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PA Health Policy Update for December 20

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania December 16 – 20.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). Please note, the next health policy update will be Friday, January 3, 2025. 

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro has announced the appointment of Attorney General Michelle Henry to serve as Pennsylvania’s State Inspector General, effective January 21, 2025. The State Inspector General protects the integrity of commonwealth agencies by investigating fraud, misconduct, and abuse in executive agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction. Find additional information in this press release.

The Shapiro administration, including leaders from the Department of Human Services, Department of Health, Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs, and the Department of Aging, came together this week to highlight mental health, substance use disorder, and other resources available to Pennsylvanians this holiday season. Find additional information in this press release. 

General Assembly 

The Joint State Government Commission has released a report, “Women Veterans Health Care in the Commonwealth,” as directed by Senate Resolution 46. The report evaluates the access to

and quality of health care for women veterans in the commonwealth. A one-page summary of the report is viewable here. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) has issued a bulletin to update and clarify the procedure for submitting and processing waiver requests to OMHSAS. The bulletin also makes updates to regulatory waiver language and the process to appeal a waiver determination.
  • OMHSAS has announced updates to the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (PRS) regulations, which are scheduled for publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin on January 18, 2025.  The regulations will be effective upon publication in the bulletin. The final form regulatory package submitted to the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) is viewable here. The updates include lowering the minimum age to 14 years old for PRS eligibility, the inclusion of individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorders without requiring an exception process, and implementation of a weekly file note requirement.
  • DHS has announced the implementation of an alternative payment methodology for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Rural Health Clinics (RHC) for a supplemental payment on the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule for a Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) device and its insertion, or the removal of a LARC device, in addition to payment for an encounter. The effective date will be the date that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approves DHS’ state plane amendment. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 779) to advise health care providers and stakeholders of severe and worsening presentations of withdrawal among people who use drugs in the Philadelphia area. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has issued Licensing Alert 08-2024 to outline the steps for a drug and alcohol treatment facility to obtain a telehealth-only license from DDAP. Although existing providers may provide telehealth services, a telehealth-only license is new in Pennsylvania. It is also important to note that, currently, it is not possible to participate in the Pennsylvania Medical Assistance (MA) program as a 100 percent telehealth behavioral health clinic. 

State Board of Medicine 

Following approval from the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC), the State Board of Medicine has published final rulemaking which amends the Board’s regulations to allow the initial physical examination required for prescribing, administering, and dispensing controlled substances to be done via telehealth under certain conditions. The final rulemaking also conforms to regulations to the federal opioid use disorder treatment standards. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Around the StatePennsylvania State Map  

  • NBC local affiliate 21WFMJ has reported about Sharon Regional Medical Center’s filing to close after acquisition discussions with Meadville Medical Center failed to yield a positive outcome.
  • PennLive has written an article about the closure of Hershey Pharmacy in central Pennsylvania. The pharmacy’s owner cited the inability of “community pharmacy’s” to be profitable as a reason for its closure.
  • City & State Pennsylvania has written about the 60th Pennsylvania Electoral College meeting that took place in the Capitol on Tuesday. Nineteen electors convened to cast their votes for president and vice president, respectively. 

Stakeholder Meetings 

DOH – HIV Planning Group – January 15

The Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – February 7

The Brain Injury Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Friday, February 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-12-20T21:13:48+00:00December 20th, 2024|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 20
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PA Health Policy Update for December 6

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania November 25 – December 6.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro 

The Shapiro administration has held two recent roundtable discussions with maternal health stakeholders to inform the development of the administration’s Maternal Health Strategic Plan, which will address high rates of maternal mortality and ensure pregnant women in Pennsylvania receive necessary prenatal and postpartum care. Find additional information in this press release. 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate have released their respective 2025 session calendars. Find the House’s calendar here and the Senate’s calendar here. 

Department of Human Services 

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

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has released a Respiratory Virus Outbreak Toolkit for long-term care facilities, including personal care homes and assisted living residences. The purpose of the toolkit is to provide recommendations for facilities before and during a respiratory virus outbreak.

