Connecticut House Bill HB05814

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/15
• Refer: 1/21/15
• Refer: 3/9/15
• Report Pass: 3/17/15
• Refer: 3/25/15
• Report Pass: 3/31/15

Caption

An Act Concerning A Study Of Medicaid Reimbursement For Home Health Care.

Impact

The passage of HB 5814 could significantly impact state laws regarding Medicaid reimbursement protocols. By transitioning from a flat-rate to an acuity-based model, the bill is expected to facilitate better outcomes in home and community-based services. This change would mean that reimbursement rates could vary depending on the complexity of care required, which may improve not only patient care quality but also the sustainability of home health care providers by ensuring adequate compensation related to the care provided.

Summary

House Bill 5814 proposes a study to evaluate the restructuring of Medicaid reimbursement for home health care from a flat-rate model to an acuity-based model. The intent of this bill is to ensure that reimbursements for home care agencies reflect the actual healthcare needs of Medicaid beneficiaries. By aligning payments with patient acuity, the bill aims to enhance the quality of care for those needing home health services and to support state initiatives aimed at deinstitutionalizing individuals capable of receiving care in community settings.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 5814 has been generally positive among stakeholders in the healthcare sector, particularly home health care advocates who view this restructuring as a necessary step towards modernizing Medicaid reimbursement policies. However, there are underlying concerns regarding the execution of the study and its implications for funding and service availability. Some members of the legislature may still question the reliability of acuity-based models and whether they can be implemented effectively without disrupting care.

Contention

A notable point of contention involves the potential consequences of changing reimbursement structures for home health care. Critics may argue that shifting towards an acuity-based model could complicate the reimbursement process and levels of care. Some stakeholders might express worries that such models might inadvertently prioritize certain types of patients over others, creating gaps in services for those with less visible needs. Ultimately, the success of HB 5814 will depend on the study's findings and subsequent recommendations for how to best implement these changes in a manner that optimally serves Medicaid beneficiaries.