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PA Health Policy Update for May 26

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has updated its 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. 

Governor Shapiro

On Thursday Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2023-09 directing the Department of Aging to prepare and develop a Master Plan for Older Adults, which will serve as a 10-year roadmap to meet the needs of Pennsylvania’s senior population and improve commonwealth services for older Pennsylvanians. Find additional information in this press release issued by the governor’s office. 

General Assembly 

The state House returned to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

  • The House Health Committee held a voting meeting Monday, May 22 to consider, among several resolutions, HB 1131 sponsored by Representative Lisa Borowski, which would remove the requirement for counties to operate state health centers in counties establishing their own local health departments. The bill was unanimously reported as committed. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
  • The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Tuesday, May 23 to consider, HB 849 sponsored by Representative Mike Schlossberg, to allocate funding for the Behavioral Health Commission on Adult Mental Health’s recommendations for funding, and HB 931 sponsored by Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, to establish the Kinship Care Legal Assistance Grant Program, which was reported as amended. HB 849 was reported as amended and the amended text can be found here. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

The state House and Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, June 5. The following are selected health-related proceedings.

  • The House Human Services Committee will hold a joint hearing with the House Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee Monday, June 5 on the next generation of emergency and mental health response. The hearing will be held at 10:30am in Room 140 of the Main Capitol and will be live streamed here.
  • The House Health Committee will hold a voting meeting Tuesday June 6 to consider HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios and HB 754, which provides a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission into a nursing home facility that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits. The meeting will be held at 10:00am in Room 205 of the Ryan Office Building and will be live streamed here.
  • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee will hold a public hearing Tuesday, June 6 on Pennsylvania’s EMS crisis and long-term sustainability. The hearing will be held in Room 8E-A East Wing and will be live streamed here. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health has issued a Health Advisory (2023 – PAHAN – 697) with information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding an outbreak of suspected fungal meningitis among U.S. patients hospitalized in Texas. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the addition of certain procedure codes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule for the administration of additional bivalent doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines manufactured by Moderna and Pfizer. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced updates to the MA program fee schedule for evaluation and management (E&M) procedure codes, including making adjustments to the fees for some procedure codes. These updates are effective for dates of service on and after June 1, 2023. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced the addition of procedure codes G0312 and G0315 to the MA program fee schedule for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) and novel coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine counseling only visits. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • Materials from the May 24 meeting of the Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee viewed here.
  • Materials from the May 25 meeting of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee meeting may be viewed here. 

Independent Fiscal Office 

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released its initial revenue estimate for FY 2023-2024. The IFO estimates General Fund revenues of $45.292 billion for FY 2023-2024, which is a 1.3 percent increase over the current fiscal year. Find the report and corresponding presentation here.  

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission posted the following final regulations for public comment.

Stakeholder Events

PID – 1332 Waiver Reinsurance Program Public Forum – June 28

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced it is accepting public comment on its 1332 State Innovation Waiver Reinsurance Program beginning June 1 and ending June 30. PID will also hold an in-person forum for public comment on Thursday, June 28 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-05-28T01:20:56+00:00May 26th, 2023|Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 26
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PA Health Policy Update for May 12

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

End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Hospital building

  • CMS has released an updated frequently asked questions (FAQs) document regarding changes made to the Medicaid continuous enrollment condition under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) by the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023.
  • CMS has sent a memo to state Medicaid and CHIP programs about the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency and the COVID-19 national emergency and the implications for Medicaid and CHIP.  Find that memo here. 
  • The DEA has announced that the full set of telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled medications that were established in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency will remain in place for six more months, through November 11.  During this period the DEA and HHS’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will continue to consider the flexibilities’ future.  Learn more from this DEA announcement, which includes a link to a Federal Register notice. 
  • DOH has notified health care providers the CMS waiver allowing for Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) ends with the Public Health Emergency on May 11, 2023. TNA’s who have not completed the testing by May 11, 2023 may become Nurse Aide Candidates by enrolling in an approved Nurse Aide Training Program. After May 11, 2023, nurse aide candidates will have four months to complete the required testing as long as they are enrolled in an approved nurse aide training program. Nurse aide candidates may continue to work in facilities while they complete the training program. Information on preparing and scheduling tests can be found here. 

