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PA Health Policy Update for March 28

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

Special Election Update 

Two special elections occurred this week on Tuesday, March 25 to fill vacancies in the state House of Representatives and Senate. Democrat Dan Goughnour won the special election to represent House District 35, which was vacated after the passing of Representative Matt Gergely. His election sustains the Democratic one-vote majority in the House. In a surprising outcome, Democrat Jim Malone narrowly defeated Republican Josh Parsons to replace the Senate seat formerly held by Ryan Aument who resigned to work for U.S. Senator Dave McCormick. Malone’s election will narrow the Republican majority in the Senate to 27-23. 

General Assembly

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

  • The House of Representatives passed a package of bills that seek to codify federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) patient protections in state statute.
    • House Bill 404, which enables an adult child to receive insurance coverage until age 26.
    • House Bill 535, which prohibits annual and lifetime coverage limits.
    • House Bill 618, which prohibits the denial of health insurance coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
    • House Bill 755, which maintains access to preventative health care services.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Monday, March 24 and favorably reported, in addition to other legislation, House Bill 372, which requires the Department of Aging to publicly release a compliance report on the Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs).
  • The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Tuesday, March 25 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 926, which seeks to prevent health care workplace violence by placing several requirements on health care facilities.
  • The Senate Judiciary Committee met on Tuesday, March 25 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 347, which prohibits the implementation of safe injection sites throughout the commonwealth, and Senate Bill 326, which amends the Controlled Substance, Drug Device, and Cosmetic Act to automatically schedule a controlled substance when one is added by the federal government and removes the Secretary of Health’s ability to reschedule a controlled substance.

The Senate will reconvene on Monday, March 31 through Wednesday, April 2. The House of Representatives is now recessed until Monday, April 7. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (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 February. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission  

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has issued comments to the State Board of Nursing regarding its proposed rule on nursing education programs issued January 25, 2025. Find IRRC’s comments here.

IRRC has announced it received the following final form rulemaking which will be considered at its May 15 meeting.

Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council 

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) has announced the release of a report on Cancer Surgery Volume, giving stakeholders insight into cancer surgeries performed at hospitals and ambulatory/outpatient settings. 

Around the State  

  • The New York Times has written an article about Democrat Jim Malone’s surprising victory in a district that strongly supported President Trump in the 2024 election. Spotlight PA also published an article about this story. 
  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has written an article about a package of bills that passed the state House of Representatives this week codifying federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) protections in state statute.
  • Fox43 has published a piece about unions representing Pennsylvania nurses and their efforts to pass legislation addressing workplace violence. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program Advisory Committee – April 24

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a public teleconference meeting on Thursday, April 24 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 – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – 2025 Meeting Schedule

The Medical Marijuana Advisory Board has provided notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin of its upcoming meeting dates. Meetings will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on each day listed in the Capitol Media Center, Room 1, East Wing, Harrisburg, PA 17126, with an option for board members to participate virtually.

2025-03-28T19:22:00+00:00March 28th, 2025|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 28
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PA Health Policy Update for March 7

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

General AssemblyHarrisburg, PA capital building

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate concluded their hearings on Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 budget proposal this week. The following are the health-related agency budget hearings that occurred this week.
  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) appeared before the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, March 4. A recording of that hearing is viewable here and here.
  • DHS also appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, March 5. A recording of that hearing is viewable here and here.
  • The Pennsylvania Insurance Department and PENNIE appeared before the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, March 5. A recording of that hearing is viewable here. 
  • The House Health Committee held an informational meeting on Monday, March 3 to examine the practice of community health workers. A recording of the meeting is viewable here.
  • The House Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on Wednesday, March 5 and favorably reported the bills below. A recording of the hearing is viewable here. 
  • House Bill 269, which requires the Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs, to develop opioid overdose public education materials. 
  • House Bill 640, which updates the annual reporting requirements for the Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs.
  • House Bill 749, which requires the Department of Human Services to conduct a study of Pennsylvania’s SNAP payment distribution. 
  • The Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a meeting on Monday, March 10 at 2:00 p.m. to discuss “health care accessibility and the impacts of hospital closures.” The meeting will be held at Neumann University in Aston, PA and virtually. Find additional details here. 
  • The House and Sente are currently recessed until Monday, March 17 and Monday, March 24, respectively, 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has announced the 2024-25 Patient Safety Surcharge (MCARE) letter and invoices for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, abortion facilities, and birthing centers have been emailed. Payment is due by June 1, 2025. If you have any questions, please call the Division of Acute and Ambulatory Care (DAAC) at 717-783-8980 or email RA-DAAC@pa.gov.
  • DOH has announced the Event Reporting System (ERS) has been updated with a new Flu A and separate Flu B, as well as RSV reporting enhancement to streamline the reporting of these event types. DOH has shared a Quick Start Guide (opens as a separate Microsoft Word document) for the new enhancement. This enhancement will function in the same manner as the COVID-19 enhancement initiated in March of 2021.