DOH has published guidelines and fees that a health care provider or facility may charge in response to a request for production of medical charts or records. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. This notice updates the prior notice published on December 9, 2023. 

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $2.9 billion in General Fund revenue in November, which was $87.2 million, or 2.9 percent, less than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $16.4 billion, which is $9.9 million, or 0.1 percent, below estimate. 

Around the State  

  • With the conclusion of the 2023-2024 legislative session, City & State Pennsylvania has published an article highlighting the session’s accomplishments, as well as its unfinished business. 
  • NBC’s local affiliate 21 WFMJ has reported on efforts to keep Sharon Regional Medical Center open.
  • Spotlight PA has published an article about the range of health care workers who provide maternal care in Pennsylvania and their various roles. 

Stakeholder Events

Patient Safety Authority – December 12

The Patient Safety Authority Board will meet on Thursday, December 12 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find details on how to participate here and a draft agenda here. 

Department of Aging – Pharmaceutical Assistance Board – December 16

The Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, December 16 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. For connection information or any questions, please contact Megan McDaniel (memcdaniel@pa.gov).

2024-12-06T20:21:33+00:00December 6th, 2024|Financial, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 6
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PA Health Policy Update for September 20

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 16 – 20.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro 

This week the Shapiro administration recognized September as Suicide Prevention Month. Leaders from multiple state agencies, including Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, highlighted the various resources dedicated to suicide prevention and efforts underway to address behavioral health challenges. Find more information in this press release. 

General Assembly

The Senate convened in Harrisburg for session this week. Following is a selection of relevant health care-related legislative activity.

  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1255, which amends the definition of an “advanced practice professional” to include a physician assistant in the Outpatient Psychiatric Oversight Act. The bill will now be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.
  • The Senate Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee met on Tuesday, September 17 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 1281, which establishes scope of practice and licensing standards for medical imaging specialists, radiation therapists, and radiology assistants.
  • The Senate Aging & Youth and Banking & Insurance Committees met on Wednesday, September 18 for a joint informational hearing on protecting seniors from financial exploitation and updating the state’s Older Adult Protective Services Act. The meeting’s agenda, testimony, and a recording of the are viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will be recessed next week. Both chambers will reconvene for voting session on Monday, September 30. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that it will be increasing fees for certain ophthalmology services on the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule effective for dates of service on or after September 15, 2024.
  • The Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) has announced it will need to delay the addition of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (PRS) to Pennsylvania’s Medicaid state plan until 2026. PRS will continue to be covered as an in-lieu of service within the Behavioral Health HealthChoices program while OMHSAS continues to work on implementation.
  • DHS has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through October. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has issued revisions to the participating drug company list for the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. The revisions are viewable here.
  • DHS has published notice of its intent to make additional supplemental ventilator care and tracheostomy care payments to qualified non-public and county skilled nursing facilities, which remain open as of July 11, 2024, that qualified for supplemental ventilator care and tracheostomy care payments in FY 2014-2015 with a percentage of Medical Assistance recipient residents who required medically necessary ventilator care or tracheostomy care greater than 90%. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced that it intends to continue to make Medical Assistance Day One Incentive (MDOI) payments to qualified non-public nursing facilities for FY 2024-2025. The MDOI payments will provide incentives to nursing facilities to provide services to individuals who are Medicaid eligible on the day of admission. The MDOI payments are intended to encourage non-public nursing facilities to increase access to care for the poor and indigent citizens of this commonwealth. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced skilled nursing facilities throughout the commonwealth are eligible to train up to two staff members through a DOH-funded infection prevention and control training course offered by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC). The course is available through December 2024 and continuing education credits may be available. Click here for more information and to enroll in the program. 

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced that it has begun studying the prevalence and impact of non-compete agreements in Pennsylvania as directed by Act 74 of 2024 (formerly House Bill 1633). PHC4 is collecting public comments for analysis and inclusion in its final report. Comments are due by October 21, 2024. Find details on how to comment in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

PHC4 has published a list of diseases, procedures, and medical conditions for which it will require data collection. Find the comprehensive list in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has published a notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin of actions taken at its September 11 meeting, including its review of existing regulations and determination that some are outdated and no longer in the public interest. Among those IRRC determined to be outdated are clinical laboratory, health care facility identification badge, and hospital regulations. IRRC’s comprehensive review, including its recommendations, can be found here. 