General Assembly

  • The state Senate returned to Harrisburg on Monday, May 8 for voting session and is now recessed until Monday, June 5.
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee held an information meeting Wednesday, May 10, to receive updates from local Area Agencies on Aging and to discuss scams targeting older adults. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
  • The House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee will hold a public hearing on May 18 to discuss access to rural medicine and health care in Pennsylvania. The hearing will be held at the Carnegie Natural History Museum in Pittsburgh at 11:00 a.m. and will be livestreamed here.
  • The state House will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Health Committee will hold a voting meeting Monday, May 22 at 10:00am to consider, among several resolutions, HB 1131 sponsored by Representative Lisa Borowski, which would remove the requirement for counties to operate state health centers in counties establishing their own local health departments. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be live streamed here.
    • The House Human Services Committee will hold a voting meeting Tuesday, May 23 at 9:00am to consider, HB 849 sponsored by Representative Mike Schlossberg, to allocate funding for the Behavioral Health Commission on Adult Mental Health’s recommendations for funding, and HB 931 sponsored by Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, to establish the Kinship Care Legal Assistance Grant Program. The meeting will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and can be live streamed here. 

Joint State Government Commission

The Joint State Government Commission issued a study on the use of contracted workers at Medicaid funded long-term care facilities, as authorized under Senate Resolution 288 of 2021. The study can be viewed here. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) issued an update (PAHAN – 694 – 05-11) with information regarding infection prevention and control for COVID-19 in health care settings based on changes made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on May 8, 2023.
  • DOH reminded nursing care facilities that June 1, 2023 is the deadline for submitting the MCARE Surcharge Invoice Payment.  The 2022-23 surcharge letters and invoices were emailed to administrators on March 3 and again on April 22.
  • DOH issued a notice that the Division of Home Health will have the following new address effective May 8, 2023 – 2525 North 7th Street, Harrisburg PA 17110. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) issued a bulletin clarifying the 120-hour timeframe for Section 302 emergency involuntary commitments in response to questions regarding the previous bulletin issued in November 2022. The OMHSAS Bulletin may be viewed here.
  • DHS published Provider Quick Tip #233 confirming the waiver of Prudent Pay will not end on May 11, 2023 with the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). It will remain in effect until further notice.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) released the agenda for its May 18 meeting. Following are certain health-related regulations IRRC will consider.

Stakeholder Events

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 18

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, May 17 and Thursday, May 18. For information on how to participate, review this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – May 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, May 24 at 1:00 pm. Go here to register to participate. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, May 25 at 10:00 a.m.  Go here to register to participate.

2023-05-12T21:27:54+00:00May 12th, 2023|COVID-19, Pennsylvania Department of Health and COVID-19, Pennsylvania Medicaid coronavirus, Pennsylvania Medicaid COVID-19, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 12
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PA Health Policy Update for May 5

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

Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) published the first section of 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. 

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro signed the first bill of his administration on Monday. Act 1, formerly Senate Bill 8, requires insurers to cover all costs associated with genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or Ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer. View this press release for additional information.

The Shapiro administration announced today that all commonwealth agencies completed a comprehensive review of their respective licensing, certification, and permitting processes as directed in the governor’s January 31 executive order. The administration will now work to establish “efficient processing times” for all permits and licenses. 

General Assembly

  • The state House and Senate returned to Harrisburg on May 1 for voting session. Below is coverage of selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Health Committee held a public hearing Tuesday, May 2 on HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing staffing ratios. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
    • Representative Jennifer O’Mara (D-Delaware), Representative Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne) and Senator Carolyn Comitta (D-Chester) held a press conference Wednesday on hospital closure reform. More information can be found here.
    • The House Republican Policy Committee held a public hearing Thursday, May 4 on hospital pricing transparency. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
    • The Senate voted to confirm Governor Josh Shapiro’s nominee for the Secretary of Aging, Jason Kavulich, this week. A recording of the confirmation hearing in the Senate Aging and Youth Committee can be viewed here.
    • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Tuesday, May 2 to consider among other bills:
      • SB 100, Establishing the Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illness Diagnosis and Treatment Act. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 262, Amends the Maternal Mortality Review Committee Act regarding reportable events. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 414, Expanding access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 500, Provides for Medicaid Coverage for Pasteurized Donor Human Milk. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.
      • SB 549, Requires consent for pelvic, rectal, and prostate exams. The bill was unanimously reported as amended.
      • SB 555, Reducing the loaded mileage requirements for EMS Medicaid reimbursement. The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

  • The state Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 8. The state House is recessed and will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 22. The following are selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an information meeting Wednesday, May 10 at 10:00am to receive updates from local Area Agencies on Aging and to discuss scams targeting older adults. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here. 

