New Jersey Assembly Bill A1424

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes minimum Medicaid reimbursement rate for pediatric special care nursing facilities; makes an appropriation.

Impact

If enacted, A1424 will supplement Title 30 of the Revised Statutes, effectively increasing the financial support provided to pediatric SCNFs under the New Jersey Medicaid and FamilyCare programs. This increase is designed to ensure that these facilities can maintain high standards of patient care, comply with relevant state and federal regulations, and improve overall quality of care for vulnerable populations. The bill also includes provisions for the Commissioner of Human Services to apply for any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to facilitate these financial changes.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1424, introduced in New Jersey, seeks to establish a minimum Medicaid reimbursement rate of $950.00 per day for pediatric special care nursing facilities (SCNFs). These facilities provide essential long-term care and rehabilitation services for children and youth up to 21 years of age who are medically fragile and require specialized care beyond what standard nursing homes can provide. The bill aims to rectify significant discrepancies in reimbursement rates among different facilities, specifically targeting a 63.5% gap between the highest and lowest compensated SCNFs throughout the state.

Contention

The bill's introduction and potential passage may provoke discussion around the adequacy of Medicaid funding levels for specialized pediatric care. While supporters advocate for improved reimbursement rates to bolster facility sustainability and quality of care, there may be concerns regarding the fiscal implications for the state's budget. Stakeholders from both sides are likely to weigh the urgent need for better care facilities against potential budgetary constraints, thereby shaping the legislative discourse surrounding A1424.