Pennsylvania Bulletin Archives - Page 14 of 20 - Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

PA Health Policy Update for June 23

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from June 20 – 23. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

General Assembly

The House and Senate returned to Harrisburg this week for voting session. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

The Senate voted to confirm Governor Josh Shapiro’s nominees for the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, and Pennsylvania Insurance Department, Michael Humphreys. A recording of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee confirmation hearing can be viewed here. A recording of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee confirmation hearing can be viewed here.

The General Assembly passed SB 262, which requires the Maternal Mortality Review Committee to publish severe maternal mortality data. The bill will now be sent to the governor.

The House unanimously passed HB 1209 and HB 1407, which enable Pennsylvania to meet its obligations under the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) with tobacco product manufacturers and ensure the state is able to continue receiving funds from the tobacco settlement for health-related programs.

The Senate adopted SR 46 to establish the Task Force on Women Veterans’ Health Care to study the health care and access issues facing women veterans.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Tuesday, June 20 at 10:30 a.m. to consider the following bills.
- SB 683, which requires an acute-care hospital to include testing for fentanyl if the hospital conducts a urine drug screening to assist in the diagnosis of a patient’s condition. The bill was reported as amended, to include xylazine.
- SB 768, which makes changes to the Pennsylvania Rural Health Redesign Center Authority (RHRCA) Act, including financing of the authority and board membership. The bill was reported as committed.
- SB 817, which creates a primary care workforce initiative for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). The bill was reported as committed.

A recording of the meetings can be viewed here.

The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Wednesday, June 22 at 11:30am to consider HB 850, which requires the Departments of Health and Human Services to apply for a waiver if the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service creates and makes a waiver available to the states that would allow those receiving SNAP and WIC to use those programs for menstrual hygiene products. The bill was reported as amended. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

The House and Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 26.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform Medical Assistance (MA) providers that DHS has added CPT code 0174A to the MA Program Fee Schedule for the administration of an additional bivalent dose of the COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Pfizer, Inc.

DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through July. Find the updated calendar here.

DHS has announced the proposed Nursing Facility Assessment Program details for FY 2023-24, including the proposed assessment amount, the proposed assessment methodology, and the estimated aggregate impact on nursing facilities that will be subject to the assessment under the Nursing Facility Assessment Program. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4)

PHC4 has published volume one of its annual analysis of the financial performance of Pennsylvania’s acute-care hospitals. The analysis found that hospital total margins across the state decreased 7.59 percentage points in FY 22. Go here to find a PHC4 news release describing the agency’s report, the report itself, and a link to downloadable data from the report.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) submitted comments to the Department of Human Services on their regulation #14-543: Protective Services for Adults.

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – June 28

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

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

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

DOH – Specialty Pharmaceutical Benefits Program – July 20

The next Specialty Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council meeting will be held virtually on Thursday, July 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Go here for details on how to participate.

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – July 27

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, July 27 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person. The agenda will include discussions about Board member terms; updates from the Bureau of Family Health; and updates from the Lysosomal Storage Disorders/X-ALD, Cystic Fibrosis, Hemoglobinopathy and Critical Congenital Heart Defects subcommittees. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2023-06-23T21:27:26+00:00June 23rd, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for June 16

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

U.S. Health & Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra has sent a letter to governors urging states to adopt all options that HHS has offered to help eligible individuals and families maintain their health coverage during the redetermination process and leverage all partners to support individuals and families to complete renewal forms.

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro signed House Bill 739 (Act 2 of 2023) into law on Wednesday. Act 2 creates new cyber security-related requirements for health insurers and allows the Insurance Commissioner to adopt National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Valuation Manual exemptions by notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

General Assembly

The state House returned to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 12. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

The House Insurance Committee held a voting meeting Monday, June 12 at 11:00am to consider HB 1050, requiring health insurers to cover preventive health care services without cost-sharing. The bill was reported as amended. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here. The Insurance Committee was expected reconvene on Wednesday, June 14 to consider HB 1140; however, the meeting was cancelled.

