SNAPShots

SNAPShots

PA Health Policy Update for December 1

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from November 20 – December 1.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

Governor Shapiro 

On Tuesday, November 21 Governor Shapiro signed Senate Bill 500 and House Bill 507 into law. Senate Bill 500 (Act 32 of 2023) provides Medicaid coverage for pasteurized donor human milk. House Bill 507 (Act 31 of 2023) requires health care providers to obtain informed consent, both verbal and written, before performing a pelvic examination, a rectal examination, or a prostate examination while the patient is anesthetized or unconscious. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has made available for public review and comment its proposed 1115 waiver application. Entitled Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania, the application proposes Medicaid coverage for Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN), reentry supports, and multi-year continuous eligibility for young children. Find additional information, including a schedule of public hearings, in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. The state’s draft 1115 waiver application can be viewed here.
  • DHS has published notice of its intent to amend the current regulations to comply with the CMS’ final rule – ”Medicaid Program; Covered Outpatient Drugs.” The proposed rulemaking also makes technical changes to add diabetic supplies, opioid overdose agents, and immunizations to the list of services excluded from copayments. In addition, it recognizes the prescriptive and dispensing authority of certified nurse practitioners (CRNP) and midwives. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has updated its guidance on implementation of the interstate Nurse Licensure Compact. In accordance with an updated interpretation of applicable state law and regulations relating to registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), the Department will no longer require exceptions to regulations to allow health care facilities to employ or contract with RNs and LPNs holding an active multistate license. Read the updated guidance here.

DOH has notified providers that exceptions to perform Total Shoulder Replacement procedures in ambulatory surgery facilities are no longer required. Since the passage of Act 87, only procedures that are excluded from the CMS payment schedule require exceptions to 551.21 and CMS recently added Total Shoulder and Total Ankle procedures to that list. Letters rescinding currently held exceptions will be forthcoming, but effective immediately, exceptions and the associated reporting requirements are no longer in effect. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced its New Training Management System (TMS) will launch in January 2024. Additional information, including steps to prepare for the new TMS, can be viewed here. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has published proposed rulemaking submitted by the Board of Medicine effectuating Act 79 of 2021, which among other things, enables physician assistant written agreements to be effective upon being filed rather than approved. The proposed rulemaking can be viewed here. 

Office of the Attorney General 

The Office of Attorney General has issued a press release with information for Pennsylvania consumers, especially those who are pregnant or may become pregnant, when choosing reproductive health care providers and counselors.

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

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 

Patient Safety Authority – December 7

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Thursday, December 7 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.

2023-12-01T23:06:22+00:00December 1st, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 1
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for November 17

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

General AssemblyHouse Chamber of the State House

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

  • The House of Representatives unanimously passed Senate Bill 500, which provides Medicaid coverage for pasteurized donor human milk, as amended. The Senate subsequently concurred with the House amendments and sent it to the governor’s desk.
  • The Senate unanimously passed House Bill 507, which requires health care providers to obtain informed consent, both verbal and written, before performing a pelvic examination, a rectal examination, or a prostate examination while the patient is anesthetized or unconscious. The House subsequently concurred with the Senate amendments and sent it to the governor’s desk.
  • The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 668, which permits certified nurse aides to become certified medication aides (CMA) in long-term care facilities, assisted living residences, and personal care homes. Following Senate passage the bill was received in the House and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The House Human Services Committee held a meeting on Monday, November 15 and favorably reported House Bill 1650, which authorizes the establishment of a grant program for recovery houses, and House Bill 1690, which establishes a public awareness campaign about the growing threat of Xylazine.
  • The House Health Committee held a meeting on Wednesday, November 15 and favorably reported House Bill 1657, which eliminates exemptions in the state’s Clean Indoor Air Act and expands the definition of smoking to include e-cigarettes, and Senate Bill 414, which authorizes the establishment of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs by hospitals, mandates the creation of a comprehensive list of such programs, and authorizes a grant program to establish and support SANE services.

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 December. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has announced it will add sexually transmitted infection (STI) test kits for at-home specimen collection to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program fee schedule, effective with dates of services on and after December 1, 2023. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health is soliciting applications from hospitals and health systems for up to $325,000 in grant funding to support care navigators in emergency departments as part of the Pennsylvania Substance Use Navigation Program. One grantee will be selected in each of four regions, based on the location of the emergency department where care will be provided, and funds can be used to build and implement health system-wide clinical capacity to screen, diagnose, and support longitudinal care for opioid use disorder and stimulant use disorder and support recovery for adults and adolescents. The RFA closes on January 16, 2024.