Department of Human Services

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has shared the following presentations utilized at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on February 27.

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $2.9 billion in General Fund revenue in February, which was $44.0 million, or 1.6 percent, more than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $27.0 billion, which is $104.3 million, or 0.4 percent, below estimate. 

Around the State  

WHYY has published an article about Prospect Medical Holdings’ plan to file a preliminary request to begin closing its remaining Delaware County hospitals. 

The Patriot-News has reported about potential for significant Medicaid cuts in Washington, D.C. and the concern that has raised in Pennsylvania with medical professionals and state legislators. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Health Policy Board – March 21

The Health Policy Board of the Department of Health will meet on Friday, March 21 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Find additional information and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board – March 25

The Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Technical Advisory Board will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, March 25 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 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.

 

2025-03-07T22:13:24+00:00March 7th, 2025|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for March 7
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PA Health Policy Update for January 17

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

General Assembly 

The state House of Representatives and Senate are scheduled to return to session on Monday, January 27, 2025. 

Department of Human Services

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued final-form regulations regarding Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (PRS). The regulations, which are effective upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin incorporate several updates, including lowering the minimum age to 14 years old for PRS eligibility, the inclusion of individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorders without requiring an exception process, and the implementation of a weekly file note requirement. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 
  • DHS has provided final notice of the FY 2024-2025 nursing facility assessment amount, the assessment methodology, and the estimated aggregate impact on nursing facilities subject to the assessment. Find those details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers that it has updated the top 15 non-English languages used by Medicaid beneficiaries and to remind providers of their responsibility to provide interpretation and translation services free of charge to all individuals who have limited English proficiency, vision limitations, and/or auditory limitations. 

Health Department

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 782) to share information with health care professionals about exposure to environmental contaminants, including a list of trainings and resources from academic and governmental organizations that can help providers assess environmental exposures and respond to patient concerns.
  • DOH has shared an announcement from the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy regarding new funding available for the Rural Residency Planning and Development (PRPD) program.

Insurance Department 

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has announced it took an important step toward fully implementing the commonwealth’s new Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) reform law. PID established a new process for pharmacies to challenge a health benefit plan’s designation of a specialty drug, as provided by Act 77 of 2024. PBMs and pharmacies looking for more information about Act 77, including a schedule that outlines the Act’s full implementation dates, can visit PID’s website here. 

Pennsylvania Supreme Court 

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court and the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts (AOPC) have announced their efforts to combat the behavioral health crisis, including the establishment of an Office of Behavioral Health.  

Around the State  

  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has published an article highlighting laws enacted by the General Assembly in 2024 that will take effect this year, including bills that improve access by mandating insurance coverage of biomarker testing and telemedicine. 
  • Prospect Medical Holding’s, the parent company of Crozer Health in Delaware County, decision to file for bankruptcy was covered by Harold Brubaker for The Philadelphia Inquirer in this article. 
  • WPSU has reported that Bucktail Medical Center in Clinton County has received a $1 million state grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Hospital and Healthsystem Emergency Relief fund. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DOH – Achieving Better Care by Monitoring All Prescriptions Board – 2025 Meeting(s)

The Pennsylvania Achieving Better Care by Monitoring All Prescriptions Board, established under the Achieving Better Care by Monitoring All Prescriptions Program (ABC-MAP) has set its calendar for 2025. Find the meeting dates and details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – January 22

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on January 22 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – January 23

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on January 23 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for additional information.