The House Health Committee held a voting meeting Wednesday, June 14 to consider the following bills:
- HB 78, establishing the Medical Debt Relief Program. The bill was reported as amended by a vote of 18-3.
- HB 807, providing for perimenopause and menopause education. The bill was reported as committed by a vote of 20-1.
- HB 817, amends the Pharmacy Act to provide education on drug take back programs. The bill was reported as committed by a vote of 20-1
- HB 818, creates the Pharmaceutical Collection Sites Educational Program within the Department of State. The bill was reported as amended by a vote of 18-2.
- HB 1209 and HB 1407, add two enforcement mechanisms to the Tobacco Product Manufacturer Directory Act and the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Act, which resolved legal claims between the commonwealth and participating manufacturers relating to health care costs for treating smoking-related illnesses. The bills were unanimously reported as committed.
- HB 1351, which makes changes to the Pennsylvania Rural Health Redesign Center Authority (RHRCA) Act, including financing of the authority and board membership.
- SB 262, amends the Maternal Mortality Review Act to would add “severe maternal morbidity” to the list of reportable events within the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

The Senate will return to Harrisburg Monday, June 19 and the House will return Tuesday, June 20 for voting session. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee will hold a voting meeting on Tuesday, June 20 at 10:30 a.m. to consider the following bills.
- SB 683, which require an acute-care hospital to include testing for fentanyl if the hospital conducts a urine drug screening to assist in the diagnosis of a patient’s condition.
- SB 768, which makes changes to the Pennsylvania Rural Health Redesign Center Authority (RHRCA) Act, including financing of the authority and board membership.
- SB 817, which creates a primary care workforce initiative for our Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).

Immediately following, the Senate Health & Human Services Committee will hold a public hearing to consider the nomination of Dr. Latika Davis-Jones for Secretary of the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP).

Both meetings will be held in Room 8E-A East Wing and will be live streamed here.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 704) notifying providers of an anticipated increase in Legionellosis cases due to seasonality.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has shared the agenda for the June 22 Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting. In advance of the meeting, DHS has also shared the public input it received regarding the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board prior authorization guideline briefing documents discussed at the May 25 meeting.

DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin informing providers the department has rescinded the statement of policy codified at § 1101.51a, which clarified the term “within a provider’s office” and updated the process for the enrollment or revalidation of providers that are in co-located arrangements. Effective January 14, 2023, providers who are in co-location arrangements no longer need to complete the attestation form during enrollment or revalidation in the MA Program.

The Executive Board approved a reorganization of DHS. Additional information and a revised organizational chart is available in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has announced the addition of a procedure code to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program Fee Schedule for the administration of an additional bivalent dose of the COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Pfizer, Inc. The effective date and MA Fee for the code is indicated in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has issued Licensing Alert 04-2023 to provide clarification on how to calculate client to counselor ratios for inpatient, non-hospital treatment and rehabilitation facilities for regulatory compliance.

Department of Aging

The Department of Aging held its first regional town hall in southeastern Pennsylvania to seek input on Pennsylvania’s Master Plan for Older Adults, which will be a 10-year, state-led strategic plan designed to transform the infrastructure and coordination of services for older Pennsylvanians. Governor Shapiro’s executive order directing the department to develop the plan is available here.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee Meeting – June 22

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

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – June 28

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

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

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

PA Safety Net Admin2023-06-17T00:10:13+00:00June 16th, 2023|Federal Medicaid issues, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for May 26

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

Governor Shapiro

On Thursday Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2023-09 directing the Department of Aging to prepare and develop a Master Plan for Older Adults, which will serve as a 10-year roadmap to meet the needs of Pennsylvania’s senior population and improve commonwealth services for older Pennsylvanians. Find additional information in this press release issued by the governor’s office.

General Assembly

The state House returned to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

The House Health Committee held a voting meeting Monday, May 22 to consider, among several resolutions, HB 1131 sponsored by Representative Lisa Borowski, which would remove the requirement for counties to operate state health centers in counties establishing their own local health departments. The bill was unanimously reported as committed. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Tuesday, May 23 to consider, HB 849 sponsored by Representative Mike Schlossberg, to allocate funding for the Behavioral Health Commission on Adult Mental Health’s recommendations for funding, and HB 931 sponsored by Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, to establish the Kinship Care Legal Assistance Grant Program, which was reported as amended. HB 849 was reported as amended and the amended text can be found here. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

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

The House Human Services Committee will hold a joint hearing with the House Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee Monday, June 5 on the next generation of emergency and mental health response. The hearing will be held at 10:30am in Room 140 of the Main Capitol and will be live streamed here.

The House Health Committee will hold a voting meeting Tuesday June 6 to consider HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios and HB 754, which provides a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission into a nursing home facility that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits. The meeting will be held at 10:00am in Room 205 of the Ryan Office Building and will be live streamed here.

