Virginia Senate Bill SJR42

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22
• Report Pass: 1/28/22
• Engrossed: 2/2/22
• Refer: 2/22/22

Caption

Health-related social need; Jt. Com. on Health Care to study benefit of hospitals, etc., addressing.

Impact

If implemented, SJR42 could significantly influence the way healthcare is delivered in Virginia by fostering a collaborative approach to address social determinants of health. It encourages the examination of various factors affecting health outcomes, including care coordination, workforce development, and payment structures, which could ultimately lead to better overall health and reduce costs. The exploration of reimbursement for nonmedical services linked to health outcomes could provide a pathway for integrating social care into the medical care continuum, enhancing the overall health system's responsiveness to local community needs.

Summary

SJR42 is a resolution directing the Joint Commission on Health Care to conduct a comprehensive study of how hospitals and other health care providers can address health-related social needs within the Commonwealth of Virginia. The resolution acknowledges the growing need for addressing healthcare disparities and aims to explore innovative approaches to improve community health, especially in the context of the ongoing shifts towards value-based care since the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is expected to guide policy makers toward making Virginia's healthcare system more affordable and effective.

Contention

A key point of contention surrounding SJR42 will be the balance between traditional healthcare models and innovative approaches that address nonmedical factors influencing health. There may be discussions on the extent to which providers should be responsible for these social determinants and how this responsibility can be effectively integrated into existing healthcare frameworks. Additionally, as Virginia examines the possibility of applying for Section 1115 waivers to cover evidence-based nonmedical services through Medicaid, stakeholders will likely debate the implications of such funding on the healthcare landscape and the potential outcomes for populations currently underserved in the state.