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PA Health Policy Update for June 5

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

General Assembly

The House and Senate returned to session on Monday June 1^st and provided the following actions:

Monday, June 1^st
- The House sent HB 2254, which allows limited medical cannabis access in healthcare facilities, to the Senate by a vote of 174-27.
Tuesday, June 2^nd
- The House amended HB 69, legislation creating a more formalized framework around unused cancer drug donation programs, by broadening out the bill to all pharmaceutical drugs.
- The House Health Committee approved HB 2162 by 25-1 with an amendment, legislation to streamline wholesale pharmaceutical state licensure; HB 2341 by 20-6 with an amendment, which would create a Health Care Facility Threat Assessment Grant Program. These bills have advanced to the full House for consideration.
- The Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee unanimously advanced SB 866, which would set Medetomidine as a Schedule III Drug.
Wednesday, June 3^rd
- The House unanimously passed HB 69, unused prescription drug repository legislation, sending the bill to the Senate for consideration.

For the upcoming week, we anticipate the following activity:

Monday, June 8^th
- The Senate Appropriations Committee will consider SB 866, which would set Medetomidine as a Schedule III Drug, and HB 1442, which places additional requirements on coroners to ensure epilepsy death reporting accuracy.
- The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee will meet to vote on HB 1611, a comprehensive update to the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Tuesday, June 9^th
- The House Human Services Committee will hold an informational meeting on Complex Care Assistant Programs.
Wednesday, June 10^th
- The Senate Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee will meet to consider SB 1133, which would update membership of the Board of Pharmacy, and SB 1334, which proposes additional regulations and oversight of medical imaging and radiation therapy.
- The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing on HB 2270, which would require PA to utilize a single pharmaceutical benefit administrator model for the Medicaid program.

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

Sen. Lynda Culver circulated a cosponsor memo for legislation that would require employment history reviews for positions requiring direct care of and contact with older adults.
Rep. Bridget Kosierowski introduced HB 2583, which would increase reimbursement rates for durable medical equipment.
Rep. Keith Harris introduced a package of three bills aimed at increasing prostate cancer prevention, education, and awareness efforts.
Rep. Mary Jo Daley introduced HB 2605, which would codify an explicit right to access and use fertility treatments in PA.
Rep. Justin Fleming released HR 551, commissioning a behavioral health crisis study
Senator Michele Brooks formally introduced SB 1352, legislation providing for multi-year licensure for addiction treatment providers.

Department of Health

The Department released updated guidance for clinicians for Hantavirus disease surveillance.

The Department issued interpretive guidance to clarify its expectations on the administration of anesthesia in hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities. This interpretive guidance is responsive to requests from the regulated community for clarity on what constitutes anesthesia and which health care providers can administer anesthesia

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.

As part of these updates, the Department launched a new website to highlight the changes in Medicaid. This will be updated as new information is provided by CMS.

Independent Fiscal Office

Commonwealth revenues are beating projections by close to a billion dollars for the fiscal year. The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released revenue projections for fiscal year (FY) 2025-26. May General Fund collections of $3.31 billion were $14 million (+0.4%) more than projected, while fiscal-year-to-date (FYTD) collections of $44.97 billion are $846 million (+1.9%) above estimate. (The comparable figures for the administration’s estimate released November 2025 are -$65 million (-1.9%) and $928 million (+2.1%)). Compared to the prior year, May collections were $73 million (+2.3%) higher and FYTD collections are $2.30 billion (+5.4%) higher.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Patient Safety Authority will hold its board meeting on June 23^rd at 1pm.

DHS’ Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will be hosting two Listening Sessions on the 55 Pa. Code Chapter 5250 Crisis Licensing Regulations. Sessions are intended to provide a high-level summary of changes being made to the final form package based on the comments received and to gather provider perspectives on those specific areas. Those interested can register below.

The Department of Health’s Preventative Health and Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on June 10^th from 9am to 10am to receive testimony on the block grant application.

The Department of Health’s Newborn Screening and Follow Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on June 11^th from 10am to Noon.

