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PA Health Policy Update for July 17

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

Budget Update

The General Assembly passed a comprehensive Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2027 budget. The state Senate passed House Bill 2400 – the General Appropriations Act – by a vote of 44-6. The House of Representatives passed it by a vote of 167-35, sending the bill to Governor Shapiro who offered quick signature to conclude the process. Additionally, the Governor quickly signed the Fiscal Code Bill along with other budget-related bills, enacting the various pieces of legislation necessary to implement the FY 2026-27 budget agreement.

In the health and human services space, the $50.8 billion spending plan provides new spending for Medicaid supports under PA’s approved federal 1115 Waiver, an increase in the floor for the Budget Adjustment Factor (BAF) for nursing facilities under Medical Assistance, a rate increase for the LIFE Program, and offers $41 million in new behavioral health dollars to support the 988 crisis hotline, walk-in stabilization clinics and other transition supports to individuals reentering the community out of the criminal justice system or state hospital care, among other areas.

The budget was balanced through the utilization of “cycle rolls” – which will push Medicaid capitation payments into other fiscal years as well as utilizing $1.2 billion in lapsed funds. The Rainy Day fund remains untouched as legislators did not utilize any of its balance to help close a budget deal. 

General Assembly

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

  • Rep. Liz Hanbidge released a co-sponsor memo for a comprehensive update to the Child Protective Services Law and a co-sponsor memo to update the Uniform Law Commission model law for advance healthcare directives.
  • Rep. Dan Williams and Rep. Tina Pickett issued a co-sponsor memo to broaden the allowance of advanced practice professionals to provide on-site coverage for behavioral health care provided through telehealth.
  • Rep. Sean Dougherty circulated a co-sponsor memo for a resolution directing a Legislative Budget & Finance Committee study on behavioral health care in county jails.
  • Rep. Dan Frankel and Rep. Bryan Cutler introduced HB 2702, legislation to repeal the sunset date for the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council.

The state House will return on September 9th and the state Senate returns on September 28th.

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department released its 2026 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Updates, Fee Adjustments and Other Procedure Code Changes.

DHS issued its August 2026 Remittance Advice Date guidance for providers.

The Department shared a Medical Assistance Bulletin for Prior Authorization Guidelines for Standers.

DHS also shared a preview of their All courses | MyODP training portal, a new resource for self-paced learning designed to support families and caregivers as they navigate the complex and often challenging landscape of pediatric complex care.

Department of Health

The Department of Health has exercised its one-year extension of the temporary scheduling of Nitazene substances as a Schedule I substance.

DOH issued a Health Advisory Network alert regarding cyclosporiasis and provider considerations and testing recommendations.

The Department of Health launched a measles dashboard to keep Pennsylvanians better informed about cases and ongoing efforts to contain the spread among people who are unvaccinated.

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) released the Cardiac Procedures Report today, displaying performance ratings and utilization data for several cardiac procedures performed in Pennsylvania acute care hospitals, hospital outpatient departments, and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) from Jan. 1, 2023 through Dec. 31, 2024. 

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released a budget brief that updates the General Fund financial statement based on the FY 2026-27 enacted budget.  The brief updates the IFO estimate of the FY 2026-27 structural deficit to $5.03 billion, down from $5.56 billion. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening & Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on July 23rd from 10am-Noon.

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold its monthly meeting on July 23rd at 10am. Register here. The MAAC Consumer Subcommittee will meet on July 22nd at 1pm. Register here.

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will host its quarterly stakeholder webinar at 3pm on July 23rd. Register here.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on July 30th from 10am-Noon.

DOH’s HIV Community Prevention & Planning Committee will hold public meetings on August 19th from 9-12pm & August 20th from 9-2pm.

The Department of Health’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday August 20th from 10am- Noon. 

Federal Update

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

2026-07-17T23:01:51+00:00July 17th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for July 17
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PA Health Policy Update for July 10

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

Budget Update

Pennsylvania’s state budget is now more than a week late. The General Assembly was not able to come to an agreement this week, despite warnings from local leaders about the lasting impacts of budget impasses over the last five years. Stakeholders are optimistic that an agreement can be found this weekend.

