Relative to Medicaid reimbursement rates for certain assisted living facilities.
Impact
The expected fiscal impact of HB 527 is significant, with estimates suggesting an increase in annual Medicaid expenditures by approximately $10.6 million. This would be funded equally by state general funds and federal matching funds. Currently, reimbursement rates for assisted living facilities vary, ranging from $56.88 to $95.41 based on patient acuity, highlighting the disparity that the bill seeks to address. The implementation of this bill not only raises the reimbursement rate but may also necessitate a broader adjustment across all assisted living facilities to avoid disparities within the same class of service providers.
Summary
House Bill 527 aims to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for small assisted living facilities in New Hampshire. Specifically, the bill proposes a daily rate of $115 for facilities with fewer than 16 beds that maintain a Medicaid bed occupancy rate of 50% or higher. This adjustment is intended to provide financial support to smaller facilities that often serve vulnerable populations, ensuring they can continue to meet the needs of their residents. Alongside the rate change, the bill includes a provision that requires the Department of Health and Human Services to incorporate these costs into their biennial budget requests for the upcoming two-year fiscal period ending June 30, 2025.
Contention
The bill is poised to make a substantial change in how Medicaid funds are allocated within the assisted living sector, which may lead to discussions surrounding the funding sources and budgetary impacts. There are potential concerns regarding whether the general fund appropriations will fully cover the anticipated costs associated with this rate increase. Additionally, stakeholders from various segments of the healthcare industry may debate the fairness of increased funding directed primarily toward smaller facilities, which could lead to changes in funding dynamics across the board. Stakeholders will be observing closely how this bill will influence the future of Medicaid reimbursement policies and their implementation.
Relative to the closing of the Sununu youth services center, making appropriations thereof, and establishing a commission to study community impacts of the secured youth development center.
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.