Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Archives - Page 2 of 9

PA Health Policy Update for April 11

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 7 – 11. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives convened in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 640, which updates annual reporting requirements for the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP). The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 409, which requires health care providers to inform patients that they will be receiving their test results in their electronic health record, or that they can request to receive the results in the mail. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, April 7 to examine potential updates to the Older Adult Protective Services Act (OAPSA). A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Human Services Committee met on Tuesday, April 8 and favorably reported House Bill 561, which expands Act 80 to include all FDA-approved medication assisted treatment, and House Bill 1117, which updates language defining DDAP’s duties and responsibilities. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Insurance Committee met on Tuesday, April 8 and favorably reported House Bill 433, which eliminates out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic imaging related to breast cancer. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, April 9 and favorably reported, among other legislation, the following pertinent bills. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

- House Bill 69, which expands the existing Cancer Drug Repository program to other prescription drugs.
- House Bill 79, which establishes uniform hospital-based financial assistance forms and requirements.
- House Bill 1104, which caps the costs of obtaining electronic medical records.

The House of Representatives and the Senate have now recessed. The House will reconvene Tuesday, April 22 and the Senate will reconvene Monday, May 5.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to remind physicians, physician assistants (PAs), and certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs) enrolled in Medicaid that they are able render topical fluoride varnish (TFV) services to Medicaid beneficiaries.

DHS has issued a reminder to all participating Medicaid providers of the need to complete a “MA 112 Form” after the birth of a child to a mother enrolled in Medicaid in order to notify the mother’s respective county assistance office (CAO). The “MA 112 Form” should be completed and submitted within three working days of the child’s birth.

DHS has published final notice of its funding allocation for FY 2024-25 for several classes of inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) and supplemental payments to Medicaid-enrolled, qualifying inpatient acute care general hospitals. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Around the State

CBS News has published an article about the continued challenges facing Crozer Health in Delaware County. An attorney for Prospect Medical Holdings, the parent company of Crozer, indicated Crozer would start transitioning certain service lines to other providers.

Pennsylvania’s home care industry and its need for additional funding was the focus of an article by Politics PA this week.

The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has published an article about increasing measles cases in the state and some counties’ lagging vaccination rates.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – WIC State Advisory Board – April 22

The WIC State Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on April 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to collaborate to gather suggestions of strategies for increasing participation and improving the WIC program to better support participants. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Pharmacy & Therapeutics (P&T) Committee – April 23

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has cancelled the April 23 Drug Utilization Board meeting and will instead hold an ad hoc P&T Committee meeting. Find registration information and details here.

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – April 23

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on April 23 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 24

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on April 24 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – April 25

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, April 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss new and ongoing issues relating to treatment of chronic renal disease and the Department of Health’s programs related to care and treatment. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

The Patient Safety Authority – April 29

The Patient Safety Authority board will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, April 29 at 10:30 a.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-04-11T22:36:44+00:00April 11th, 2025|Governments, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for April 4

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 31 – April 4. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Governor Shapiro

The Shapiro administration has announced it joined a multi-state lawsuit against the Trump administration’s decision to cancel more than $500 million in public health grant funding that supported programs in the Department of Health, Department of Human Services, and the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs. Find a copy of the lawsuit here and additional information in this press release.

General Assembly

The state Senate convened in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity.

The Senate passed Senate Bill 347, which prohibits the implementation of safe injection sites throughout the commonwealth, by a vote of 38-11. The bill will now be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

The Senate Institutional Sustainability & Innovation Committee held an informational hearing on Tuesday, April 1 examining the commonwealth’s life science sector and Pennsylvania’s innovation economy. A recording of the hearing is and testimony offered to the committee is viewable here.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Tuesday, April 1 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 115, which provides skills competency examination opportunities to individuals seeking employment as a direct caregiver in lieu of successfully obtaining a high school diploma or GED equivalency, and Senate Bill 411, which implements a statewide stroke registry.