Senators will return to Harrisburg for a nonvoting session on Friday for committee meetings and voting sessions are expected to take place on Saturday and Sunday. The House Appropriations Committee is planning to meet on Saturday night, and the full House will convene for a voting session at noon on Sunday.

The Pennsylvania Revenue Department released final Fiscal Year 2025-26 collections, which were $1.1 billion above the original estimate. 

General Assembly

The House and Senate were not in Session this week. The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

  • Sen. Judy Ward issued a cosponsor memo describing legislation to create an attestation process for ambulatory surgical facilities to add new services and update the Medicare covered procedures list used by the Department of Health.
  • Rep. Dan Frankel and Minority Leader Bryan Cutler notified legislators that they will soon introduce legislation to remove the sunset provision governing the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council’s (PHC4) operations.
  • Rep. Liz Hanbidge plans to introduce legislation to cap the cost of epinephrine delivery systems and limit out-of-pocket costs for consumers to $35.
  • Rep. Natalie Mihalik circulated a cosponsor memo on her plan to introduce a bill urging action by the FDA to address ongoing shortages of hormone replacement therapy medications, particularly transdermal estradiol products. 

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS announced the availability of $25 million in Rural Health Transformation Funds to support qualified onboarding with the statewide health information exchange, the Pennsylvania Patient and Provider Network (P3N). Eligible applicants include hospitals, nursing facilities, home health agencies, behavioral health providers, substance use disorder providers, group homes, and intermediate care facilities and each provider type is subject to an award cap. Applications open on July 27 and will remain open until August 14. Find more information in this PA Bulletin notice and stay tuned to this DHS webpage for the application form.

DHS updated its Provider Quick Tip #85 on the Breast & Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment program.

The Commonwealth Office of Digital Experience (CODE PA) is working with the DHS’s Bureau of Human Services Licensing to survey providers on their experience with applying for and maintaining licenses issued by the commonwealth. Interested providers can complete this short survey to show interest in participating in virtual interviews with CODE PA researchers.

DHS has announced the replacement SNAP benefits available for Pennsylvanians affected by recent severe weather and power outages.

The Pennsylvania Capital-Star reports that one year after President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which added work requirements for certain Medicaid recipients and reduced federal aid for administering food benefits, 98,000 fewer Pennsylvanians are receiving food benefits.

Elsewhere, the Pennsylvania Capital-Star reports that Pennie (the state’s Affordable Care Act marketplace) enrollment has dropped by 160K after federal subsidies expired.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) issued a health alert with information on New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly, that has been identified in livestock in Texas and New Mexico. Providers are advised to suspect infection in patients with recent travel to these areas.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold its monthly meeting on July 23 at 10am. Register here. The MAAC Consumer Subcommittee will meet on July 22 at 1pm. Registration can be found here.

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will host its quarterly stakeholder webinar at 3pm on July 23. Register here. 

Federal Update

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

2026-07-11T15:58:54+00:00July 10th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget, Pennsylvania Rural Health, Pennsylvania state budget issues, Rural Health Transformation Program|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for July 10
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PA Health Policy Update for June 26

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

Budget Update

Tuesday’s budget deadline approaches and key negotiators and legislative leaders continue to discuss options to close an agreement. Part of those options may be utilizing the Rainy Day Fund if other proposed revenue options such as the taxation and regulation of adult -use cannabis and skill games are not agreed-to by the Governor, House, and Senate. Even parties reluctant to agree to utilizing the Rainy Day fund last year such as Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman, acknowledge, “It’s going to be a difficult task to not have any conversation about the Rainy Day Fund.” Additionally this week, legislative efforts were underway to remove tax breaks for data centers in both the House and Senate. 