Office of the Attorney General 

Attorney General Michelle Henry issued the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document regarding medication abortion and mifepristone access in Pennsylvania. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health’s (DOH) Division of Newborn Screening and Genetics, with support of the Newborn Screening and Follow-up Technical Advisory Board, is proposing that Guanidinoacetate Methyltransferase (GAMT) deficiency screening be added effective January 1, 2024 to the supplemental conditions mandated for screening. Additional information can be viewed in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to increase the funding and amend the payment methodology for the COVID-19 disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for FY 2022-23. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS published final notice of its intent to allocate funding and amend the qualifying criteria and payment methodology allocation for DSH payments to acute-care general hospital trauma centers. These payments will amount to $18.034 million in total funds.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS published final notice of its funding allocation for FY 2022-23 supplemental payments to promote the continuation of quality medical services to individuals enrolled in the Pennsylvania Medical Assistance (MA) Program, and to provide financial relief to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS published updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) Program Fee Schedule for administration of a booster dose of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced the temporary extension of the Alternative Payment Methodology (APM) for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Rural Health Clinics (RHC) for the administration of COVID-19 vaccines administered during a COVID-19 vaccine-only visit. The APM will be extended beyond the end of the federal PHE to September 30, 2024. Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has issued an updated Provider Quick Tip (#263) regarding the electronic submission process in the PROMISe Portal for Office of Medical Assistance Fee-for-Service (FFS) and Office of Long Term Living (OLTL) 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation.

Revenue Collection Update

The Department of Revenue announced Pennsylvania collected $5.7 billion in General Fund revenue in April, which was $51.1 million, or 0.9 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $37.9 billion, which is $1.2 billion, or 3.3 percent, above estimate. 

Stakeholder Events

DOH – WIC Advisory Board – May 10

The WIC Program Advisory will meet on May 10 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Additional information and details on how to participate can be viewed in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee – May 12

The Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) Subcommittee will hold a meeting on Friday, May 12 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Department of Education Building’s Honors Suite, 1st floor, at 333 Market Street in Harrisburg, or via webinar. You may register for the webinar here.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 18

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, May 17 and Thursday, May 18. For information on how to participate, review this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – May 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, May 24 at 1:00 pm. Go here to register to participate. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – May 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, May 25 at 10:00 a.m.  Go here to register to participate.

 

2023-05-05T21:19:20+00:00May 5th, 2023|Federal Medicaid issues, 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 May 5
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PA Health Policy Update for April 28

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

Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination 

Medicaid unwinding has officially begun, and recipients will begin to receive their renewal packets and additional communications from the Department of Human Services 90 days prior to their individual renewal date. Individuals can view their renewal dates in COMPASS and can begin the renewal application online up to 60 days early. Additional updates and resources about the Medicaid eligibility renewal process may be found here. 

General Assembly

  • The state House and Senate returned to Harrisburg on April 24 for voting session. Below is coverage of selected health-related committee proceedings.
    • The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a public hearing Monday, April 24 at 10:00am on professional licensing delays in health care. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
    • The House Insurance Committee held a voting meeting on Monday, April 24 to consider, among other bills, SB 8 which requires insurers to cover all costs associated with genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or Ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer. The bill advanced from committee and received a unanimous vote on final passage in the House.  SB 8 will move to the Governor’s desk for his consideration upon signature in the Senate.
    • The Senate Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee held a voting meeting to consider SB 81, which codifies the ability for EMS providers to leave a dose of Naloxone with an on-scene caregiver. The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
    • The House Health Committee held an informational meeting Wednesday, April 26 on unregulated intoxicants and psychoactive substances. A recording of the hearing can be viewed  here.
    • The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting Wednesday, April 26 to consider the following bills.
      • HB 409, which would establish a mental health care services clearinghouse. The bill was reported without amendment.
      • HB 754, which would provide a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits. The bill was re-referred to the House Health Committee.

A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.

    • The House Professional Licensure Committee held an informational meeting on the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs. A recording of the meeting can be viewed here.
  • The state House and Senate will return to Harrisburg for voting session Monday, May 1. Following are selected health-related proceedings.
    • The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing Tuesday, May 2 at 9:30am on HB 106, the Patient Safety Act, which sets nursing ratios. The hearing will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and can be live streamed here.
    • The Senate Health and Human Services Committee is holding a voting meeting on Tuesday, May 2 at 11:00 to consider among other bills:
      • SB 100, Establishing the Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illness Diagnosis and Treatment Act.
      • SB 262, Amends the Maternal Mortality Review Committee Act regarding reportable events.
      • SB 414, Expanding access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE).
      • SB 500, Provides for Medicaid Coverage for Pasteurized Donor Human Milk.
      • SB 549, Requires consent for pelvic, rectal, and prostate exams.
      • SB 555, Reducing the loaded mileage requirements for EMS Medicaid reimbursement.

