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PA Health Policy Update for February 14

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 10 – 14.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro has announced his administration filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s freeze of federal funding. Despite court orders to release the federal funds and the Shapiro administration’s engagement with Pennsylvania’s federal representatives, state agencies remain unable to access $1.2 billion in federal funding, with an additional $900 million requiring an undefined review by federal agencies before it can be received. Find the full complaint here.

The Shapiro administration has published its semi-annual agenda of regulations under development or consideration across the various state agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction, including the Departments of Health and Human Services. Find the comprehensive regulatory agenda in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate will begin hearings on Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 budget proposal next week. The House Appropriations Committee’s full hearing schedule is viewable here and the Senate Appropriations Committee’s full hearing schedule is viewable here.

Following are the health-related agency budget hearings scheduled for next week.

  • The Department of Health will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, February 19 at 1:00 p.m. in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building.
  • The Department of Health and the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs will appear before the House Appropriations Committee on Friday, February 21 at 10:00 a.m. on the House floor. The hearing will be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health  

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 784) with guidance on Influenza A subtyping for hospitalized patients. 

Independent Fiscal Office

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) has announced that it updated the commonwealth’s budget deficit projections based on new spending data, largely for the Department of Human Services, included in Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 Executive Budget. The revised deficit projection for FY 2025-26 is $6.0 billion under current laws and policies. Find the full report here. 

Around the State  

  • Spotlight PA has written an article about a study commissioned by the state’s Insurance Department that found health insurers’ provider directories commonly had errors that went uncorrected for extended periods of time. 
  • New Castle News has published an article about the proposed investments in hospitals included in Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 budget proposal. 
  • Writing for The Philadelphia Inquirer, Harold Brubaker has continued to cover challenges related to the bankruptcy of Prospect Medical Holdings, the parent company of Crozer Health in Delaware County.  
  • WESA has published an article about a federal judge’s decision to temporarily halt proposed funding cuts at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that could have a detrimental impact on the state’s life sciences sector. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – February 26

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on February 26 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – February 27

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on February 27 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DOH – HIV Planning Group – March 12

The Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, March 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Thursday, March 13 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.

2025-02-14T20:58:44+00:00February 14th, 2025|Federal Medicaid issues, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for February 14
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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 June 14

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from June 10 – 14.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro signed, among other bills, Senate Bill 721 into law this week. Senate Bill 721, now known as Act 22 of 2024, establishes the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) State Advisory Board. Find additional information in this press release. 

General Assembly

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

  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 1754, which requires public and private insurers to cover biomarker testing. The bill was subsequently sent to the Senate and reported favorably from the Banking & Insurance Committee.
  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 1783, which requires the Department of Health to develop and publish educational material about opioid-related overdose and requires the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs to establish a grant program from the development, expansion, or improvement of recovery support services. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 2127, which allows clinicians to distribute information related to postpartum depression and counseling resources. It also requires the Department of Health to publish those resources on its website. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House of Representatives passed  House Bill 1021, which prohibits insurers from discriminating against individuals because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held an informational hearing on Senate Bill 840 and House Bill 2400, which both create an Alzheimer’s Disease and related disorders division within the Department of Aging and establish an Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Related Disorders Advisory Committee. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee met on Tuesday, June 11 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2175, which creates a permanent Office of Child Advocate. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Insurance Committee met on Tuesday, June 11 and favorably reported House Bill 1140, which expands access to contraceptives, and House Bill 2268, which provides coverage for speech therapy for stuttering. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met on Tuesday, June 11 and favorably reported Senate Bill 965, which provides Medicaid coverage for rapid whole genome sequencing under certain conditions, and Senate Bill 1080, which allows licensed practical nurses to make death pronouncements in the hospice setting. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee met on Tuesday, June 11 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 1664, which prohibits insurers from restricting their method of payment to solely credit card, and House Bill 1754, which requires public and private insurers to cover biomarker testing. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The Senate Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee met on Wednesday, June 12 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 1251, which aligns Pennsylvania’s nursing statute with federal rules regarding accreditation. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee and the Senate Aging & Youth Committee held a combined hearing on Wednesday, June 12 regarding the status of the state’s Aging Our Way plan. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, June 12 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 1993, which seeks to reform certain practices by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that have an adverse effect on pharmacies and patients,
    • House Bill 2339, which establishes hospital price transparency reporting and disclosure requirements. The bill also stipulates penalties for noncompliance.
    • House Bill 2363, which expands the existing Cancer Drug Repository Program to allow both health care facilities and individuals to donate prescription drugs (other than cancer drugs) to the program.

