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PA Health Policy Update for October 23

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from October 19 – October 23 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Governor’s Office

With Session activity winding down, the Governor signed 58 bills into law this week. Here are several of the healthcare-related bills enacted:

HB 27, legislation protecting healthcare workers from surgical smoke;
HB 69, legislation requiring the creation of unused prescription drug repositories;
HB 928, defining usage of epinephrine auto-injectors in Child Care Facilities;
HB 1123, legislation updating colorectal cancer screening coverage requirements;
HB 1652, legislation adding Gaucher’s Disease to the Newborn Screening Panel,
HB 1961, legislation authorizing PA to join the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact;
HB 2014, legislation allowing minors to serve in emergency services organizations,
HB 2464, legislation repealing outdated language in PA’s Insurance laws;
HB 2473; legislation repealing obsolete provisions within Insurance laws;
SB 116, legislation allowing high-school-age workers to earn credits for work in a long-term care facility;
SB 381, legislation placing limitations and regulations on research and testing of animals;
SB 804, legislation prohibiting toxic substances in IV bags and tubing;
SB 806, legislation requiring disclosure on AI generated content, including images, audio, video, and text used for the sale of consumer goods;
SB 1212, legislation ensuring the prompt testing of rape kits;
SB 1334, legislation increasing regulation and oversight of medical imaging & radiology.

General Assembly

The House and Senate returned to session on Monday October 19^ththrough Wednesday October 21^st. In addition to the above bills passing into law, below are some healthcare-related actions by the legislature:

Monday October 19^th
- The House Communications & Technology Committee held a public meeting on “Mitigating Risks from Frontier AI Models”: HB 2800, legislation to address catastrophic risks posed by frontier AI models & HB 2829, legislation to develop an AI regulatory framework in safety practices and incident reporting.
- The House Education Committee met and voted 25-1 to advance SB 998, legislation providing funding for accredited nursing programs, enabling them to expand nursing faculty and increase the number of nurse preceptors.
- The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met and unanimously advanced HB 348, legislation requiring guidance and notice to long-term care residents on Medicaid eligibility; HB 1652, legislation adding Gaucher’s Disease to the Newborn Screening Panel; SB 965, legislation creating a remote maternal health monitoring program; SB 1041, which would establish a Complex Care Assistant Program; SB 1306, establishing a Hospital Security Grant Program; and SB 1504, which would create an independent dispute resolution process for hospital regulatory deficiencies.
- The Senate Institutional Sustainability & Innovation Committee met and unanimously advanced HB 2614, legislation banning the use of toxic substances in IV bags and tubing.
- House
  - SB 730, the PA Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment bill, was amended on 2^nd Consideration.
Tuesday October 20^th
- House
  - SB 730, the PA Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment bill, passed the House by a margin of 128-75
- Senate
  - SR 238, a resolution directing a study of PA’s reimbursement rates in Pediatric and Adult Shift Nursing, was adopted unanimously.
  - SR 397, a resolution directing a study of unnecessary regulatory burdens in healthcare, was adopted unanimously.
  - SB 1415, legislation to enhance penalties for abuse and neglect of a care dependent person, passed the Senate 49-1.
Wednesday October 21^st
- Senate
  - SB 807, legislation to establish an Elder Abuse Registry in PA, passed the Senate by a margin of 42-8.

Following this week’s activity, the House and Senate will return post-general election to wrap up the 25-26 Legislative Session.

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 published its County-Level Utilization Reports detailing specifics on inpatient and outpatient healthcare data at the local level.

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS issued final notice on forthcoming Disproportionate Share Hospital Payments to qualifying hospitals. These payments were first proposed in the June 13^th PA Bulletin and received no public comment.

The Department released its September 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

Department of Health

DOH convened a measles roundtable with Mifflin County healthcare leaders as PA sees 1,338 measles cases confirmed as of Friday, October 23^rd across 44 counties in Pennsylvania so far for 2026.