In anticipation of the holiday season, DOH has issued vital safety tips to avoid holiday accidents. On behalf of DeBrunner & Associates, we hope you don’t burn the turkey and wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

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 – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – November 29

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, November 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 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. 

Patient Safety Authority – December 7

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on Thursday, December 7 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.

2023-11-17T21:07:32+00:00November 17th, 2023|Governments, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for November 17
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for October 27

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

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro signed House Bill 1351 into law this week. Act 15 of 2023, as it is now known, reauthorizes the hospital Quality Care Assessment, increases Medicaid reimbursement for ambulance transportation, and makes changes to the skilled nursing facility case-mix rate. 

General Assembly

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

  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met on Tuesday, October 24 and favorably reported the following relevant bills.
    • Senate Bill 668, which allows certified nurse aides (CNAs) to pursue medication administration certification.
    • Senate Bill 828, which provides the Department of Health with the ability to create and utilize a stroke registry.
    • House Bill 507, which requires health care providers to receive explicit patient consent for all procedures and exams performed under anesthesia for training purposes.
  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 959 on Wednesday by a vote of 30-20. This legislation would establish a new process for scheduling newly added controlled substances after the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s initial classification. The bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Judiciary Committee.

The state House of Representatives will convene again for voting session on Monday, October 30.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin advising providers of updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program Dental Fee Schedule and the MA Program Dental PROMISe Provider Handbook.

DHS has published the minutes of the September 28, 2023 Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting.

Department of Health   

The Department of Health (DOH) has published minimum standard requirements for sexual assault evidence collection. The minimum standard requirements published in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice should be observed by all health care facilities and child advocacy centers in the commonwealth. 

Insurance Department 

The Insurance Department has notified all basic insurance coverage insurers and self-insured participating health care providers that the annual MCARE assessment for 2024 will be 26 percent applied to the prevailing primary premium for each participating health care provider. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • 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 – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – November 2

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

The Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network, 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA in the Cambria conference room. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – November 16

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 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

2023-10-27T19:59:06+00:00October 27th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 27
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for October 13

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

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro has announced that he signed Executive Order 2023-20 establishing the commonwealth’s first Behavioral Health Council. The 33-member council is tasked with developing a state-wide action plan to enhance and streamline the coordination and delivery of behavioral health care services and improve access to care. 

Governor Shapiro has signed House Bill 1209 and House Bill 1407 into law. These bills, now known as Act 11 and Act 9 of 2023, respectively, make various changes to ensure Pennsylvania remains in compliance with the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement and isn’t exposed to litigation that would jeopardize tobacco settlement funding. 

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for voting session next Monday, October 16 through Wednesday, October 18.

The House of Representatives’ Health Committee will meet on Wednesday, October 18 at 9:45 a.m. in Room G50 of the Irvis Office Building to consider the following bills.

  • House Bill 1417, which restores dental coverage for Medical Assistance recipients.
  • House Bill 1585, which establishes access and coverage for tele-dentistry in Pennsylvania.
  • House Bill 1694, which requires the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs to create an annual report on the use of opioid settlement funds by state and county governments.
  • Senate Bill 500, which requires Medicaid coverage for medically prescribed pasteurized donor human milk. 

The Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled to meet off the floor on Monday, October 16 to consider, among other bills, Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers. 

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published final notice of its intent to increase to the funding and change the payment methodology for a class of disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-2023. These payments will provide financial relief to hospitals that provided access to acute care services for Medical Assistance (MA) beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has announced that PROMISe will have an extended maintenance window beginning 9:00 p.m. on October 20 to 2:00 p.m. on October 22.  During this window all PROMISe functions, including provider enrollment applications, will be unavailable.  For Pharmacy claims, DHS is directing pharmacies to dispense 5-day supplies of drugs and submit claims when the system is back online.

Auditor General  

Auditor General Tim DeFoor has announced the department will conduct a performance audit of state contracts and oversight of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) used by the Department of Human Services’ HealthChoices Medicaid Program. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

  • 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 – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 20

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, October 20 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 – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – October 26

The Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, October 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – November 2

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

The Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network, 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA in the Cambria conference room. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-10-13T19:39:11+00:00October 13th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 13
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for September 29

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

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro announced the launch of a new economic development strategy this week that aims to make Pennsylvania a leader in job creation and innovation. Tuesday’s announcement was the first step in creating the state’s first comprehensive economic growth strategy in almost two decades.  The strategy will be an assessment of the areas of strength, an analysis of barriers to growth, and concrete goals and initiatives to guide policymaking and investment decisions moving forward. 