A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

  • The House Human Services Committee met on Wednesday, June 12 and favorably reported House Bill 2403, which updates annual reporting requirements for the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP). A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Judiciary Committee met on Wednesday, June 12 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2198, which caps the fees for obtaining electronic medical records. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met for a voting meeting on Wednesday, June 12 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2400, which creates an Alzheimer’s Disease and related disorders division within the Department of Aging and establishes an Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Related Disorders Advisory Committee. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will be in recess next week. Both chambers are scheduled to return to Harrisburg, Monday June 24.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced it is making available for public review and comment the Office of Long-Term Living’s proposed amendment for the OBRA waiver. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has also announced it is making available for public comment and review the Office of Long-Term Living’s proposed renewal for the Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 753) regarding testing for influenza in persons with severe respiratory illness given the potential for severe human infections with influenza A(H5N1) viruses and the recent spread into dairy cattle. 

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.

2024-06-14T21:14:14+00:00June 14th, 2024|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Uncategorized|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 14
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PA Health Policy Update for April 19

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

General Assembly

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

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

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

Department of Health 

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

Department of Human Services 

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

Stakeholder Events  

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – April 24

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – April 25

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

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – May 1

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

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – May 2

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

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – May 3

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

2024-04-19T20:14:21+00:00April 19th, 2024|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for April 19
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PA Health Policy Update for March 15

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

Governor Shapiro 

The Shapiro administration has published its semi-annual agenda of regulations under development or consideration across the various state agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction, including the Departments of Health and Human Services. Find the comprehensive regulatory agenda in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for a voting session next week. Following is a selection of health care policy-related legislative activity currently scheduled.

  • The House Professional Licensure Committee will hold an informational hearing on Monday, March 18 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss House Bill 1354, which enables boards and commissions within the Department of State’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs to issue advisory opinions to licensees. The meeting will be held in Room 515 of the Irvis Office building. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Care and Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Corrections will hold an informational meeting on Wednesday, March 20 at 9:00 a.m. regarding the criminal justice implications of adult-use cannabis legalization. The meeting will take place in Room G50 of the Irvis Office building. It will also be livestreamed here.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee will hold an informational meeting on the Office of the Child Advocate. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 20 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 60 of the East Wing. It will also be livestreamed here. 

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a health advisory regarding elevated levels of lead in certain ground cinnamon products from discount retail stores. Prolonged exposure to these products may be unsafe. Find additional information here.

DOH also issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 740) to make clinicians aware of updated recommendations for prenatal hepatitis B and hepatitis C testing. These infectious conditions can lead to profound consequences for pregnant individuals and their infants. Hepatitis B and C testing and linkage to care in pregnancy is critical to the prevention and control of viral hepatitis in Pennsylvania. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the extension of an alternative payment methodology for services provided by Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), including FQHC look-alikes in Philadelphia, that serve a high volume of Medicaid beneficiaries. The alternative payment methodology will be extended through March 31, 2029. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Insurance Department

The Insurance Department has announced it will hold a public informational hearing regarding Highmark Health’s request to modify the department’s 2013 order and terms approving the merger of Allegheny Health Network and Highmark Health. Find additional information, including details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

 Stakeholder Events

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – March 27

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – March 28

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

2024-03-15T21:29:51+00:00March 15th, 2024|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 15
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PA Health Policy Update for December 8

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

Governor Shapiro 

In October, the Shapiro administration established the Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Council through Executive Order 2023-20. As the administration and Council begin their work, they have asked interested stakeholders to complete a brief survey to share their insights. The survey will remain open until December 14, 2023. 

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene for session next week. Following are selected health care-related legislative proceedings currently scheduled.

  • The House Health Committee will meet on Monday, December 11 at the call of the chair to consider Senate Bill 683, which requires drug screening for fentanyl and xylazine, if a drug screening is conducted in a general acute care hospital to assist in diagnosing a patient’s condition.
  • The House Health Subcommittee on Health Care will convene on Wednesday, December 13 at 9:00 a.m. in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building for an information meeting on the “cannabis regulatory landscape.”
  • The House Human Services Committee will convene on Monday, December 11 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 60 of the East Wing to consider Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced the opening of a public comment period on its proposed 1115 waiver application – Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania. The public comment period will take place from December 2, 2023 through January 2, 2024. During this period, interested stakeholders can review the draft waiver application and provide comments online, in writing via mail, during multiple advisory and stakeholder meetings, or through three upcoming virtual forums. Those details can be found here.
  • DHS has announced the addition of a procedure code to the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule for the administration of an influenza vaccine. The effective date and MA fee are indicated in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced the addition of the following procedure codes to the MA program fee schedule for the administration of bivalent doses of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines manufactured by Pfizer, Inc. and Moderna, Inc. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced it will require prior authorization of all prescriptions for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products that are designated as preferred on the Statewide PDL. These prior authorization requirements apply to prescriptions dispensed on or after January 8, 2024.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 728) notifying health care providers of an increase in mycoplasma pneumoniae activity internationally and in some U.S. jurisdictions.

