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PA Health Policy Update for May 31

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 3 through Wednesday, June 5. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity currently scheduled.

  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational meeting on Alzheimer’s Disease and other related dementias on Monday, June 3 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will take place in Room 140 of the Main Capitol. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Insurance Committee will convene on Monday, June 3 at 10:30 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 1754, which requires public and private insurers to cover biomarker testing, and Senate Bill 739, which provides for coverage of telemedicine services. The meeting will be held in the East Wing, Room 60. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee will convene on Wednesday, June 5 at 10:00 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 2037, which enables pharmacists to administer injectable medications, biologicals, and immunizations, and House Bill 2175, which creates a permanent Office of Child Advocate. The meeting will be held in East Wing, Room 60. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee will convene on Wednesday, June 5 at 10:00 a.m. to consider House Bill 2283, which requires operating rooms utilize surgical smoke evacuation systems. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building. It will also be livestreamed here.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with updates to the Family Planning Services program fee schedule as a result of the 2024 Healthcare Common Procedures Coding System (HCPCS) updates. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 751) with information for health care providers about 2024 West Nile and other arboviral infections in Pennsylvania.

DOH has announced the publication of an updated list of academic clinical research centers (ACRC) under the Medical Marijuana program on the department’s website and established the time period during which applications for clinical registrants (CR) will be accepted by the department. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has announced it disapproved the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs final-form regulation that lists criminal convictions directly related to each of the 29 professional and occupational licensing boards and commissions. IRRC indicated the regulation was not in the public interest due to the removal of certain offenses that may have direct bearing on the conduct, services, and practices of various occupations and professions. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Stakeholder Events   

DHS – Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee – June 5

The Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, June 5 at 10:00 a.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate here. 

The Patient Safety Authority – June 20

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public meeting of the Authority’s Board on Thursday, June 20 at 10:30 a.m. The meeting will take place at the Central Penn College conference center (600 Valley Road, Summerdale, PA 17093). The meeting will also be held virtually. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-06-03T17:47:33+00:00May 31st, 2024|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 31
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PA Health Policy Update for May 24

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives returned to Harrisburg this week for voting session. Following is a selection of health care-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The House passed Senate Bill 721, which establishes the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) State Advisory Board, on final consideration by a vote of 119-83. The bill will now be sent to the governor’s desk.
  • The House passed House Bill 2138, which requires insurance coverage for blood pressure monitors for home use as a pregnancy-related service, by a vote of 154-48. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2208, which strengthens the Department of Health’s oversight of laboratories that test medical marijuana, by a vote of 196-6. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Health Committee convened on Tuesday, May 21 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2127, which requires clinicians to distribute information related to postpartum depression and conduct a postpartum screening for depression. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Wednesday, May 22 for an informational hearing on the Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) program. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The state House and Senate are both recessed until Monday, June 3.

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced changes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule. DHS is adding and end-dating procedure codes as a result of the 2024 updates published by CMS to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS). These changes are effective for dates of service on and after May 28, 2024.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through June 2024. Find the updated calendar here.
  • The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) has communicated to personal care homes and assisted living residences that unlicensed staff persons may not administer Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 agonist medications, such as Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Trulicity (Dulaglutide) via subcutaneous injection unless they seek a regulatory waiver and submit it to ra-pwarlheadquarters@pa.gov. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has announced it is extending the temporary scheduling of any material, compound, mixture or preparation which contains any quantity of Nitazene substances for an additional year. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 749) with Influenza A/H5N1, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, guidance for health care providers.
  • DOH also issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 750)  alerting healthcare providers of an increase in meningococcal disease, linked to Umrah travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Health Insurance Exchange Authority 

The Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority, which is the state-affiliated entity that operates the commonwealth’s state-based health insurance marketplace, has issued a proposed regulation that would require insurers selling qualified plans through the Exchange Authority to be accredited in health equity. 

Around the State   

  • PennLive has published an article about legislative efforts to require state-regulated commercial insurers to cover blood pressure monitors when necessary during pregnancy and for up to a year after delivery. 
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer has reported about an effort to subpoena Philadelphia mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration regarding its plans to expand addiction treatment services in the city. 
  • An article published by PennLive highlights the Shapiro administration’s efforts to seek a Medicaid 1115 waiver to provider continuous Medicaid coverage for children from birth through age six.
2024-06-03T17:42:15+00:00May 24th, 2024|Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 24
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PA Health Policy Update for May 17

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

General Assembly

The House and Senate Democratic Policy Committees held a series of hearings this week on health care-related topics. Following are links to the respective hearings and the testimony offered at each one.