The Senate Health and Human Services Committee will hold a public hearing Tuesday, June 6 on Pennsylvania’s EMS crisis and long-term sustainability. The hearing will be held in Room 8E-A East Wing and will be live streamed here.

Department of Health

The Department of Health has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 697) with information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding an outbreak of suspected fungal meningitis among U.S. patients hospitalized in Texas.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the addition of certain procedure codes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule for the administration of additional bivalent doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines manufactured by Moderna and Pfizer. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has announced updates to the MA program fee schedule for evaluation and management (E&M) procedure codes, including making adjustments to the fees for some procedure codes. These updates are effective for dates of service on and after June 1, 2023. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has announced the addition of procedure codes G0312 and G0315 to the MA program fee schedule for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) and novel coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine counseling only visits. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Materials from the May 24 meeting of the Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee viewed here.

Materials from the May 25 meeting of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee meeting may be viewed here.

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released its initial revenue estimate for FY 2023-2024. The IFO estimates General Fund revenues of $45.292 billion for FY 2023-2024, which is a 1.3 percent increase over the current fiscal year. Find the report and corresponding presentation here.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission posted the following final regulations for public comment.

State Board of Medicine – IRRC No. 3332 – Acupuncturists and Practitioners of Oriental Medicine (16A-4956)

State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure – IRRC No. 3331 – Licensure by Endorsement (16A-6713)

Stakeholder Events

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

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

PA Safety Net Admin2023-05-28T01:20:56+00:00May 26th, 2023|Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for May 5

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

Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination

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

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

Governor Shapiro

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

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

General Assembly

The state House and Senate returned to Harrisburg on May 1 for voting session. Below is coverage of selected health-related proceedings.

- The House Health Committee held a public hearing Tuesday, May 2 on HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.

- Representative Jennifer O’Mara (D-Delaware), Representative Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne) and Senator Carolyn Comitta (D-Chester) held a press conference Wednesday on hospital closure reform. More information can be found here.

- The House Republican Policy Committee held a public hearing Thursday, May 4 on hospital pricing transparency. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.

- The Senate voted to confirm Governor Josh Shapiro’s nominee for the Secretary of Aging, Jason Kavulich, this week. A recording of the confirmation hearing in the Senate Aging and Youth Committee can be viewed here.

- The Senate Health and Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Tuesday, May 2 to consider among other bills:
  - SB 100, Establishing the Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illness Diagnosis and Treatment Act. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
  - SB 262, Amends the Maternal Mortality Review Committee Act regarding reportable events. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
  - SB 414, Expanding access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
  - SB 500, Provides for Medicaid Coverage for Pasteurized Donor Human Milk. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
  - SB 549, Requires consent for pelvic, rectal, and prostate exams. The bill was unanimously reported as amended.
  - SB 555, Reducing the loaded mileage requirements for EMS Medicaid reimbursement. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

The state Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 8. The state House is recessed and will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

- The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an information meeting Wednesday, May 10 at 10:00am to receive updates from local Area Agencies on Aging and to discuss scams targeting older adults. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.

Office of the Attorney General

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

Department of Health

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

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to increase the funding and amend the payment methodology for the COVID-19 disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for FY 2022-23. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS published final notice of its intent to allocate funding and amend the qualifying criteria and payment methodology allocation for DSH payments to acute-care general hospital trauma centers. These payments will amount to $18.034 million in total funds. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS published final notice of its funding allocation for FY 2022-23 supplemental payments to promote the continuation of quality medical services to individuals enrolled in the Pennsylvania Medical Assistance (MA) Program, and to provide financial relief to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS published updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program Fee Schedule for administration of a booster dose of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has announced the temporary extension of the Alternative Payment Methodology (APM) for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Rural Health Clinics (RHC) for the administration of COVID-19 vaccines administered during a COVID-19 vaccine-only visit. The APM will be extended beyond the end of the federal PHE to September 30, 2024. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) shared a notice issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Civil Rights (OCR) informing stakeholders there will be a 90-day transition period following the conclusion of the federal PHE for covered health care providers to come into compliance with HIPAA rules for telehealth. The transition period will be in effect from May 12, 2023 to 11:59 p.m. on August 9, 2023.

DHS has issued an updated Provider Quick Tip (#263) regarding the electronic submission process in the PROMISe Portal for Office of Medical Assistance Fee-for-Service (FFS) and Office of Long Term Living (OLTL) 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation.

DHS issued a corrected April Medical Assistance Bulletin (MAB) list. A prior version was shared with the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) at its April 27 meeting.