The Senate has now recessed until Monday, May 5. The state House of Representatives will reconvene Monday, April 7 through Wednesday, April 9.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that DHS is implementing an alternative payment methodology for federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and rural health clinics (RHCs) for a supplemental payment at the Medicaid fee schedule rate for a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) device and its insertion, or the removal of a LARC device.

DHS has announced a recent audit uncovered recipient date of death discrepancies and a claims recovery was completed to recoup monies paid in error. DHS also reminded providers that it is their responsibility to resubmit a correctly completed claim if they are due payment for services provided prior to the date of death. Find the notice here.

Revenue Collection Update

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $6.2 billion in General Fund revenue in March, which was $70.0 million, or 1.1 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $33.2 billion, which is $34.3 million, or 0.1 percent, below estimate.

Board of Pharmacy ission,

The State Board of Pharmacy has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin of the current income levels necessary for participation in the Cancer Drug Repository program.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin that it has received the following final form rulemaking which will be considered at its May 15 meeting.

IRRC has also published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin announcing it has issued comments to the State Board of Nursing regarding its proposed rule on nursing education programs issued January 25, 2025. Find IRRC’s comments here.

Around the State

The Philadelphia Inquirer has published an article about Independence Blue Cross’, the largest health insurer in southeastern Pennsylvania, reported financial loss in 2024 due, in part, to Medicare and Medicaid rates.

Governor Shapiro’s decision to join a multi-state lawsuit against the Trump administration’s decision to cancel public health grant funding was reported by the Pennsylvania Capital-Star.

The Pennsylvania Capital-Star also published an article about the potential impact Medicaid cuts at the federal level may have on rural health care access.

Spotlight PA has published an article about the Department of Aging’s decision to revise a policy that previously required the tracking of the cause of death for every adult who died during an active abuse or neglect investigation.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – Pharmacy & Therapeutics (P&T) Committee – April 23

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has cancelled the April 23 Drug Utilization Board meeting and will instead hold an ad hoc P&T Committee meeting. Find registration information and details here.

PHC4 – Meeting Schedule

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has scheduled a Payment Data Advisory Group meeting for April 10 at 1:00 p.m., a Data Systems Committee meeting for April 15 at 10:00 a.m., an Education Committee meeting for April 23 at 10:00 a.m., and a Council meeting for May 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-04-04T20:41:43+00:00April 4th, 2025|Financial, Governments, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for March 28

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 24 – 28. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Special Election Update

Two special elections occurred this week on Tuesday, March 25 to fill vacancies in the state House of Representatives and Senate. Democrat Dan Goughnour won the special election to represent House District 35, which was vacated after the passing of Representative Matt Gergely. His election sustains the Democratic one-vote majority in the House. In a surprising outcome, Democrat Jim Malone narrowly defeated Republican Josh Parsons to replace the Senate seat formerly held by Ryan Aument who resigned to work for U.S. Senator Dave McCormick. Malone’s election will narrow the Republican majority in the Senate to 27-23.

General Assembly

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

The House of Representatives passed a package of bills that seek to codify federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) patient protections in state statute.

- House Bill 404, which enables an adult child to receive insurance coverage until age 26.
- House Bill 535, which prohibits annual and lifetime coverage limits.
- House Bill 618, which prohibits the denial of health insurance coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
- House Bill 755, which maintains access to preventative health care services.

The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Monday, March 24 and favorably reported, in addition to other legislation, House Bill 372, which requires the Department of Aging to publicly release a compliance report on the Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs).

The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Tuesday, March 25 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 926, which seeks to prevent health care workplace violence by placing several requirements on health care facilities.

The Senate Judiciary Committee met on Tuesday, March 25 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 347, which prohibits the implementation of safe injection sites throughout the commonwealth, and Senate Bill 326, which amends the Controlled Substance, Drug Device, and Cosmetic Act to automatically schedule a controlled substance when one is added by the federal government and removes the Secretary of Health’s ability to reschedule a controlled substance.