General Assembly

The House and Senate were in session from Monday to Thursday and provided the following actions:

  • Monday June 22nd
    • The House voted 200-2 to approve and send HB 377 to the Senate. This bill would prohibit the sale, manufacture, or delivery of tianeptine, often called “gas station heroin” in Pennsylvania.
    • The Senate advanced SB 1352, 45-5, over to the House which allows for two-year licensure for addiction treatment providers.
  • Tuesday, June 23rd
    • The House voted unanimously on HB 75 and HB 76, both of which addressed dual recognition for Physician Assistants by removing the requirement of PAs to maintain the same board licensure as their supervising physician.
    • The House passed HB 1127 by a margin of 136-66. This legislation authorizes the Commonwealth to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
    • The Senate unanimously supported SB 730, the PA Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment legislation which outlines orders during end-of-life decisions.
  • Wednesday, June 24th
    • The House unanimously voted to send HB 2162, legislation to streamline the wholesale drug manufacturing licensure process, to the Senate.
    • HB 2621, which would fund the Department of Health Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), was voted favorably out of the House by a margin of 190-12.
    • The Senate moved SB 482 by a party-line vote over to the House. This legislation would increase education and awareness provisions for the LIFE Program.
    • The Senate unanimously advanced SB 1206, legislation to streamline the wholesale drug manufacturing licensure process, to the House.
    • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee advanced several bills; HB 69 unanimously, which is legislation formalizing unused pharmaceutical drug donation programs; SR 216, 8-5, requiring the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee conduct an audit of PA’s Medicaid program; HB 1117, unanimously, which shifts to recovery-focused language within the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs operating statute.
    • The Senate Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee held a voting meeting to amend HB 1460, the mergers & acquisitions in healthcare bill by a 8-3 margin. The bill was sent to the full Senate by a margin of 9-2.
    • The House Insurance Committee held a voting meeting to amend HB 2226, legislation addressing co-pay accumulator policies, and HB 2652, legislation acknowledging out-of-pocket costs in cash pay or online prescription marketplace transactions by insurers. Both bills were amended in committee and advanced by a 14-12 vote. The Committee also reported out in a 14-12 vote HB 2653, which is legislation requiring insurers to accept any willing, qualified behavioral health provider into network and referred several healthcare-related bills to other committees.

The House and Senate return to session on Monday, June 29th as they work towards the June 30th Budget Deadline.

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

  • Rep. Steve Malagari issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring insurance coverage for infertility care.
  • Rep. Emily Kinkead released a co-sponsor memo for legislation allowing the Commonwealth to purchase generic naloxone.
  • Sen. Frank Farry circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation to broaden EMS transportation options for patients with behavioral health crisis needs.
  • Sen. Tracy Pennycuick issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to prevent fraudulent claims within PA’s insurance marketplace, Pennie ®.
  • Rep. Bridget Kosierowski introduced HB 2649, which would require access to fertility coverage for patients diagnosed with cancer.
  • Rep. Tarik Khan proposed HB 2648, legislation to prevent insurers from changing coverage terms or premiums during a contract year.
  • Rep. Arvind Venkat introduced HB 2673, legislation requiring insurance coverage of preventative services as recommended by several national health authorities.
  • Sen. Steve Santarsiero introduced SB 1399, legislation to require advanced emergency planning and preparation for nursing home facilities. 

Department of Aging

The Department released the PA Long Term Care Council’s meeting schedule for 2026. 

Department of Health

The Department issued a Health Alert Network release with guidance to medical providers in response to the ongoing measles outbreak in certain counties in PA. 

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department released its proposed methodology for the Nursing Facility Assessment Program payments for FY 2026-2027. Public comment on the proposed assessment methodology will be accepted for 30 days and can be filed to the Department of Human Services, Office of Long-Term Living, Bureau of Policy and Regulatory Management, Attention: Benjamin Spager, P.O. Box 8025, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8025 or at RA-PWOLTLNFPUBLICCOM@pa.gov.

DHS issued notice of proposed amendments to the Commonwealth’s State Plan to update payments and methodology for the Budget Adjustment Factor for nursing facilities. Interested persons are invited to submit written comments regarding the BAF formula during a 30-day public comment period to the Department of Human Services, Office of Long-Term Living, Bureau of Policy Development and Communications Management, Attention: Benjamin Spager, P.O. Box 8025, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8025 or at RA-PWOLTLNFPUBLICCOM@pa.gov.

