Connecticut Senate Bill SB00223

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/17
• Refer: 1/18/17

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Refusal Of Medicaid Reimbursement To Home-care Providers Who Do Not Use A State Contractor For Electronic Visit Verification.

Impact

If enacted, this bill is expected to significantly reduce administrative burdens that currently hinder home-care providers, allowing them more flexibility in managing their operations. By not mandating the use of a specific state contractor for electronic visit verification, the bill facilitates a more streamlined process for providers to receive reimbursements, potentially leading to improved service delivery in the home-care sector. This change could foster a more supportive environment for home-care agencies, subsequently enhancing patient care.

Summary

SB00223 proposes changes to the Medicaid reimbursement policy for home-care providers. Specifically, the bill aims to prohibit the State Department of Social Services from refusing to reimburse home-care providers who opt not to use a state contractor for electronic visit verification, as long as the providers utilize a system that meets federal requirements. This bill is introduced by Senator Miner and targets administrative inefficiencies in the current Medicaid system.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, SB00223 could face scrutiny from stakeholders who are concerned about the implications of deregulating the verification process. Specifically, advocates for stringent oversight may argue that allowing providers to use varied systems for electronic visit verification could lead to inconsistencies and a lack of accountability. Further, the bill may raise questions regarding the quality of care provided if the verification process does not meet state standards, thereby sparking a debate between regulatory oversight and operational flexibility.