The Senate will reconvene on Monday, March 31 through Wednesday, April 2. The House of Representatives is now recessed until Monday, April 7.

Department of Human Services

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

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has issued comments to the State Board of Nursing regarding its proposed rule on nursing education programs issued January 25, 2025. Find IRRC’s comments here.

IRRC has announced it received the following final form rulemaking which will be considered at its May 15 meeting.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced the release of a report on Cancer Surgery Volume, giving stakeholders insight into cancer surgeries performed at hospitals and ambulatory/outpatient settings.

Around the State

The New York Times has written an article about Democrat Jim Malone’s surprising victory in a district that strongly supported President Trump in the 2024 election. Spotlight PA also published an article about this story.

The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has written an article about a package of bills that passed the state House of Representatives this week codifying federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) protections in state statute.

Fox43 has published a piece about unions representing Pennsylvania nurses and their efforts to pass legislation addressing workplace violence.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Committee – April 24

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a public teleconference meeting on Thursday, April 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – 2025 Meeting Schedule

The Medical Marijuana Advisory Board has provided notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin of its upcoming meeting dates. Meetings will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on each day listed in the Capitol Media Center, Room 1, East Wing, Harrisburg, PA 17126, with an option for board members to participate virtually.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-03-28T19:22:00+00:00March 28th, 2025|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for March 21

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from March 17 – 21. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

General Assembly

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

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 157, which establishes the Rural Health Care Grant Program to provide grants to entities in rural counties and designated medically underserved areas to pay for the education debt of certain health care practitioners. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 60, which allows pharmacies to make a one-time transfer of a prescription for a controlled substance to another pharmacy without requiring a new prescription. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 111, which prohibits insurers from denying coverage to individuals solely because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 33, which implements greater oversight of medical marijuana labs and product testing. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House Insurance Committee met on Monday, March 17 and favorably reported the following package of bills, which seek to codify the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) patient protections in state statute.

- House Bill 404, which enables an adult child to receive insurance coverage until 26.
- House Bill 535, which prohibits annual and lifetime coverage limits.
- House Bill 618, which prohibits the denial of health insurance coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
- House Bill 755, which maintains access to preventative health care services.

The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing on Tuesday, March 18 about the Department of Aging’s newly launched oversight program of the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) network. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The House Human Services Committee held an informational hearing on House Bill 561, which expands Act 80 of 2015 to include all forms of FDA-approved medications for the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD). A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The House Majority Policy Committee held an informational hearing on Wednesday, March 19 examining sustainable long-term care. Testimony offered to the committee is viewable here and a recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The Senate Majority Policy Committee held an informational hearing on improving access to quality health care through technological innovation. Testimony offered to the committee and a recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and the Senate will convene in Harrisburg for voting session next Monday, March 24 through Wednesday, March 26.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through April. Find the updated calendar here.

Department of Insurance

The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance (PID) has published a Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) adjustment, which is utilized as a benchmark for the maximum benefit for autism services required to be covered by an insurer. The CPI-U adjustment for policies issued or renewed in calendar year 2026 is a 2.9 percent increase, which results in a maximum benefit of $51,908. The department does not expect this to have any impact on the coverage of autism services in the commonwealth. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Aging

The Department of Aging has announced the rollout of its new platform to increase transparency and accountability of Pennsylvania’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA) network – Comprehensive Agency Performance Evaluation (CAPE). In addition, the department will begin publicly posting performance results on its website for the first cohort of AAAs to be monitored under CAPE.

Around the State

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published an article about the reopening of Sharon Regional Medical Center and legislation being considered in the General Assembly focused on rural health and health care mergers and acquisitions.

Spotlight PA has written an article about hospital charity care programs and their lack of standardization, which was the focus of a recent Health Affairs article.

Legislative efforts to provide more assistance for health care practitioners’ student loan repayment was the focus of an article published by The Center Square.