The House will return to voting session next week Tuesday, May 21 through Wednesday, May 22. The Senate is currently in recess until June 3. Following is a selection of health care-related legislative activity currently scheduled for next week.

  • The House Health Committee is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, May 21 at the call of the chair to consider, among other bills, House Bill 2127, which requires clinicians to distribute information related to postpartum depression and conduct a postpartum screening for depression.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will meet on Wednesday, May 22 at 10:00 a.m. for an informational hearing on the Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) program. The hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and livestreamed here.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the implementation of the 2024 Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIG), which are the basis for the income eligibility limits for several categories of Medicaid. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has issued Provider Quick Tips #176 to inform presumptive eligibility providers that the income guidelines used to determine Medicaid eligibility for pregnant women have been updated effective January 11, 2024. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced the launch of a new online dashboard to provide Pennsylvania residents and health care providers with information about tickborne diseases. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced it will begin a four-month series, Conversations with Scott Boyles, on June 3 as part of the monthly ASAM technical assistance webinars. If you would like to sign up to be added to the monthly webinar, please email DDAP’s ASAM resource account, ra-daasam@pa.gov. Past webinars and additional ASAM 3rd Edition resources are available on DDAP’s ASAM Transition page. 

State Board of Medicine 

The State Board of Medicine has published notice of its final-form rulemaking related to the registration of naturopathic doctors. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  

State Board of Osteopathic Medicine 

The State Board of Osteopathic Medicine has published notice of its intent to amend certain licensure requirements. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Around the State   

  • Stephen Caruso has written an article for Spotlight PA about the status of FY 2024-2025 budget negotiations and the competing priorities of Republicans and Democrats.
  • City & State Pennsylvania has published an article detailing Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Scott Martin’s comments at the Pennsylvania Press Club’s monthly speaker series.
  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has reported about Governor Shapiro’s signing of an executive order this week to attract skilled and experienced workers to state government.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – May 22

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold an in-person meeting on Wednesday, May 22 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Find the meeting’s agenda here. The meeting will be held in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building at 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 23

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold an in-person meeting on Thursday, May 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find the meeting’s agenda here. The meeting will be held in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building at 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120.

DHS – Dual Diagnosis Conference – May 22-23

The Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Developmental Programs and Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, invites stakeholders to participate in the state-wide Dual Diagnosis Conference, which will be held virtually May 22-23. Find a preliminary agenda here and registration details here.

2024-05-18T00:20:37+00:00May 17th, 2024|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 17
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PA Health Policy Update for May 10

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

General Assembly

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

  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 739 by a vote of 47-1. Senate Bill 739, which was amended before final passage, provides for coverage of telemedicine services. The bill will now be sent to the House for consideration.
  • The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 920, which establishes a statewide sexual assault evidence tracking system. The bill will now be sent to the House for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 1632, which amends the Workers’ Compensation Act to recognize post-traumatic stress injuries as eligible for workers’ compensation claims, by a vote of 154-46. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2097, which provides Medicaid coverage of blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum beneficiaries, by a vote of 164-37. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House unanimously passed House Bill 1608, which extends Medicaid coverage to doula services and creates a doula advisory board. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Insurance Committee met on Monday, May 6 and favorably reported, among others, the following bills.
    • House Bill 1021, which prohibits insurers from discriminating against individuals because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile.
    • House Bill 1867, which prohibits health insurers from restricting the method of payment for in-network clinical services.
    • House Bill 2138, which requires insurance coverage for blood pressure monitors for home use as a pregnancy-related service.
    • House Bill 2234, which creates a pilot program to give small grants to individuals to assist them with purchasing health insurance on Pennie, Pennsylvania’s state-based insurance exchange.

