Connecticut House Bill HB05338

Connecticut 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/22
• Refer: 3/3/22

Caption

An Act Concerning Increasing The Rate Of Medicaid Reimbursement For Home Care Services.

Impact

The enactment of HB 05338 is expected to have a significant impact on the provision of home care services throughout the state. By ensuring that reimbursements are adjusted annually based on the consumer price index, home care agencies can better manage their financial health and continue to provide necessary services to vulnerable populations. The bill specifies that the commissioner may adjust fees responsive to extraordinary costs incurred by agencies providing specialized services, further reinforcing the law's intent to support patient access to essential care.

Summary

House Bill 05338 aims to increase the rate of Medicaid reimbursement for home care services by amending existing statutes related to the payment structure for home health care agencies. The bill highlights a notable change whereby the Department of Social Services is mandated to establish a fee schedule that reflects the most recent increase in the consumer price index, ensuring compensatory adjustments for home health services which are critical for the state's elderly populace. This is essential for maintaining the viability of care services amid rising operational costs.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for addressing reimbursement issues, there are underlying concerns regarding its financial implications for state budgets and potential impacts on overall Medicaid funding. Critics may argue that even with these adjustments, the proposed measures may not fully meet the rising costs of care or may inadvertently lead to resource reductions in some areas of the health system. As such, discussions around the bill include considerations of balancing adequate care provision with sustainable state budgeting practices.