Harold Brubaker has written an article for The Philadelphia Inquirer about the most recent emergency court hearing held on efforts to keep Crozer Health open in Delaware County.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – March 26

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 26 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 27

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 27 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-03-21T20:37:58+00:00March 21st, 2025|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for March 14

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate Democratic Policy Committees held a joint hearing on health care access and the impact of hospital closures this week. The hearing was held in Delaware County and largely focused on the current challenges at Crozer Health/Prospect Medical Holdings. A recording of the hearing and written testimony are viewable here.

The House of Representatives will convene for session Monday, March 17 through Wednesday, March 19. The Senate is recessed until Monday, March 24.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin with the procedure that the department will follow in assessing and collecting the MCARE surcharge for FY 2024-25.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the final annual case-mix per diem payment rates for Fiscal Year 2024-25 for non-public and county nursing facilities that participate in the Medical Assistance (MA) program. The final annual per diem rates are available on DHS’ website here.

DHS has announced the peer groups, peer group medians, and peer group prices for non-public nursing facilities, including hospital-based nursing facilities and special rehabilitation facilities. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has issued revisions to the participating drug company list for the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. The revisions are viewable here.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has issued a Licensing Alert to notify licensed narcotic treatment programs (NTPs) that DDAP has aligned with 42 CFR part 8 to allow an NTP to utilize telehealth for an initial exam and initiate FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder treatment.

Around the State

Spotlight PA has published an article about legislative efforts in Pennsylvania to alleviate medical debt.

The continued challenges related to keeping Crozer Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital in Delaware County open were covered by The Pennsylvania Capital-Star in this article.

WHYY has reported about Philadelphia’s first confirmed case of measles, unrelated to the recent case in Montgomery County.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Health Policy Board – March 21

The Health Policy Board of the Department of Health will meet on Friday, March 21 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 25

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, March 25 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – March 26

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 27

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 27 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-03-14T20:47:35+00:00March 14th, 2025|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for March 7

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate concluded their hearings on Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 budget proposal this week. The following are the health-related agency budget hearings that occurred this week.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) appeared before the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, March 4. A recording of that hearing is viewable here and here.

DHS also appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, March 5. A recording of that hearing is viewable here and here.

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department and PENNIE appeared before the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, March 5. A recording of that hearing is viewable here.

The House Health Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, March 3 to examine the practice of community health workers. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Wednesday, March 5 and favorably reported the bills below. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

House Bill 269, which requires the Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs, to develop opioid overdose public education materials.

House Bill 640, which updates the annual reporting requirements for the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs.

House Bill 749, which requires the Department of Human Services to conduct a study of Pennsylvania’s SNAP payment distribution.

The Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a meeting on Monday, March 10 at 2:00 p.m. to discuss “health care accessibility and the impacts of hospital closures.” The meeting will be held at Neumann University in Aston, PA and virtually. Find additional details here.

The House and Sente are currently recessed until Monday, March 17 and Monday, March 24, respectively,

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced the 2024-25 Patient Safety Surcharge (MCARE) letter and invoices for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, abortion facilities, and birthing centers have been emailed. Payment is due by June 1, 2025. If you have any questions, please call the Division of Acute and Ambulatory Care (DAAC) at 717-783-8980 or email RA-DAAC@pa.gov.

DOH has announced the Event Reporting System (ERS) has been updated with a new Flu A and separate Flu B, as well as RSV reporting enhancement to streamline the reporting of these event types. DOH has shared a Quick Start Guide (opens as a separate Microsoft Word document) for the new enhancement. This enhancement will function in the same manner as the COVID-19 enhancement initiated in March of 2021.

DOH has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin announcing the Nursing Home Patient Safety Trust Fund (MCARE) surcharge of $14.40 per bed for Fiscal Year 2024-25.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has shared the following presentations utilized at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on February 27.

Revenue Collection Update

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $2.9 billion in General Fund revenue in February, which was $44.0 million, or 1.6 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $27.0 billion, which is $104.3 million, or 0.4 percent, below estimate.