The Department issued a Health Alert Network Advisory for providers to help identify cases of Burkholderia cepacacia complex infections and a Health Alert Network Advisory with guidance to providers on pregnant patients during the measles outbreak.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health has scheduled the following advisory meetings:

Organ Donation Advisory Committee, November 5^th, 10am-1:30pm
Brain Injury Advisory Board, November 6^th, 10am-3pm.

DHS’ Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will host a series of youth suicide prevention trainings held on Tuesdays from 12-1pm beginning on September 29^th and concluding in April 2027.

The Department of Health’s HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold its public meetings on Wednesday, November 18^th and Thursday, November 19^th, both from 9am-2pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-10-24T01:44:05+00:00October 23rd, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for September 25

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 21 – September 25 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

General Assembly

The House Judiciary Committee met on Thursday September 24^th and voted favorably on the following healthcare-related bills: HB 2699, updating membership on the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Committees; HR 618, commissioning a study on Behavioral Health Care in County Jails; and SB 381, legislation prohibiting testing and experimentation on animals in PA.

The House and Senate will return on Monday September 28^th. The following healthcare-related bill activity has been announced:

Monday September 28
- The House Children & Youth will meet to vote on HR 582, recognizing Childhood Cancer Awareness; HR 602, recognizing Infant Safe Sleep Month; and HR 609, recognizing Prematurity Awareness Month and Day.
- The House Communications & Technology Committee will meet to consider HB 2637, a moratorium on AI Chatbots in children’s toys.
- The House Human Services Committee will meet to vote on HB 1345, legislation requiring Medicaid Coverage of menopause treatments; HR 612, recognizing National Recovery Month; HR 613, recognizing Medium-Chain Acyl-Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase (MCAD) Deficiency; HR 615, and recognizing White Cane Safety Day; SB 115, Creating a competency exam pathway for direct care workers without a high school diploma or GED.
Tuesday September 29
- The Senate Law & Justice Committee will meet to consider SB 1035, providing access to medical cannabis in healthcare facilities.
- The House Health Committee will consider HB 1411, legislation enhancing menopause education for medical practitioners; HB 2657, regulating Kratom in PA; HB 2702, removing the sunset provision for the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council; HR 591, recognizing Community Health Workers; HR 597, recognizing Alopecia Awareness Month; HR 604, recognizing Suicide Prevention Month and Day; HR 605, recognizing Chiari Malformation Awareness Month; HR 616, recognizing Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month; and HR 625, recognizing World Cerebral Palsy Day
- The House Consumer Protection, Technology, & Utilities Committee will meet to re-refer HB 2648, legislation prohibiting the changing of health insurance coverage terms within a contract year, to the House Insurance Committee.
- The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will meet to consider HB 1244, coverage and education for Pelvic Floor treatments; HB 1346, providing for insurance coverage for menopause treatments; HB 1827, measures to prevent hip fractures; HB 2545, insurance coverage for vaginal estrogen and UTI prevention; and HR 623, recognizing Ageism Awareness Day.
Wednesday September 30
- The House Professional Licensure Committee will meet to consider HB 2774, an omnibus licensure compact authorization; HR 631, recognizing Respiratory Care Week; SB 114, streamlining the Nurse Aide training and education requirements; and SB 1133, updating members of the State Board of Pharmacy.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week

Reps. Jen O’Mara & Bridget Kosierowski issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to enhance medical education around Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC).
Reps. Jason Ortitay and Joe Ciresi circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation to prohibit AI Chatbots from posing as licensed professionals.
Reps. Heather Boyd and Jen Mazzocco released a co-sponsor memo for legislation to require companies that employ non-disabled, full-time workers receiving Medicaid to make payments to help offset Medicaid costs.
Sen. Lisa Baker circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation to create a designation for a Rural Emergency Hospital to align with the federal designation.
Rep. Greg Scott introduced HR 627, which directs the Joint State Government Commission to study suicide prevention and data collection efforts and make recommendations for improvements.
Rep. Maureen Madden introduced HR 628, which is a resolution designating September 2026 as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) Month.
Rep. Steve Malagari released HR 631 which would designate Respiratory Care Week in PA.
Rep. Melissa Shusterman introduced HB 2787, which would establish guardrails and protections around the use of AI in students’ mental and behavioral health services.

