posted a solicitation for proposals that seek to foster and encourage innovative research for treatment and rehabilitative techniques for the functional improvement of people with spinal cord injuries. Find the solicitation on eMarketplace here.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 731) to alert health care providers of low vaccination rates against influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). DOH also advised health care providers that they should recommend and provide antiviral medications for influenza and COVID-19 for all eligible patients, especially patients at high-risk of progression to severe disease.
  • DOH has also issued a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 732) to notify health care providers of an increase in pertussis across Pennsylvania, primarily among high school students and their close contacts. Providers should have an increased suspicion of pertussis if patients have certain symptoms. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

2023-12-22T16:56:08+00:00December 22nd, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 22
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PA Health Policy Update for December 15

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

FY 2023-2024 Budget 

The General Assembly and Governor Shapiro enacted the remaining pieces of the FY 2023-2024 budget this week, including the Fiscal Code – House Bill 1300. The enactment of the Fiscal Code will enable approximately $1.1 billion that has been delayed since July to begin to be distributed. This includes $50 million for hospital financial relief, tobacco settlement funds, etc.  Find a summary of the various provisions in the Fiscal Code here. 

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro signed several bills into law this week. Following is a selection of health care-related laws enacted.

  • Senate Bill 414 (Act 59 of 2023) authorizes the establishment of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs by hospitals, mandates the creation of a comprehensive list of such programs, and authorizes a grant program to establish and support SANE services.
  • Senate Bill 683 (Act 43 of 2023) requires drug screening for fentanyl and xylazine, if a drug screening is conducted in a general acute care hospital to assist in diagnosing a patient’s condition.
  • Senate Bill 941 (Act 66 of 2023) enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers.
  • House Bill 1131 (Act 50 of 2023) removes the requirement for counties to operate state health centers in counties establishing their own local health departments. 

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for their final voting session of 2023 this week. In addition to the bills noted above that were enacted by the General Assembly and the governor, following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity from this week.

  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 1585, which establishes access and coverage for tele-dentistry in Pennsylvania, by a vote of 163-40. The bill will now be sent to the Seante for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives amended House Bill 181, known as the Family Medical Leave Act, on second consideration. The bill was subsequently referred to Appropriations and re-reported as amended. The bill still needs to be passed on third and final consideration before heading to the Senate.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Care met on Wednesday, December 13 for an informational meeting on the “cannabis regulatory landscape.” Find a recording of the proceeding here. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the addition of interprofessional consultation services to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule. These changes are effective for dates of services on and after January 1, 2024. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • The public comment period for Pennsylvania’s proposed 1115 waiver application – Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania – is open through January 2, 2024. During this period, interested stakeholders can review the draft waiver application and provide comments online, in writing via mail, during multiple advisory and stakeholder meetings, or through three upcoming virtual forums. Those details can be found here.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform providers about updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule related to the administration of COVID-19 vaccines.

Department of Health

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has sent a message to long-term care facilities regarding the methodology for calculating staffing ratios for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and nurse aides. The new methodology will go into effect January 1, 2024.
  • DOH has published an addendum to its solicitation for substance use disorder navigation services to increase emergency department capacity. Find the addendum and additional information regarding the solicitation here.
  • DOH has asked health care providers to report individuals with blood lead levels of 3.5 μg/dL or higher detected through venous, capillary or unspecified testing within three months after consuming a WanaBana, Schnucks, or Weis brand cinnamon applesauce or apple purée product containing cinnamon by securely emailing the following information to RA-DHBOE-RESPONSE@pa.gov or by fax: 717-772-6975. Find additional information in this Health Advisory issued by DOH. 