General Assembly 

  • The state House of Representatives convened in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care focused legislative activity.
    • The Health Committee met on Wednesday, September 27 and favorably reported, among other bills and resolutions, House Resolution 143, which directs the Joint State Government Commission to study Pennsylvania’s response to COVID-19. Find a recording of the hearing here.
    • The Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Wednesday, September 27 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1527, which increases the personal needs allowance for Medical Assistance-eligible residents living in nursing facilities, and House Resolution 165, which directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to examine the effect of workforce shortages on state-supported Medicaid home and community-based services waiver programs. Find a recording of the hearing here.
  • The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene in Harrisburg next Monday, October 2 through Wednesday, October 4 for voting session.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Facilities will hold an informational meeting on Wednesday, October 4 at 9:00 a.m. to examine hospital closures and consolidation.
  • The House Human Services Committee and Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will hold a joint informational meeting on Wednesday, October 4 at 9:00 a.m. on personal care homes and assisted living facilities.  

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin announcing the addition of new procedures codes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program for vaccine administration.

DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to notify dental providers of updates to the 2023 Pediatric Dental Periodicity Schedule.

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has announced the 2024 individual and small group Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance rates. The open enrollment period for Pennsylvania’s state-based insurance exchange, Pennie, will be November 1 to December 15.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has published its annual list of 35 diseases, procedures, and medical conditions for which data shall be required. Find the comprehensive list in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

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 

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – October 2

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, October 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

The Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network, 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA in the Cambria conference room. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-09-29T19:55:37+00:00September 29th, 2023|long-term care, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 29
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for September 22

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

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building 

  • The state Senate convened for voting session this week. The following bills were passed on third and final consideration.
    • House Bill 1209 and House Bill 1407 make various changes to ensure Pennsylvania remains in compliance with the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement and isn’t exposed to litigation that would jeopardize tobacco settlement funding. Both bills will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
    • Senate Bill 712 allows clinical laboratories certified by the federal government to directly or indirectly advertise or solicit business for diagnostic laboratory testing under certain terms and conditions. Following passage, the bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Health Committee.
    • Senate Bill 773 makes various changes to the Medical Marijuana Act. Following passage, the bill was received in the House of Representatives and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The House Health Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, September 20 on House Bill 1657, which amends the Clean Indoor Air Act. A recording of the hearing may be viewed here.
  • Democrat Lindsay Powell won a special election Tuesday, September 19 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Representative Sara Innamorato (D – Allegheny), who’s running for Allegheny County Executive. Powell’s victory will preserve the Democrat’s one-seat majority in the House of Representatives.
  • The state House of Representatives will convene next Monday, September 26 and Tuesday, September 27 for voting session. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with updates to electronic visit verification requirements for pediatric home health aide services in the fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems.
  • DHS has announced its intent to allocate $258 million for FY 2023-2024 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) 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 October. Find the updated calendar here.

Department of Health 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported this week that a team of epidemiologists from the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) was the first to identify the transmission of Legionella from an organ directly to a transplant patient. This finding will help protect transplant recipients from serious lung infections. The published research can be viewed in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

DOH has released a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 719) with recommendations regarding the updated (2023-2024) Monovalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

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 Subcommittee of the MAAC – September 27

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a meeting on Wednesday, September 27 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda may be viewed here. The meeting will be held in person at the Keystone Building in the Forrest Room (400 North St., Harrisburg, PA). To participate virtually, register here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) – September 28

The MAAC will hold a meeting on Thursday, September 28 at 10:00 a.m. The agenda may be viewed here. The meeting will be held in person at the Keystone Building in the Forrest Room (400 North St., Harrisburg, PA). To participate virtually, register here. 

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – October 2

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, October 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

2023-09-22T18:52:13+00:00September 22nd, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medicaid supplemental payments, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 22
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for September 15

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

Governor Shapiro 

The Shapiro administration announced on Monday, September 11 that the Department of Human Services will begin reviewing and updating the data used to set rates for home and community-based services for Pennsylvanians with intellectual disabilities and autism. Find additional information in the administration’s press release here. 