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. The guidelines and fees, which can be found in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice, are effective January 1, 2024. 

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue announced Pennsylvania collected $3.1 billion in General Fund revenue in November, which was $46.4 million, or 1.5 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $16.1 billion, which is $1.1 million below estimate. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

DHS – 1115 Waiver Public Forums – December 11, 12, and 15

DHS will hold a series of public forums for the public to ask questions and submit comments related to the Bridges to Success: Keystones of Health for Pennsylvania. Following is the schedule of forums.

  • Monday, December 11 at 12:00 p.m. Register to participate here.
  • Tuesday, December 12 at 6:00 p.m. Register to participate here.
  • Friday, December 15 at 9:00 a.m. Register to participate here. 

Board of Nursing – December 11

The State Board of Nursing will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, December 11. Find the agenda and details on how to participate in the meeting here.

Pharmaceutical Assistance Board – December 18

The Department of Aging Pharmaceutical Assistance Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting on Monday, December 18 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – ABC-MAP Board – 2024 Meeting Dates

The Pennsylvania Achieving Better Care by Monitoring All Prescriptions (ABC-MAP) Board has published its 2024 meeting calendar. Find the meeting dates and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

 

2023-12-11T14:42:46+00:00December 8th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for December 8
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PA Health Policy Update for November 10

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

2023 General Election

Pennsylvania voters went to the polls this week to cast their ballots for a series of judicial, county, and municipal elections. Democrat Dan McCaffrey defeated Republican Carolyn Carluccio in a highly contested and expensive race to fill a vacancy on Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court. Democrats also won state-wide races for the superior and commonwealth courts. For detailed state and county election results, visit the Department of State’s website here. 

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro announced this week his administration will require all commercial insurers to “meet their obligations under Pennsylvania law” to provide coverage for autism benefits. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice published by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department and this press release issued by the Shapiro administration. 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate were in recess this week. Both chambers will return to Harrisburg next week and be in session Monday, November 13 through Wednesday, November 15.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued several medical assistance bulletins relating to prior authorization for pharmacy services.

DHS has published final notice of the fee schedule rates for community participation support, Needs Group 5 Residential Habilitation and group music therapy, art therapy and equine assisted therapy services funded through the Consolidated, Community Living and Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS) Waivers. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS is issued a Remittance Advice Alert notifying providers that a claims recovery was done to recoup monies paid in error due to date of death discrepancies uncovered in a recent audit.

DHS has published an updated Medicaid Managed Care Organization (MCO) Directory.  

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced the beginning of the open enrollment period for Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, for 2024 coverage. The enrollment period will last until December 15. Find additional information in this PID press release. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) held its Emerging Drug Trends Symposium this week. This annual event gathers key stakeholders to review current drug trends, innovative approaches to connect people who use drugs to treatment and other social services, identify gaps in services, and provide a venue for stakeholders to network. Find additional information in this DDAP press release. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

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

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events 

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

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – November 29

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, November 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in person and virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2023-11-17T20:58:20+00:00November 10th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for November 10
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PA Health Policy Update for October 20

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

General AssemblyHouse Chamber of the State House 

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

  • The House of Representatives voted 199-4 to concur with the Senate’s amendments to House Bill 1351, which reauthorizes the hospital Quality Care Assessment, increases Medicaid reimbursement for ambulance transportation, and makes changes to the skilled nursing facility case-mix rate. The bill has been presented to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
  • The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers. The bill has been received in the House and referred to the Professional Licensure Committee.
  • The House of Representatives’ Health Committee met on Wednesday, October 18 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 1417, which restores dental coverage for Medical Assistance recipients.
    • House Bill 1585, which establishes access and coverage for tele-dentistry in Pennsylvania.
    • House Bill 1694, which requires the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs to create an annual report on the use of opioid settlement funds by state and county governments.
    • Senate Bill 500, which requires Medicaid coverage for medically prescribed pasteurized donor human milk. 

The Senate will return to session next Monday, October 23 through Wednesday, October 25. The House of Representatives is recessed until Monday, October 30.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has updated its calendar of mailing dates for Remittance Advices and corresponding electronic transfers and checks through November. Find the updated calendar here.

Department of Health   

The Department of Health has recommended long-term care facilities use its  COVID-19 Infection Control and Outbreak Response Toolkit for Long-Term Care when preparing for and responding to a COVID-19 outbreak. A 2023-2024 Influenza Toolkit is also available. For assistance on COVID-19 infection prevention and control, providers are strongly encouraged to reach out to LTC-RISE and Project Firstline.

