Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB1659

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Refer
2/20/23  

Caption

Public health and safety; recalculation and reimbursement from the Nursing Facility Quality Care Fund; removing advisory committee; effective date.

Impact

This legislation will have a significant impact on the financial operations of nursing facilities as the Oklahoma Health Care Authority will recalculate reimbursement rates which consider the average audited costs and the costs associated with maintaining specified staffing levels. The requirement for direct-care staff to maintain certain ratios aims to enhance the quality of care provided to residents, potentially improving living conditions and health outcomes for individuals in care. Additionally, revising the reimbursement structure may alleviate financial pressures on facilities, leading to better resource allocation.

Summary

House Bill 1659 addresses public health and safety concerns by proposing changes to the reimbursement methodology for nursing facilities and Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICFs/IID) in Oklahoma. It aims to recalibrate reimbursement rates based on actual audited costs while establishing minimum direct-care staffing levels that facilities are required to maintain. The bill also seeks to implement specific training requirements for clinical staff working in these facilities, ensuring a higher standard of care for residents.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1659 appears to be positive among proponents who advocate for improved care standards and necessary funding mechanisms for nursing facilities. Supporters believe that the bill will enhance the quality of service to vulnerable populations, ensuring that they receive adequate care. However, there exists concern among some stakeholders regarding the financial burdens placed on facilities with the implementation of strict staffing ratios and quality control measures. This dichotomy captures the ongoing debate about balancing cost, care quality, and operational flexibility for nursing facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's provisions that mandate specific staffing levels, which some argue could be challenging for facilities already struggling with recruitment and retention of staff. Critics also highlight concerns regarding the removal of the advisory committee responsible for overseeing the reimbursement calculations; they fear this could lessen oversight and accountability in administering the Quality Care Fund. The discussions may raise questions about whether the proposed changes can be implemented without compromising the financial viability of smaller nursing homes.

Companion Bills

OK HB1659

Carry Over Public health and safety; recalculation and reimbursement from the Nursing Facility Quality Care Fund; removing advisory committee; effective date.

Previously Filed As

OK HB1659

Public health and safety; recalculation and reimbursement from the Nursing Facility Quality Care Fund; removing advisory committee; effective date.

OK SB412

Medicaid; modifying quality measures used for nursing facility incentive reimbursement rate plan. Effective date.

OK HB1696

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1533

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1527

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1535

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1537

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1526

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1529

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

OK HB1534

Public health and safety; Public Health and Safety Reform Act of 2023; effective date.

Similar Bills

OK SB1417

Medicaid; modifying various provisions relating to nursing facility incentive reimbursement. Effective date.

OK SB904

State Medicaid program; modifying various provisions relating to nursing facility incentive reimbursement. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB1659

Public health and safety; recalculation and reimbursement from the Nursing Facility Quality Care Fund; removing advisory committee; effective date.

OK HB3480

Long-term care facilities; reimbursement; modification; effective date.

OK SB947

Long-term care; updating statutory language related to ombudsmen and senior citizens. Emergency.

OK HB3025

Public health and safety; Nursing Facilities Quality of Care Fee; terminating fee; effective date.

OK SB638

Pharmacy; modifying program for utilization of unused prescription drugs; providing for return of drugs to pharmacy for credit or reimbursement. Effective date.