A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

  • The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Tuesday, May 7 and favorably reported House Bill 2247, which requires the establishment of workplace violence prevention committees in health care facilities. Immediately following the voting meeting, the committee held an informational meeting on the nursing workforce crisis. A recording of both meetings is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate are now recessed. The House will return to session Monday, May 20 and the Senate will return Monday, June 3.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to increase the funding for a class of supplemental payments to qualifying hospitals for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024 that treat a high volume of opioid use disorder patients in their emergency rooms. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DHS has shared the following presentations used at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on April 25.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced it will hold a public hearing on its proposed Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant application for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. The hearing will take place on May 28 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Find additional details on how to attend and comment in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has issued comments on the State Board of Pharmacy’s proposed pharmacy technician registration regulations. Find additional information and IRRC’s comments in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  

Around the State 

  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has reported about legislation that would cover post-traumatic stress injuries for first responders under the state’s Workers’ Compensation Act.
  • Governor Shapiro has indicated he will sign legislation criminalizing the misuse of xylazine, which is contributing to a growing number of overdose deaths, according to a Philadelphia Inquirer article. 
  • PennLive has published an article about House Democrats’ efforts to pass legislation that would enact a key part of Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal to provide assistance to individuals purchasing insurance of the commonwealth’s state-based insurance exchange, Pennie.

Stakeholder Events 

PA Chamber – Healthcare Summit – May 22

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is holding its inaugural health care summit on Wednesday, May 22. The event will feature conversations about leading health care topics, including innovations in pharmaceuticals, workforce development, the medical malpractice landscape, and the role of AI in health care. To view additional details and register click here.  

DOH – Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant Committee – May 28

The Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, May 28 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to present the Federal Fiscal Year 2024 workplan and budget information. The meeting will be held virtually and in person. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-05-10T20:07:25+00:00May 10th, 2024|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 10
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PA Health Policy Update for April 19

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 15 – 19.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

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

  • The House passed House Bill 1633, which prohibits non-compete agreements for health care practitioners and establishes certain notification requirements, by a vote of 150-50. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Professional Licensure Committee met on Monday, April 15 and favorably reported House Bill 2200, which makes certain changes to Pennsylvania statute that will enable the state to join, among others, the medical and nursing interstate licensure compacts. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee met on Tuesday, April 16 and favorably reported House Bill 1059, which updates the definition of sexual abuse or exploitation in the Child Protective Services law, and House Bill 321, which establishes an implementation deadline for the Department of Human Services’ enterprise case management system. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, April 17 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1608, which extends Medicaid coverage to doula services and creates a doula advisory board, and House Bill 2097, which provides Medicaid coverage of blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum beneficiaries. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Judiciary Committee met on Wednesday, April 17 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2012, which establishes a state antitrust statute and expands notification requirements for health care facilities when there is a merger, acquisition, etc. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Democratic Policy Committee held a roundtable discussion on Tuesday, April 16 examining maternal health deserts. Find the agenda and testimony presented to the committee here.
  • The Senate Democratic Policy Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, April 15 examining pharmacy deserts. Find a recording of meeting and testimony presented to the committee here.

The state House of Representatives and the Senate are in recess until Monday, April 29. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 745) with information regarding recent increases in reported congenital syphilis. The department is recommending that pregnant individuals be offered a test for Syphilis at the first prenatal visit, at the third trimester of pregnancy, and at delivery. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin with the 2024 recommended child and adolescent immunization schedule.
  • DHS has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that the department will begin paying for ground ambulance mileage for each loaded mile in addition to increasing the fees for certain ambulance services on the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule, effective with dates of service on or after January 1, 2024.
  • DHS has published the minutes of the March 28, 2024 Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through May 2024. Find the updated calendar here. 

Stakeholder Events  

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – April 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on April 24 at 1:00 p.m. Find the agenda here and register to participate here. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on April 25 at 10:00 a.m. Find the agenda here and register to participate here. 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 1

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday and Thursday, May 1-2, 2024. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – May 2

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, May 2 from 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually and in person. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – May 3

The Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, May 3, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-04-19T20:14:21+00:00April 19th, 2024|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 19
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PA Health Policy Update for April 12

