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PA Health Policy Update for March 6

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

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee hearings were held this week examining the Governor’s 26-27 Budget with executive agencies. Below are links to watch the relevant health & human services hearings that have been held so far along with a schedule for forthcoming hearings in the next two weeks.

Upcoming Hearings:

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

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

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

Department of Human Services

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

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

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

Department of Health

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

Department of Aging

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

The Council on Aging released their 2026 Meeting Schedule. 

Federal Update

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

2026-03-06T17:30:01+00:00March 6th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 6
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PA Health Policy Update for February 27

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

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee hearings were held this week examining the Governor’s 26-27 Budget with executive agencies. Below are links to watch the relevant health & human services hearings that have been held so far along with a schedule for forthcoming hearings in the next two weeks.

Upcoming Hearings:

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

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

  • Rep. Tarik Khan introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation allowing students to carry and  self-administer pancreatic medications at school.
  • Sen. Michele Brooks introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation to implement reforms around the 340B program.
  • Sens. Tracy Pennycuick and Nick Miller released a co-sponsor memo requiring insurance coverage for fertility preservation for patients prior to cancer treatment.
  • Sen. Devlin Robinson issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to address the cost of topical medications in PA’s workers’ compensation system.
  • Sen. Maria Collett released a co-sponsor memo for legislation that would create benchmarks for healthcare cost growth to align with inflation.
  • Sens. Judy Ward and Maria Collett issued a co-sponsor memo for a resolution recognizing Rare Disease Day in PA.
  • Sen. Vince Hughes introduced, Senate Bill 1161, a General Fund Budget Bill for the 26-27 Fiscal Year
  • Rep. Kyle Mullins introduced House Bill 2173 to regulate and license medical imaging and radiation therapy.
  • Rep. Joe Webster released House Bill 2241 which would require broader medical price transparency

Department of Human Services

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

DHS released its fee schedule rates for Personal Assistance Services in the OBRA Waiver and Act 150 Program.

The Department issued an MA Bulletin on Prior Authorization Guidelines for Blood Glucose Meters with Voice Synthesizer or Integrated Lancing Blood Sample.

DHS released its January 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

Department of Health

DOH released its list of hospitals that may not provide emergency contraception or sexual assault emergency services.

The Department issued notice of availability of its proposed Preventative Health and Human Services Block Grant Application to the US Department of Health & Human Services. A public hearing will be held on the application on June 10th from 1:30-2:30pm. The Preventative Health & Human Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will also hold a public meeting on March 25th from 1:30 to 2:30pm to discuss status of funding.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC scheduled public meetings for consideration of State Board of Medicine Education and Volunteer Services Regulations on March 19th.

The State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists & Professional Counselors released proposed regulatory updates for 30 day public comment. This proposed rulemaking includes amendments relating to qualifications for licensure, supervisor qualifications, supervision of clinical experience, including the provision of supervision through electronic means, codes of ethics, professional corporations and fictitious names and continuing education. This proposed rulemaking is also necessary to comply with recently enacted laws. 

Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 issued notice of public meetings from March through May 2026. 

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

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

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

The Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council released its 2026 Meeting Schedule. 

Federal Update

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

2026-02-27T21:54:20+00:00February 27th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for February 27
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PA Health Policy Update for January 30

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from January 26 – January 30 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor’s Office

Governor Shapiro will offer his annual budget address, laying out his priorities for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year Budget, before a joint session of the House and Senate on Tuesday Feb. 3rd. You can watch the address live at 11am on Tuesday.

The Governor’s Office of Policy & Planning released its updated Regulatory Agenda detailing estimated timelines for the release of proposed or final regulations to the Independent Regulatory Review Commission. The Department of Health estimates that it will publish proposed changes to the hospital regulations in May 2026. 

General Assembly

The House and Senate will both convene next week in session Monday through Wednesday and will convene in joint session for the Governor’s Budget Address Tuesday morning.

The House also has another vacancy as Rep. Seth Grove of York County resigned his office effective January 31st. Rep. Grove most recently chaired the House Labor & Industry Committee and previously chaired the House Appropriations Committee. Until special elections are finalized this leaves the House with five vacancies and a balance of power at 100 (D) – 98 (R).