The DOH Bureau of Family Health has announced a funding opportunity for community-based, non-profit organizations to provide direct, individualized services to families who qualify for the Community to Home (C2H) program. The application will be open through December 19, 2023. Find additional information here. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has issued comments on the State Board of Chiropractic’s proposed rulemaking. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding

  • DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – October 26

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

DHS – Consumer Subcommittee of the MAAC – October 25

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a meeting on Wednesday, October 25 at 1:00 p.m. To participate virtually, register here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) – October 26

The MAAC will hold a meeting on Thursday, October 26 at 10:00 a.m. To participate virtually, register here.

DOH – Organ Donation Advisory Committee – November 2

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

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

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

2023-10-20T20:19:25+00:00October 20th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 20
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PA Health Policy Update for October 6

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from October 2 – 6.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents.) 

FY 2023-20204 Budget Update 

The General Assembly continues to work on finalizing the FY 2023-2024 state budget. This week the state House of Representatives passed an amended version of the Fiscal Code (House Bill 1300) by a vote of 121-82 and sent it back to the Senate for consideration. The House of Representatives also passed an addendum to the General Appropriations Act (House Bill 1456) and a tax code (House Bill 1219) and sent them to the Senate for consideration. These pieces of legislation were not negotiated with Senate leadership in advance, so it is unclear how the Senate will proceed, or when the FY 2023-2024 budget process will be completed. 

General Assembly 

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate convened for session in Harrisburg this week. The following is an overview of selected health care focused legislative activity.
    • The House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 165, which directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to examine the effect of workforce shortages on state-supported Medicaid home and community-based services waiver programs.
    • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee held an informational meeting on Tuesday to examine barriers to addiction treatment. Immediately following the information meeting, the committee held a voting meeting and favorably reported the following bills.
      • Senate Bill 941, which enables certain flexibilities for addiction treatment providers.
      • Senate Bill 721, which establishes the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) advisory board.
      • House Bill 1351, which makes certain changes to the Rural Health Redesign Center Authority.

Find a recording of the hearing here.

    • The House Health Committee’s Subcommittee on Health Facilities held an informational meeting on Wednesday to examine the effects of hospital consolidation. Find a recording of the hearing here.
    • The House Human Services Committee and Aging & Older Adult Services Committee held a joint informational meeting Wednesday on personal care homes and assisted living facilities. Find a recording of the hearing here.
  • The state House of Representatives and Senate are now recessed until Monday, October 16. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to make one-time enhanced supplemental payments to eligible public and non-public Medical Assistance (MA) nursing facilities. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh has reminded Pennsylvanians who receive health care coverage through Medicaid or CHIP that the cost of COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments are covered by the programs. Find additional information in this press release issued by DHS.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin announcing the addition of new procedure codes to the Medical Assistance (MA) program for vaccine administration.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin notifying providers about updates to the provision of Medicaid-covered services to beneficiaries experiencing homelessness when delivered in their lived environment, also known as “street medicine.”
  • DHS has published Provider Quick Tip #270 with important information for providers who are required to revalidate clinicians at multiple locations.
  • DHS has shared the following presentations used at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on September 28.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has invited stakeholders to participate in an information-gathering listening session regarding patient access to controlled substances in the commonwealth. The listening session will be held on Wednesday, October 11 from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Find additional information on how to register and participate here.

DOH has announced it will be implementing new regulatory requirements for all long-term care facilities beginning October 31. The new requirements include changes to the application for licensure, which will require additional information, documentation, and public disclosure. DOH has provided interpretive guidance for these changes on its website here.

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $4.1 billion in General Fund revenue in September, which was $140.2 million, or 3.3 percent, less than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $9.8 billion, which is $167.4 million, or 1.7 percent, below estimate. 

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 20

The Renal Disease Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly public meeting on Friday, October 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Council – October 26

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

DOH – Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board Meeting – November 3

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

2023-10-10T14:33:03+00:00October 6th, 2023|Financial, Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 6
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PA Health Policy Update for September 15

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

Governor Shapiro 

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

General Assembly 

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

Department of Human Services

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

Department of Health 

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

Department of Aging 

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

Board of Nursing 

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

Medicaid Continuous Coverage Unwinding 

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

DHS has published the following resources to help providers educate patients about Medicaid renewals and what to do if they are no longer eligible for Medicaid.

Stakeholder Events  

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – September 20

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

Patient Safety Authority – September 21

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

Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators – October 17

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

2023-09-15T20:01:07+00:00September 15th, 2023|Medicaid Eligibility Redetermination , Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 15
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  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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