Revenue Collection Update

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

Stakeholder Events

DOH – WIC Advisory Board – May 10

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

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

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

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 18

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – May 24

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 25

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

PA Safety Net Admin2023-05-05T21:19:20+00:00May 5th, 2023|Federal Medicaid issues, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for April 14

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

General Assembly

The House and Senate Appropriations Committees concluded their budget hearings this week.
- On Tuesday, April 11, the Department of Human Services appeared before the House Appropriations Committee. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here and here.
- On Wednesday, April 12, the Department of Human Services appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here and here.
- On Thursday, April 13, the Department of Health appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.

The House Health Committee held an informational hearing Wednesday, April 12 on prescription drug affordability boards. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.

The House Democratic Policy Committee held a public hearing Thursday, April 13 on black maternal health. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.

The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing Thursday, April 13 on PACE/PACENET, the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and AARP. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.

The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational hearing Thursday, April 20 at 1:00pm on The State Master Plan on Aging. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and can be livestreamed here.

The House Children and Youth Committee will hold a public hearing Thursday, April 20 at 10:00am on overcrowding in Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Detention Facilities. The hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and can be livestreamed here.

The state House and Senate are currently recessed. They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24.

Department of Health

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

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for ages 18 years or younger, United States, 2023. This bulletin replaces the 2022 recommended vaccine schedule.

DHS issued Provider Quick Tip #41, which is an updated Medical Assistance (MA) Desk Reference with provider contacts.

DHS issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform MA providers that DHS added Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes 0164A (Moderna, Inc.) and 0173A (Pfizer, Inc.) to the MA Program Fee Schedule for the administration of additional bivalent doses of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines.

DHS issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to inform providers of updates to the Emergency Medical Condition Information Eligibility form.

Around the State

The Pennsylvania Capital Star reported on the House Appropriations Committee’s examination of Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2023-24 budget for DHS.

The Scranton Times Tribune wrote about the continued nursing shortage in Pennsylvania and its impact on the health care system.

Spotlight PA published, “Pa. Medicaid reenrollment: What you need to know to keep your health insurance or find other options.”

Stakeholder Events

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27

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

Patient Safety Authority – April 27

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

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program – May 4

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

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

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

DHS – Dual Diagnosis Conference – May 18

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

Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council – 2023 Meeting Dates

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

PA Safety Net Admin2023-04-14T20:25:48+00:00April 14th, 2023|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Uncategorized|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for March 31

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

General Assembly

The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, March 29 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 155, which removes the requirement that direct-care workers be interviewed in person for a position, and House Bill 507, which requires medical schools, teaching hospitals, and medical institutions to receive explicit patient consent for all procedures and exams performed under anesthesia by medical students or for training purposes.

The Departments of Health, Aging, and Drug & Alcohol Programs appeared before the House Appropriations Committee for their respective budget hearings this week. A recording of the hearings can be viewed here.

The House and Senate Appropriations Committees will continue budget hearings the week of April 10. A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here, and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be viewed here.

The state House and Senate are currently recessed. They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings.

Department of Health

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

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

Department of Human Services

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

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

Board of Nursing

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

Around the State

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

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

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

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – April 12

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

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27

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

PA Safety Net Admin2023-04-05T18:10:50+00:00March 31st, 2023|COVID-19, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for Friday, March 10

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 4 to March 10. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro delivered his first budget address before the General Assembly this week. The themes highlighted throughout his speech included investing in public safety and public health, creating opportunity by growing the state’s economy, expanding the workforce, ensuring that every child has access to a quality education, and increasing access to mental health services. In total, Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2024 budget would spend $45.8 billion, a $2.5 billion or 5.9 percent increase over the current fiscal year. For further information about the proposed budget, see the following resources:

General Assembly

The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 8 this week. This legislation requires insurers to cover costs associated with genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. It also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer pursuant to Act 52 of 2020. Senate Bill 8 was received in the House and referred to the Insurance Committee.
The state House and Senate appropriations committees will begin hearings on Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2024 budget the week of March 20. A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be viewed here.
The state House and Senate are now recessed until the conclusion of budget hearings. Both chambers will return to session on Monday, April 24.
The House Democratic Caucus announced its 2023-2024 legislative session committee chairs this week. Representative Dan Frankel will serve as chair of the Health Committee and Representative Stephen Kinsey will serve as chair of the Human Services Committee. A complete list of the House committee chairs can be viewed here.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has posted a notice to inform presumptive eligibility providers of care to pregnant women that the income guidelines used to determine presumptive eligibility have been updated effective January 12, 2023. Go here to see the notice, which includes information about the criteria for qualifying for presumptive eligibility and the new income guidelines.
DHS has posted a reminder that all Medicaid-enrolled providers who dispense hearing aid supplies to Medicaid patients must submit a copy of their renewed Department of Health certification to MA Provider Enrollment by March 16 to continue providing and billing DHS for hearing aid supplies. Find that notice here.
DHS has issued a request for information seeking stakeholder input and information concerning the current Community HealthChoices agreement for the anticipated re-procurement of Community HealthChoices managed care organization contracts. Specifically, the state seeks information on the statement of work for the upcoming re-procurement before issuing a request for application for vendors to bid on program participation. Go here to learn more about the request for information and what the state seeks from interested parties. The deadline for submitting comments is April 14.
DHS has shared minutes from the February 23 meeting of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee and minutes from the January 25 meeting of that committee’s consumer subcommittee.
Acting DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh has written an op-ed column outlining how the state will work with its Medicaid population and various organizations to determine the continued eligibility of current participants in the face of the end of the continuous Medicaid eligibility that was part of the federal government’s and the state’s response to the economic challenges posed by COVID-19. That column was published in several newspapers across the state; find an example here from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. The ideas outlined in this op-ed column are reinforced and explained in greater detail in this Shapiro administration news release.

Department of Health

The Department of Health has issued a request for applications to award grants to local health departments, health systems, health clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers, Rural Health Clinics, non-profit organizations, local governments, 501(c)(3) organizations, and other clinical providers serving the 10 counties with the highest suicide rates in Pennsylvania (Venango, Blair, Dauphin, Berks, Luzerne, Lycoming, Wayne, Franklin, Sullivan, and McKean counties) for a suicide prevention pilot program. It seeks to fund applicants addressing evidence-based suicide prevention strategies for youth between the ages of 15 and 24 and creating local inventories of suicide prevention resources. The overall goal of this funding is to promote the reduction of factors that increase risk and increase factors that promote resilience among disproportionately affected populations especially among Pennsylvania youth. Learn more from this solicitation notice, which includes a link to the request for applications. Applications are due by April 6.
The Department of Health has published decisions on recent requests for exceptions to health care facility regulations. Find those decisions in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

COVID-19: By the Numbers

The number of new COVID-19 cases reported daily in Pennsylvania fell 19 percent over the past week after falling 17 percent the previous week. In addition, the number of daily deaths has declined slightly.
According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 fell 16 percent last week after a nine percent decline the previous week and was below 1000 for the first time since May of 2022. The number of COVID-19 patients on ventilators declined 17 percent last week and the number in hospital ICUs fell 28 percent and is down into double digits – 98 – for the first time since July of 2022.
The CDC reports an 18 percent decline in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19 after a 13 percent decline the previous week.
For the week ending March 8, 10 Pennsylvania counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 29 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and the remaining 29 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission. This reflects a significant improvement over recent weeks.

Stakeholder Events

Patient Safety Authority – Board Meeting – March 16

The Patient Safety Authority board will meet virtually on Thursday, March 16 at 1:00. For information about participating in the meeting, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 23

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

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

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

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

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

jsteinbock2023-03-10T21:19:08+00:00March 10th, 2023|COVID-19, HealthChoices, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2023 budget, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 24

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

General Assembly

The state House convened for a special session this week and approved two measures addressing the statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse – House Bill 1 and House Bill 2. Both pieces of legislation provide a two-year window for victims of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims.
The state House and Senate will meet for regular session next week – Monday, February 27 through Wednesday, March 1.
The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, February 28 to consider Senate Bill 8, which requires insurers to cover costs associated with genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. It also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer pursuant to Act 52 of 2020.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has updated its calendar for the delivery of Remittance Advice (RA) notices, electronic fund transfers, and mailing reimbursement checks into early April. Find the updated calendar here.
DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin advising providers that it will begin covering shadow nursing for private duty/shift nursing services provided to Medical Assistance beneficiaries under 21 years of age effective with dates of service on and after January 1, 2023. The bulletin includes a procedure code and rate information. Find the bulletin here.
DHS has released its physical health managed care program enrollment report for January.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs has sent a notice to stakeholders explaining that with adoption of the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, Congress has eliminated the “DATA-Waiver Program.” For DEA registrants, this means that DATA-Waiver registration is no longer required to treat patients with buprenorphine for opioid use disorder; all prescriptions for buprenorphine only require a standard DEA registration number; there are no longer any limits or patient caps on the number of patients a prescriber may treat for opioid use disorder with buprenorphine; and in Pennsylvania, no current state laws or regulations prohibit practitioners from adopting this change. The law also introduced new training requirements for all prescribers that will take effect on June 21. States now await further guidance on these requirements. Go here to see the message the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs shared with stakeholders.