The House passed HB 348, sponsored by Rep. Tim Bonner, by a measure of 199-0. This legislation would require nursing facilities to make residents aware of the option to have legal counsel assist residents with their eligibility for Medical Assistance. The bill now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

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

  • Rep. Justin Fleming issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to create a tax credit program for Direct Support Professionals.
  • Rep. Brenda Pugh released two emergency services-related co-sponsor memos. The first would require additional transparency for the Emergency Services Operating Fund (EMSOF) and the other would create a Fire & EMS Recruitment & Retention Grant program.
  • A co-sponsor memo released by Rep. Kyle Mullins and Rep. Bryan Cutler would create regulations and licensure requirements for medical imaging professionals.
  • Representatives Lisa Borowski, Paul Friel, and Thomas Kutz introduced HB 2162 which would allow for companies to apply for a state pharmaceutical licensure concurrently with FDA approvals.
  • Rep. Bridget Kosierowski introduced HB 2164 which would create a Complex Care Assistant certification for family members of medically fragile children.
  • Sen. Cris Dush released a co-sponsor memo directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to perform a study examining the PA Medicaid program.
  • Senators Katie Muth, Lindsey Williams, and Nikil Saval circulated a co-sponsor memo establishing combined tax reporting for businesses in Pennsylvania.
  • Sen. Maria Collett released a co-sponsor memo for legislation maintaining coverage for Affordable Care Act- required preventative services. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department highlighted nine grants totaling $1.9M for Single County Authorities supporting fourteen counties to support the expansion and development of recovery houses and recovery support services.

Department of Health

DOH issued notice of the inclusion of Deuchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP) supplemental conditions list for the Newborn Screening Program effective Jan. 1, 2027.

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 notice of Medical Assistance Day One Incentive (MDOI) payments for nonpublic nursing facilities.

The Department released notice of renewal of the OBRA Waiver and the Community Health Choices Waiver. Both waiver updates would add teleservice delivery, behavior therapy, and benefits counseling, among others.

DHS shared Prior Authorization guidelines for Manual Hospital Beds and Accessories and Face and Ear Prosthesis.

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 issued a report detailing data behind the closures of Brandywine Hospital and Jennersville Hospital.

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office released its 2026 Mid-Year Revenue Update. The report details prior revenue estimates vs actual revenues for the Commonwealth. The IFO continues to issue caution on a structural deficit for the Commonwealth at current spending & revenue levels.

Joint State Government Commission

As directed by House Resolution 170 of 2023, the Joint State Government Commission released a report and advisory committee recommendations on the Adoption and Use of Artificial Intelligence in Pennsylvania. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Organ Donation Advisory Committee will meet on Thurs. Feb. 5th at 10am.

DOH’s Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Fri. Feb. 6th from 10am to 3pm.

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Tues. Feb. 10th at 1pm. 

Federal Update

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

2026-01-30T21:48:31+00:00January 30th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for January 30
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PA Health Policy Update for January 9

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from January 5 – January 9 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Schedules for the House Appropriations Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee have been released in advance of the Governor’s forthcoming 2026-2027 Budget Proposal.

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

  • Rep. Joe Webster issued a cosponsor memo for legislation requiring price transparency for all medical offices and ensuring compliance with federal price transparency legislation for hospitals;
  • Chairman Dan Frankel released a cosponsor memo seeking increased transparency on the 340B Drug Pricing Program 

Department of Aging

The Department is soliciting public comment on an evaluation of the PA Link and a strategic refresh plan. A listening session will be held on Jan. 27th at 2pm. 

Department of Health

The Department published a listing of laboratories authorized to perform blood lead analysis or erythrocyte protoporphyrin content analysis.

Department of Human Services

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

The Department published final form regulations for Covered Outpatient Drugs effective as of Jan. 3rd 2026.

DHS released a transcript of the December 4th Medical Assistance Advisory Committee meeting.

The Department published annual notice of Inpatient Hospitals Qualifying for Medical Assistance Disproportionate Share Payments (DSH Payments).