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

In their Medicaid Toolkit, DHS released information on changes to the retroactive coverage window for Medicaid recipients which take effect January 1st, how recipients can prepare, and how and where to find more information on the changes.

The Department issued its annual list and total amount notice of Disproportionate Share Payments for qualifying hospitals.

DHS has submitted final-form regulations for its Chapter 5100 Regulations to the Independent Regulatory Review Commission for its review.

Department of Health

The PA Health Alert Network is moving to a new platform so current users are encouraged to register with the new platform here to continue to receive alerts.

DOH announced on Wednesday, September 23, that 835 measles cases have been confirmed across 39 counties in Pennsylvania so far in 2026.

DOH issued minimum standard requirements of sexual assault evidence collection.

The Department issued a PA Health Alert Network advisory to assist providers with guidance in preparation for the upcoming respiratory virus season.

PA Insurance Department

Late last week, the Department released its approved ACA health insurance premium rates, seeing increases of 15.9% in the individual market and 10.2% increases in the small group market.

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 released its Financial Analysis 2025 – Volume Two, providing an overview of the financial health and procedure volumes for surgeries performed at ambulatory surgical centers in PA.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS’ Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will host a series of youth suicide prevention trainings held on Tuesdays from 12-1pm beginning on September 29^th and concluding in April 2027.

The Department of Health’s HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold its public meetings on Wednesday, November 18^th and Thursday, November 19^th, both from 9am-2pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-09-26T04:25:07+00:00September 25th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for July 17

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

Budget Update

The General Assembly passed a comprehensive Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2027 budget. The state Senate passed House Bill 2400 – the General Appropriations Act – by a vote of 44-6. The House of Representatives passed it by a vote of 167-35, sending the bill to Governor Shapiro who offered quick signature to conclude the process. Additionally, the Governor quickly signed the Fiscal Code Bill along with other budget-related bills, enacting the various pieces of legislation necessary to implement the FY 2026-27 budget agreement.

In the health and human services space, the $50.8 billion spending plan provides new spending for Medicaid supports under PA’s approved federal 1115 Waiver, an increase in the floor for the Budget Adjustment Factor (BAF) for nursing facilities under Medical Assistance, a rate increase for the LIFE Program, and offers $41 million in new behavioral health dollars to support the 988 crisis hotline, walk-in stabilization clinics and other transition supports to individuals reentering the community out of the criminal justice system or state hospital care, among other areas.

The budget was balanced through the utilization of “cycle rolls” – which will push Medicaid capitation payments into other fiscal years as well as utilizing $1.2 billion in lapsed funds. The Rainy Day fund remains untouched as legislators did not utilize any of its balance to help close a budget deal.

General Assembly

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week

Rep. Liz Hanbidge released a co-sponsor memo for a comprehensive update to the Child Protective Services Law and a co-sponsor memo to update the Uniform Law Commission model law for advance healthcare directives.
Rep. Dan Williams and Rep. Tina Pickett issued a co-sponsor memo to broaden the allowance of advanced practice professionals to provide on-site coverage for behavioral health care provided through telehealth.
Rep. Sean Dougherty circulated a co-sponsor memo for a resolution directing a Legislative Budget & Finance Committee study on behavioral health care in county jails.
Rep. Dan Frankel and Rep. Bryan Cutler introduced HB 2702, legislation to repeal the sunset date for the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council.

The state House will return on September 9^th and the state Senate returns on September 28^th.

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department released its 2026 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Updates, Fee Adjustments and Other Procedure Code Changes.

DHS issued its August 2026 Remittance Advice Date guidance for providers.

The Department shared a Medical Assistance Bulletin for Prior Authorization Guidelines for Standers.

DHS also shared a preview of their All courses | MyODP training portal, a new resource for self-paced learning designed to support families and caregivers as they navigate the complex and often challenging landscape of pediatric complex care.