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has published its 2022 Hospital Performance Report. The report includes risk-adjusted, hospital-specific mortality and readmission ratings as well as volume of cases and average charges for patients discharged from Pennsylvania’s acute care hospitals between October 1, 2021, through September 30, 2022 

State Board of Medicine 

The State Board of Medicine has published proposed rulemaking submitted by the Board of Medicine effectuating Act 79 of 2021, which among other things, enables physician assistant written agreements to be effective upon being filed rather than approved. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Labor & Industry 

The Department of Labor & Industry has determined the maximum compensation payable under the Workers Compensation Act shall be $1,325 per week for injuries occurring on or after January 1, 2024. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulleton notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events

Pharmaceutical Assistance Board – December 18

The Department of Aging Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, December 18 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 

2023-12-18T16:30:15+00:00December 16th, 2023|long-term care, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 15
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PA Health Policy Update for December 8

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

Governor Shapiro 

In October, the Shapiro administration established the Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Council through Executive Order 2023-20. As the administration and Council begin their work, they have asked interested stakeholders to complete a brief survey to share their insights. The survey will remain open until December 14, 2023. 

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for session next week. Following are selected health care-related legislative proceedings currently scheduled.

  • The House Health Committee will meet on Monday, December 11 at the call of the chair to consider Senate Bill 683, which requires drug screening for fentanyl and xylazine, if a drug screening is conducted in a general acute care hospital to assist in diagnosing a patient’s condition.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Care will convene on Wednesday, December 13 at 9:00 a.m. in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building for an information meeting on the “cannabis regulatory landscape.”
  • The House Human Services Committee will convene on Monday, December 11 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 60 of the East Wing to consider Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the opening of a public comment period on its proposed 1115 waiver application – Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania. The public comment period will take place from December 2, 2023 through January 2, 2024. During this period, interested stakeholders can review the draft waiver application and provide comments online, in writing via mail, during multiple advisory and stakeholder meetings, or through three upcoming virtual forums. Those details can be found here.
  • DHS has announced the addition of a procedure code to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule for the administration of an influenza vaccine. The effective date and MA fee are indicated in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced the addition of the following procedure codes to the MA program fee schedule for the administration of bivalent doses of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines manufactured by Pfizer, Inc. and Moderna, Inc. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced it will require prior authorization of all prescriptions for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products that are designated as preferred on the Statewide PDL. These prior authorization requirements apply to prescriptions dispensed on or after January 8, 2024.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 728) notifying health care providers of an increase in mycoplasma pneumoniae activity internationally and in some U.S. jurisdictions.

DOH has published guidelines and fees that a health care provider or facility may charge in response to a request for production of medical charts or records. The guidelines and fees, which can be found in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice, are effective January 1, 2024. 

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue announced Pennsylvania collected $3.1 billion in General Fund revenue in November, which was $46.4 million, or 1.5 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $16.1 billion, which is $1.1 million below estimate. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

DHS – 1115 Waiver Public Forums – December 11, 12, and 15

DHS will hold a series of public forums for the public to ask questions and submit comments related to the Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania. Following is the schedule of forums.

  • Monday, December 11 at 12:00 p.m. Register to participate here.
  • Tuesday, December 12 at 6:00 p.m. Register to participate here.
  • Friday, December 15 at 9:00 a.m. Register to participate here. 

Board of Nursing – December 11

The State Board of Nursing will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, December 11. Find the agenda and details on how to participate in the meeting here.

Pharmaceutical Assistance Board – December 18

The Department of Aging Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, December 18 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – ABC-MAP Board – 2024 Meeting Dates

The Pennsylvania Achieving Better Care by Monitoring All Prescriptions (ABC-MAP) Board has published its 2024 meeting calendar. Find the meeting dates and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 

2023-12-11T14:42:46+00:00December 8th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 8
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PA Health Policy Update for November 17