General Assembly 

  • The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 20 at 9:30am on House Bill 1657, which amends the Clean Indoor Air Act. The legislation clarifies the definition of a workplace, expands the definition of smoking to include e-cigarettes, and gives all localities the ability to enact smoke-free ordinances that exceed minimum state standards. The hearing will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.
  • The state Senate will convene for voting session Monday, September 18 through Wednesday, September 20. The state House of Representatives will remain in recess next week. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of the expansion of childhood nutrition and weight management services for Medical Assistance (MA) beneficiaries under 21 years of age. The expansion includes pharmacotherapy as a result of changes to coverage of obesity drugs and updated guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as coding changes stemming from the 2023 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System updates.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin advising providers of procedure code updates to the MA program fee schedule for the provision of pediatric shift care services provided by home health aides through home health agencies to MA beneficiaries under 21 years of age. The changes are effective with dates of service on and after October 1, 2023.
  • DHS has published Provider Quick Tip #269 to remind providers that they may bill for, and prescribers may order, certain incontinence products.
  • DHS has issued a Remittance Advice (RA) Alert notifying community support service providers of the Federal Financial Participation rate change for the new federal fiscal year, which begins on October 1, 2023.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 717) with important information for providers regarding severe Vibrio vulnificus (V. vulnificus) infections in the United States associated with exposure to coastal waters. Since May 2023, there have been three Pennsylvania residents with V. vulnificus infections, all of whom were exposed to coastal water in the days leading up to disease onset.

Department of Aging 

The Department of Aging has released a Master Plan for Older Adults White Paper, which is intended to serve as a reference guide for aging stakeholders and interested individuals as they formulate and submit comments for the state’s master plan for older adults. Additional information about the development of the state’s master plan for older adults and how to comment may be found here. 

Board of Nursing 

The State Board of Nursing has published proposed rulemaking regarding opioid prescribing and organ donation education for certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs). Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

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 – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – September 20

The state-wide Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 20 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Participants can also access the meeting virtually. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Patient Safety Authority – September 21

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a board meeting on Thursday, September 21 at 1:00 p.m. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators will host a free webinar on October 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to discuss the nurse licensure compact and new rules taking effect in 2024, answer questions nurse employers often have, and explain Nursys.com and Nursys e-Notify. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate here.

2023-09-15T20:01:07+00:00September 15th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 15
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for September 8

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

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.

General Assembly

  • The House Commerce Committee held an informational hearing Wednesday, September 6 at 11:00am on HB 1201, which addresses consumer rights for the sharing of personal data by certain businesses and provides the Attorney General with enforcement authority. The legislation includes several exemptions from the provisions of the act including several health-related exclusions in compliance with HIPAA standards. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Republican Policy Committee held a public hearing Thursday, September 7 at 10:00am on “Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Rural Communities.” More information on the hearing can be found here.
  • The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 20 at 9:30am on HB 1657, which amends the Clean Indoor Air Act. The legislation would clarify the definition of a workplace, expand the definition of smoking to include e-cigarettes, and give all localities the ability to enact smoke-free ordinances that exceed minimum state standards. The hearing will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced changes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule for the provision of pediatric home health aide services by family members employed by home health agencies. Learn more in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has published Provider Quick Tip #207 advising health care providers of updates to the procedure codes that are subject to the MA cost avoidance process under Act 62. The purpose of the updates is to bring procedure code descriptions in alignment with national procedure code descriptions. The changes became effective September 5, 2023.
  • The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) has announced that Public Partnerships, LLC, has been selected as the new statewide Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA) for financial management services for Fee-for-Service OLTL-administered programs related. The new contract became effective September 1, 2023.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced the start of its state-wide stakeholder engagement tour. The kick-off event was held in northeastern Pennsylvania in partnership with the Columbia, Montour, and Snyder Drug and Alcohol Program. DDAP’s goal is to gather feedback that will help craft the agency’s plan for increased community and treatment provider engagement while also gaining stakeholder insight to assist the agency’s work on regulation reform.

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $2.9 billion in General Fund revenue in August, which was $27.1 million, or 0.9 percent, less than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date collections total $5.8 billion, which is $27.2 million, or 0.5 percent, below estimate.

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – September 20

The state-wide Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 20 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Participants can also access the meeting virtually. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Patient Safety Authority – September 21

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a board meeting on Thursday, September 21 at 1:00 p.m. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-09-08T20:37:35+00:00September 8th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 8
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for September 1

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 28 – September 1.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget Update 

The state Senate convened for voting session Wednesday, August 30 and passed the remaining legislative piece of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024 budget – the Fiscal Code. House Bill 1300, which passed by a vote of 29-18, will now be sent to the House of Representative for consideration. A Fiscal Note outlining the provisions contained in the legislation can be found here. The Fiscal Code advanced by the Senate is not agreed to by House Democratic leaders and the House is currently not scheduled to return to Harrisburg until September 26. 