DHS is hosting two public hearings to take public comment on the proposed LIHEAP state plan on June 25^th and July 2^nd, both from 10am – Noon.

Federal Update

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

PA Safety Net Admin2026-06-06T01:56:22+00:00June 5th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for May 8

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

Rural Health Transformation Program

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania held a public hearing on PA’s Rural Health Transformation Program and its implementation and utilization of federal RHTP funds. The Penn Capital-Star reported on the hearing, sharing a summary of some of the topics discussed such as EMS and the 988 hotline.

General Assembly

The House and Senate held session earlier this week addressing the following healthcare related issues:

Tuesday
- The House Communications & Technology Committee passed HB 1925 out of committee with amendment with a 19-7 vote. This bill would provide regulation and standards of AI use in healthcare.
Wednesday
- The House Health Committee held an informational hearing on the Uniform Healthcare Decision Act.
- The House Insurance Committee convened a voting meeting on HB 2427; consolidation of utilization management statutes, HB 2464; replacing outdated references in PA’s Insurance Law, and HB 2473; repealing obsolete insurance laws and completed statutorily required studies. All three bills advanced unanimously out of committee.
- The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee advanced SB 1321 which would prohibit state funds from being used for certain gender affirming care services.
- HB 1251 was signed into law as Act 12 of 2026, which allows nurse midwives to refer patients to pelvic floor therapy.
- SB 507 was signed into law as Act 14 of 2026, which implements licensure for certified midwives and modernizes other midwifery practices.
Thursday
- The Senate Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee held a hearing on SB 792, which would provide for an increase in the Research & Development Tax Credit program in PA.

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

Rep. Bridget Kosierowski introduced HR 513 which would direct a study on the financial impact of outdated hospital regulations on Pennsylvania hospitals.
Rep. La’Tasha Mayes introduced HR 517 recognizing May 2026 as Preeclampsia Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.
A co-sponsor memo was filed by Rep. Kristin Marcell for legislation requiring insurance coverage for Ovarian Cancer Screening.

The House and Senate will now break from session until June to accommodate Pennsylvania’s upcoming Primary Elections on Tuesday, May 19^th.

Department of Aging

The Department announced an RFP for a READY Community funding collaborative to help support the implementation of PA’s Aging Our Way PA strategic plan. The collaborative will work across the Shapiro Administration and Pennsylvania philanthropic leaders to support funding opportunities to advance the Aging Our Way PA plan. The RFP closes on Friday June 12, and the department will host a webinar for prospective applicants on Tuesday, May 19 at 1:00pm.

Department of Human Services

DHS released a bulletin notice with its methodology for determining case-mix rates for nonpublic nursing facilities across several peer groups in State Fiscal Year 25-26.

The Department issued a bulletin notice detailing its annual Nonpublic and County Nursing Facility Per Diem Rates for State Fiscal Year 25-26.

DHS issued a notice of Implementation of the Qualitrac® Provider Portal for Prior Authorization and Program Exception Submissions.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on May 20^th from 9am to Noon.

Federal Update

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

PA Safety Net Admin2026-05-08T20:21:37+00:00May 8th, 2026|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Rural Health Transformation Program|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for April 24

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from April 20 –April 24 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Rural Health Transformation Program

Today, DHS announced the qualifications for providers to receive Rapid Response Stabilization payments of at least $10,000 and up to $1 million to be used for the purchase of supplies, equipment, renovations, or structural improvements in alignment with the goals outlined in the commonwealth’s RHTP application to the federal government. Providers may submit the eligibility certification and required documentation beginning on May 1 to show they meet all of the following criteria:

Licensed as a hospital, health care provider, or rural health facility;
Currently in operation in Pennsylvania at the time of application and at the time funding is received;
Located in one of the RHTP-eligible rural counties or in a HRSA-defined rural census tract of a county of the second class A or third class.

This program payment is limited to one payment per qualified entity. Under the first tranche of this program request, program payments are limited to two program payments per region. There is a planned second tranche of funds to be made available after June 1, 2026 and that second tranche will not be limited by region.