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

General AssemblyHouse Chamber of the State House

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

  • The House of Representatives unanimously passed Senate Bill 500, which provides Medicaid coverage for pasteurized donor human milk, as amended. The Senate subsequently concurred with the House amendments and sent it to the governor’s desk.
  • The Senate unanimously passed House Bill 507, which requires health care providers to obtain informed consent, both verbal and written, before performing a pelvic examination, a rectal examination, or a prostate examination while the patient is anesthetized or unconscious. The House subsequently concurred with the Senate amendments and sent it to the governor’s desk.
  • The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 668, which permits certified nurse aides to become certified medication aides (CMA) in long-term care facilities, assisted living residences, and personal care homes. Following Senate passage the bill was received in the House and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The House Human Services Committee held a meeting on Monday, November 15 and favorably reported House Bill 1650, which authorizes the establishment of a grant program for recovery houses, and House Bill 1690, which establishes a public awareness campaign about the growing threat of Xylazine.
  • The House Health Committee held a meeting on Wednesday, November 15 and favorably reported House Bill 1657, which eliminates exemptions in the state’s Clean Indoor Air Act and expands the definition of smoking to include e-cigarettes, and Senate Bill 414, which authorizes the establishment of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs by hospitals, mandates the creation of a comprehensive list of such programs, and authorizes a grant program to establish and support SANE services.

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through December. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has announced it will add sexually transmitted infection (STI) test kits for at-home specimen collection to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program fee schedule, effective with dates of services on and after December 1, 2023. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health is soliciting applications from hospitals and health systems for up to $325,000 in grant funding to support care navigators in emergency departments as part of the Pennsylvania Substance Use Navigation Program. One grantee will be selected in each of four regions, based on the location of the emergency department where care will be provided, and funds can be used to build and implement health system-wide clinical capacity to screen, diagnose, and support longitudinal care for opioid use disorder and stimulant use disorder and support recovery for adults and adolescents. The RFA closes on January 16, 2024.

In anticipation of the holiday season, DOH has issued vital safety tips to avoid holiday accidents. On behalf of DeBrunner & Associates, we hope you don’t burn the turkey and wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – November 29

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, November 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Patient Safety Authority – December 7

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Thursday, December 7 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-11-17T21:07:32+00:00November 17th, 2023|Governments, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, 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 November 17
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PA Health Policy Update for November 10

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

2023 General Election

Pennsylvania voters went to the polls this week to cast their ballots for a series of judicial, county, and municipal elections. Democrat Dan McCaffrey defeated Republican Carolyn Carluccio in a highly contested and expensive race to fill a vacancy on Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court. Democrats also won state-wide races for the superior and commonwealth courts. For detailed state and county election results, visit the Department of State’s website here. 

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro announced this week his administration will require all commercial insurers to “meet their obligations under Pennsylvania law” to provide coverage for autism benefits. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice published by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department and this press release issued by the Shapiro administration. 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate were in recess this week. Both chambers will return to Harrisburg next week and be in session Monday, November 13 through Wednesday, November 15.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued several medical assistance bulletins relating to prior authorization for pharmacy services.

DHS has published final notice of the fee schedule rates for community participation support, Needs Group 5 Residential Habilitation and group music therapy, art therapy and equine assisted therapy services funded through the Consolidated, Community Living and Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS) Waivers. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS is issued a Remittance Advice Alert notifying providers that a claims recovery was done to recoup monies paid in error due to date of death discrepancies uncovered in a recent audit.

DHS has published an updated Medicaid Managed Care Organization (MCO) Directory.  

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced the beginning of the open enrollment period for Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, for 2024 coverage. The enrollment period will last until December 15. Find additional information in this PID press release. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) held its Emerging Drug Trends Symposium this week. This annual event gathers key stakeholders to review current drug trends, innovative approaches to connect people who use drugs to treatment and other social services, identify gaps in services, and provide a venue for stakeholders to network. Find additional information in this DDAP press release. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – November 16

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – November 29

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, November 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-11-17T20:58:20+00:00November 10th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for November 10
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PA Health Policy Update for October 13

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

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro has announced that he signed Executive Order 2023-20 establishing the commonwealth’s first Behavioral Health Council. The 33-member council is tasked with developing a state-wide action plan to enhance and streamline the coordination and delivery of behavioral health care services and improve access to care. 