General Assembly

The House Commerce Committee will hold an informational hearing Wednesday, September 6 at 11:00am on HB 1201, which addresses consumer rights for the sharing of personal data by certain businesses and provides the Attorney General with enforcement authority. The legislation includes several exemptions from the provisions of the act including several health-related exclusions in compliance with HIPAA standards. The informational hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.

The House Republican Policy Committee will hold a public hearing Thursday, September 7 at 10:00am on “Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Rural Communities.” The hearing will be held at the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport and will be live streamed here. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin advising providers of updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule as a result of the 2023 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) updates. DHS is also adding other procedure codes and making changes to procedure codes currently on the MA program fee schedule. These changes are effective for dates of service on and after September 5, 2023.
  • DHS has published Provider Quick Tip #268 to remind prescribers and providers that certain procedure codes and modifier combinations require prior authorization.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin with updates to the Family Planning Services program fee schedule, which are a result of the 2023 HCPCS updates.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PAHAN – 716) regarding respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The advisory provides important information about recommended monoclonal antibodies and recently approved vaccines for RSV. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

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

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council – September 7

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) will hold a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 7, 2023. The public is invited to participate. Contact rgreenawalt@phc4.org for participation instructions. 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – September 20

The state-wide Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 20 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Participants can also access the meeting virtually. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Patient Safety Authority – September 21

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a board meeting on Thursday, September 21 at 1:00 p.m. Find additional details and instructions on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-09-05T13:44:35+00:00September 1st, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 1
Read More

PA Health Policy Update for August 25

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 14 – 25.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.)

Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget Update

The Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Wednesday, August 30 at 1:00 p.m. to consider the remaining pieces of the FY 2023-2024 budget. The Senate Republican Caucus spokesperson released the following statement:

“Our work to complete the necessary budgetary implementation legislation continues… We are in communication with House leaders, and we remain hopeful the House will also choose to reconvene before September 26.”

Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward released a statement noting that funding for emergency medical services and hospital and health system relief would be on the agenda when they reconvene. The House has not scheduled voting session days prior to September 26, and it is unclear when an agreement on the final budget implementation language will be reached.  

Governor Shapiro

The Shapiro administration has announced it is taking the first step to implement the Nurse Licensure Compact by allowing nurses with multi-state licenses to practice in Pennsylvania beginning September 5. Learn more by reviewing the Department of Health’s health care facility-specific guidance and the Board of Nursing’s Nurse Licensure Compact website. 

General Assembly

The House Commerce Committee will hold an informational hearing Wednesday, September 6 at 11:00am on HB 1201, which addresses consumer rights for the sharing of personal data by certain businesses and provides the Attorney General with enforcement authority. The legislation includes several exemptions from the provisions of the act including several health-related exclusions in compliance with HIPAA standards. The informational hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced changes to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program fee schedule. The changes are effective for dates of service on and after September 5, 2023. Learn more in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through September. Find the updated calendar here.

Department of Health  

The Department of Health (DOH) has updated its staffing calculation tool for long-term care facilities. Use of this tool is not required but may be useful when calculating the required number of nursing hours as well as staff ratios. Click here to download the tool (Excel spreadsheet) and here to download the instructions (Word document). 

Department of Aging

The Department of Aging has announced it is soliciting stakeholder feedback to assist in the development of the state’s Master Plan for Older Adults. The department has partnered with the University of Pittsburgh to distribute a survey in an effort to develop a profile of the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities that will inform the state’s planning process.  

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced its intent to hold technical assistance webinars regarding substance use disorder (SUD) confidentiality and the impact of Act 33. In preparation, DDAP has requested stakeholders complete their SUD Confidentiality Survey by September 22, 2023. If you are interested in attending one of the webinars, you may email  RA-DAASAM@pa.gov to be notified when they’re scheduled.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Counsel (PHC4) has released a new research brief, Severe Maternal Morbidity in Pennsylvania. The brief examines severe maternal morbidity among patients hospitalized in Pennsylvania for delivery between 2016 and 2022. PHC4’s press release announcing the report may be found here. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

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.

2023-08-25T21:35:39+00:00August 25th, 2023|Financial, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2024 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for August 25
Read More

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

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 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

Go to Top