DHS issued final notice of its $23 Million Supplemental Payments to Qualifying Hospitals funding allocation for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-2025 to establish a new class of supplemental payments to qualifying Medical Assistance (MA) enrolled general acute care hospitals to promote the availability of emergency department services to the MA population in an area of this Commonwealth with the highest number of MA beneficiaries.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC issued comments on DHS’ proposed Crisis Intervention Services Licensure Regulations.

The Commission also issued a Notice of Comments on the State Board of Optometry’s proposed Continuing Education Regulation changes.

The State Board of Social Work Examiners proposed rulemaking following (Act 4 of 2024) that directs the board to promulgate regulations to implement the amendments to the act, which provides for the licensure of Associate Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Disease Advisory Committee will meet for its quarterly public meeting on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold public meetings on Jan. 21-Jan. 22 from 9am-3pm on both days.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefit Program Advisory Council will meet on Thursday Jan. 29, 2026, from 10a.m. to 12p.m. The Council will offer guidance and recommendations to the Department on the program’s drug formulary, covered lab services, drug utilization review, clinical programs, eligibility and program management.

DOH’s Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, February 6th 2026 from 10am to 3pm.

The Department of Health released its 2026 ABC-MAP Meeting Schedule. 

Federal Update

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

2026-01-10T08:32:53+00:00January 9th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for January 9
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PA Health Policy Update for December 31

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from December 22 – December 31 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Rural Health Transformation Program

The Shapiro Administration announced Pennsylvania’s $193 million portion of federal Rural Health Transformation Program funds. As previously shared in other updates, the Administration’s plan focuses on several initiative areas to drive federal investment:

  • Technology & Infrastructure
  • Workforce
  • Maternal Health
  • Behavioral Health
  • Aging & Access
  • EMS & Transportation

Investments will be coordinated through Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) organizations, already existing regional economic collaboratives, and coordination with locally created Rural Care Collaboratives steered by regional stakeholders and healthcare leaders. Updates on these investments will be shared as more information becomes available. 

Reorganizations

The Shapiro Administration released departmental reorganizations for both the Office of Administration and the Department of General Services. 

General Assembly

The House and Senate will briefly convene Session on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026. House Session will be non-voting. The House shared scheduled Session days through 2026 and Senate Session days are released through June. 

Department of Human Services

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

The Department issued proposed notice for Disproportionate Share and Supplemental Payments to Qualifying Hospitals for 2025-2026.

DHS issued updated Emergency Medical Services Rates for Publicly Owned Providers which will be effective 1/1/2026.

The Department released a Bulletin notice regarding the Medical Assistance Program Compensable Service Change: GLP-1 Drugs to Treat Overweight and Obesity and issued an MA Bulletin notice revising Prior Authorization Requirements for GLP-1 medications.

DHS issued an MA Bulletin updating the EPSDT Periodicity Schedule to reflect vaccine schedule changes.

The Department released an MA Bulletin with guidelines for Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps.

DHS shared an MA Bulletin with updates to Limited English Proficiency Requirements. 

Department of Health

The Department published final-form Sexual Assault Victim Emergency Services Regulations listing hospitals that do not provide emergency contraception due to a stated moral or religious belief.  

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Renal Disease Advisory Committee will meet for its quarterly public meeting on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefit Program Advisory Council will meet on Thursday Jan. 29, 2026, from 10a.m. to 12p.m. The Council will offer guidance and recommendations to the Department on the program’s drug formulary, covered lab services, drug utilization review, clinical programs, eligibility and program management. 

Federal Update

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

Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2026.

2026-01-02T17:06:07+00:00December 31st, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Rural Health|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 31
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PA Health Policy Update for December 12

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from December 8 – December 12 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The Senate held its final voting days for the calendar year this past week during which, the Senate Education Committee unanimously advanced SB 116, legislation by Sen. Dave Argall, which would allow high school juniors and seniors to earn course credits toward their graduation requirement for employment in a nursing facility, personal care home, assisted living residence, or hospital.

The House will return for non-voting session on December 15th when the House Communications & Technology Committee will hold a public hearing on HB 1925, Rep. Arvind Venkat’s AI in Healthcare legislation.