Department of Health

The Department of Health has exercised its one-year extension of the temporary scheduling of Nitazene substances as a Schedule I substance.

DOH issued a Health Advisory Network alert regarding cyclosporiasis and provider considerations and testing recommendations.

The Department of Health launched a measles dashboard to keep Pennsylvanians better informed about cases and ongoing efforts to contain the spread among people who are unvaccinated.

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) released the Cardiac Procedures Report today, displaying performance ratings and utilization data for several cardiac procedures performed in Pennsylvania acute care hospitals, hospital outpatient departments, and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) from Jan. 1, 2023 through Dec. 31, 2024.

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released a budget brief that updates the General Fund financial statement based on the FY 2026-27 enacted budget. The brief updates the IFO estimate of the FY 2026-27 structural deficit to $5.03 billion, down from $5.56 billion.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening & Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on July 23^rd from 10am-Noon.

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold its monthly meeting on July 23^rd at 10am. Register here. The MAAC Consumer Subcommittee will meet on July 22^nd at 1pm. Register here.

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will host its quarterly stakeholder webinar at 3pm on July 23^rd. Register here.

The Department of Health’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on July 30^th from 10am-Noon.

DOH’s HIV Community Prevention & Planning Committee will hold public meetings on August 19^th from 9-12pm & August 20^th from 9-2pm.

The Department of Health’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday August 20^th from 10am- Noon.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-07-17T23:01:51+00:00July 17th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for April 17

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

General Assembly

The House held session earlier week addressing the following issues:

Monday
- The House Judiciary Committee voted out HB 1104, proposing to cap fees for obtaining medical records, by a margin of 14-12.
- The House Human Services Committee held an informational hearing on the impacts of HR 1 on the SNAP Program in PA.
Tuesday
- The House Health Committee held a voting meeting on HB 836, preserving access to fertility treatment, which passed out of committee with amendment by a measure of 17-9 and HB 2254, which would allow for medical marijuana usage in licensed healthcare facilities passed 22-3; along with several resolutions. HB 916, providing for further Blood Lead Testing was to be considered but was passed over.
- The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing on the LIFE Program. The hearing highlighted the current state of the program in PA and nationally, aired enrollment challenges experienced by providers, and vetted potential legislative and policy solutions that could help address barriers to care.
- The House Democratic Policy Committee held a public hearing on Black Maternal Health and Hospital Accountability.

The Senate is scheduled to return to session this upcoming week. The House will return to session on April 27^th.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Bridget Kosierowski circulated a cosponsor memo for legislation to ensure commercial and government insurance plan coverage for orthotics and prosthetics and another cosponsor memo requiring coverage of fertility preservation for cancer patients.
A cosponsor memo released by Rep. Maureen Madden providing for dementia training for EMS personnel.
Rep. Melissa Cerrato issued a cosponsor memo for legislation to require DHS to submit a waiver request to CMS to allow legally responsible family members to perform paid care for a care-dependent relative.
Rep. Maureen Madden introduced HB 2378, which would expand flu vaccine availability for patients age 50 and older.
HB 2379, sponsored by Rep. Marla Brown, would require continuing education in Trauma-Informed Maternity Care.
Rep. Rob Kauffman introduced HB 2399, which would place additional identification requirements for public assistance benefits.
Sen. Tracy Pennycuick introduced SB 1285, to establish the PA BioBonds Innovation Fund to help spur further bio-tech and life-sciences investment.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

Recently highlighted in DHS’ Human Services Helpers Substack was a toolkit for Long-Term Care Services & Caregivers to help all parties better understand and navigate the enrollment process.

DHS issued its May 2026 Remittance Advice Dates.

PA Healthcare Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) announced the release of new data detailing ownership of hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) across Pennsylvania, along with updated access to care information on facility locations and services for hospitals, ASCs, and nursing homes.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public meeting on April 28^th at 1pm.

DOH’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program will hold a public teleconference on April 30^th from 10am to Noon.