The meeting will be held in Room 8E of the East Wing and will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health issued a Health Alert (PAHAN – 693-04-28) with updated recommendations regarding the Monovalent and Bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a press release highlighting how the Shapiro administration has reduced the backlog for Medicaid provider enrollment from 34,682 applicants waiting more than 30 days to less than 8,500. The press release notes the backlog has been reduced by 75 percent in the administration’s first 100 days.
  • DHS has issued Provider Quick Tip (#263) with an update notifying providers that the electronic submission process for Office of Medical Assistance Fee-for-Service (FFS) and the Office of Long Term Living’s 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation is available in the PROMISe Portal.

Stakeholder Events

PHC4 –Executive Committee & Council Meeting – May 4

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has scheduled an executive committee meeting at 9:30 a.m. and a council meeting at 10:00 a.m. on May 4, 2023. Go here for additional information and details on how to register to participate.

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee – May 12

The Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) Subcommittee will hold a meeting on Friday, May 12 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Department of Education Building’s Honors Suite, 1st floor, at 333 Market Street in Harrisburg, or via webinar. You may register for the webinar here.

2023-04-28T20:48:32+00:00April 28th, 2023|long-term care, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 28
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PA Health Policy Update for April 21

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

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro announced this week his administration submitted a notice of intent to temporarily add xylazine, commonly known as “tranq,” to the list of schedule III drugs under Pennsylvania’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act. This step is an effort to limit access to xylazine, which is increasingly being found in Pennsylvania’s illicit drug trade. The administration also intends to schedule nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids, as a schedule I drug. 

General Assembly

  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing Thursday, April 20 on The State Master Plan on Aging. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The House Children and Youth Committee held a public hearing Thursday, April 20 on overcrowding in Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Detention Facilities. A recording of the hearing can be viewed here.
  • The state House and Senate will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 for voting session. Following are selected health-related committee proceedings.
    • The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee will hold a public hearing Monday, April 24 at 10:00am on professional licensing delays in health care. The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building and will be livestreamed here.
    • The House Insurance Committee will hold a voting meeting on Monday, April 24 at 11:00 a.m. to consider among other bills, SB 8 which requires insurers to cover all costs associated for genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and also requires insurers to cover all costs associated with a supplemental breast screening by MRI or Ultrasound for women at increased risk of breast cancer. The meeting will be held in Room B31 of the Main Capitol and will be livestreamed here.
    • The House Health Committee will hold an informational meeting Wednesday, April 26 at 9:00 a.m. on unregulated intoxicants and psychoactive substances. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.
    • The House Human Services Committee will hold a voting meeting Wednesday, April 26 at 9:15 a.m. to consider the following bills.
      • HB 409, which would establish a mental health care services clearinghouse.
      • HB 754, which would provide a standard notice to each nursing home resident and their designated representatives at the time of their admission that they have the option of having legal representation to assist with the application for Medicaid benefits.

The meeting will be held in Room 523 of the Irvis Office Building and will be livestreamed here.

    • The House Professional Licensure Committee will hold an informational meeting April 26 at 10:00am on the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs. The hearing will be held in Room 140 of the Main Capitol and will be livestreamed here.

Department of Health

  • DOH reminded long-term care facilities that the obligation to report COVID-19 cases and deaths through the ERS will continue beyond the end of the federal PHE on May 11. These records are reportable within 24 hours of diagnosis. Only new cases should be reported and positive cases that later result in death should be amended rather than entered as a new data record.  Find details on the reporting process here.
  • DOH encouraged nursing care facilities to make every effort to help temporary nurse aides to schedule and complete the required exams to become permanent certified nurse aides as soon as possible. When the federal PHE ends on May 11, candidates will have four months to complete the required testing as long as they are enrolled in an Approved Nurse Aide Training Program and candidates may continue to work in facilities while they complete the training program. Information on preparing and scheduling tests can be found here.   

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) released the agenda for the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s (MAAC) April 27 meeting. In advance of the meeting, DHS also issued a briefing document outlining proposed changes and clarifications to the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
  • DHS issued proposed regulations to strengthen and clarify the Adult Protective Services Act (Act 70). Implementation of Act 70 began in 2015 but has operated under agency guidance and contract amendments rather than formal regulation. Find additional information and the proposed regulations in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks into late May.  Find the updated calendar here. 