The House will hold voting session on the 16th & 17th and on Wednesday, the House Health Committee will meet to consider HB 1202 & HB 1851. Rep. David Zimmerman’s HB 1202 would create a Commonwealth Medical Stockpile which could be accessed by healthcare facilities. HB 1851, sponsored by Rep. Gina Curry, would allow nurse-midwives to sign fetal death certificates.

Below are several healthcare-related bills or co-sponsor memos issued this week:

  • Sen. Nikil Saval introduced SB 1085 which would create a Direct Care Worker Wage Board.
  • Rep. Bryan Cutler introduced HB 2088 which would require Certificates of Merit in Healthcare liability claims.
  • HB 2096, sponsored by Rep. Seth Grove, would implement a Direct Primary Care payment model in Pennsylvania. 

Department of Health

DOH issued notice that effective January 1, 2026, the certain fees may be charged by a health care facility or health care provider in response to a request for production of medical charts or records.

The Department released Call for Cases Health Alert Network advisory for Multistate Cluster of Extensively Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Enterobacter cloacae complex.

Department of Human Services

DHS launched 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 shared updated RA Mailing Dates Remittance Advice (RA) Mailing Dates/Electronic Remittance Advice (ERA) Delivery Dates. 

Federal Update

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

2025-12-12T22:55:51+00:00December 12th, 2025|Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 12
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PA Health Policy Update for November 14

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

Budget Update

After a stalemate lasting 135 days, the General Assembly has passed a comprehensive Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 budget. The state House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 160 – the General Appropriations Act – by a vote of 156-47. Senate passed it by a vote of 40-9. 

In total, the FY 2025-2026 budget spends $50.1 billion, which represents a $2.3 billion or 4.7 percent increase over the prior fiscal year. It is nearly $1.4 billion less than the budget proposed by Governor Shapiro in February. The budget is balanced primarily by utilizing prior-year funding lapses and special fund balances in state agencies totaling $3 billion. Using these funds in the 2025-26 budget prevented draining the state’s emergency reserves in the Rainy Day Fund, while leaving more than $200 million in the fund’s balance.

The budget includes a new Working Families Tax credit program. However, it does not include many of the spending initiatives highlighted in the governor’s proposal, such as additional mass transit funding, taxation for skill games, minimum wage increases, or legalization and taxation of recreational adult use cannabis. Also part of the deal includes the Commonwealth ending its participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

In addition to the General Appropriations Bill, the General Assembly also passed code bills related to the budget and its enactment. House Bill 416 is an amended Fiscal Code which includes various instructions to help effectuate passage of the budget bill. House Bill 749 is an update to the Human Services Code which includes several policy provisions below:

  • Regulatory alignment with federal rules on MA reimbursement for behavioral health in telehealth settings – the “Four Walls” Requirement,
  • Requires DHS to report to the General Assembly on SNAP recipient data and lottery winnings, resources, and vehicles owned by public assistance recipients
  • Crosschecking MA and SNAP beneficiaries with data from DOH’s Vital Records system and wage records from the Department of Labor & Industry
  • Requires DHS to study the feasibility of a brokerage model for nonemergency Medical Transportation Services
  • Allows indefinite suspension of MA benefits for incarcerated individuals while incarcerated, among other provisions.

General Assembly

On Monday, November 17th, the House Human Services Committee will hold an informational hearing on the federal SNAP changes in HR 1 and their impacts on Pennsylvania. The livestream link will be made available here.

The House Health Committee will meet on Tuesday Nov. 18th to consider HB 1652 and HB 1715. Both bills would amend the Newborn Child Testing Act to update newborn screening requirements to include Gaucher Disease (HB 1652) and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (HB 1715), respectively.

Department of Health

The Department issued a Health Alert Network notice urging providers’ awareness for Acute Flaccid Myelitis through late Fall.

DOH updated the residency criteria for the Chronic Renal Disease Program effective November 15, 2025. 

Department of Human Services

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

The Department has announced it has restarted issuing full November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments.

DHS shared a suicide prevention resource guide in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month.

The Department released a Medical Assistance Bulletin with revisions to the MA Fee Schedule and prior authorization requirements.

The Department issued an updated Preferred Drug List which will be effective Jan. 1, 2026.