The Department of Health’s Spinal Cord Research Advisory Committee Meeting will hold a public meeting on May 1^st from 9am – 10am and the Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting will also hold their public meeting on May 1^st from 10am – 3pm.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-04-17T19:33:18+00:00April 17th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for February 27

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

General Assembly

Appropriations Committee hearings were held this week examining the Governor’s 26-27 Budget with executive agencies. Below are links to watch the relevant health & human services hearings that have been held so far along with a schedule for forthcoming hearings in the next two weeks.

Senate Hearing for the Department of Human Services Morning Session
Senate Hearing for the Department of Human Services Afternoon Session
House Hearing for the PA Insurance Department and Pennie®

Upcoming Hearings:

Department of Human Services: House – Mar. 4^th at 10am
Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10^th at 1pm
Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4^th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12^th at 10am
Department of Health and Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: Mar. 12^th at 1pm

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week:

Rep. Tarik Khan introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation allowing students to carry and self-administer pancreatic medications at school.
Sen. Michele Brooks introduced a co-sponsor memo for legislation to implement reforms around the 340B program.
Sens. Tracy Pennycuick and Nick Miller released a co-sponsor memo requiring insurance coverage for fertility preservation for patients prior to cancer treatment.
Sen. Devlin Robinson issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to address the cost of topical medications in PA’s workers’ compensation system.
Sen. Maria Collett released a co-sponsor memo for legislation that would create benchmarks for healthcare cost growth to align with inflation.
Sens. Judy Ward and Maria Collett issued a co-sponsor memo for a resolution recognizing Rare Disease Day in PA.
Sen. Vince Hughes introduced, Senate Bill 1161, a General Fund Budget Bill for the 26-27 Fiscal Year
Rep. Kyle Mullins introduced House Bill 2173 to regulate and license medical imaging and radiation therapy.
Rep. Joe Webster released House Bill 2241 which would require broader medical price transparency

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS released its fee schedule rates for Personal Assistance Services in the OBRA Waiver and Act 150 Program.

The Department issued an MA Bulletin on Prior Authorization Guidelines for Blood Glucose Meters with Voice Synthesizer or Integrated Lancing Blood Sample.

DHS released its January 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

Department of Health

DOH released its list of hospitals that may not provide emergency contraception or sexual assault emergency services.

The Department issued notice of availability of its proposed Preventative Health and Human Services Block Grant Application to the US Department of Health & Human Services. A public hearing will be held on the application on June 10^th from 1:30-2:30pm. The Preventative Health & Human Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will also hold a public meeting on March 25^th from 1:30 to 2:30pm to discuss status of funding.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC scheduled public meetings for consideration of State Board of Medicine Education and Volunteer Services Regulations on March 19th.

The State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists & Professional Counselors released proposed regulatory updates for 30 day public comment. This proposed rulemaking includes amendments relating to qualifications for licensure, supervisor qualifications, supervision of clinical experience, including the provision of supervision through electronic means, codes of ethics, professional corporations and fictitious names and continuing education. This proposed rulemaking is also necessary to comply with recently enacted laws.

Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 issued notice of public meetings from March through May 2026.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening and Follow Up Technical Advisory Board will meet on March 3^rd from 10am to Noon.

The Department of Health’s WIC Advisory Board will hold their meeting rescheduled from January 26^th on March 5^th from 1pm to 2pm.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday Mar. 18^th from 10am to Noon.

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission will review proposed updates to the State Board of Pharmacy’s Final Immunization Regulation Updates at a public meeting on March 19^th at 10am.

DOH’s Medical Marijuana Advisory Board released their schedule of board meetings for 2026 with the first upcoming on March 26^th from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

The Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council released its 2026 Meeting Schedule.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2026-02-27T21:54:20+00:00February 27th, 2026|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2027 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for December 5

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from November 24 – December 5 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Shapiro Administration Staffing Changes

The Shapiro Administration announced a change in senior leadership with Budget Secretary Uri Monson leaving his post to serve as Executive Director at the PA Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS). The Governor has appointed Zach Reber, current Deputy Secretary for Fiscal Policy and Program Coordination in the Budget Office, to serve as the next Secretary of the Budget.