COVID-19: By the Numbers

The number of new COVID-19 cases reported daily in Pennsylvania and the number of new daily deaths in the past week declined slightly compared to last week.
According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 and on ventilators held steady over the past week while the number in hospital ICUs rose 17 percent.
The CDC reports a 13 percent increase in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19.
For the week ending February 22, two Pennsylvania counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 13 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and the remaining 52 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission – all the same numbers as last week.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee Meeting – March 1

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee will meet in Harrisburg on Wednesday, March 1 at 10:00. For information on the location of the meeting or how to participate virtually, see this DHS notice.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council – March 2

The members of PHC4 will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 2 at 10:00. For further information about the location of the meeting and its agenda, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Aging – Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council – March 9

The Department of Aging’s Long-Term Care Council will meet in Harrisburg on Thursday, March 9 at 10:00. For information on the location of the meeting or how to participate virtually, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs – Adolescent ASAM Criteria – March 9

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

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

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 23

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

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

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

jsteinbock2023-02-24T20:10:53+00:00February 24th, 2023|COVID-19, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 10

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 4-10. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

General Assembly

Three special elections were held this week to fill vacancies in the state House of Representatives. Matt Gergley (D) was elected to represent the 35^th legislative district, where he will take the seat formerly held by Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. Abigail Salisbury (D) was elected to represent the 34^th legislative district, replacing former Representative Summer Lee, who was elected to Congress in November. Joe McAndrew (D) was elected to represent the 32^nd legislative district, filling the seat left vacant by the death of Tony DeLuca. When the three members are sworn in later this month Democrats will have 102 seats in the House and Republicans will have 100 after Senator-elect Linda Schlegel Culver resigns her House seat to be sworn in to the state Senate.
The state House has scheduled additional session days and the chamber will return to session on Monday, February 21. Click here to view the updated calendar.
Republican members of the state House Appropriations Committee held a roundtable discussion this week with several Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs). Go here to learn more about the event and see a list of the MCO participants.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has posted information about new medical group provider access to the PROMISe provider internet portal for the reactivation or revalidation of changes of group members. Starting on February 24, active provider groups that need to reactivate, revalidate, or make changes to group members will be able to log onto the portal with their active group credentials. Learn more from this DHS notice.

Department of Health

The Department of Health has issued a health advisory informing providers of an outbreak of highly drug-resistant pseudomonas aeruginosa associated with artificial tears products. No such cases have been reported in Pennsylvania. Learn more about the outbreak, the condition, and how to identify and treat it from this Department of Health advisory. Providers who diagnose the condition are asked to report it to the state or their local health department.

The Department of Health has proposed adding mucopolysaccharidosis type II disorder (MPS II) to the supplemental conditions mandated for screening and follow-up as part of the state’s newborn screening program as of July 1. Learn more about the condition and how to submit written comments in response to this proposed addition to the screening program from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. Comments are due within 30 days of the notice’s February 11 official publication.

COVID-19: By the Numbers

The number of new COVID-19 cases reported daily in Pennsylvania rose slightly over the past week and the number of new daily deaths declined slightly. Both figures fall within the general range for the state in recent months.
According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 and in hospital ICUs with the virus fell slightly over the past week and the number on ventilators declined 31 percent.
The CDC reports no change over the past week in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19.
For the week ending February 8, five Pennsylvania counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 16 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and the remaining 46 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs has awarded $9 million in grants to four county agencies to establish or expand crisis stabilization services for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Learn more about the grant recipients and how they are expected to use the money from this department news release.

Stakeholder Events

Department of Health – Preventative Health and Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee Meeting – February 13

The Department of Health’s Preventative Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will meet in Harrisburg on Monday, February 13 at 1:00. For information on the location of the meeting or how to participate virtually, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health – WIC Advisory Board – February 14

The Department of Health’s WIC Advisory Board will meet virtually on Tuesday, February 14 at 1:00 to gather suggestions of strategies for increasing participation in and improving the WIC program. For information about how to obtain the meeting agenda and participate, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.