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

The Department released an updated Managed Care Directory. 

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

Federal Update

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

2025-11-14T21:03:25+00:00November 14th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for November 14
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PA Health Policy Update for November 7

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

General Assembly and Budget Update

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

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

Department of Health

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

Department of Human Services

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

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

State Board of Medicine

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

Stakeholder Meetings

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

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

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

Federal Update

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

2025-11-07T20:33:35+00:00November 7th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for November 7
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PA Health Policy Update for October 24

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

Budget Update 

Earlier this week, the Senate passed Senate Bill 160 (PN 1258) by party line vote in yet another volleying of a General Appropriations Act bill to the House. The Senate’s amendments to the bill reduced the overall spend number to $47.9 billion, down from the House’s last proposal of $50.25 billion.

The bill reflects a prior version (PN 529) of the budget bill but with increased appropriations for debt service payments and school employees’ pensions, while also reducing operating expense line items for the General Assembly. The Governor labeled the Senate’s most recent effort as “unserious.”

As the impasse continues, meaningful impacts to Pennsylvanians and providers are becoming more frequent. Absent budget enactment, Head Start providers are signaling closures, Westmoreland County plans to furlough workers soon, and Lancaster County intends to pause social services payments.

The House and Senate are both set to return on October 27th.

General Assembly 

Last week, the Senate was in session and passed by a margin of 49-1, Sen. Rosemary Brown’s SB 507, legislation to update and modernize midwifery services in Pennsylvania. The bill will be considered by the House Professional Licensure Committee on October 28th.

The Senate Labor & Industry Committee voted in support of SB 69 offered by Sen. Langerholc by a party line vote. This bill would create a “Recovery-to-Work” pilot program.

Next week, on October 28th, the House Health Committee will hold an informational meeting on the Department of Health’s Newborn Screening program.

On October 29th, the House Human Services Committee will meet to consider Rep. Benham’s HB 1939, and House Bill 1974 by Rep. Venkat. HB 1939 would require DHS to update fee schedule rates for home and community-based services provided through intellectual disability and autism programs based on the Consumer Price Index. HB 1974 proposes to create a Contingency Management Support Grant Program within the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), enabling Single County Authorities to apply for grants supporting Contingency Management programs and activities like staff training, drug-testing supplies, incentive tracking systems, evaluation, and non-cash incentives.

The House Consumer Protection, Technology, and Utilities Committee will meet on October 29th to vote on HB 1530 which would establish privacy protections for Pennsylvania consumers regarding their genetic data collected by direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies (e.g., commercial DNA testing services).

On October 27th, the Senate State Government Committee will consider SB 125, Sen. Dush’s proposed constitutional amendment to address change of judicial venues.

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

  • Marla Brown introduced HB 1962 which would cease state funding for any provider offering abortion services in PA.
  • HB 1965, introduced by Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, would allow EMS providers to perform community paramedicine services.
  • Paul Takac introduced HB 1980 which would require doctors to do an hour of medical nutrition continuing education every two years.
  • Mastriano introduced SB 1018 which would eliminate any mRNA vaccine mandates in Pennsylvania.
  • SB 1041 by Sen. Rosemary Brown would create the Complex Care Assistant Program, creating a certification program for family caregivers offering complex medical care to loved ones.
  • Senator Tartaglione introduced SB 1054 which would require the availability of opioid antagonists in Pennsylvania public schools.
  • Senator Collett has introduced SB 1055, companion legislation to HB 1881, which would expand pharmacists’ practice authority to provide vaccines in accordance with recommendations from Pennsylvania’s health authorities informed by professional medical societies in addition to FDA guidelines.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services released September’s Physical Health Managed Care enrollment report.

Department of Health 

In response to revised CMS guidance on conducting facility surveys during the federal shutdown, which will allow states to request approval from CMS to conduct revisit surveys, DOH notified providers that it will be reviewing outstanding surveys, their timelines, and the deficient practice(s) to request permission from CMS to perform revisit surveys that are necessary to prevent termination or the denial of payment for new admissions.

DOH updated the Resident Data Reporting Manual for long-term care facilities to reflect changes to use the Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM) for the Pennsylvania case mix payment system.