The Department also issued proposed case-mix rates for payments to nonpublic and county-operated nursing facilities. Interested persons are invited to submit written comments regarding the proposed annual rates for FY 2026-2027 to the Department of Human Services, Office of Long-Term Living, Bureau of Policy Development and Communications Management, Attention: Benjamin Spager, P.O. Box 8025, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8025 or at RA-PWOLTLNFPUBLICCOM@pa.gov. Comments received within 30 days will be reviewed and considered.

DHS released Prior Authorization Guidelines for Upper Extremity Orthoses.

The Department also shared its May 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS is hosting a public hearing for public comment on the proposed LIHEAP state plan on July 2nd, both from 10am – Noon.

DOH’s Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold their public meeting on July 17th.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on July 30th from 10am-Noon.

DOH’s HIV Community Prevention & Planning Committee will hold public meetings on August 19th from 9-12pm & August 20th from 9-2pm.

The Department of Health’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday August 20th from 10am- Noon. 

Federal Update

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

2026-06-26T20:10:52+00:00June 26th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 26
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PA Health Policy Update for June 5

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

General Assembly

The House and Senate returned to session on Monday June 1st and provided the following actions:

  • Monday, June 1st
    • The House sent HB 2254, which allows limited medical cannabis access in healthcare facilities, to the Senate by a vote of 174-27.
  • Tuesday, June 2nd
    • The House amended HB 69, legislation creating a more formalized framework around unused cancer drug donation programs, by broadening out the bill to all pharmaceutical drugs.
    • The House Health Committee approved HB 2162 by 25-1 with an amendment, legislation to streamline wholesale pharmaceutical state licensure; HB 2341 by 20-6 with an amendment, which would create a Health Care Facility Threat Assessment Grant Program. These bills have advanced to the full House for consideration.
    • The Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee unanimously advanced SB 866, which would set Medetomidine as a Schedule III Drug.
  • Wednesday, June 3rd
    • The House unanimously passed HB 69, unused prescription drug repository legislation, sending the bill to the Senate for consideration.

For the upcoming week, we anticipate the following activity:

  • Monday, June 8th
    • The Senate Appropriations Committee will consider SB 866, which would set Medetomidine as a Schedule III Drug, and HB 1442, which places additional requirements on coroners to ensure epilepsy death reporting accuracy.
    • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will meet to vote on HB 1611, a comprehensive update to the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
  • Tuesday, June 9th
    • The House Human Services Committee will hold an informational meeting on Complex Care Assistant Programs.
  • Wednesday, June 10th
    • The Senate Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee will meet to consider SB 1133, which would update membership of the Board of Pharmacy, and  SB 1334, which proposes additional regulations and oversight of medical imaging and radiation therapy.
    • The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing on HB 2270, which would require PA to utilize a single pharmaceutical benefit administrator model for the Medicaid program.

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

  • Sen. Lynda Culver circulated a cosponsor memo for legislation that would require employment history reviews for positions requiring direct care of and contact with older adults.
  • Rep. Bridget Kosierowski introduced HB 2583, which would increase reimbursement rates for durable medical equipment.
  • Rep. Keith Harris introduced a package of three bills aimed at increasing prostate cancer prevention, education, and awareness efforts.
  • Rep. Mary Jo Daley introduced HB 2605, which would codify an explicit right to access and use fertility treatments in PA.
  • Rep. Justin Fleming released HR 551, commissioning a behavioral health crisis study
  • Senator Michele Brooks formally introduced SB 1352, legislation providing for multi-year licensure for addiction treatment providers. 

Department of Health

The Department released updated guidance for clinicians for Hantavirus disease surveillance.

The Department issued interpretive guidance to clarify its expectations on the administration of anesthesia in hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities. This interpretive guidance is responsive to requests from the regulated community for clarity on what constitutes anesthesia and which health care providers can administer anesthesia 

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

As part of these updates, the Department launched a new website to highlight the changes in Medicaid. This will be updated as new information is provided by CMS.

