New Jersey Senate Bill S3144

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/3/22
• Refer: 10/3/22
• Report Pass: 2/13/23
• Refer: 2/13/23
• Report Pass: 3/20/23

Caption

Supplemental appropriation of $3.6 million to DHS to increase adult medical day care Medicaid per diem rate from $86.10 to $89.54.

Impact

The bill is designed to affect the financial landscape of adult medical day care services in New Jersey by ensuring that providers are adequately funded to continue offering essential services. Prior to this bill, the per diem rate had remained static at $78.50 since 2012, with increases occurring in fiscal years 2021 and 2022. The increase in the per diem rate is expected to help enhance the quality of care provided to community-based long-term care recipients, thereby facilitating their ability to live independently while receiving needed health services.

Summary

Senate Bill S3144 is a supplemental appropriation bill introduced in the New Jersey legislature, aimed at increasing the Medicaid per diem rate for adult medical day care services. The bill proposes an allocation of $3.6 million to the Department of Human Services (DHS) to raise the Medicaid reimbursement rate from $86.10 to $89.54 per day. This adjustment signifies an increase of approximately four percent, intended to support adult medical day care facilities in providing necessary health services to individuals who require assistance due to physical or cognitive impairments.

Contention

While the bill's intent appears to be widely supported due to its focus on improving health care access for vulnerable populations, some discussion may arise regarding the adequacy of the funds allocated. Critics could argue whether the increase aligns with the rising costs of health care and if additional measures are necessary to ensure that adult medical day care providers can maintain high-quality services. Moreover, the allocation of funds from the General Fund raises questions about balancing budgetary constraints with the need for comprehensive health care funding.