Around the State

WHYY has published an article about Prospect Medical Holdings’ plan to file a preliminary request to begin closing its remaining Delaware County hospitals.

The Patriot-News has reported about potential for significant Medicaid cuts in Washington, D.C. and the concern that has raised in Pennsylvania with medical professionals and state legislators.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Health Policy Board – March 21

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 25

PA Safety Net Admin2025-03-07T22:13:24+00:00March 7th, 2025|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 28

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 24 – 28. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro has announced that all $2.1 billion in Congressionally-appropriated federal funding identified in the administration’s lawsuit against the federal government has been unfrozen.

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate continued their hearings on Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 budget proposal this week. The following are the health-related agency budget hearings that occurred this week.

The Department of Aging appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, February 25. A recording of that hearing is viewable here.

The Department of Aging also appeared before the House Appropriations Committee on Thursday, February 27. A recording of that hearing is viewable here.

The House of Representatives and Senate will continue budget hearings next week. The Department of Human Services will appear before the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, March 4 and the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, March 5. The House Appropriations Committee’s full hearing schedule is viewable here and the Senate Appropriations Committee’s full hearing schedule is viewable here.

The House Health Committee has scheduled an informational meeting next week on Monday, March 3 at 1:00 p.m. to explore the practice of community health workers. The meeting will be held in Room 60 of East Wing.

The House Human Services Committee has also scheduled a meeting for next week on Wednesday, March 5 at 10:00 a.m. in Room G-50 of the Irvis Building to consider the following bills.

House Bill 269, which requires the Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs, to develop opioid overdose public education materials.

House Bill 640, which updates the annual reporting requirements for the Department of Drug & Alcohol Protections.

House Bill 749, which requires the Department of Human Services to conduct a study of Pennsylvania’s SNAP payment distribution.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin announcing its intent to allocate funds in FY 2024-25 for a new supplemental payment to qualifying rural hospitals in a county of the fourth, fifth, six, seventh, or eighth class. The total amount of funding available (state and federal) is $36.7 million. Find additional details in the bulletin notice.

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

DHS has published a Provider Quick Tip (176) to inform presumptive eligibility providers that the income guidelines used to determine presumptive eligibility for pregnant women have been updated effective January 1, 2025.

DHS has also issued an updated Provider Quick Tip (121) to remind all enrolled provider types who dispense hearing aid supplies to Medical Assistance (MA) beneficiaries to submit a copy of their renewed Department of Health certification to MA Provider Enrollment by March 16, 2025.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced the 2024-25 MCARE surcharge letters and invoices will be emailed to nursing home administrators on or about March 3. Included in each email attachment will be a statement with the amount due to DOH by June 1, 2025.

Around the State

The Philadelphia Inquirer has published an article detailing the $20 million Crozer Health’s independent receiver, FTI Consulting, is receiving.

WESA in Pittsburgh has written an article about Medicaid cuts being considered in Congress and their potential impact on Pennsylvania. CBS News similarly covered this story.

Private equity’s role in the Pennsylvania and Philadelphia health care markets are the focus of an article published by WHYY.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – LTSS Subcommittee – March 7

The Department of Human Services (DHS) Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 7 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting is being held virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate here.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-02-28T21:58:30+00:00February 28th, 2025|Financial, Governments, Meetings and notices|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 21

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 17 – 21. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate began hearings on Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 budget proposal this week. The following are the health-related agency budget hearings that occurred this week.

The Department of Health appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, February 19. A recording of that hearing is viewable here.

The Department of Health and the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs appeared before the House Appropriations Committee on Friday, February 21. A recording of that hearing is viewable here.