Stakeholder Meetings

On Nov. 7 from 10am to 3pm, the Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold their quarterly meeting to discuss the Department of Health’s Head Injury Program.

Federal Update 

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

2025-10-24T19:20:42+00:00October 24th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 24
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PA Health Policy Update for October 17

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from October 14- October 17 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Budget Update 

The budget process has remained at a stalemate this week with no changes following House action last week. The Senate is scheduled to return this upcoming week. The House is set to return on October 27th.

General Assembly

Rep. Melissa Shusterman introduced HB 2005, which would remove the counseling and waiting period requirements for abortions in Pennsylvania. This legislation along with several other abortion-related bills will be considered by the House Judiciary Committee on October 22nd.

The Senate Labor & Industry Committee will convene on October 22nd to consider  Sen. Wayne Langerholc’s SB 69, which would create a “Recovery-To-Work” pilot program.

Rep. Jessica Benham introduced HB 1939, which would require DHS to update fee schedule rates for home and community-based services provided through intellectual disability and autism programs based on the Consumer Price Index.

Senator Michele Brooks introduced SB 1043 and SB 1051, both designed to strengthen Pennsylvania’s eligibility for new federal Rural Health Transformation Fund dollars. The funding application offers states additional points in their total application score if they have adopted certain policy priorities of the Trump Administration or introduced legislation to do so. SB 1043 would require nutrition continuing medical education (CME) for clinicians to ensure providers are better equipped to address diet-related chronic disease. SB 1051 would require PA to join the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact to expand our rural workforce by making it easier for PAs from other states to practice in Pennsylvania.

Sen. Brooks also introduced SR174, which would urge Congress to establish a national database or  system to share wage, employment, unemployment compensation and other relevant eligibility data with the states to improve compliance with the recent eligibility verification changes in the federal HR1.

Senator Tina Tartaglione introduced SB 1054, which would require all high schools in Pennsylvania to maintain opioid antagonists, such as naloxone or Narcan, onsite.

Department of Human Services

The DHS Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) issued a request for proposals from non-profit organizations interested in expanding the Fairweather Lodge (FWL) model in the commonwealth. The FWL model is a structured, community-based program that supports individuals with serious mental illness reintegrate themselves into the community after facing homelessness or transitioning from state hospitals, correctional facilities, or long-term care settings. FWL providers offer emotional support, a place to live, and employment. OMHSAS is interested in establishing two to five new lodges that would serve up to 18 individuals. Find details and application materials here.

DHS issued Remittance Advice guidance for providers that do not receive a check or Remittance Advice (RA) within established time frames for each RA cycle.

DHS proposed rulemaking on minimum standards for the issuance of licenses to provide emergency behavioral health crisis intervention services in alignment with national best practices for crisis services. This proposed rulemaking also establishes new requirements related to service modalities including facility requirements, quality monitoring, staffing qualifications, services provided and training.

Department of Health

DOH issued a request for proposals from eligible community-based health care clinics (CBHCs) to fund the development of new CBHCs or the expansion of existing clinics to enhance maternity and postpartum care, hospital partnerships, or alternative care delivery systems. The deadline for applications is November 17. Find the RFP with more details and budgeting materials here.

Pennsylvania Insurance Department

PID announced the releasing of the final Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance rates for 2026, which reflect significant price increases for Pennsylvanians if Congress fails to extend enhanced premium tax credits (EPTCs).

Department of Aging

The Department of Aging (PDA) announced a new tool for screening in-home care workers to increase hiring transparency and protect older adults.

PDA reminded older Pennsylvanians that Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15, with free insurance counseling available through Local Aging Agencies.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS is hosting its next Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee meeting on October 22, 2025, at 1:00 pm. Interested attendees can register here.  The full MAAC will meet at 10 a.m. on October 23rd in the Keystone Building, Harrisburg.

DHS and the Treasury Department are partnering on a webinar on a PA Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Savings Program for OLTL Service Coordinators, Direct Service Providers, MCO Staff, and anyone working in employment support services. The webinar is scheduled for October 29th from Noon to 1pm. Individuals can register here.

Federal Update 

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

2025-10-17T19:25:43+00:00October 17th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 17
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  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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