Insurance Department

The Insurance Department issued a request for comments on a proposal to suspend the reinsurance program for the state-based insurance exchange, PENNIE®, and potentially replace it with a possible “state subsidy wrap.” Additional information on the proposal and details on how to comment may be found in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Office of the Attorney General 

Attorney General Michelle Henry joined a coalition of seventeen other Attorneys General submitting a letter in support of the Federal Trade Commission’s proposal to prevent businesses from having employees sign non-compete agreements as a condition of employment. Find additional information in this press release. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) released the agenda for its May 18 meeting. Following are certain health-related regulations IRRC will consider.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board – April 26

The DUR Board will meet Wednesday, April 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on April 26, 2023, at 1:00 pm. Go here to register to participate. 

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, April 27 at 10:00 a.m.  Go here to register to participate.

Patient Safety Authority – April 27

The Patient Safety Authority’s board will meet virtually on Thursday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee – May 12

The Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) Subcommittee will hold a meeting on Friday, May 12 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Department of Education Building’s Honors Suite, 1st floor, at 333 Market Street in Harrisburg, or via webinar. You may register for the webinar here.

DDAP – Xylazine: A New Drug Additive – June 12

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) will host two additional sessions of “Xylazine: A New Drug Additive,” presented by Savage Sisters Recovery, in Harrisburg on June 12, 2023. Please visit the Training Management System for details and to register.

2023-04-21T20:06:37+00:00April 21st, 2023|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 21
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PA Health Policy Update for April 7

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

General Assembly

  • The House and Senate Appropriations Committees will resume budget hearings next week. 
    • On Tuesday, April 11 at 10:00 a.m., the Department of Human Services will appear before the House Appropriations Committee. The hearing will be held in the House chamber and will also be live streamed here.   
    • On Wednesday, April 12 at 9:30 a.m., the Department of Human Services will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee. The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building and will also be live streamed here.  
    • On Thursday, April 13 at 9:30 a.m., the Department of Health will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee. The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building and will also be live streamed here.   
    • A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be found here.  
  • The House Health Committee will hold an informational hearing Wednesday, April 12 at 10:00 a.m. on prescription drug affordability boards. The hearing will be held in in Room 205 of the Ryan Office Building and will be live streamed here. 
  • The House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing Thursday, April 13 at 12:00 p.m. on black maternal health. The hearing will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building and will be live streamed here. 
  • The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee will hold an informational hearing Thursday, April 13 at 1:00 p.m. on PACE/PACENET, the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and AARP. The hearing will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building and will be live streamed here.
  • The state House and Senate are currently recessed.  They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) published the Pennsylvania State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) that outlines goals, objectives, and strategies to improve the health of Pennsylvania residents over the next five years. The 2023-2028 SHIP was developed in collaboration with the Healthy Pennsylvania Partnership, which is made up of nearly 300 health care professionals, associations, health systems, health and human services organizations, community collaborations, local public health agencies, and government agencies. 
  • DOH issued a health update reminding healthcare facilities, providers, and laboratories to have heightened awareness for C. auris in their patients and updating a previous alert with information on new confirmed cases in Cumberland, Erie, and Monroe counties.  C. auris has been detected in ventilator-capable skilled nursing facilities, long-term acute care hospitals, and acute care hospitals since the current outbreak began in March 2020.  Find more information in this Health Update.  
  • DOH has alerted providers and laboratories to current outbreaks of Marburg virus in Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea and recommends they consider Marburg virus in patients with recent travel to those areas.  Find details in the Health Alert here.  

Department of Human Services   

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved the Office of Long-Term Living’s (OLTL) Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver amendment, which took effect April 1, 2023. Changes in the approved waiver include benefits counseling, home health aide services, nursing services, and occupational, physical, and speech and language therapy services. The current approved CHC Waiver can be found here. 
  • OLTL released a transition plan to phase out temporary changes to the CHC 1915(c) Waiver. Effective May 11, 2023, OLTL will phase out its emergency flexibilities to coincide with the end of the federal Public Health Emergency. 
  • DHS announced CMS has approved OLTL’s OBRA Waiver amendment, which took effect April 1, 2023, for home and community-based services. The current OBRA Waiver can be viewed here.
  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to notify dental providers enrolled in the Medical Assistance program that DHS will begin accepting the 2019 American Dental Association (ADA) Claim Form upon issuance of this bulletin and will no longer accept the 2012 ADA Claim Form for dates of service on and after June 1, 2023.
  • DHS released a Provider Quick Tip (#263) notifying providers about an electronic submission process for FFS 180-day exception requests and other claims requiring documentation will soon be available in the Promise Portal. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs and DHS jointly issued a bulletin to update the guidance in OMHSAS bulletin 06-03 dated February 10, 2006. This bulletin includes the definitions of co-occurring capable and co-occurring enhanced programs as set forth in The ASAM Criteria. The information may be used to assist SCAs, BH-MCOs, and treatment providers in identifying co-occurring capable and co-occurring enhanced programs and in referring individuals to those programs.  