The House of Representatives and Senate will continue budget hearings next week. The only health-related agency scheduled to appear is the Department of Aging, which will be before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, February 25 at 1:00 p.m. and the House Appropriations Committee on Thursday, February 27 at 1:00 p.m. The House Appropriations Committee’s full hearing schedule is viewable here and the Senate Appropriations Committee’s full hearing schedule is viewable here.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has released a rate and wage study for its long-term services and supports (LTSS) and home and community-based services (HCBS) programs. The study assessed rates paid to LTSS and HCBS providers in order to inform the commonwealth’s budget and rate setting process. The study is viewable here.

DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that effective February 18, the Medical Assistance (MA) program will cover Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) screening and diagnostic services to eligible juveniles in the 30 days prior to release, and targeted case management services, both physical and behavioral health, in the 30 days prior to and for at least 30 days following release from a carceral setting.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced it will hold a webinar on March 3 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the changes to 42 CFR Part 8 (Medications for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorders) and their practical implications in treatment settings. Find additional information and details on how to participate here.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced the release of a special report on the finances of rural hospitals in Pennsylvania. Find the full report and data visualizations from the report here.

Around the State

The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Harold Brubaker has written an article about Sharon Regional Medical Center and Crozer Health and the financial support provided by the state to help keep them open and serving patients.

Governor Shapiro’s appointment by President Trump to serve a two-year term on the Council of Governors was covered by The Philadelphia Inquirer. Among other things, the council is tasked with improving state-federal partnerships and coordinating national security and disaster response efforts.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – February 26

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on February 26 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – February 27

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on February 27 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council – Committee Meetings

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced the schedule of various committee meetings for the first quarter of 2025. Find a detailed schedule and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-02-21T21:58:30+00:00February 21st, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for January 31

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

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro will deliver his Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 budget address to a joint session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly on Tuesday, February 4.

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for voting session in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met on Monday, January 27 and favorably reported Senate Bills 155, 156, and 157, which are part of a package of bills aimed at eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in public assistance programs.

The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee convened for an informational meeting on direct care workers and the homecare industry. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Insurance Committee met on Tuesday, January 28 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 111, which prohibits insurers from denying coverage to individuals solely because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Human Services and Insurance Committees jointly convened on Wednesday, January 29 for an informational hearing on traumatic brain injury care needs and coverage options. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, January 29 and favorably reported House Bill 27, which requires health care facilities to adopt and implement policies to mitigate exposure to surgical smoke through the use of a smoke evacuation system for each procedure that generates surgical smoke, and House Bill 33, which implements greater oversight of medical marijuana labs and product testing. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The House Professional Licensure Committee met on Wednesday, January 29 and favorably reported House Bill 309, which enables team physicians traveling internationally with their club or national team to treat their team players on site during games without requiring a Pennsylvania medical license. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for session in Harrisburg again next week. The chambers will hold a joint session on Tuesday, February 4 for Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-2026 budget address.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued an updated PA Promise™ Provider Handbook for providers who submit claims via the 837 Professional format or the CMS-1500 Claim Form.

DHS has shared the following presentations used at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on January 23.

Health Department

The Shapiro administration, including the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP), highlighted its $3.6 million investment to develop regional maternal health coalitions. Find more information in this press release.

Around the State

The Philadelphia Inquirer has published an article about Governor Shapiro’s plan to again propose the legalization of recreational marijuana in his budget address next week as a strategy to address the state’s growing budget shortfall.

WESA has reported about the potential for a significant increase in premiums for Pennsylvanians enrolled in Pennie, the state’s health insurance marketplace, if federal tax credits are allowed to expire in 2026. The average premium increase would be 81 percent.

Democratic lawmakers in Harrisburg introduced a package of bills this week seeking to codify protections provided by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in Pennsylvania state law, as reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – February 6

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, February 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – WIC State Advisory Board – February 11

The WIC State Advisory Board will hold its next regular meeting on February 11 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This is a rescheduling of the board’s January 14 meeting, which was cancelled due to technical challenges. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – February 13

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, February 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Patient Safety Authority – February 18

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a meeting of the Authority’s board on Tuesday, February 18 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually and is open to the public. Find additional details and information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-01-31T22:45:42+00:00January 31st, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for January 24

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

Pennsylvania Row Offices

Pennsylvania’s three row officers – Attorney General Dave Sunday, Auditory General Tim DeFoor, and Treasurer Stacy Garrity – were sworn into office on Tuesday, January 21. This marks the first time all three row offices are held by Republicans.