Governor Shapiro has signed House Bill 1209 and House Bill 1407 into law. These bills, now known as Act 11 and Act 9 of 2023, respectively, make various changes to ensure Pennsylvania remains in compliance with the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement and isn’t exposed to litigation that would jeopardize tobacco settlement funding. 

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for voting session next Monday, October 16 through Wednesday, October 18.

The House of Representatives’ Health Committee will meet on Wednesday, October 18 at 9:45 a.m. in Room G50 of the Irvis Office Building to consider the following bills.

  • House Bill 1417, which restores dental coverage for Medical Assistance recipients.
  • House Bill 1585, which establishes access and coverage for tele-dentistry in Pennsylvania.
  • House Bill 1694, which requires the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs to create an annual report on the use of opioid settlement funds by state and county governments.
  • Senate Bill 500, which requires Medicaid coverage for medically prescribed pasteurized donor human milk. 

The Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled to meet off the floor on Monday, October 16 to consider, among other bills, Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers. 

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published final notice of its intent to increase to the funding and change the payment methodology for a class of disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-2023. These payments will provide financial relief to hospitals that provided access to acute care services for Medical Assistance (MA) beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has announced that PROMISe will have an extended maintenance window beginning 9:00 p.m. on October 20 to 2:00 p.m. on October 22.  During this window all PROMISe functions, including provider enrollment applications, will be unavailable.  For Pharmacy claims, DHS is directing pharmacies to dispense 5-day supplies of drugs and submit claims when the system is back online.

Auditor General  

Auditor General Tim DeFoor has announced the department will conduct a performance audit of state contracts and oversight of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) used by the Department of Human Services’ HealthChoices Medicaid Program. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

  • DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 20

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, October 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – October 26

The Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, October 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – November 2

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

The Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network, 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA in the Cambria conference room. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-10-13T19:39:11+00:00October 13th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 13
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PA Health Policy Update for October 6

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

FY 2023-20204 Budget Update 

The General Assembly continues to work on finalizing the FY 2023-2024 state budget. This week the state House of Representatives passed an amended version of the Fiscal Code (House Bill 1300) by a vote of 121-82 and sent it back to the Senate for consideration. The House of Representatives also passed an addendum to the General Appropriations Act (House Bill 1456) and a tax code (House Bill 1219) and sent them to the Senate for consideration. These pieces of legislation were not negotiated with Senate leadership in advance, so it is unclear how the Senate will proceed, or when the FY 2023-2024 budget process will be completed. 

General Assembly 

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for session in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care focused legislative activity.
    • The House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 165, which directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to examine the effect of workforce shortages on state-supported Medicaid home and community-based services waiver programs.
    • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee held an informational meeting on Tuesday to examine barriers to addiction treatment. Immediately following the information meeting, the committee held a voting meeting and favorably reported the following bills.
      • Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers.
      • Senate Bill 721, which establishes the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) advisory board.
      • House Bill 1351, which makes certain changes to the Rural Health Redesign Center Authority.

Find a recording of the hearing here.

    • The House Health Committee’s Subcommittee on Health Facilities held an informational meeting on Wednesday to examine the effects of hospital consolidation. Find a recording of the hearing here.
    • The House Human Services Committee and Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held a joint informational meeting Wednesday on personal care homes and assisted living facilities. Find a recording of the hearing here.
  • The state House of Representatives and Senate are now recessed until Monday, October 16. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to make one-time enhanced supplemental payments to eligible public and non-public Medical Assistance (MA) nursing facilities. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh has reminded Pennsylvanians who receive health care coverage through Medicaid or CHIP that the cost of COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments are covered by the programs. Find additional information in this press release issued by DHS.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin announcing the addition of new procedure codes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program for vaccine administration.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin notifying providers about updates to the provision of Medicaid-covered services to beneficiaries experiencing homelessness when delivered in their lived environment, also known as “street medicine.”
  • DHS has published Provider Quick Tip #270 with important information for providers who are required to revalidate clinicians at multiple locations.
  • DHS has shared the following presentations used at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on September 28.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has invited stakeholders to participate in an information-gathering listening session regarding patient access to controlled substances in the commonwealth. The listening session will be held on Wednesday, October 11 from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Find additional information on how to register and participate here.