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

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for voting session in Harrisburg this week. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity that occurred.
    • The House passed House Bill 1512, which provides for the coverage of telemedicine services, by a vote of 197-3. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
    • The Senate unanimously passed House Bill 1795, which aligns state statute with federal requirements for source plasma donation centers. The bill was subsequently presented to the governor.
    • The House Human Services Committee met on Monday, April 8 and favorably reported House Resolution 373, which recognizes the week of April 11 through 17, 2024, as “Black Maternal Health Week” in Pennsylvania. The full House subsequently adopted the resolution. The committee also held an informational hearing on the delivery of quality home care services under Community HealthChoices. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
    • The House Health Committee held an informational meeting on Thursday, April 11 on advancing social equity through cannabis legalization. A recording of the meeting is viewable here. 
  • The House will reconvene for voting session on Monday, April 15. The Senate is recessed until Monday, April 29.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 1059, which updates the definition of sexual abuse or exploitation in the Child Protective Services law, and House Bill 2175, which codifies the Office of Child Advocate as a permanent office in the Department of Human Services. The hearing will be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, April 17 at 9:30 a.m. to consider, among other bills, House Bill 1608, which extends Medicaid coverage to doula services and creates a doula advisory board, and House Bill 2097, which provides Medicaid coverage of blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum beneficiaries. The hearing will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) released updated guidance at the end of March for hospitals to submit attestations for new services and new or replacement equipment. The revised guidance narrows the scope of new and replacement equipment. Find the updated guidance here. 
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 744) to alert health care providers of an increase in invasive meningococcal disease. Providers should have a heightened suspicion for invasive meningococcal disease and initiate antibiotic treatment immediately, particularly in people who are disproportionately affected by the current increase, including people ages 30-60 years, Black or African American people, and people with HIV.
  • DOH has invited stakeholders to a session with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to discuss pharmacy best practices when ordering and dispensing controlled substances, with a focus on medications for opioid use disorder. The session will be held virtually on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 12:30-2:00 p.m. Register here. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that DHS provides coverage and payment for over-the-counter (OTC) oral contraceptives. 
  • The Office of Long-Term Living has made changes to the MA 376 based on recommendations from CMS and nursing facility admissions should use the updated form as of March 1. Click here for a bulletin outlining those changes and here for the updated form.
  • DHS has issued Provider Quick Tip #273 to remind providers of the policy for benefit limit exceptions (BLE) for certain dental services.
  • DHS has published a statement of policy to clarify the meaning of “purchase service agreement” relating to the contracted delegate function for the delivery of emergency involuntary commitment services. The statement of policy obsoletes Bulletin OMHSAS-21-05 regarding contracted delegate services. Find the statement of policy in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – WIC Program Advisory – April 16

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC Program) Advisory will meet on April 16, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to collaborate to gather suggestions of strategies for increasing participation and improving the WIC program to better support participants. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Patient Safety Authority – April 25

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a meeting of the authority’s board on Thursday, April 25 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – April 25

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee established under the Infant Hearing Education, Assessment, Reporting and Referral (IHEARR) Act will hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 25 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-04-12T20:43:51+00:00April 12th, 2024|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 12
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PA Health Policy Update for March 29

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

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro signed House Bill 1564, which provides for the creation of an associate license for marriage and family therapists and an associate license for professional counselors, into law on Thursday, March 28. It is now Act 4 of 2024. 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives convened for a voting session this week. Following is a selection of health care policy-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The House unanimously passed House Bill 1956, which makes certain amendments to the Patient Test Results Act. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Insurance Committee met on Monday, March 25 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1512, which provides for the coverage of telemedicine services. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee convened on Wednesday, March 27 at 9:00 a.m. and favorably reported a number of bills and resolutions, including the following:
    • House Bill 1633, which prohibits the use of non-compete agreements in health care employment.
    • House Bill 2084, which establishes a license for prescription drug virtual manufacturers.
    • Senate Bill 668, which permits certified nurse aides to become certified medication aides in long-term care, assisted living residences, and personal care homes. 

The House and Senate will be in recess next week. Both chambers will return to Harrisburg for voting session the week of April 8. 

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has posted a solicitation for grantees to develop and provide support to regional maternal health coalitions that will implement maternal mortality-prevention strategies recommended by the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee to reduce maternal mortality, particularly where there are disparities. The solicitation is viewable at eMarketplace or by clicking here.

DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 743) with important information about an increase in Mpox cases in Pennsylvania. The advisory includes recommendations for the prevention, screening, and treatment of Mpox.  

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued Provider Quick Tip #272 announcing it has experienced a delay in implementing Version 40.0 and Version 41.0 of the APR DRG classification system for Medical Assistance (MA) program enrolled acute care general hospitals. This will affect acute care general inpatient stays with discharge dates on or after October 1, 2022. As a result of this delay, DHS will begin to mass adjust claims submitted for discharge dates October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023 for Version 40.0, and October 1, 2023 through February 29, 2024 for Version 41.0 after February 29, 2024.