2025-01-17T22:38:55+00:00January 17th, 2025|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for January 17
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PA Health Policy Update for October 18

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

Governor Shapiro

Governor Shapiro has signed the following bills into law this week.

  • House Bill 155, now known as Act 96 of 2024, removes the requirement that direct care workers be interviewed in-person for a position.
  • House Bill 2084, now known as Act 101 of 2024, establishes a license for prescription drug virtual manufacturers.
  • House Bill 2127, now known as Act 102 of 2024, allows hospitals, birthing centers, physicians, and midwives or nurse-midwives to provide patients with a fact sheet regarding postpartum depression and counseling resources.
  • Senate Bill 668, now known as Act 109 of 2024, permits certified nurse aides to become certified medication aides in long-term care facilities, assisted living residences, and personal care homes.
  • Senate Bill 840, now known as Act 111 of 2024, 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. 

General Assembly

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate are scheduled to return to Harrisburg on Monday, October 21 for session. This is the last scheduled session week prior to the November 5 General Election. 
  • The House Children & Youth Committee will meet on Tuesday, October 22 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building to consider House Bill 1600, which expands oversight of juvenile justice facilities, and House Bill 2461, which establishes an Ebony Alert system.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee will also meet on Wednesday, October 23 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 515 of the Irvis Office Building for an informational meeting the CCAP Complex Case Task Force report and the DHS Blueprint report. 
  • The Senate Aging & Youth and Banking & Insurance Committees will hold a joint hearing on Wednesday, October 23 at 9:00 a.m. on protecting senior citizens, with a focus on House Bill 2064 and possible revisions to the Older Adult Protective Services Act. The meeting will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Rural Health Clinics (RHC) that DHS will continue the alternative payment methodology and pay the Medical Assistance (MA) program fee schedule rate for the administration of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine during a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-only visit.
  • DHS has shared the agenda for the next Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on Thursday, October 24. Find additional details on how to participate in Stakeholder Events below.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has reminded long-term care providers that its annual questionnaire of long-term care facilities must be completed and submitted to the department electronically by Friday, October 25, 2024. Any questions regarding the questionnaire may be directed to RA-dohbhssurveys@pa.gov.

Around the State  

Spotlight PA published an article about the increasing number of long-term care facility closures in the commonwealth. 

Pennsylvania pharmacists are receiving less money for drugs dispensed to Medicaid patients, the Pennsylvania Capital-Star reports. 

Stakeholder Events 

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – October 23

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on October 23 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building (400 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120). Click here for additional information.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – October 24

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on October 24 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in the Forest Room of the Keystone Building (400 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120). Click here for additional information. 

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council – October 24

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a hybrid public meeting on Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find more information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – November 1

The Brain Injury Advisory Board (Board) will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-10-21T20:36:11+00:00October 18th, 2024|Financial, Governments, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 18
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PA Health Policy Update for October 4

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 30 – October 4.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

The state House of Representatives and Senate convened in Harrisburg this week. Following is a selection of relevant health care-related legislative activity.

  • The House of Representatives passed House Bill 2295 and House Bill 2294, which allow a physician assistant to work with either an allopathic or osteopathic physician without having to obtain a license from both medical boards. The bills were subsequently received in the Senate and referred to the Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee.
  • The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Monday, September 30 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2548, which requires employers to provide paid sick leave. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee met on Monday, September 30 for a public hearing on House Bill 2320, which addresses Medicaid dependency and timely reimbursement for long-term nursing home care. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The House Insurance Committee met on Monday, September 30 and favorably reported, among other bills, House Bill 2562, which prohibits annual and lifetime health care coverage limits. A recording of the hearing is viewable here. The Insurance Committee also met on Tuesday, October 1 for a public hearing on House Bill 1663 and the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in health insurance claims processes. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The Senate Aging & Youth Committee met on Tuesday, October 1 and favorably reported, among other bills, Senate Bill 1303, which lowers the influenza vaccine offering from age 65 and older, down to age 50 and older. A recording of the hearing is viewable here.
  • The Senate Health & Human Services Committee met on Tuesday, October 1 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 155, which allows two-way video calls to satisfy the face-to-face requirement for job interviews for direct care workers.
    • House Bill 1608, which requires coverage of doula services in the Medical Assistance program.
    • House Bill 2084, which establishes a license for virtual prescription drug manufacturers.
    • House Bill 2127, which allows hospitals, birthing centers, physicians, and midwives or nurse-midwives to provide patients with information about postpartum depression and counseling resources.