General Assembly

Following the unfortunate passing of Rep. Matt Gergely (D-Allegheny), Speaker McClinton has scheduled a special election for the 35^th Legislative District to occur on Tuesday, March 25.

The state House of Representatives and Senate are scheduled to return to session on Monday, January 27, 2025. The following is a selection of health care-related legislative activity currently scheduled for next week.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee is scheduled to meet “off the floor” on Monday, January 27 to consider Senate Bills 155, 156, and 157, which are part of a package of bills aimed at eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in public assistance programs.

The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will convene on Tuesday, January 28 at 9:30 a.m. for an informational meeting on direct care workers and the homecare industry. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building.

The House Insurance Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, January 28 “at the call of the chair” to consider, among other bills, House Bill 111, which prohibits insurers from denying coverage to individuals solely because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile. The meeting will be held in Room B-31 of the Main Capitol.

The House Human Services Committee will convene on Wednesday, January 29 at 9:00 a.m. for an informational hearing on traumatic brain injury care needs and coverage options. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building.

The House Health Committee will convene on Wednesday, January 29 at 10:00 a.m. in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building to consider the following bills.

- House Bill 27, which requires health care facilities to adopt and implement policies to mitigate exposure to surgical smoke through the use of a smoke evacuation system for each procedure that generates surgical smoke.
- House Bill 33, which implements greater oversight of medical marijuana labs and product testing.
- House Bill 79, which establishes a medical debt relief program in the commonwealth.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued its report on Medicaid managed care enrollment in Pennsylvania for the month of December.

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

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) and the Patient Safety Authority have released draft recommendations to all hospitals and birthing centers to mitigate the risk of harm related to shoulder dystocia. Find the draft recommendations and instructions on how to comment in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs’ (DDAP) State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW), in partnership with Drexel University’s Department of Community Health and Prevention, has released two new reports.

Emerging Drug Trends: Adulterants and Novel Psychoactive Substances in Pennsylvania. This report examines recent trends in adulterants and novel psychoactive substances in the drug supply, drug checking services and programs, and related public policies.
Harm Reduction in Pennsylvania: Policies, Needs, and Services. This report provides an overview of harm reduction services in Pennsylvania, including naloxone availability, syringe service programs, overdose prevention, and drug checking.

State Board of Nursing

The State Board of Nursing has issued proposed rulemaking that would amend regulations related to professional, practical, and certified registered nurse practitioner education programs. The proposed amendments also codify current board practice and update requirements to meet national standards. Find the proposed rulemaking in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has released new county-level utilization data and condition-specific reports, which provide greater insight into ambulatory/outpatient utilization and hospitalization rates for high interest conditions. Find the full reports here.

Around the State

Pennsylvania anticipates it will receive $212 million over 15 years from a multi-state opioid settlement recently reached with the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma. Read the Pennsylvania Capital-Star’s coverage here.

The Philadelphia Inquirer has published an article about the challenges confronting Governor Shapiro, who is mid-way through his first term, including an anticipated $4.5 billion budget deficit.

The Patriot-News has written an article about Pennsylvania’s continued downward trajectory of vaccination rates among children.

Spotlight PA has published a detailed article about Bucktail Medical Center and its recent receipt of $1 million from the state in an effort to prevent its closure.

Stakeholder Meetings

Council on Aging – 2025 Meeting Dates

The Pennsylvania Council on Aging, an independent advisory board under the Office of the Governor and supported by the Department of Aging, has released its meeting schedule for 2025. Find the full schedule and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-01-24T20:07:55+00:00January 24th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off

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