General Assembly

The Senate returns next week for three voting session days from December 8^th through the 10th. The House will return for non-voting session on December 15^th and voting session on the 16^th & 17^th.

On Monday, Dec. 15th at 1pm, the House Communications & Technology Committee is holding a public hearing on HB 1925, Rep. Arvind Venkat’s AI in Healthcare legislation.

Rep. Bryan Cutler released a cosponsor memo for Certificates of Merit in Healthcare liability claims.

Department of Health

DOH updated its respiratory virus outbreak toolkit with minor changes and issued a new FAQ about Fall 2025 respiratory viral illness guidance.

Department of Human Services

DHS is launching Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department issued Medical Assistance Bulletins on the following areas:

DHS released its October 2025 Managed Care Enrollment Report.

The Department issued revisions to its list of drug companies participating in the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program.

DHS issued a notice of intent to update its Chapter 5100 Mental Health Procedures Regulations to align with Act 32 of 2022.

Independent Fiscal Office

The IFO released a report detailing its assessment of factors contributing to anticipated structural deficits for Pennsylvania’s budget.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC approved the final form covered outpatient drug regulations, which updated the payment methodology for pharmaceutical services, recognized the prescriptive and dispensing authority of certified registered nurse practitioners and midwives as well as made technical amendments to recognize advances in information technology.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) released its 2024 Hospital Performance Report, which examines trends on mortality and readmissions, among other data points.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. Find registration and details here.

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-12-05T20:44:06+00:00December 5th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for September 5

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

Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Update

There was no legislative activity surrounding the state budget this week. Governor Shapiro sent a compromise budget proposal to Senate Republican leadership last week, but they have yet to take any action. The Senate is scheduled to return to session next week on September 8, but that date could be pushed back if an agreement is not ready.

The House stands adjourned until September 22.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) issued interpretative guidance to clarify staffing regulations for hospitals, allowing for flexible physician coverage models while maintaining patient safety and regulatory compliance. It focuses on on-site, on-call, and telemedicine-based physician coverage requirements. Review the full document here.

Department of State

The State Board of Pharmacy met this week and voted to approve four new entities as “competent authorities” to issue guidelines for licensed pharmacists under 49 PA Code § 27.403 on the use of injectable immunizations. This action was taken in anticipation of changes from the Centers for Disease Control’s upcoming vaccine committee meeting and will permit pharmacists to continue providing COVID-19 vaccinations, which had been paused by some providers. Find a news release about the voting meeting here.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) updated its list of Remittance Advices with an updated participating drug company list for the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. Find the updated list here.

The Offices of Long-Term Living and Medical Assistance Programs issued a Medical Assistance bulletin alerting providers that it will begin issuing electronic visit verification (EVV) alerts to providers whose EVV manual entry percentages exceed 15 percent for the previous quarter. These alerts will be sent directly by DHS for fee-for-service claims and the department will transmit a list of noncompliant providers to the appropriate managed care organizations for awareness and follow up.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a State Health Official (SHO) Letter jointly developed by CMS and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This SHO provides guidance to states on the best practices for implementing the continuum of crisis services. It describes specific Medicaid and CHIP authorities and flexibilities to support the full continuum of crisis response services and suggests strategies for measuring and monitoring crisis response services.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4)

PHC4 released a new interactive map displaying access to care in different counties, called MAPPED 2. This resource includes hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and nursing homes. It was designed to help patients, legislators, and health care providers learn more about the health care landscape of Pennsylvania.

Around the State

A Philadelphia judge has directed SEPTA to immediately reverse all service cuts imposed last month. WHYY reports on the decision in this article.
The Penn Capital Star reported on the state pharmacy board’s decision this week to permit additional professional organizations to issue guidance for immunizations.
An article from the Altoona Mirror details the financial strain and difficult decisions that are facing county providers and non-profits now that the state budget is two months late.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS Statewide Positive Approaches & Practices Conference – September 17

This quarterly meeting is jointly hosted by The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) and the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP). It aims to provide the most recent research and resources for people with mental health and behavioral challenges, intellectual disabilities, autism, and other developmental disabilities to live an everyday life. The meeting is held virtually from 10am to 3pm. For details and registration, click here.