A recording of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee is viewable here.

  • The House Health Committee met on Wednesday, October 2 and favorably reported the following bills.
    • House Bill 2094, which establishes certain limitations on filial responsibility for outstanding medical bills.
    • House Bill 2549, which requires an autopsy to include an inquiry to determine whether the death was a direct result of a seizure or epilepsy.
    • Senate Bill 840, 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.
    • Senate Bill 1080, which allows licensed practical nurses to make death pronouncements in the hospice setting.

A recording of the Health Committee meeting is viewable here.

    • The Human Services Committee met on Wednesday, October 2 for a public hearing on House Bill 2560, which makes statutory changes to ensure Pennsylvania is in compliance with CMS’ “four walls” requirement. Immediately following, the Human Services Committee held a voting meeting on House Bill 2560 and House Bill 2533, which creates a 988 public education campaign. A recording of the meetings is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate will convene again for voting session Monday, October 7 through Wednesday, October 9. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced a Request for Applications (RFA) seeking managed care organizations to administer services for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) program. 
  • DHS has announced its intent to increase rates paid in its Behavioral HealthChoices program, which provides access to mental health, substance use disorder, and other behavioral health services for Medicaid recipients. Once approved by CMS, the new rates to the Behavioral HealthChoices Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) will be retroactive to July 1, 2024 for their current 2024 contract agreements. 
  • DHS announced an increase in the assessment fee that managed care organizations (MCOs) will pay per member per month as a means to generate federal matching funds to support the capitation payments. The increase, which becomes effective in January, is expected to generate an additional $223.531 million in assessment revenue for FY 2024-2025. 
  • DHS has shared the following presentations from the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) Consumer Subcommittee meeting on September 25.
  • The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) approved the DHS Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services regulations that were first proposed in 2022. With this revision, the regulations expand eligibility for psychiatric rehabilitation services to include individuals 14 years of age or older but under 18 years of age and expand the diagnoses that allow individuals to access PRS without going through the exception process. Find more information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 772) regarding health care and long-term care facility preparedness for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 771) with information about the outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and prevention strategies for U.S. travelers visiting countries with an outbreak.
  • DOH has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 770) announcing that has received adequate supplies of Benzathine Penicillin G (Bicillin L-A®) and is now lifting the restrictions for the administration of Bicillin L-A® for individuals who are diagnosed with or suspected of having syphilis. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has issued a licensing alert regarding DDAP’s implementation of the updated federal regulations for the certification of Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs).

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $4.2 billion in General Fund revenue in September, which was $33.7 million, or 0.8 percent, less than anticipated. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $10.1 billion, which is $20.2 million, or 0.2 percent, above estimate. 

Stakeholder Events

DOH – Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee – October 10

The Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Thursday, October 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in person and virtually. Find additional information on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Renal Disease Advisory Committee – October 18

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

DOH – Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council – October 24

The Statewide Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP) Advisory Council will hold a hybrid public meeting on Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find more information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

DOH – Brain Injury Advisory Board – November 1

The Brain Injury Advisory Board (Board) will hold a public meeting on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-10-07T15:57:14+00:00October 4th, 2024|Governments, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for October 4
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PA Health Policy Update for September 13

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 9 – 13.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor Shapiro 

Governor Shapiro signed two executive orders this week related to gun violence prevention and affordable housing.

  • Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2024-02 updating an executive order issued by former Governor Tom Wolf and re-establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Gun Violence Prevention within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). Find more details in this press release.
  • Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2024-03 directing the administration to create Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive housing action plan to address the state’s housing shortage, address homelessness, and expand affordable housing options. Find more details in this press release. 

General Assembly

The state Senate will convene for voting session Monday, September 16 through Wednesday, September 18. The House of Representatives will remain recessed until Monday, September 30.

The Senate Aging & Youth and Banking & Insurance Committees will meet on Wednesday, September 18 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 156 of the Main Capitol for a joint informational hearing on protecting seniors from financial exploitation. 

Department of Human Services 

  • The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to announce changes to the Medical Assistance fee schedule, including changes resulting from clinical review, provider request, and recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  These changes are effective for dates of service on or after September 9, 2024.
  • DHS has issued a Medical Assistance Bulletin to advise providers of updates to the Medical Assistance program fee schedule for certain family planning and family planning-related services. The updates are effective for dates of service on or after July 1, 2024.
  • DHS has announced updates to the Medical Assistance program fee schedule for ophthalmology services. The updates are effective for dates of service on or after September 15, 2024. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has announced its intent to allocate $258 million for FY 2024-2025 inpatient disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.
  • DHS has published final notice of its intent to increase funding for a class of supplemental payments for qualifying acute care general hospitals for FY 2023-2024 that treat a high volume of opioid use disorder patients in their emergency rooms. Find additional details in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced it will host a webinar next Monday, September 16 at 10:00am to discuss the details of new respiratory illness data submission that is required by CMS beginning in October. This event is meant for compliance staff, emergency management staff, IT professionals, and hospital leadership. DOH will explain its plans to continue using PA HIMS (currently Juvare’s EMResource) and automatic upload processes to meet these requirements. Click here to register to attend.

The Shapiro administration has announced that all school districts, intermediate units, career and technical centers, and brick-and-mortar charter schools will receive funding to provide free period products to students. Funding will be proportional to the total number of students enrolled in a school and based on a rate of $1.75 per student. Schools may use the funding for period product purchases made between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. Find additional information here. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced the availability of more than $26 million in funding to expand drop-in center services for individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) across Pennsylvania. DDAP will award approximately 14 grants of up to $1,875,000 each. Eligible applicants, including existing community organizations, Single County Authorities, and DDAP-licensed treatment providers, can find the grant application here. Find more details in this press release.

DDAP joined individuals in recovery, advocacy organizations, and providers this week to kick off National Recovery Month in Pennsylvania. Throughout September, DDAP will be holding several other recovery-focused events. Find those events and additional recovery resources offered by DDAP here. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has conducted a review of existing regulations at the request of legislative standing committees, including the House Health and Aging & Older Adult Services Committees. The review covered rulemakings from 10 different agencies, including 40 prior rulemakings, 103 additional Chapters of regulations, and two subchapters. IRRC’s final report, including its recommendations, can be found here. 

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – Medical Marijuana Advisory Board – September 18

The Medical Marijuana Advisory Board has provided notice that it will meet on Wednesday, September 18 and Wednesday, November 13 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Capitol Media Center with an option for board members to participate virtually. These meetings will be broadcast live for the public through Commonwealth Media Services. Find additional details here.

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – September 25

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

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – September 26

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

2024-09-13T19:50:01+00:00September 13th, 2024|Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Medical Assistance Bulletin, Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for September 13
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PA Health Policy Update for August 16

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

General Assembly

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

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

Department of Health 

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

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

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

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

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

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

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

Around the State   

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

Stakeholder Events 

DOH – WIC State Advisory Board – August 21

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

DOH – HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee – August 29

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

2024-08-16T21:10:19+00:00August 16th, 2024|Governments, Meetings and notices|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for August 16
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PA Health Policy Update for August 2

The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from July 29 – August 2.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly 

The House Republican Policy Committee held an informational hearing on Thursday, August 1 about health care options for small businesses. The agenda and written testimony are viewable here. Find a recording of the hearing here.