Revenue Collection Update  

The Department of Revenue announced Pennsylvania collected $6.2 billion in General Fund revenue in March, which was $499.4 million, or 8.8 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $32.3 billion, which is $1.1 billion, or 3.7 percent, above estimate.  

Around the State   

WHYY reported about the end of continuous Medicaid enrollment, beginning April 1, 2023, and how individuals can prepare for renewals.   

The Erie Times-News published an article about the drug-resistant fungus, Candida auris, which was found in a patient at a health care facility in Erie County.    

Stakeholder Events  

PHC4 – Data Systems Committee – April 10 

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has scheduled a Data Systems Committee meeting on April 10 at 10:00 a.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.   

DOH – State Child Death Review Team – April 20 

The State Child Death Review (CDR) Team will hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 20 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – April 21 

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, April 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

DHS – Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board – April 26 

The DUR Board will meet Wednesday, April 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

DHS – Medical Assistance Consumer Subcommittee – April 26 

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on April 26, 2023, at 1:00 pm. Go here to register to participate.  

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 27 

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, April 27 at 10:00 a.m.  Go here to register to participate.  

Patient Safety Authority – April 27 

The Patient Safety Authority’s board will meet virtually on Thursday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m. Go here for additional information and details on how to participate.  

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee – May 12 

The Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) Subcommittee will hold a meeting on Friday, May 12 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Department of Education Building’s Honors Suite, 1st floor, at 333 Market Street in Harrisburg, or via webinar. You may register for the webinar here. 

2023-04-20T17:15:29+00:00April 7th, 2023|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 7
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PA Health Policy Update for March 17

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

General Assembly

  • The General Assembly will begin hearings examining Governor Shapiro’s FY 2023-24 budget proposal next week.  A complete schedule for the House Appropriations Committee can be viewed here and a complete schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee can be found here.  The following are the schedules for the Department of Health and the Department of Human Services budget hearings.
    • Tuesday, March 28:  Department of Health – House Appropriations Committee
    • Tuesday, April 11:  Department of Human Services – House Appropriations Committee
    • Wednesday, April 12:  Department of Human Services – Senate Appropriations Committee
    • Thursday, April 13:  Department of Health – Senate Appropriations Committee
  • The House and Senate are currently recessed.  They will return to Harrisburg on Monday, April 24 following the conclusion of budget hearings.

Department of Health

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has informed the Department of Health that the approved CMS waiver extending the deadline for temporary nurse aides to complete required examinations is in effect until May 11, 2023.  Learn more about the implications of the expiration of this waiver and how nurse aide candidates can continue to work while pursuing certification from this Department of Health notice.

The Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Advisory Board will add chronic hepatitis C as a qualifying serious medical condition for medical marijuana use in Pennsylvania.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

COVID-19:  By the Numbers           

  • The number of new COVID-19 cases reported daily in Pennsylvania fell 19 percent last week after a similar 19 percent decline last week and 17 percent the previous week.  The number of daily deaths is holding steady.
  • According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 fell 14 percent last week after a 16 percent decline the previous week and a nine percent decline the week before that.  The number of COVID-19 patients on ventilators and in hospital ICUs held steady over the past two weeks.
  • The CDC reports a 10 percent decline in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19 after an 18 percent decline the previous week and a 13 percent decline the week before that.
  • For the week ending March 15, 24 Pennsylvania counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 20 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and the remaining 33 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – Consumer Subcommittee – March 22

The consumer subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Wednesday March 22 at 1:00.  Go here to register to participate.

March 22 – Medicaid and CHIP Continuous Enrollment Unwinding Webinar – March 22

CMS will hold a webinar on the unwinding of Medicaid and CHIP continuous enrollment and what providers need to know and how to prepare for that unwinding on Wednesday, March 22 at noon (eastern).  During the webinar, CMS officials will review recently released CMS unwinding resources to help partners with their outreach efforts and respond to questions about Medicaid renewals and terminations, Medicaid to marketplace transitions, Medicaid to Medicare transitions, communication and outreach strategies, and more.  Go here to register to participate.  CMS will offer the same webinar on April 26, May 24, and June 28.  Go here and scroll down for materials from previous webinars on Medicaid unwinding.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 23

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will hold its next public meeting virtually on Thursday, March 23 at 10:00.  Go here to register to participate.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee Meeting April 5