The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) has issued a clarification regarding the ability of Personal Assistance Service (PAS) workers to be reimbursed for transporting Community HealthChoices (CHC) participants in the community. The Commonwealth’s CHC 1915(c) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver addresses PAS and transportation beginning on page 81. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has released a Licensing Alert 05-2024 related to staffing regulations. DDAP has issued individual licensing alerts over time that focus on

specific regulation topics. This licensing alert will organize previous relevant, active licensing alerts, as well as provide additional guidance for Chapter 704 staffing regulations. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it has contacted individuals that had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

 Stakeholder Events  

DHS – Long-Term Services & Supports Subcommittee– April 3

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s Long-Term Services & Support (LTSS) Subcommittee next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually and in person. Register to participate here. 

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – April 19

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, April 19 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. Details on how to participate can be found in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-03-29T18:22:54+00:00March 29th, 2024|Governments, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 29
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PA Health Policy Update for March 22

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for a voting session this week. Following is a selection of health care policy-related legislative activity that occurred.

  • The House passed House Bill 1201, a consumer data privacy bill, by a vote of 139-62 on third and final consideration. The bill includes exemptions for protected health information under HIPAA and patient-identifying information related to certain research. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Professional Licensure Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, March 18 to discuss House Bill 1354, which enables boards and commissions within the Department of State’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs to issue advisory opinions to licensees. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee convened for a voting meeting on Tuesday, March 19 and favorably reported House Bill 1795, which aligns state statute with federal requirements for source plasma donation centers. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Care and Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Corrections held an informational meeting on Wednesday, March 20 regarding the criminal justice implications of adult-use cannabis legalization. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee held an informational meeting on Wednesday, March 20 to review the Office of the Child Advocate. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • Rep. Patty Kim (D – Dauphin County) was appointed chairman of the House Insurance Committee. She replaces former chairman, Rep. Kevin Boyle (D – Philadelphia). Rep. Maureen Madden (D – Monroe) was subsequently appointed chairman of the House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee. 
  • The Legislative Budget & Finance Committee has released a report on the impact of “treat and release” calls on emergency medical services (EMS), specifically for patients covered by Medicaid. Find highlights from the report here and the full detailed report here. 

The state House of Representatives will convene again for voting session on Monday, March 25. The Senate is now in recess until Monday, April 8. Following is an overview of selected health care policy-related legislative activity currently scheduled next week.

  • The House Insurance Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday, March 25 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 60 of the East Wing. The committee will consider, among other bills, House Bill 1512, which provides for the coverage of telemedicine services. The meeting will be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee will convene on Wednesday, March 27 at 9:00 a.m. to consider a number of bills and resolutions, including the following.
    • House Bill 1633, which prohibits the use of non-compete agreements in health care employment.
    • House Bill 2084, which establishes a license for prescription drug virtual manufacturers.
    • Senate Bill 668, which permits certified nurse aides to become certified medication aides in long-term care, assisted living residences, and personal care homes. 

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a request for applications (RFA) for community health worker care coordination in four rural regions of the commonwealth, including northeast central, northwest central, northwest, and southwest. The RFA may be viewed online at eMarketplace or here.

DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 741) with new guidance for preventing respiratory virus diseases. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has provided final notice of its funding allocation for FY 2023-2024 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments, outpatient supplemental payments, direct medical education payments, and certain DSH and supplemental payments to new hospitals. DHS is not otherwise changing the qualifying criteria or payment methodology for these payments. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through April 2024. Find the updated calendar here. 
  • 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 & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced it is conducting a survey related to the department’s work on regulatory reform. DDAP has requested stakeholders complete the survey, which may be found here, to help guide this initiative. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it has contacted individuals that had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events  

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – March 27

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 27 at 1:00 p.m. Register to participate here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 28

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on March 28 at 10:00 a.m. Register to participate here.