DHS will authorize program payments in the order eligibility certifications are received, as evidenced by the date and time the email containing the full eligibility certification and receipt of all required documents. Providers should begin preparing the required documentation and budget narrative now for email submission on May 1. Submissions can be made via email to: RA-HHRRLHLTHTRNSPLAN@pa.gov.

General Assembly

The Senate held session earlier week addressing the following issues:

Monday
- The Senate passed Sen. Rosemary Brown’s SB 998, by a measure of 43-4, which would provide an expansion of resources for accredited nursing programs in PA through the Nurse Education Capacity Expansion Grant program.
Tuesday
- The Senate Local Government Committee advanced HB 1442, which would require that all autopsies include a review to whether a seizure or epilepsy was part of the cause of death.
Wednesday
- HB 1251, which is part of the “MOMNIBUS 2.0” bill package, will now head to the Governor’s desk following a 45-2 final passage vote. This legislation would allow nurse midwives to refer patients to physical therapy for access to pelvic floor therapy.

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

Sen. Amanda Cappelletti circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring the inclusion of Gaucher’s Disease on Pennsylvania’s Newborn Screening Panel and a co-sponsor memo for legislation that would allow access to PrEP and PEP medications without prescriptions.
Sen. Elder Vogel issued a co-sponsor memo for a resolution recognizing IgA Nephropathy Awareness Day in Pennsylvania.
Senator Michele Brooks released a co-sponsor memo for a resolution to designate May 2026 as Lyme Disease & Tick-Borne Illness Awareness Month in PA.
Rep. Frank Burns introduced HB 2431 which would require PBMs to accept Medicaid prescriptions from any pharmacy and pharmacist in good standing with the State Board of Pharmacy and US DEA.
Rep. Maureen Madden introduced HB 2435, providing for dementia training for EMS personnel. This legislation will receive a public hearing in the House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee on Monday April 27th.

The House is scheduled to return to session this upcoming week. In addition to the hearing on HB 2435, the following activity is anticipated:

On Monday, the House Human Services Committee will meet to consider House Resolution 134, a resolution directing a comprehensive review of home & community-based services waiver programs and areas of improvement that can be identified.
On Tuesday, the House Health Committee will meet to consider HB 916, legislation to update the Child Blood Lead Testing Act.

Both the House and Senate will return to session on May 4^th.

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 is currently hiring Regional Policy Specialists and an Executive Policy Specialist to help implement PA’s Rural Health Transformation Plan.

The Department issued its March 2026 HealthChoices Enrollment Report.

DHS announced its schedule for onboarding provider types to begin using the Qualitrac electronic prior authorization portal for MA fee-for-service claims. For each wave of the rollout, providers will receive a kickoff communication with instructions on how to register for the portal, then complete the registration and attend an initial training session focused on how to use the portal for their specific review type. There is no deadline at this time for mandatory use of Qualitrac for these authorizations, but DHS strongly encourages providers to use the portal once they are ready.

Department of Health

The Department released a Health Advisory Network alert for an increase in emergency department visits for tick bites and urging providers to heighten suspicion for tickborne diseases.

DOH, the Patient Safety Authority, and other stakeholders released updated guidance to acute care facilities regarding the definition of serious events, incidents, or infrastructure failures.

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.

DOH’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold a public meeting on May 20^th from 9am to Noon.

Federal Update

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

PA Safety Net Admin2026-04-24T20:24:41+00:00April 24th, 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 20

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

General Assembly

Senate and House Appropriations Committee Hearings relevant to healthcare and human services are underway this upcoming week with key hearings are as follows:

Insurance Department: House – Feb. 24^th at 10am
Department of Health & Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: House – Feb. 24^th at 1pm
Department of Human Services: Senate – Feb. 25^th at 10am; 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

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

Rep. Frank Burns released a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring prescriptions for MA recipients to be filled by any pharmacist in good federal & state standing.
Rep. Bridget Kosierowski and Rep. Natalie Mihalek issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation allowing the coverage of medically-tailored meals prescribed for Medicaid recipients.
A co-sponsor memo circulated by Senators Lynda Schlegel Culver and Nick Pisciottano

would provide for legislation to regulate and license medical imaging and radiation therapy.

