Relates to licensure requirements for fiscal intermediaries under the consumer directed personal assistance program.
Impact
The implementation of S07954 is expected to streamline the operational framework for fiscal intermediaries, ultimately impacting how consumer directed personal assistance services are delivered. By permitting fiscal intermediaries to expand their services into areas lacking options, the bill is designed to increase accessibility for consumers who rely on these services. The expedited approval process for service expansion is intended to ensure that consumers have timely access to needed assistance, reflecting a shift towards a more responsive service model in healthcare.
Summary
Bill S07954, introduced in the New York Senate, aims to amend the social services law concerning fiscal intermediaries within the consumer directed personal assistance program. The primary focus of the bill is to clarify and expand the definition and registration processes of fiscal intermediaries, thereby enhancing consumer choice in these services. The bill introduces modifications to existing statutes, particularly altering the registration requirements and the entities eligible to provide fiscal intermediary services to consumers, including service centers for independent living and other selected entities under the Department of Health's discretion.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding S07954 may arise from the implications of limiting regulation and oversight over fiscal intermediary services. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to enhance consumer choice, it could inadvertently lead to a decrease in oversight and standards across the board. There is a concern that without stringent requirements for quality control and compliance, vulnerable populations relying on these services might be at risk of receiving inadequate care or support.
Relates to qualification for certain contracts relating to the consumer directed personal assistance program by applicants who provide fiscal intermediary services.
Relates to qualification for certain contracts relating to the consumer directed personal assistance program by applicants who provide fiscal intermediary services.
Permits an eligible individual's spouse or designated representative, parent, adult child or in-law relative to be a personal assistant under the consumer directed personal assistance program.
Expands which individuals qualify to be an individual's personal assistant for the purposes of consumer directed personal assistance programs to include an eligible individual's attorney-in-fact, health care proxy, or legal guardian.
Expands which individuals qualify to be an individual's personal assistant for the purposes of consumer directed personal assistance programs to include an eligible individual's attorney-in-fact, health care proxy, or legal guardian.
Relates to the designation of an independent consumer assistance program to assist consumers with the filing of complaints and appeals, track problems, educate consumers, assist uninsured, insured, or underinsured consumers in accessing appropriate health care services, assist with enrollment and provide other health insurance assistance.