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

Department of Human Services 

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

Department of Health 

  • The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 762) with information, including treatment recommendations, about medetomidine, a potent non-opioid veterinary sedative, that has been detected in the illicit drug supply.
  • DOH has also issued a Health Advisory (PA-HAN 763) regarding an increasing number of emerging substances, including designer benzodiazepines, nitazines, tianeptine, and carfentanil, circulating in the illicit drug supply.
  • DOH has announced its annual long term care facility questionnaire will launch on September 1 and will seek to collect data for the state fiscal year timeframe of July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. An email with the questionnaire and log-in information for each facility will be sent to the email contact on file. As a reminder, completion of the questionnaire is mandatory. If a facility doesn’t receive the email on September 1, please contact Aicha Hassane Noma via email at ahassaneno@pag.gov. 

Revenue Collection Update 

The Department of Revenue has announced Pennsylvania collected $3 billion in General Fund revenue in July, the first month of the 2024-25 fiscal year. July collection data does not include a comparison against anticipated amounts because revenue estimates for each month are not yet finalized. 

Around the State   

  • WHYY has published an article about a recent Commonwealth Fund survey report that found fewer than half of people who experienced insurance denials fought them due to a lack of knowledge about their right to do so. The article also highlights the Pennsylvania Insurance Department’s independent review program.
  • The Times-Tribune has written about Community Health Systems’ (CHS) plan to sell its three hospitals in Northeastern Pennsylvania to the newly formed non-profit health system Woodbridge Healthcare.
  • Harold Brubaker has written an article in The Philadelphia Inquirer about Thomas Jefferson University’s completed acquisition of Lehigh Valley Health Network.
  • Amid continued speculation about whether Governor Josh Shapiro will be the running mate of Vice President Kamala Harris, Newsweek has published an article about Shapiro’s last-minute schedule changes this coming weekend.
2024-08-02T20:27:51+00:00August 2nd, 2024|Financial, Governments|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for August 2
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PA Health Policy Update for June 21

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

General Assembly

  • The state House of Representatives and Senate will reconvene for voting session next Monday, June 24. Both chambers are currently scheduled to remain in session until Monday, June 30, which is Pennsylvania’s constitutional deadline to enact a budget.
  • The House Children & Youth Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, June 25 at 9:00 a.m. to consider House Bill 1425, which directs the Department of Human Services to develop a five-year plan to offer evidence-based maternal home visiting programs for eligible families. The meeting will be held in Room B-31 of the Main Capitol. It will be livestreamed here.
  • The House Health Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, June 26 at 9:30 a.m. to consider House Bill 2344, which imposes more reporting requirements and additional oversight on health care facility mergers and acquisitions, and House Bill 2382, which establishes a rural health care grant program to incentive licensed health care practitioners to practice in rural areas. The meeting will be held in Room G-50 of the Irvis Building. It will be livestreamed here. 

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 July 2024. Find the updated calendar here.
  • DHS has issued revisions to the participating drug company list for the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. The revisions are viewable here.
  • DHS has announced a recent audit uncovered recipient date of death discrepancies and a claims recovery was completed to recoup monies paid in error. DHS also reminded providers that it is their responsibility to resubmit a correctly completed claim if they are due payment for services provided prior to the date of death.  Find the notice here. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced it will offer a virtual “Implementation, Improvement, Sustainability and Coaching of the ASAM Criteria – A How-To Science Based Approach” training in conjunction with Train for Change. The training will be offered in three series. It will teach the NIATx model for process improvement in conjunction with the ASAM Criteria Implementation Guide. Find the three series’ dates and additional information here. 

Around the State 

  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has reported about the state’s looming budget deadline and Senator Majority Leader Joe Pittman’s assertion that “[negotiations] could perhaps use… a kick in the pants to get moving.”
  • The New York Times has published an article about the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and how they contribute to the cost of prescription drugs.
  • Spotlight PA has published an article about efforts to legalize recreational marijuana and the likelihood of legalization being a part of this year’s budget package.

Stakeholder Events   

DHS – Consumer Sub-MAAC – June 26

The Consumer Subcommittee of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on June 26 at 1:00 p.m. Register to participate here.