Sen. Doug Mastriano has issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to enhance EMS within PA by elevating the EMS Director position in DOH to a Deputy Secretary role, along with additional regulatory flexibilities and educational requirement changes.
PBM reforms highlighted in a co-sponsor memo released by Senators Wayne Langerholc, Judy Ward, and Pat Stefano would institute Attorney General reviews to the PBM contracting and adjudication process, allowing PBMs to appear in PA courts for legal cause of action, among other reforms expanding on the PBM reforms of Act 77 of 2024.
Rep. Emily Kinkead introduced House Bill 2226 which would ensure that all patient out of pocket costs like co-pays and other assistance are credited towards out-of-pocket cost limits of insurance plans.

Department of Human Services

DHS released 2026 Income Limits for presumptive eligibility of pregnant women in Medicaid.

The Department issued its March 2026 remittance advice as well as remittance advice for date of death recovery.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The 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.

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.

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

Federal Update

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

PA Safety Net Admin2026-02-20T21:51:13+00:00February 20th, 2026|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for November 7

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

General Assembly and Budget Update

After Pennsylvania’s judicial and local election this past Tuesday, four members of the PA House won local elected offices which will require special elections early next year following their respective swearing-in to those offices. As Rep. Lou Schmitt, winner of a county judicial race indicated, “People were focused on the election… Now that the election is out of the way, people can go back to policy.” The House and Senate will have the opportunity to do so when both chambers are set to return on November 17^th.

On Monday, November 10^th at 10am, the Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on supporting home care workers and consumers. The hearing can be streamed live here.

Department of Health

The Department’s Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program released their approved covered drug list in their October Advisory Council meeting which will take effect on December 1^st. The Department also updated its list of Medicare Part C and D plans with premium payment agreements with SPBP for 2026.

Department of Human Services

DHS has issued helpful guidance and information to assist individuals in understanding the federal SNAP work requirements instituted earlier this fall.

DHS released MA Bulletins on updated prior authorization policies for several drug classes in response to recommendations from the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee.

State Board of Medicine

The State Board of Medicine shared Education and Volunteer Services proposed regulations to add new mandatory education requirements and clarify the process for a volunteer license.

Stakeholder Meetings

The Department of Health’s Statewide HIV Planning Group will hold their public meeting on Wednesday Nov. 19^th and Thursday November 20^th both from 9am-3pm.

DOH’s Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday Nov. 13^th from 10am – Noon.

The DHS Medical Assistance Advisory Committee plans to meet December 4^th at 10am. You can register for the meeting here.

Federal Update

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

PA Safety Net Admin2025-11-07T20:33:35+00:00November 7th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for October 10

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

Budget Update

Tensions rose in the continued budget impasse this week. As the stalemate reached 100 days, House Democrats amended and sent SB 160, a $50.25 billion budget bill, over to the Senate. All four caucuses and the Governor held press conferences staking out their respective positions and the path forward remains uncertain. The Senate placed itself on a 24-hour call-of-the-chair but is formally scheduled to return on October 20^th. The House is set to return on October 27^th.

General Assembly

Rep. Arvind Venkat introduced HB 1925, which would regulate the usage of AI in healthcare.

The House amended a technical amendment into HB 446 which would allow individuals to take dispensed, unused medications home with them following a hospital stay.

HB 1828, which requires private insurance coverage of vaccines without cost-sharing that are FDA-approved and recommended by recognized authorities, was reported from the House Insurance Committee as amended on a party-line vote, with Republicans voting in the negative.

HB 1881, which expands pharmacists’ practice authority to provide vaccines in accordance with recommendations from Pennsylvania’s health authorities informed by professional medical societies in addition to FDA guidelines, was reported from the House Insurance Committee as amended on a party-line vote, with Republicans voting in the negative.

The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee unanimously passed HB 1894 which would enhance counseling of individuals on the LIFE program during the MA long term care enrollment process.