2024-03-22T20:16:41+00:00March 22nd, 2024|Governments, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 22
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PA Health Policy Update for March 8

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

General Assembly

  • The Department of Human Services appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, March 5 for its FY 2024-2025 budget hearing. A recording of the first part of the hearing is viewable here and the second part is viewable here.
  • The Department of Human Services also appeared before the House Appropriations Committee this week to review its FY 2024-2025 budget proposal. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The Department of Health appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday, March 7 for its FY 2024-2025 budget hearing. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The state House of Representatives and Senate have concluded their FY 2024-2025 budget hearings. Both chambers are scheduled to return to session Monday, March 18. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has published guidance related to Act 43 of 2023, which requires fentanyl and xylazine testing when a urine drug screening is conducted in an emergency department within an acute care hospital.
  • DOH has published a corrected list, as required, with a list of hospitals that have provided notice to the department that they may not provide emergency contraception or sexual assault emergency services due to various factors. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DOH has announced that it will hold a statewide Health Equity Summit from April 4 – 5 in Harrisburg and virtually. The theme of the summit is “Joy and Justice.” Learn more from this press release.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA HAN – 738), which contains guidance for health care facilities related to infection prevention and control for podiatric care. 

Department of Human Services

  • DHS has issued instructions advising providers participating in the Medical Assistance program on how they may continue to bill DHS directly for fee-for-service (FFS) claims while Change Healthcare’s billing and claims management systems remain unavailable due to a cyber-attack. Learn more here.
  • DHS has shared a federal funding opportunity for community programs for outreach and intervention with youth and young adults at clinical high risk for psychosis. Find additional information here.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through March 2024. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise FQHCs and rural health clinics (RHCs) of certain updates to the PROMISe™ Provider Handbook. The department has updated Appendix E, which is a compilation of federal and state requirements and standards for the provision and payment of FQHC and RHC services. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it has contacted individuals that had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 28

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted both in person and as a virtual teleconference. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee Meeting – March 27-28

The Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold public meetings on Wednesday, March 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Thursday, March 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meetings will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-03-08T21:58:12+00:00March 8th, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 8
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PA Health Policy Update for March 1

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 26 – March 1.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly 

  • The House Health Committee’s Subcommittee on Health Facilities held an informational meeting on Wednesday, February 28 to examine how to bolster support for rural and independent hospitals. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, February 26 to examine senior hunger. A recording of the hearing is viewable here. 
  • Next week will conclude the state House of Representatives and Senate Appropriations Committees’ budget hearings. Following are the health-related agencies scheduled to appear next week.
    • The Department of Human Services will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, March 5. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. and can be livestreamed here.
    • The Department of Human Services will appear before the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, March 6. The hearing will begin at 10:00 a.m. and can be livestreamed here.
    • The Department of Health will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday, March 7 at 9:30 a.m. The hearing can be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has published information about its Medical Care Availability and Reduction Error (MCARE) Act surcharge for FY 2024, a per unit assessment of approximately $159.10 payable by June 1.  Learn more about the surcharge and the providers to which it applies from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Please be aware that the mailing address for DAAC Central Office has changed. Please update your records and staff and ensure that any documents that are given to patients reflect this change. Following is the new address.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania HUB
Attn: Division of Acute and Ambulatory Care
2525 North 7th Street, Suite 210
Harrisburg, PA 17110

Board of Pharmacy 

The State Board of Pharmacy has published proposed regulations that set forth the criteria for pharmacy technician training programs as well as the standards of practice and registration fees for both pharmacy technicians and pharmacy technician trainees. This proposed rulemaking effectuates Act 140 of 2020, which formally recognizes pharmacy technicians and grants oversight to the Board of Pharmacy. Find the proposed regulations in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has released the findings of the first phase of the agency’s state-wide stakeholder engagement tour, including what actions will be taken to improve community and treatment provider engagement and access to and delivery of substance use disorder services. The key themes highlighted in the findings are workforce concerns, administrative burdens, treatment assessment, and health equity. Find additional information in this press release. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has published comments to the State Board of Medicine regarding its proposed rulemaking related to physician assistants. Find IRRC’s comments in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has reported that it contacted any individuals that have had their Medicaid coverage restored due to issues with the commonwealth’s ex parte redetermination process about how to use their retroactive coverage to have providers resubmit bills and reimburse any out-of-pocket costs that were paid in error during this time.
  • DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

 Stakeholder Events  

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 28

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted both in person and as a virtual teleconference. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee Meeting – March 27-28

The Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold public meetings on Wednesday, March 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Thursday, March 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meetings will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-03-01T21:17:21+00:00March 1st, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 1
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  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

Home / About Us / Advocacy / Why Join? / SNAPShots / Contact Us

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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