IRRC has announced it received final form regulations from the State Board of Nursing that address requirements for reactivation of a license and add provisions related to licensure by endorsement, provisional endorsement license, and licensure by endorsement fee. IRRC will consider these regulations at its October 24 meeting. Find a copy of the final form regulations here.

Around the State 

  • Harold Brubaker has written an article for The Philadelphia Inquirer about an increase in medical malpractice filings in Philadelphia due to a change that has allowed cases to be filed in Philadelphia even if the incident occurred outside the city.
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer also reported about St. Luke’s University Health Network’s discussions to acquire Grand View Health in Bucks County.
  • The Tribune-Review has published an article about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical field. 

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – September 25

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on September 25 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Register to participate here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – September 26

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on September 26 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Register to participate here.

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 18

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, October 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-09-20T19:15:56+00:00September 20th, 2024|Financial, Governments, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 20
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PA Health Policy Update for August 16

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 12 – 16.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives’ Democratic Policy Committee met on Tuesday, August 13 for an informational hearing on expanding abortion access. The agenda and testimony are viewable here. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate are recessed until Monday, September 23 and Monday, September 16, respectively. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a reminder for long-term care facilities to report COVID-19 outbreaks to their respective local health jurisdiction. Only an initial report of a new outbreak, occurring greater than 14 days following the detection of the most recent case, should be made. A summary of COVID-19 data reporting is included under the Reporting Requirements and Recommendations section of the COVID-19 LTC Toolkit. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced it is conducting an assessment, in partnership with the Department of Health, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education. They are working together to expand existing xylazine-associated wound care training currently offered to health care and non-health care professionals across Pennsylvania. The assessment is being conducted to ensure the trainings meet the needs of individuals and organizations who serve people who use drugs. Stakeholders who are interested are asked to complete the assessment by August 30, 2024.

DDAP has announced it is offering the opportunity for public comment on the Pennsylvania Substance Use Prevention Treatment and Recovery Services Block Grant (SUPTRS) Block Grant application submission. The documents are accessible for review here. The login is “citizenpa” and the password is “citizen” 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has announced it received final form regulations from the Department of Human Services regarding psychiatric rehabilitation services. These regulations allow individuals who are 14 years of age or older but under 18 years of age who meet the admission requirements to access psychiatric rehabilitation services (PRS) and amends the diagnoses that allow an individual to access PRS without use of the exception process. The commission will be considering the regulations on September 19, 2024. Find the final form regulations here.

IRRC has also announced it received final form regulations from the State Board of Medicine that provide for licensure by endorsement for applicants from other states, territories, and countries. The commission will be considering the regulations on September 19, 2024. Find the final form regulations here. 

Around the State   

  • Stephen Caruso has written an article for Spotlight PA about the Independent Fiscal Office’s warning that Pennsylvania may deplete its General Fund surplus by the next fiscal year due to “expected spending, in-progress tax cuts, and revenue projections.”
  • Harold Brubaker has written an article for the Philadelphia Inquirer about Penn Medicine’s signing of a definitive agreement with Doylestown Hospital to become the health system’s seventh hospital.
  • PoliticsPA has published an overview of the most recent Franklin & Marshall College survey. The poll has Vice President Kamala Harris leading former President Donald Trump by three points in Pennsylvania; although, the margin does fall within the poll’s 3.8 percent margin of error. The poll also has Senator Casey leading his challenger, David McCormick.
  • Crozer Health’s announcement that it will shutter operating room services at Taylor hospital by September 1 was covered by WHYY. 

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – WIC State Advisory Board – August 21

The WIC State Advisory Board, which was established by Senate Bill 721 (Act 22 of 2024), will hold its first regular meeting on August 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional details, as well as a schedule of its remaining meetings through January 2026 here. 

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – August 29

The statewide Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information and registration details here.