SB 507 was advanced by the Senate on second consideration and by the Senate Appropriations Committee and is positioned for third and final consideration. This bill would create a licensure pathway for certified midwives in Pennsylvania, allow midwives to prescribe treatment for opioid use disorder, and modernizes the current collaborative agreement structure.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

DDAP, in partnership with CODE PA, announced improvements to the ordering process for PA’s Overdose Prevention Program through a streamlined application process.

Department of Human Services

In this week’s PA Bulletin, DHS announced the addition of targeted case management (TCM) services for eligible juveniles effective October 12, 2025. The Department will use existing payment methodologies for the physical health and behavioral health pre-release and post-release TCM services rendered to eligible juveniles being released from a carceral setting, with CMS approval. The Department will issue an MA Bulletin to advise enrolled providers of the addition of TCM for eligible juveniles to the MA Program Fee Schedule and instructions for billing these services.

Following Executive Order 2025-02 ,  DHS affirmed that Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program will continue to support access to vaccinations at no out-of-pocket cost for Pennsylvanians whose health care is covered by Medicaid and CHIP.

The Department issued a MA Bulletin Notice adopting the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Dental Periodicity Schedule.

The Department released the MCO Enrollment Report for August 2025.

Department of Health

The Department of Health Division of Acute and Ambulatory Care (DAAC) revised its policy on when facilities must notify DAAC in advance of certain events and removed the requirement to provide 30 days’ notice before adding new equipment. See the revised guidance here and email DAAC at RA-DAAC@pa.gov with any questions.

DOH has updated the forms that hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities should use for exception requests. Follow the links on this document for the most current forms.

DOH issued a notice to facilities explaining that the department will be adhering to the CMS guidance for survey activities during the federal government shutdown. DOH will continue to conduct state and Medicaid only licensure, occupancy, and complaint surveys. Federal survey activities will be limited to the excepted surveys identified by CMS, including hospice surveys and other facility surveys involving allegations of immediate jeopardy or actual harm and survey-related activities associated with federal terminations from CMS. The department is awaiting CMS guidance on managing any follow-up activities related to surveys completed prior to September 30.

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS and the Treasury Department are partnering on a webinar on a PA Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Savings Program for OLTL Service Coordinators, Direct Service Providers, MCO Staff, and anyone working in employment support services. The webinar is scheduled for October 29^th from Noon to 1pm. Individuals can register here.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-10-14T16:33:27+00:00October 10th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for September 19

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

Budget Update

The state budget impasse continues, and the House and Senate did not meet in session in Harrisburg this week. Various potential budget bills are positioned to be passed within a few days of a deal being reached. This article from Spotlight PA offers insight on the issues that are still preventing a deal, even as the issue of transit funding was taken out of the mix when the governor released funding to SEPTA and other regional authorities last week. The caucuses continue to disagree on issues including the overall spending amount, welfare program reforms, school choice, and education funding.

The Senate stands in recess to the call of the President Pro Tempore and the House will return for non-voting scheduled session on Monday, September 22.

General Assembly

Although legislators are not present at the Capitol, they have circulated a number of health care-related co-sponsorship memos this week:

Senator Michele Brooks (R), chairwoman of the House Human Services committee, issued a co-sponsorship memo about her intent to introduce a series of bills designed to strengthen Pennsylvania’s eligibility for new federal funding streams under the Rural Health Transformation Fund that was designed in the One, Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The funding application offers states additional points in their total application score if they have adopted certain policy priorities of the Trump Administration or introduced legislation to do so.
House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee Chairs Maureen Madden (D) and Steve Mentzer (R) have circulated a co-sponsorship memo to introduce legislation intended to help ensure Pennsylvanians are fully informed of the Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) as an available long-term care option.
Senator Tim Kearney (D) circulated a memo announcing his plan to introduce a bill to create an all-payer claims database in Pennsylvania. This was an initiative in the governor’s budget proposal, which sought to allocate $4 million for the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) to develop that tool.

Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is accepting applications for funding under the Local Hospital-based Violence Intervention Program (HVIP) Supports grant program. HVIPs are multidisciplinary programs that connect violently injured patients with trauma-informed care and long-term community supports that start at the emergency department or at the hospital bedside. Local governments should apply for this funding in collaboration with a designated provider, nonprofit organization, or institution of higher education. View the full notice of funding here. Applications are due October 30.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued a Provider Quick Tip to notify providers that the commonwealth’s Sterilization Consent Form (MA 31) will be issued soon with updates to reflect changes to the federal Consent for Sterilization Form (HHS-687). Stay tuned to this health policy update for an announcement of the updated form when it is released.

DHS has updated its calendar of Remittance Advice mailing dates to include October dates.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) added new training material to the Project Firstline training portal, which offers free on-demand training on infection prevention and control for all frontline workers in Pennsylvania. The new training is tailored for environmental services staff and discusses the importance of hand hygiene and the critical moments when hand hygiene matters most for these staff members. See this and more trainings and posters on the Project Firstline webpage and request free training materials through this form.

DOH issued the new income eligibility guidelines that will be used in the Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) effective on October 1, 2025 for new enrollees and on the next date of renewal for any current program participants. The SPBP provides FDA-approved medications to low-income individuals living with HIV who are uninsured or have limited health care coverage. The department explained that due to the recent unprecedented increase in both program enrollment and the overall cost of medications, it is necessary for SPBP to lower the income limits as a measure to sustain the long-term viability of SPBP. Individuals that lose SPBP eligibility are encouraged to explore options on Pennie.

Around the State

Pennsylvania has joined a consortium of northeast states to make collaborative decisions about vaccination guidance and emergency response, in the wake of changes to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccine approval process. See details in this article by the Pennsylvania Capital Star.
Several PA publications, including WHYY, raised the alarm this week about how 2026 costs could increase for Pennsylvanians who get their insurance coverage in the ACA marketplace unless Congress acts to expand enhanced federal tax credits. The PA Insurance Department reported that statewide average premium costs could increase by about 19 percent. The Kaiser Family Foundation has created a cost estimator tool for individuals to get personalized estimates of their costs with and without the tax credits.

Stakeholder Meetings

Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) – Sept. 25

The DHS Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will meet virtually on September 25, 2025, at 10:00am. To register, click here.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-09-22T14:10:02+00:00September 19th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for September 12

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

Budget Update

The state budget impasse continues, more than ten weeks past the constitutional deadline. Senate Majority Leader Pittman told reporters this week that he is “encouraged by the meaningful work at the negotiating table” but there is no agreement on a final budget at this time. Various potential budget-related bills continue to be positioned in order for a completed budget to be passed within a few days of a budget deal being reached. The Senate stands in recess to the call of the President Pro Tempore and the House stands adjourned until Monday, September 22, 2025 unless sooner recalled by the Speaker.

General Assembly

The Senate met for voting session this week. The following is a summary of health care related legislative activity:

The Senate passed SB 381 that would prohibit the use of commonwealth funding for certain animal testing activities in research facilities. The bill will be sent to the House for consideration.

The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure committee favorably reported SB 507 with amendments. The bill provides for licensure of certified midwives, allows them to prescribe treatment for opioid use disorder, and seeks to modernize the collaborative agreement structure for midwives.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) issued comments on the State Board of Nursing’s proposed regulations for the certified registered nurse anesthetists. See IRRC’s comments in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. The nursing board is required to address IRRC’s comments and questions when issuing its final form regulations.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) updated its list of Remittance Advices with information on a new ADA claim form that should be used for dental claims with dates of service after November 1, 2025. See the alert here.

DHS issued its 2024 Annual Report from the Bureau of Human Services Licensing, which licenses personal care homes and assisted living residences. The report shows data on the number of facilities, patient census and demographics, and facility incidents and complaints. Click here for the full report.

The Office of Long-Term Living is accepting statements of interest from new and existing Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) program operators to serve 12 counties that do not yet have LIFE program services available for seniors age 55 and older. Click here to view the announcement in the Pennsylvania Bulletin with instructions on how to request information about the application and evaluation process.

DHS issued an Medical Assistance Bulletin with updates to the Dental Fee Schedule. These updates include revised frequency and unit limitations for several codes as well as a change in age limits for two codes. These changes are considered effective as of August 1, 2025.