DOH has announced it will be implementing new regulatory requirements for all long-term care facilities beginning October 31. The new requirements include changes to the application for licensure, which will require additional information, documentation, and public disclosure. DOH has provided interpretive guidance for these changes on its website here.

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $4.1 billion in General Fund revenue in September, which was $140.2 million, or 3.3 percent, less than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $9.8 billion, which is $167.4 million, or 1.7 percent, below estimate. 

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 20

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, October 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – October 26

The Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, October 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

The Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network, 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA in the Cambria conference room. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-10-10T14:33:03+00:00October 6th, 2023|Financial, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 6
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PA Health Policy Update for September 29

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 25 – 29.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro announced the launch of a new economic development strategy this week that aims to make Pennsylvania a leader in job creation and innovation. Tuesday’s announcement was the first step in creating the state’s first comprehensive economic growth strategy in almost two decades.  The strategy will be an assessment of the areas of strength, an analysis of barriers to growth, and concrete goals and initiatives to guide policymaking and investment decisions moving forward. 

General Assembly 

  • The state House of Representatives convened in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care focused legislative activity.
    • The Health Committee met on Wednesday, September 27 and favorably reported, among other bills and resolutions, House Resolution 143, which directs the Joint State Government Commission to study Pennsylvania’s response to COVID-19. Find a recording of the hearing here.
    • The Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Wednesday, September 27 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1527, which increases the personal needs allowance for Medical Assistance-eligible residents living in nursing facilities, and House Resolution 165, which directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to examine the effect of workforce shortages on state-supported Medicaid home and community-based services waiver programs. Find a recording of the hearing here.
  • The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene in Harrisburg next Monday, October 2 through Wednesday, October 4 for voting session.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Facilities will hold an informational meeting on Wednesday, October 4 at 9:00 a.m. to examine hospital closures and consolidation.
  • The House Human Services Committee and Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will hold a joint informational meeting on Wednesday, October 4 at 9:00 a.m. on personal care homes and assisted living facilities.  

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin announcing the addition of new procedures codes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program for vaccine administration.

DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to notify dental providers of updates to the 2023 Pediatric Dental Periodicity Schedule.

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has announced the 2024 individual and small group Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance rates. The open enrollment period for Pennsylvania’s state-based insurance exchange, Pennie, will be November 1 to December 15.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has published its annual list of 35 diseases, procedures, and medical conditions for which data shall be required. Find the comprehensive list in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – October 2

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, October 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

The Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network, 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA in the Cambria conference room. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-09-29T19:55:37+00:00September 29th, 2023|long-term care, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 29
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PA Health Policy Update for September 22

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 18 – 22.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building 

  • The state Senate convened for voting session this week. The following bills were passed on third and final consideration.
    • House Bill 1209 and House Bill 1407 make various changes to ensure Pennsylvania remains in compliance with the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement and isn’t exposed to litigation that would jeopardize tobacco settlement funding. Both bills will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
    • Senate Bill 712 allows clinical laboratories certified by the federal government to directly or indirectly advertise or solicit business for diagnostic laboratory testing under certain terms and conditions. Following passage, the bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Health Committee.
    • Senate Bill 773 makes various changes to the Medical Marijuana Act. Following passage, the bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The House Health Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, September 20 on House Bill 1657, which amends the Clean Indoor Air Act. A recording of the hearing may be viewed here.
  • Democrat Lindsay Powell won a special election Tuesday, September 19 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Representative Sara Innamorato (D – Allegheny), who’s running for Allegheny County Executive. Powell’s victory will preserve the Democrat’s one-seat majority in the House of Representatives.
  • The state House of Representatives will convene next Monday, September 26 and Tuesday, September 27 for voting session. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with updates to electronic visit verification requirements for pediatric home health aide services in the fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems.
  • DHS has announced its intent to allocate $258 million for FY 2023-2024 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through October. Find the updated calendar here.