Dual Diagnosis Professional Conference Series – September 18

Jointly hosted by OMHSAS and ODP, this presentation will review the clinical clues for identifying the effects of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, suggestions for screening, current research, and statistics. The meeting is held virtually from 9am to 12:30pm. Click here to register.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-09-05T19:11:23+00:00September 5th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for August 22

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

Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Update

There was no legislative activity surrounding the state budget this week, with both houses in recess, but officials continue their informal negotiations. The budget impasse is expected to extend into mid-September.

The House stands adjourned until September 22 and the Senate until September 8.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) added a new PROMISe Banner page with information on a New Batch EDI Translator effective September 2025. For additional information see the EDI as a Service FAQ here.

Department of Health

The Department of Health alerted providers and public health officials about a late-summer surge in COVID-19 cases that is expected to peak in September. Find information on how to handle this sharp increase in cases in this health alert.

The Department of Health alerted Pennsylvanians that an individual from another state who was contagious with measles visited multiple locations across the state, creating a potential for exposure to others in this health alert.

Pennsylvania Healthcare Cost Containment Council (PHC4)

PHC4 publicly released new County-Level Condition-Specific and County-Level Utilization reports today, giving insight into ambulatory/outpatient usage and hospitalization rates of high interest conditions, using the most recent data available.

Around the State

The Altoona Mirror reported on the efforts of PA legislators to introduce the state’s own Medicaid work requirements in response to the federal requirements passed as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Counties and providers of human services explain how they are bracing for the protracted state budget standoff in this article from the Pennsylvania Capital Star.

City + State profiled State Treasurer Stacy Garrity in this article after she announced her candidacy for governor in 2026.

Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that an agreement has been finalized that ensures free access to personal medical records for thousands of patients — including Medicaid patients — formerly treated at Crozer Health hospitals.

Stakeholder Meetings

HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – September 10

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting (in-person and virtually) on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. For registration information click here.

PHC4 Committee Meetings – August – September

The PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) announced the following meetings

Education Committee meeting (August 28, 2025, at 10 a.m.)
Council meeting (September 4, 2025, at 10 a.m.)
Payment Data Advisory Group meeting (September 11, 2025, at 10 a.m.)

Individuals who wish to participate may contact rgreenawalt@phc4.org at least 24 hours in advance.

MAAC – July Meeting Materials

The Department of Human Services (DHS) published the meeting materials from the July meeting of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC):

Meeting Minutes
Office of Long-Term Living presentation
Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services presentation

PA Safety Net Admin2025-08-23T01:22:42+00:00August 22nd, 2025|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for July 25

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from July 21 – July 25. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Update

Governor Shapiro and legislative leaders continue to negotiate a final Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 budget agreement. The state House of Representatives and Senate are currently in recess pending a final budget agreement.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has informed states, including Pennsylvania, that it “does not anticipate approving new state proposals of section 1115 demonstration expenditure authority that allow for expanded continuous eligibility or extending existing section 1115 demonstration authority for expanded continuous eligibility, beyond what is required or available under the Medicaid or CHIP statutes.” This will likely prevent Pennsylvania from implementing continuous eligibility for children on Medicaid until the age of six and 12 months of Medicaid coverage to individuals leaving state correctional facilities.

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 June 2025.

DHS has announced that the Human Services Provider Directory has moved to a new web address. The new address is https://www.humanservices.dhs.pa.gov/human_service_provider_directory/.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced the launch of seven new training opportunities to assist health care providers reduce overdose risk and improve patient outcomes. Training is available online and in-person at no cost and includes continuing education credits for health care providers. Find additional information in this press release.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced the release of its Cardiac Procedures Report, which includes results for six cardiac procedures performed in Pennsylvania acute care hospitals from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023. This report displays hospital-specific ratings for in-hospital mortality, readmissions, extended postoperative length of stay, volume of cases, and average hospital charges.