Around the State

An article from the Penn Capital Star explores the ways in which health care providers in Pennsylvania are already responsibly using artificial intelligence (AI) amid discussions from lawmakers to introduce legislation to regulate AI use in health care.
ABC27 describes the geographic split that may be compounding the political split between legislative leaders as the budget impasse wears on. With caucus leaders from opposite sides of the commonwealth and regional transit funding issues at the core of negotiations, “There’s no question geography of the membership and leadership members has played a role,” said Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny).
Though it is not an unusual financing move for many school districts, the Philadelphia district this week voted to borrow up to $1.55 billion (WHYY) to support services during the state budget impasse. Because of the lack of state and federal funds, this year’s borrowed amount is $1 billion more compared to previous years, costing millions more in interest payments for the district.

Stakeholder Meetings

Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) – Sept. 25

The DHS Medical Assistance Advisory Committee will meet virtually on September 25, 2025, at 10:00am. To register, click here.

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs Emerging Drug Trends Symposium – Nov. 18

DDAP will host its 2025 Emerging Drug Trends Symposium on November 18 from 7:00am to 4:00pm at the Penn Harris Hotel & Conference Center in Camp Hill, PA. Attendees will discuss the latest drug use and overdose trends in PA, shifting overdose patterns and drug supply, and evidence-based best practices. Click here to register for this free event.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-09-12T21:51:32+00:00September 12th, 2025|Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for August 29

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 25 – 29. (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.

Governor Shapiro pitched an amended budget to legislative leaders, which would increase spending by 5% rather than the 8% increase proposed in February. Democrats, including House Majority Leader Matt Bradford, showed a new willingness to help support transit operating budgets through a special trust fund – as pitched by the Senate Republicans earlier in August – if there could be a plan to replenish that fund with new revenue sources. For more perspectives and statements from other legislators on the budget, see this Spotlight PA article.

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

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) shared several resources from the federal government on how individuals can take action to move their Social Security benefit payments to electronic payments before the September 30, 2025 deadline after which paper checks will no longer be issued to beneficiaries. This action is particularly important for administrators of personal care and assisted living facilities who may be receiving checks on behalf of their residents. DHS will host a webinar for providers on September 10 at 1pm.

DHS updated its Medicaid managed care organization directory for September 2025.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) will kick off Recovery Month next week, with events continuing throughout September. For event details taking place throughout the state click here.

Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority

Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, in coordination with Health Market Connect LLC (HMC), the newly appointed contractor of Pennie’s Assister Network, are launching a new network of regional organizations dedicated to providing localized support throughout the Commonwealth.

Around the State

An op-ed from a retired county mental health commission member published in PennLive details the risk that the budget impasse poses to Pennsylvania’s behavioral health safety net.

WHYY reported on the state of traffic and commute disruptions in light of the current SEPTA service reductions and predicts how the situation will change as more cuts come into place next week.

The Pittsburgh area NPR partner, WSEA, hosted a story about how their regional transit authority’s cuts to the paratransit and ride share program will impact individuals living with disabilities.

Stakeholder Meetings

Patient Safety Authority – Sept 16

The Patient Safety Authority established by the MCARE Act will hold a virtual board meeting on September 16 at 1pm. For registration and meeting instructions, see this PA Bulletin notice.

Pennsylvania Association of Addiction Professionals (PAAP) Annual Conference – Sept 18

The PAAP annual conference will take place in Trevose, PA on September 18 from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The addiction-specific educational experience will feature immersive training sessions, an exhibit hall, and networking opportunities. For more information and to register, click here.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-09-02T13:49:51+00:00August 29th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania proposed FY 2026 budget|Comments Off

PA Health Policy Update for July 3

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from June 30 – July 3. (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents).

Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Update

Governor Shapiro and legislative leaders have yet to reach a final agreement on the commonwealth’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 spending plan. In a statement released by Senate Republican leadership, they indicated they’ll continue to “work with all parties to reach a final agreement.” Governor Shapiro and House Democratic leadership have indicated an agreement may be possible in the coming weeks. Presently, the Senate is recessed until the call of the chair and the House is scheduled to return to Harrisburg on Monday, July 7.