DHS – Medical Assistance Advisory Committee – June 27

The Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) will hold a public meeting on June 27 at 10:00 a.m. Find the agenda here and register to participate here.

2024-06-21T21:00:21+00:00June 21st, 2024|Governments, Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, Meetings and notices|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for June 21
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PA Health Policy Update for May 10

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

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 Senate passed Senate Bill 739 by a vote of 47-1. Senate Bill 739, which was amended before final passage, provides for coverage of telemedicine services. The bill will now be sent to the House for consideration.
  • The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 920, which establishes a statewide sexual assault evidence tracking system. The bill will now be sent to the House for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 1632, which amends the Workers’ Compensation Act to recognize post-traumatic stress injuries as eligible for workers’ compensation claims, by a vote of 154-46. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House passed House Bill 2097, which provides Medicaid coverage of blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum beneficiaries, by a vote of 164-37. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House unanimously passed House Bill 1608, which extends Medicaid coverage to doula services and creates a doula advisory board. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • The House Insurance Committee met on Monday, May 6 and favorably reported, among others, the following bills.
    • House Bill 1021, which prohibits insurers from discriminating against individuals because they have an opioid reversal agent in their prescription profile.
    • House Bill 1867, which prohibits health insurers from restricting the method of payment for in-network clinical services.
    • House Bill 2138, which requires insurance coverage for blood pressure monitors for home use as a pregnancy-related service.
    • House Bill 2234, which creates a pilot program to give small grants to individuals to assist them with purchasing health insurance on Pennie, Pennsylvania’s state-based insurance exchange.

A recording of the meeting is viewable here.

  • The House Labor & Industry Committee met on Tuesday, May 7 and favorably reported House Bill 2247, which requires the establishment of workplace violence prevention committees in health care facilities. Immediately following the voting meeting, the committee held an informational meeting on the nursing workforce crisis. A recording of both meetings is viewable here.

The state House of Representatives and Senate are now recessed. The House will return to session Monday, May 20 and the Senate will return Monday, June 3.

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced its intent to increase the funding for a class of supplemental payments to qualifying hospitals for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024 that treat a high volume of opioid use disorder patients in their emergency rooms. Find additional information in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

DHS has shared the following presentations used at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) meeting on April 25.

Department of Health 

The Department of Health (DOH) has announced it will hold a public hearing on its proposed Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant application for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. The hearing will take place on May 28 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Find additional details on how to attend and comment in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) has issued comments on the State Board of Pharmacy’s proposed pharmacy technician registration regulations. Find additional information and IRRC’s comments in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.  

Around the State 

  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has reported about legislation that would cover post-traumatic stress injuries for first responders under the state’s Workers’ Compensation Act.
  • Governor Shapiro has indicated he will sign legislation criminalizing the misuse of xylazine, which is contributing to a growing number of overdose deaths, according to a Philadelphia Inquirer article. 
  • PennLive has published an article about House Democrats’ efforts to pass legislation that would enact a key part of Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal to provide assistance to individuals purchasing insurance of the commonwealth’s state-based insurance exchange, Pennie.

Stakeholder Events 

PA Chamber – Healthcare Summit – May 22

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is holding its inaugural health care summit on Wednesday, May 22. The event will feature conversations about leading health care topics, including innovations in pharmaceuticals, workforce development, the medical malpractice landscape, and the role of AI in health care. To view additional details and register click here.  

DOH – Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant Committee – May 28

The Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, May 28 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to present the Federal Fiscal Year 2024 workplan and budget information. The meeting will be held virtually and in person. Find additional details on how to participate in this Pennsylvania Bulletin notice.

2024-05-10T20:07:25+00:00May 10th, 2024|Meetings and notices, Pennsylvania Bulletin, Pennsylvania Medicaid, Pennsylvania Medicaid laws and regulations, Pennsylvania Medicaid policy, Pennsylvania state budget issues|Comments Off on PA Health Policy Update for May 10
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  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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

  • P: (717) 234-6970

  • 2020 Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania

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