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s managed long-term services and support subcommittee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, April 5 at 10:00 in Harrisburg.  For information about how to join the meeting in person or participate remotely, see this DHS notice.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs – Adolescent ASAM Criteria – May 16

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs is offering training on adolescent ASAM criteria, to be delivered virtually, for participants who already understand the foundational aspects of the ASAM criteria.  The purpose of this training is to explore and discuss the adolescent-specific aspects of the ASAM criteria and offer participants a practical focus through lecture, real-world clinical vignettes, and case studies.  The program will be held on May 16 at 8:30.  Continuing education credits are available.  Learn more about the program, including requirements for participation and how to join, from this Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs notice.  Please note that this program is identical to one offered on March 9.

2023-03-17T19:46:43+00:00March 17th, 2023|COVID-19, Federal Medicaid issues, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2024 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 17
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PA Health Law Project Newsletter

The Pennsylvania Health Law Project has published its February 2023 Health Law News newsletter.

Included in this month’s issue are articles about:

  • Pennsylvania Medicaid’s decision to continue paying parents as home health aides.
  • Medicaid payments toward Medicare Part A premiums for qualified individuals.
  • Forgiveness for pandemic-era MAWD (Medical Assistance for Workers With Disabilities) premiums.
  • An Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services bulletin on mental health treatment for minors.

Read about these subjects and more in the Pennsylvania Health Law Project’s February 2023 newsletter.

 

2023-02-28T20:30:44+00:00March 1st, 2023|Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Law Project Newsletter
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PA Health Policy Update for February 17

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives will convene for session on Tuesday, February 21 at 12:00 p.m. The state Senate is scheduled to return on Monday, February 27.

Department of Human Services

  • The fee-for-service subcommittee of the Department of Human Services (DHS) Medical Assistance Advisory Committee met on Wednesday, February 8.  See the presentation made by Office of Medical Assistance officials during that meeting.
  • DHS’s Office of Long-Term Living offered a presentation during the February 14 meeting of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s long-term services and supports subcommittee.  Find that presentation here.
  • DHS has published a notice of its funding allocation for FY 2023 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments to qualifying inpatient acute-care general, psychiatric, and rehabilitation hospitals and qualifying psychiatric and rehabilitation units of acute-care general hospitals; outpatient supplemental payments to qualifying inpatient acute-care general hospitals; direct medical education payments to qualifying inpatient acute-care general hospitals; and certain DSH and supplemental payments to new hospitals.  It is not otherwise changing the qualifying criteria or payment methodology for these payments.  These payments will amount to $257.76 million in total funds.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has published a notice of its funding allocation for DSH payments to qualifying acute-care general hospital burn centers, to qualifying acute-care general hospitals providing obstetrical and neonatal services, to critical access and qualifying rural hospitals, and to qualifying acute-care general hospitals that treat a high percentage of Medical Assistance patients under 18 years of age.  Together, the payments amount to $107.655 million in total state and federal funds.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has published procedure codes and payment rates for the administration of the Pfizer and Moderna bivalent booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccines.   Find the codes, the rates, and their effective dates in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS’s Office of Long-Term Living has informed stakeholders that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has approved renewal of the Community HealthChoices waiver, effective January 1, 2023, for five years.  See the DHS message here.
  • DHS has published a notice announcing that it will increase fees in the Medical Assistance Program for certain ambulance transportation services in both the fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems, effective with dates of service on and after January 1, 2023.  Those fees will be not less than $325 for basic life support ambulance transportation services, not less than $400 for advanced life support ambulance transportation services, and not less than $4 per loaded mile for each loaded mile beyond 20 loaded miles for ground ambulance transportation.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a health alert to providers advising them about a possible nation-wide increase in invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections in children.  This increase, however, reflects only a return to pre-pandemic levels.  The alert includes information about the condition and offers guidance for clinicians and laboratories.  Find the alert here.
  • DOH has published information about its Medical Care Availability and Reduction Error (MCARE) Act surcharge for FY 2023, a per unit assessment of approximately $156.56 payable by June 1.  Learn more about the surcharge and the providers to which it applies from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DOH has published information about its Nursing Home Patient Safety Trust Fund surcharge for FY 2023.  That surcharge will be $13.83 per nursing facility bed.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DOH has published a list, as required by regulation, of hospitals that have chosen to exercise their religious or moral beliefs regarding the provision of certain contraception-related emergency services and will instead refer patients to other hospitals to receive such services.  Learn more from this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