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro has signed into law House Bill 640, which is now known as Act 14 of 2025. Act 14 updates annual reporting requirements for the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) and eliminates the sunset date of the state’s provider assessments in anticipation of certain changes to provider assessments being contemplated by the U.S. Congress.

Governor Shapiro has signed Senate Bill 411 into law. Act 24 of 2025, as it’s now known, provides the ability for the Pennsylvania Department of Health to create and utilize a stroke registry.

The Shapiro administration has released a document with estimates regarding how many Pennsylvanians may lose Medicaid and SNAP benefits as a result of the reconciliation package being considered by the U.S. Congress.

General Assembly

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

The Senate voted to concur with the House amendments to Senate Bill 95, which permits EMS providers to leave naloxone with a caregiver of a patient who overdosed. The bill also places certain disclosure requirements on pharmacies related to the retail and generic versions of prescribed medications and allows for the provisional licensing of pharmacists. The bill has been presented to Governor Shapiro for his signature.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 1234, which expands the Medical Assistance (MA) program to cover blood pressure monitors for home use as a pregnancy-related service on a per pregnancy basis. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 482, which authorizes Pennsylvania to join the National Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.

The House of Representatives voted to concur with the Senate’s amendments to House Bill 309, which amends the Osteopathic Medical Practice Act to allow team physicians traveling internationally with their club or national team to treat their own players on site during games without needing a Pennsylvania medical license. The bill was subsequently presented to Governor Shapiro for his signature.

The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Tuesday, July 1 and favorably reported House Bill 1676, which establishes the Nursing Shortage Assistance Program. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Health Committee met on Tuesday, July 1 and favorably reported Senate Bill 715, which extends the Rare Disease Advisory Council’s sunset date to 2028. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House Finance Committee met on Monday, June 30 and favorably reported House Bill 1129, which allows early-stage technology and biotechnology businesses to sell their net operating losses (NOL) and unused research and development tax credits to unrelated companies. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

The House of Representatives is currently scheduled to return to session on Monday, July 7. The Senate is recessed until the call of the chair.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has published its annual list of exceptional Durable Medical Equipment (DME) for nursing facilities. Find the list and additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DHS has issued an updated Pennsylvania Medicaid Managed Care Directory.

DHS has issued its report on Medicaid managed care enrollment in Pennsylvania for the month of May 2025.

Department of Health

The Department of Health (DOH) has published notice that, effective July 1, 2025, ConcussionWise is no longer an approved concussion management certification training course. The only approved courses are through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Revenue Collection Update

The Department of Revenue has announced that Pennsylvania ended the 2024-25 fiscal year with $46.4 billion in General Fund collections, which is $321 million, or 0.7 percent, above estimate. The Independent Fiscal Office’s (IFO) monthly revenue update for June 2025 is viewable here.

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced that the agency recently issued Pennsylvania’s first telehealth exceptions for a DDAP-licensed substance use disorder (SUD) treatment provider. Prior to this, only SUD treatment facilities with a physical location in Pennsylvania could apply to DDAP for a license to also offer telehealth services. This new program does not require a physical location in order for a treatment provider to administer telehealth services.

Board of Medicine

The State Board of Medicine has published final-form rulemaking, which is effective upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, implementing Act 79 of 2021. This rulemaking modernizes physician assistant (PA) practice by removing certain restrictions and allowing for greater autonomy for PAs. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Board of Physical Therapy

The State Board of Physical Therapy has published final-form rulemaking regarding changes to the physical therapy examination process and continuing education requirements. Find the final rule in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Around the State

Spotlight PA has written an article about the increasing prevalence of Nitazines, a class of powerful synthetic opioids, and the Department of Health’s efforts to reschedule these drugs to limit access and allow prosecutors to charge suppliers.

The Philadelphia Inquirer has published an article about Pennsylvania’s late FY 2025-26 budget and what the immediate impact may be. CBS 21 has also published a piece of the status of the state budget.

PA Safety Net Admin2025-07-03T20:30:51+00:00July 3rd, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off

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