2024-08-16T21:10:19+00:00August 16th, 2024|Governments, Meetings and notices|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for August 16
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PA Health Policy Update for August 9

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

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate are recessed until Monday, September 23 and Monday, September 16, respectively. 

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued two Medical Assistance bulletins relating to prior authorization for pharmacy services.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced it distributed 50,000 xylazine wound care kits to provide relief for people with xylazine-associated wounds. The kits have been distributed to more than 200 medical and harm reduction organizations across the commonwealth. Find additional information in this press release. 

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has released a new research brief, Hospitalizations for Pennsylvania Children with Cancer. The research brief examines inpatient hospitalizations for Pennsylvania children who were admitted to a Pennsylvania general acute care hospital with a diagnosis of cancer. 

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has announced that 2025 rate changes requested by insurance companies currently operating in Pennsylvania’s individual and small group markets are now available here. Find additional information in this press release. 

Around the State   

  • The Philadelphia Inquirer has published an article about Crozer Health’s potential sale to New Jersey-based CHA Partners, and its conversion back into a non-profit. WHYY also wrote an article about the planned sale 
  • Vice President Kamala Harris’ decision to pick Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate over Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro received a lot of media coverage this week, including this article published by The Philadelphia Inquirer.
  • PennWatch has published an article about the Shapiro administration’s efforts to distribute 50,000 xylazine wound care kits across the state. 

Stakeholder Events

DHS – Dual Diagnosis Conference – September 11

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) have announced the Dual Diagnosis Conference Services, “Insidious Trauma: Context, Impact, and Considerations for Care.” The conference will be held September 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Find additional information and registration details here. 

DHS – OLTL Transportation Summit – September 17

The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) will host a transportation summit on Tuesday, September 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The summit is an open forum for anyone interested in discussing transportation related issues in the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program. The summit will be held virtually. Find registration details here. 

DOH – Spinal Cord Injury Research Advisory Committee – September 18

The Spinal Cord Injury Research Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in person at Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (910 Allentown Road, Sellersville, PA 18960) and virtually by means of Microsoft Teams. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-08-10T00:03:40+00:00August 9th, 2024|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for August 9
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PA Health Policy Update for July 12

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

FY 2024-2025 Budget Update 

Late Thursday evening the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 1001 – the General Appropriations Act – to fund Pennsylvania’s FY 2024-2025 budget. Governor Shapiro promptly signed Senate Bill 1001, as well as the various enabling pieces of legislation necessary to implement the budget, which marked the completion of the FY 2024-2025 budget process, more than 10 days after the commonwealth’s constitutionally mandated deadline.

In total, the FY 2024-2025 budget spends $47.6 billion, which represents a $2.7 billion, or 6.6 percent, increase over the prior fiscal year. It is nearly $700 million less than Governor Shapiro’s initial budget proposal. The FY 2024-2025 budget increases spending for K-12 and higher education. It also makes targeted investments in health and human services. The budget doesn’t include any tax increases or the Governor’s proposal to legalize cannabis. The final budget does include Governor Shapiro’s economic development proposal to create the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites (PA SITES) program and authorize up to $500 million in new funding to invest in site development, preparation, and readiness for businesses to locate or expand in Pennsylvania.

The following are key budget-related pieces of legislation.

General Assembly

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

  • The Senate passed House Bill 1993, which seeks to reform certain practices by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that have an adverse impact on pharmacies and patients, by a vote of 48-1. The House of Representatives subsequently voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments and sent the bill to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The Senate passed House Bill 1633, which establishes restrictions on non-compete covenants for certain health care practitioners, on third and final passage. The House of Representatives subsequently voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments and sent the bill to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The House of Representatives voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments to House Bill 1664, which prohibits insurers from restricting their method of payment to participating health care providers so that the only payment method is by credit card. The bill will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The Senate passed House Bill 1853, which requires the Department of Health to meet annually with licensed nursing facilities in an effort to improve communication and collaboration around facility surveys, on third and final consideration. The bill will now be sent to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 2339, which establishes hospital price transparency reporting and disclosure requirements. The bill also stipulates penalties for noncompliance. The bill, which passed by a vote of 168-34, will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives also passed House Bill 2344, which imposes more reporting requirements and additional oversight on health care facility mergers and acquisitions, on third and final consideration. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 1425, which directs the Department of Human Services to develop a five-year plan to offer evidence-based maternal home visiting programs for eligible families. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration. 

