Mississippi House Bill HB119

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 1/4/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Medicaid; revise calculation of reimbursement for durable medical equipment (DME).

Impact

The amendments introduced under HB 119 could lead to a more structured and streamlined reimbursement process for DME. By refining how these costs are calculated and ensuring compliance with federal requirements through available matching funds, the bill may improve financial predictability for healthcare providers and foster better patient access to essential medical equipment. There are also implications for rural hospitals and clinics, as changes could affect their operational budgets and service delivery capabilities.

Summary

House Bill 119 aims to amend Section 43-13-117 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, focusing on the calculation of Medicaid reimbursement for durable medical equipment (DME). The proposed legislation seeks to refine how reimbursements are calculated, potentially impacting the financial transactions between the state’s Medicaid program and healthcare providers. The bill's goal is to align reimbursement methodologies with current healthcare standards and practices, thus ensuring that eligible beneficiaries have the necessary access to durable medical equipment that meets their healthcare needs.

Contention

Notably, discussions around HB 119 may involve concerns over the potential financial implications for both the state and providers. Stakeholders may have varying opinions on whether the changes will adequately compensate providers without leading to budget shortfalls in the Medicaid program. Additionally, there may be apprehensions regarding how the new methodologies align with broader healthcare goals and the efficiency of state health expenditures. Ensuring that every stakeholder's needs are met while remaining compliant with federal regulations remains a critical consideration.