Independent Fiscal Office

Commonwealth revenues are beating projections by close to a billion dollars for the fiscal year. The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released revenue projections for fiscal year (FY) 2025-26. May General Fund collections of $3.31 billion were $14 million (+0.4%) more than projected, while fiscal-year-to-date (FYTD) collections of $44.97 billion are $846 million (+1.9%) above estimate. (The comparable figures for the administration’s estimate released November 2025 are -$65 million (-1.9%) and $928 million (+2.1%)). Compared to the prior year, May collections were $73 million (+2.3%) higher and FYTD collections are $2.30 billion (+5.4%) higher.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold its board meeting on June 23rd at 1pm.

DHS’ Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will be hosting two Listening Sessions on the 55 Pa. Code Chapter 5250 Crisis Licensing Regulations. Sessions are intended to provide a high-level summary of changes being made to the final form package based on the comments received and to gather provider perspectives on those specific areas. Those interested can register below.

The Department of Health’s Preventative Health and Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on June 10th from 9am to 10am to receive testimony on the block grant application.

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening and Follow Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on June 11th from 10am to Noon.

DHS is hosting two public hearings to take public comment on the proposed LIHEAP state plan on June 25th and July 2nd, both from 10am – Noon. 

Federal Update

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

2026-06-06T01:56:22+00:00June 5th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 5
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PA Health Policy Update for May 15

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

General Assembly

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

  • Rep. Greg Scott and Rep. Liz Hanbidge issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to formally schedule Medotomidine as a Schedule III Controlled Substance.
  • Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Sen. Lisa Boscola circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation to further streamline the prior authorization process for mental health treatments.
  • Sen. Chris Gebhard released a co-sponsor memo for a resolution directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to study the potential impacts of federal review of state-based essential benefit mandates implemented since the creation of the Affordable Care Act and potential future financial obligations to the Commonwealth that may result from federal action.

Primary Elections will be held on Tuesday May 19th along with a Special Election to fill the vacant seat in the 196th Legislative District in York County. The House and Senate will return on Monday June 1st.

Department of Health

The Department issued two Health Alert Network notices for an outbreak of measles in Lebanon County and guidance for healthcare practitioners related to hantavirus. 

Department of Human Services

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

DHS issued its June 2026 Remittance Advice Date for providers.

Federal Update

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

CMS shared a unified guidance document for the EPSDT Program including guidance shared through the past few decades into one stop.

2026-05-15T20:52:18+00:00May 15th, 2026|Federal Medicaid issues, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 15
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PA Health Policy Update for April 24

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

Rural Health Transformation Program

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

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

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

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

General Assembly

The Senate held session earlier week addressing the following issues:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities. Recently highlighted in DHS’ Human Services Helpers Substack was a toolkit for Long-Term Care Services & Caregivers to help all parties better understand and navigate the enrollment process.

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

The Department issued its March 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

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

Department of Health

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

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

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

Federal Update

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

2026-04-24T20:24:41+00:00April 24th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 24
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PA Health Policy Update for April 3

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

Rural Health Transformation Program

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

Maternal Health

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

General Assembly

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

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

DHS issued several Medical Assistance Bulletins for the following areas:

The Department shared their February 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

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

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

Department of Health

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

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

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

Federal Update

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

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

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

Budget Update

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

Rural Health Transformation Program

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

General Assembly

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

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

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

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

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

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

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

Department of Health

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

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

Federal Update

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

 

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

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

General Assembly

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

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

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

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

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

DHS issued April 2026 Remittance Mailing Date Advice.

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

Department of Health

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

Federal Update 

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

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

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

General Assembly

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

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

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

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

Department of Health

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

State Board of Pharmacy

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission will review proposed updates to the State Board of Pharmacy’s Final Immunization Regulation Updates at a public meeting on March 19th at 10am.

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

Federal Update

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

2026-03-13T17:42:49+00:00March 13th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 13
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Home / About Us / Advocacy / Why Join? / SNAPShots / Contact Us

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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