Department of Health 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported this week that a team of epidemiologists from the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) was the first to identify the transmission of Legionella from an organ directly to a transplant patient. This finding will help protect transplant recipients from serious lung infections. The published research can be viewed in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

DOH has released a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 719) with recommendations regarding the updated (2023-2024) Monovalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. 

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

DHS – Consumer Subcommittee of the MAAC – September 27

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a meeting on Wednesday, September 27 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda may be viewed here. The meeting will be held in person at the Keystone Building in the Forrest Room (400 North St., Harrisburg, PA). To participate virtually, register here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) – September 28

The MAAC will hold a meeting on Thursday, September 28 at 10:00 a.m. The agenda may be viewed here. The meeting will be held in person at the Keystone Building in the Forrest Room (400 North St., Harrisburg, PA). To participate virtually, register here. 

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – October 2

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, October 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

2023-09-22T18:52:13+00:00September 22nd, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medicaid supplemental payments, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 22
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PA Health Policy Update for September 15

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

Governor Shapiro 

The Shapiro administration announced on Monday, September 11 that the Department of Human Services will begin reviewing and updating the data used to set rates for home and community-based services for Pennsylvanians with intellectual disabilities and autism. Find additional information in the administration’s press release here. 

General Assembly 

  • The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 20 at 9:30am on House Bill 1657, which amends the Clean Indoor Air Act. The legislation clarifies the definition of a workplace, expands the definition of smoking to include e-cigarettes, and gives all localities the ability to enact smoke-free ordinances that exceed minimum state standards. The hearing will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.
  • The state Senate will convene for voting session Monday, September 18 through Wednesday, September 20. The state House of Representatives will remain in recess next week. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of the expansion of childhood nutrition and weight management services for Medical Assistance (MA) beneficiaries under 21 years of age. The expansion includes pharmacotherapy as a result of changes to coverage of obesity drugs and updated guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as coding changes stemming from the 2023 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System updates.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin advising providers of procedure code updates to the MA program fee schedule for the provision of pediatric shift care services provided by home health aides through home health agencies to MA beneficiaries under 21 years of age. The changes are effective with dates of service on and after October 1, 2023.
  • DHS has published Provider Quick Tip #269 to remind providers that they may bill for, and prescribers may order, certain incontinence products.
  • DHS has issued a Remittance Advice (RA) Alert notifying community support service providers of the Federal Financial Participation rate change for the new federal fiscal year, which begins on October 1, 2023.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 717) with important information for providers regarding severe Vibrio vulnificus (V. vulnificus) infections in the United States associated with exposure to coastal waters. Since May 2023, there have been three Pennsylvania residents with V. vulnificus infections, all of whom were exposed to coastal water in the days leading up to disease onset.

Department of Aging 

The Department of Aging has released a Master Plan for Older Adults White Paper, which is intended to serve as a reference guide for aging stakeholders and interested individuals as they formulate and submit comments for the state’s master plan for older adults. Additional information about the development of the state’s master plan for older adults and how to comment may be found here. 

Board of Nursing 

The State Board of Nursing has published proposed rulemaking regarding opioid prescribing and organ donation education for certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs). Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

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.

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – September 20

The state-wide Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 20 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Participants can also access the meeting virtually. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Patient Safety Authority – September 21

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a board meeting on Thursday, September 21 at 1:00 p.m. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

2023-09-15T20:01:07+00:00September 15th, 2023|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 September 15
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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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