Continuous Skilled Nursing Quality Improvement Act of 2024
Impact
If enacted, SB4122 will significantly impact state Medicaid programs by requiring them to align their definitions and provisions for nursing services with the new federal standards set forth by the Act. This alignment aims to improve the quality of care provided to dual eligible individuals and other Medicaid beneficiaries who require extensive nursing assistance. The establishment of national quality standards is anticipated to lead to an increase in the overall standard of care, ensuring that nursing services are both effective and reliably administered across various states.
Summary
SB4122, known as the Continuous Skilled Nursing Quality Improvement Act of 2024, seeks to amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act. Its primary goal is to redefine private duty nursing services as continuous skilled nursing services and to establish national quality standards applicable to these services under Medicaid. By mandating that continuous nursing services are provided only by licensed nurses and setting a clear definition of these services, the bill aims to enhance the quality and consistency of care for complex-care patients receiving Medicaid assistance.
Conclusion
Overall, SB4122 represents an important step toward improving nursing care quality within the Medicaid framework. By creating a structured approach to defining and delivering continuous skilled nursing services, the bill aims to deliver better care outcomes, though it also raises important considerations related to state-level autonomy and the operational realities of caregiving within diverse communities.
Contention
Notably, the bill has generated discussions regarding the implications for how states manage and regulate nursing services. Some proponents of the bill argue that the push for standardized quality measures can mitigate disparities in care delivery. However, opponents express concern that imposing federal standards might restrict the ability of states to adapt services to meet local needs, potentially limiting flexibility in care solutions tailored for specific populations.
To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act; And To Update Language And Definitions To Reflect Changes Within The Healthcare System;.
Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.
Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.
Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.