To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to expand the application of Medicaid State programs to monitor antipsychotic medications to all Medicaid beneficiaries.
Impact
The implications of HB 4096 are profound, as it seeks to ensure that individuals over the age of 65, as well as those receiving home and community-based services, are afforded the same level of medication review and monitoring that was previously limited primarily to children and young adults. By including a broader range of beneficiaries within this monitoring framework, the bill is positioned to make strides in improving healthcare access for the elderly and individuals in more sensitive living situations, potentially reducing the risks associated with the misuse of antipsychotic medications.
Summary
House Bill 4096 aims to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to expand the application of Medicaid State programs that monitor antipsychotic medications. This expansion seeks to include all Medicaid beneficiaries, irrespective of age, by amending existing regulatory frameworks. The bill takes a significant step towards enhancing medication oversight for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those receiving care in institutional settings, promoting better mental health outcomes across various demographics.
Contention
Discussions surrounding HB 4096 may center on issues of healthcare resource allocation, oversight responsibilities, and the delicate balance between ensuring patient safety and avoiding unnecessary regulatory burdens on healthcare providers. While supporters of the bill advocate for expanded protections for all Medicaid beneficiaries, critics may raise concerns about the feasibility and costs associated with implementing such comprehensive monitoring programs. The nuances of this legislation could therefore evoke debates about public health priorities and fiscal responsibility in the context of state health programs.
Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-eligible Residents Now Act or the COVER Now Act This bill establishes a demonstration program to allow local governments to provide health benefits to the Medicaid expansion population in states that have not expanded Medicaid. Under the program, local governments may provide coverage for individuals who are newly eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (i.e., the Medicaid expansion population) for a maximum of 10 years, or until their respective states expand Medicaid. The bill provides a 100% federal matching rate for the first three years of program participation. The bill prohibits states from taking certain actions against participating localities, such as withholding funding, increasing taxes, or restricting provider participation. States that violate these requirements are subject to certain funding penalties.
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for wigs as durable medical equipment under the Medicare program, and for other purposes.
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure fair assessment of pharmacy performance and quality under Medicare part D, and for other purposes.