The House and Senate have recessed until Monday, September 23 and Monday, September 16, respectively. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that DHS will increase fees for certain ophthalmology services on the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule, effective for dates of services on and after August 1, 2024. 

DHS has published the transcript and a recording of the July 2 meeting of the Long-Term Services and Supports Subcommittee. 

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 

The Centers for Medical and Medicaid Services (CMS) has proposed amending the Medicaid clinic services regulation, which currently permits Medicaid payment for clinic services furnished outside of the four walls of a clinic only to individuals who are unhoused, to authorize federal reimbursement for services furnished outside the four walls of a freestanding clinic by IHS/Tribal clinics.  In addition, at state option, federal reimbursement also would be available for services provided by behavioral health clinics and services provided by clinics located in rural areas.  For clinics located in rural areas, CMS is not proposing a specific definition of rural but is seeking public comment on different alternative definitions for consideration in final rulemaking. 

Stakeholder Events   

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – August 8

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – July 24

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on July 24 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person. It will be located in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building – 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – July 25

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on July 25 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in person. It will be located in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building – 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120.

2024-07-12T20:34:18+00:00July 12th, 2024|Federal Medicaid issues, Financial, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for July 12
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PA Health Policy Update for June 7

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

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

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

  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1102, which increases the availability of long-term care training courses for nurse aides and expands eligibility for individuals to take the nurse aide competency exam, by a vote of 42 – 8. The bill was subsequently sent to the House and referred to the Health Committee.
  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1104, which allow high school juniors and seniors to earn up to two credits toward their graduation requirement for employment in a congregate health care setting, by a vote of 29 – 21. It was subsequently sent to the House and referred to the Education Committee.
  • The Senate passed Senate Bill 1165, which makes certain statutory changes that will enable the state to join, among others, the medical and nursing interstate licensure compacts, by a vote of 46 – 4. The bill will now be sent to the House for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2234, which creates a pilot program to give small grants to individuals to assist them with purchasing health insurance on Pennie, Pennsylvania’s state-based insurance exchange, by a vote of 106 – 96. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2137, which establishes the Maternal and Newborn Supply Kit Program, by a vote of 123-79. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 851, which establishes the menstrual hygiene products grant program under the Public School Code, by a vote of 117-85. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 1867, which prohibits health insurers from restricting the method of payment for in-network clinical services, by a vote of 181 – 21. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational meeting on Alzheimer’s Disease and other related dementias on Monday, June 3. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Insurance Committee convened on Monday, June 3 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1754, which requires public and private insurers to cover biomarker testing, and Senate Bill 739, which provides for coverage of telemedicine services. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The Senate Aging & Youth Committee met on Tuesday, June 4 and favorably reported Senate Bill 840, which creates an Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Division in the Department of Aging, and House Bill 1853, which requires the Department of Health to meet annually with licensed nursing facilities in an effort to improve communication and collaboration around facility surveys. A recording of the meeting in viewable here.
  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee convened on Tuesday, June 4 and favorably reported Senate Bill 1000, which seeks to reform certain practices by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that have an adverse effect on pharmacies and patients. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee met on Wednesday, June 5 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2037, which enables pharmacists to administer injectable medications, biologicals, and immunizations, and House Bill 2175, which creates a permanent Office of Child Advocate. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee convened Wednesday, June 5 and favorably reported House Bill 2283, which requires operating rooms to utilize surgical smoke evacuation systems. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for voting session again next Monday, June 10 through Wednesday, June 13.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of the updates to the Medical Assistance (MA) program dental fee schedule.

DHS has issued Provider Quick Tip #207 with information about fee schedule updates to Act 62, the Autism Insurance Act, procedure codes. 