Board of Dentistry

The State Board of Dentistry has published final form rulemaking to implement licensure by endorsement for dentists. The rulemaking is effective upon its publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Find the final rulemaking here.

Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

The State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology has published final form rulemaking to implement licensure by endorsement. The rulemaking is effective upon its publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Find the final rulemaking here.

Around the State

Spotlight PA has published a piece on the closure of pharmacies across Pennsylvania and the broken payment system that’s being blamed for their closure.

Pennsylvania’s ongoing budget impasse and the impact it will potentially have on schools, county governments, and mass transit was the focus of an article published by The Philadelphia Inquirer.

PennLive has written an article about the potential for additional rural hospital closures due to the federal changes in H.R. 1 that will impact Medicaid funding for hospitals.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – Long-Term Services & Supports Subcommittee – August 6

The Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold its next public meeting on August 6 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Register to participate here.

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – August 7

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 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 – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – August 7

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 7 from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17112. The meeting will be conducted in person only. Find information on how to RSVP in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-07-25T19:33:08+00:00July 25th, 2025|Federal Medicaid issues, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for July 18

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from July 14 – July 18. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Update

Governor Shapiro and legislative leaders continue to negotiate a final Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 budget agreement. The state House of Representatives and Senate briefly convened in Harrisburg this week to position House Bill 1330, which provides for appropriations from the General Fund, to enable the budget to be swiftly enacted when an agreement is reached. Both chambers are currently recessed pending a final agreement.

General Assembly

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

The House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 564, which requires the Department of Human Services (DHS) to implement a campaign to increase public understanding and engagement with the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The Senate passed Senate Bill 604, which authorizes the state to join the National Counseling Compact. The bill was subsequently sent to the House of Representatives and referred to the Professional Licensure Committee.

The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met on Thursday, July 17 and favorably reported House Bill 1429, which requires a study on the feasibility of implementing chip-enabled electronic benefit cards (EBT) for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and House Bill 1527, which extends the Rare Disease Advisory Council’s sunset date to 2028.

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania held an informational hearing on Wednesday, July 16 regarding health care provider policies that have been implemented in other jurisdictions to address the shortage of health care workers in rural areas. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Remittance Advice (RA) related to its previous announcement that it will begin to mass adjust claims submitted for discharge dates October 1, 2024 through June 6, 2025 due to a delay in implementing Version 42 of the APR DRG classification system for Medical Assistance (MA) enrolled acute care general hospitals.

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

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued final notice to temporarily schedule any material, compound, mixture or preparation which contains any quantity of the following Nitazene substances, their salts, isomers and salts of isomers: Butonitazene, Etodesnitazene, Flunitazene, Isotonitazene, Metodesnitazene, Metonitazene and Protonitazene. This final order to temporarily schedule will temporarily categorize this class of compounds as Schedule I controlled substances. Find more information in this press release.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) along with the Department of Human Services has announced that licensing staff from both agencies will begin conducting coordinated annual inspections of substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health treatment facilities that are licensed by both agencies for outpatient, partial hospitalization and residential services.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced the release of a report that includes state-wide data and facility-specific information about the financial health of Pennsylvania’s general acute care hospitals for fiscal year 2023. Financial Analysis, Volume One, is the first in a three-part series of financial reports produced annually by PHC4.

Around the State

The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has written an article about the potential impact of the recently enacted federal reconciliation package on Medicaid coverage in the Pittsburgh area.

Spotlight PA has published a piece about the board that oversees how Pennsylvania counties spend opioid settlement money and how it operates outside of the state’s transparency laws.

WESA has published an article about Pennsylvania’s FY 2025-26 budget, which is more than two weeks late, and the state of negotiations.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – July 23

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – July 24

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

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – August 7

The Organ Donation Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 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 – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – August 7

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 7 from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at 6340 Flank Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17112. The meeting will be conducted in person only. Find information on how to RSVP in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-07-18T20:47:25+00:00July 18th, 2025|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off

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