Under the proposed act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services will initiate a pilot program that allocates add-on payments to safety net health plans for providing tailored benefits that address the unique needs of dual-eligible individuals. Specifically, this includes funding for services that enhance transportation, community integration, and access to necessary resources. The pilot program is slated to begin in calendar year 2025 and will span a five-year period, with evaluations at each milestone to assess effectiveness and patient outcomes.
Summary
House Bill 6742, known as the Incentivizing Dual-Eligible Alignment Act or 'IDEAL Act', aims to establish a pilot program designed to improve healthcare outcomes for dual-eligible individuals. The bill's primary focus is on addressing the social determinants of health, which are critical factors that influence patients' health and wellbeing. By doing so, the bill seeks to enhance the provision of comprehensive health services, ensuring that those who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid receive the necessary support to thrive both medically and socially.
Conclusion
As HB 6742 progresses, its implications on state laws and healthcare policies will be crucial. Supporters contend that this initiative can redefine healthcare delivery for a marginalized population, driving greater equity within the healthcare system. Meanwhile, ongoing discussions about the balance of administrative flexibility, funding distribution, and outcomes monitoring will shape the evolution of the bill and its potential long-term success in transforming care for dual-eligible individuals.
Contention
One point of contention surrounding the bill lies in the adequacy of administrative flexibility it proposes. While the bill is met with optimism regarding improved healthcare delivery, concerns have been raised regarding the transparency and accountability of the health plans receiving funds. Critics argue that without stringent oversight, there could be variances in how funds are utilized, potentially jeopardizing the intended care improvements for dual-eligible individuals. Moreover, the implementation of the pilot program may impose additional challenges to existing healthcare systems that must adapt to new flexible requirements.
Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth Act of 2023 This bill temporarily establishes several programs to provide telehealth services for at-home testing, evaluations, and other health care. Specifically, the bill establishes a demonstration program to provide assistive telehealth consultations and home- and community-based care for certain Medicare beneficiaries through Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Covered services include certain at-home diagnostic tests, telehealth consultations, transportation services, and meal benefits. Beneficiaries must be (1) age 65 or older and eligible to enroll in a qualifying MA plan and to receive certain low-income subsidies under the Medicare prescription drug benefit, or (2) dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid benefits. The bill also establishes a grant program for state Medicaid programs to cover similar at-home tests and related telehealth consultations. Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs must establish a pilot program to provide tests and related telehealth consultations free of charge to veterans.
Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2024 CHANGE Act Correcting Hurtful and Alienating Names in Government Expression Act Immigrants’ Mental Health Act of 2024 Menstrual Equity For All Act of 2024 Real Education and Access for Healthy Youth Act of 2024 Data To Save Moms Act CARE for Moms Act Community Access, Resources, and Empowerment for Moms Act Senior Hunger Prevention Act of 2024 Universal School Meals Program Act of 2024
Elections: registration; automatic voter registration; modify. Amends secs. 493a, 500a & 501 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.493a et seq.) & adds sec. 493b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4569'23
State: identification cards; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a state identification card; remove. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 et seq.).
State: identification cards; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a state identification card; remove. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 et seq.).
State: identification cards; application requirements for a state identification card; modify. Amends secs. 1 & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 & 28.292).
State: identification cards; mobile official state personal identification card; provide for. Amends sec. 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.292). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0460'23, SB 0461'23, SB 0894'24
State: identification cards; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a state identification card; remove. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 et seq.).