Department of Health

  • DOH, in partnership with the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center and Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), has announced the start of the Pennsylvania LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment Survey, which is a biannual survey conducted to evaluate health needs, health disparities, and barriers to care impacting LGBTQ+ Pennsylvanians. 

Department of Aging 

The Department of Aging has announced the release of Aging Our Way PA, which is the state’s 10-year strategic plan that will help transform service delivery and serve as a roadmap for older adult services in Pennsylvania, ensuring services meet the needs of older adults as they address everyday issues such as healthcare, transportation, housing, long-term care and social connections. 

Department of State 

Several of the state’s professional licensure boards have adopted a statement of policy regarding conversion therapy. Following are the respective boards’ conversion therapy statements of policy.

 Stakeholder Events   

Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board – June 17

The Department of Aging’s Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 17 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 

2024-06-07T20:44:00+00:00June 7th, 2024|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 7
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PA Health Policy Update for May 31

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

General Assembly

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

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

Department of Human Services 

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

Department of Health 

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

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

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

Stakeholder Events   

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

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

The Patient Safety Authority – June 20

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

2024-06-03T17:47:33+00:00May 31st, 2024|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 31
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PA Health Policy Update for April 5

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

General Assembly 

The Senate Aging & Youth Committee held an informational hearing on Wednesday, April 3 to examine challenges facing Pennsylvania’s children and youth services agencies. A recording of the hearing and copies of testimony provided to the committee are viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will reconvene for session Monday, April 8 through Wednesday, April 10. Following is an overview of selected health care-related legislative activity currently scheduled next week.

  • The House Human Services Committee will meet on Monday, April 8 at 9:00 a.m. to consider House Resolution 373, which recognizes the week of April 11 through 17, 2024, as “Black Maternal Health Week” in Pennsylvania. The meeting will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building.
  • Following its voting meeting, the House Human Services Committee will hold an informational meeting on the delivery of quality home care services under Community HealthChoices. The meeting will be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee will hold an informational meeting on Thursday, April 11 on advancing social equity through cannabis legalization. The meeting will be held in Room 60 of the East Wing and livestreamed here. 

Department of Human Services

After one year of processing Medicaid eligibility redeterminations following the end of pandemic-related continuous eligibility, the Department of Human Services (DHS) has reported that less than 600,000 applications are left to be processed and it should be completed with this effort by June 30.

About 70 percent of individuals remained eligible for Medicaid following their redetermination. To continue assisting Medicaid recipients with their annual redeterminations, providers are reminded to:

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has provided an update on certification entities. Clinical supervisors and counselors that provide clinical treatment services in licensed substance use disorder (SUD) treatment facilities have a number of ways to meet minimum qualifications. One of those ways is full certification by a statewide certification body that is a member of a national body. In Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB) has historically been one of the entities that provides that certification. In addition to PCB, the newly developed Pennsylvania Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (PCC AP), which is part of the Pennsylvania Association of Addiction Professionals, an affiliate of the National Association of Addiction Professionals (NAADAC), is also an option for certification for clinical counselors and supervisors.  

Department of Insurance

The Department of Insurance has published guidance on how insurers should govern the development, acquisition, and use of certain artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This department has also informed insurers of the type of information and documentation that the department may request during an investigation or examination of any insurer regarding its use of the technologies and AI systems. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced that Pennsylvania collected $6.3 billion in General Fund revenue in March, which was $289.9 million, or 4.8 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $32.8 billion, which is $366.0 million, or 1.1 percent, above estimate. 

Stakeholder Events 

PHC4 – Meeting Dates

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has scheduled the following meetings.

  • Data Systems Committee meeting on April 17, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
  • Council meetings on May 4 at 8:30 a.m. and July 11 at 10:00 a.m.
  • Payment Data Advisory Group meetings on April 18, May 23, and June 20 at 10:00 a.m.

Agendas will be available 24 hours in advance here. Find details on how to register and participate here. 

Patient Safety Authority – April 25

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

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – April 25

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 25, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-04-06T06:34:47+00:00April 5th, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 5
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PA Health Policy Update for March 1

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

General Assembly 

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

Department of Health

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

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

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

Board of Pharmacy 

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

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

 Stakeholder Events  

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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