COVID-19:  By the Numbers           

  • The number of new COVID-19 cases reported daily in Pennsylvania and the number of new daily deaths in the past week remained at the same levels as last week.
  • According to the Department of Health, the number of Pennsylvanians hospitalized with COVID-19 and on ventilators held steady over the past week while the number in hospital ICUs declined 25 percent.
  • The CDC reports a six percent decline in the seven-day daily average of new hospital admissions in Pennsylvania because of COVID-19.
  • For the week ending February 15, five Pennsylvania counties experienced a moderate rate of community transmission of COVID-19; 16 counties experienced a substantial rate of community transmission; and the remaining 46 counties experienced a high rate of community transmission – all the same numbers as last week.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

In response to the continuing challenge health care providers are having maintaining an adequate workforce, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs is conducting a workforce climate survey among drug and alcohol service providers to learn about which jobs and positions are in short supply or understaffed, the challenges these providers face, what they are doing to address them, and how they think the state can help them address those challenges.  Find that survey here.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission has issued comments in response to regulations proposed by the State Board of Nursing that address licensure by endorsement and reactivation.  Find those comments in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – Consumer Subcommittee – February 22

The consumer subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will meet virtually on  Wednesday, February 22 at 1:00.  Learn more from the meeting’s agenda and go here to register to participate.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee Meeting – February 23

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Thursday, February 23 at 10:00.  For the meeting agenda go here and to register to participate go here.

DHS – Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee Meeting – March 1

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee’s Managed Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee will meet in Harrisburg on Wednesday, March 1 at 10:00.  For information on the location of the meeting or how to participate virtually, see this DHS notice.

Department of Aging – Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council – March 9

The Department of Aging’s Long-Term Care Council will meet in Harrisburg on Thursday, March 9 at 10:00.  For information on the location of the meeting or how to participate virtually, see this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs – Adolescent ASAM Criteria – March 9

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs will offer a training program for adolescent service providers on two dates:  March 9 and May 16, both at 8:30.  This training on adolescent ASAM criteria, to be delivered virtually, is designed for participants who already understand the foundational aspects of the ASAM criteria.  The purpose of this training is to explore and discuss the adolescent-specific aspects of the ASAM criteria and offer participants a practical focus through lecture, real-world clinical vignettes, and case studies.  Continuing education credits are available.  Learn more about the program, including requirements for participation and how to join, from this Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs notice.  Please note that the March 9 and May 16 sessions will be identical.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs – Adolescent ASAM Criteria – May 16

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs is offering training on adolescent ASAM criteria, to be delivered virtually, for participants who already understand the foundational aspects of the ASAM criteria.  The purpose of this training is to explore and discuss the adolescent-specific aspects of the ASAM criteria and offer participants a practical focus through lecture, real-world clinical vignettes, and case studies.  The program will be held on May 16 at 8:30.  Continuing education credits are available.  Learn more about the program, including requirements for participation and how to join, from this Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs notice.  Please note that this program is identical to one offered on March 9.

 

2023-02-17T21:42:53+00:00February 17th, 2023|COVID-19, DSH hospitals, long-term care, Medicaid supplemental payments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for February 17
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End of PHE Could Cut Kids From PA Medicaid Rolls

When the formal COVID-19 public health emergency ends, as many as one out of every four Pennsylvania children enrolled in Medicaid could lose their state-sponsored health insurance, according to new research by the Pennsylvania Partnership for Children.

During the PHE, the number of uninsured children in the state fell from 4.6 percent to 4.4 percent, but some of that improvement could be reversed as the state begins to redetermine the eligibility of more than 3.5 million people currently on the state’s Medicaid rolls after a more than two-year hiatus in eligibility reviews.  Today, more than 1.4 million children in Pennsylvania are enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP.

Even with the PHE-inspired improvements, 5.5 percent of children in the state who qualify for some kind of free or subsidized health insurance remain uninsured, according to the research.

Uninsured children, like the uninsured population at large, are far more likely than not to be treated by Pennsylvania’s safety-net hospitals such as those that belong to the Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP).  As a result, any reduction in the rate of uninsured children would have a correspondingly damaging effect on the financial health of those safety-net hospitals – and potentially, on the residents of the medically vulnerable communities those hospitals serve.

Learn more about how the end of the PHE may affect health care coverage for Pennsylvania children in the Pennsylvania Capital-Star article “Report:  Ranks of uninsured Pa. kids dropped during pandemic.”

2022-12-14T15:26:58+00:00December 14th, 2022|COVID-19, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid coronavirus|Comments Off on End of PHE Could Cut Kids From PA Medicaid Rolls
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Home / About Us / Advocacy / Why Join? / SNAPShots / Contact Us

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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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