Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont Senate Bill S0211

Introduced
1/4/24  

Caption

An act relating to health care reform and to the regulatory duties of the Green Mountain Care Board

Impact

The implications of S0211 on existing state laws include a resolution to the current structure of health care governance in Vermont, particularly how hospital budgets and ACOs are managed and regulated. By mandating a coordinated approach among multiple state agencies through the establishment of consistent reporting and approval processes, the bill aims to address inefficiencies in health care delivery. Additionally, the bill's focus on mediating contracts between health care providers and insurers aims for reduced disputes, ultimately enhancing care provision continuity for patients. The proposed changes are expected to lead to more synergized and responsive health care service delivery, particularly for vulnerable populations relying heavily on state-supported health services.

Summary

Bill S0211, introduced in the Vermont General Assembly, focuses on significant reforms in the state's health care system by altering the responsibilities of the Green Mountain Care Board (GMCB) and enhancing the role of the Director of Health Care Reform in the Agency of Human Services. Notably, the bill proposes the transfer of certain duties from the GMCB to the Director and includes provisions for reviewing and approving hospital budgets while streamlining processes related to accountable care organizations (ACOs). The bill emphasizes the establishment of alternative payment models in which insurers would be required to participate in a multipayer system to facilitate more cohesive health care economics throughout the state.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from proponents who argue that it will make health care more accessible and efficient, there are concerns regarding how these changes could dilute local oversight by the GMCB. Critics point out that transferring various responsibilities away from a centralized health oversight body might lead to inconsistencies in how health care services are funded and delivered. Furthermore, there is apprehension about whether the proposed reforms will adequately safeguard patient care quality in the face of increased bureaucratic maneuvers, particularly concerning the coordinated payment models that may shift financial burdens onto clinics and hospitals without guaranteed equity in patient care.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT S0063

An act relating to modifying the regulatory duties of the Green Mountain Care Board

VT H0665

An act relating to the Green Mountain Care Board’s regulatory duties and hospital budget reviews

VT S0098

An act relating to Green Mountain Care Board authority over prescription drug costs and the Green Mountain Care Board nomination and appointment process

VT S0074

An act relating to incremental implementation of Green Mountain Care

VT H0776

An act relating to establishing the Division of Policy, Planning, and Innovation at the Green Mountain Care Board

VT H0433

An act relating to incremental implementation of Green Mountain Care

VT H0156

An act relating to incremental implementation of Green Mountain Care

VT H0082

An act relating to establishing the Division of Planning and Evaluation and strengthening the regulatory capacity of the Green Mountain Care Board

VT S0126

An act relating to health care payment and delivery system reform

VT H0482

An act relating to Green Mountain Care Board authority to adjust a hospital’s reimbursement rates and to appoint a hospital observer

Similar Bills

VT S0126

An act relating to health care payment and delivery system reform

VT H0433

An act relating to incremental implementation of Green Mountain Care

VT S0074

An act relating to incremental implementation of Green Mountain Care

VT H0156

An act relating to incremental implementation of Green Mountain Care

VT S0063

An act relating to modifying the regulatory duties of the Green Mountain Care Board

VT H0776

An act relating to establishing the Division of Policy, Planning, and Innovation at the Green Mountain Care Board

VT S0151

An act relating to pay parity and transparency in health care

VT H0411

An act relating to extending COVID-19 health care regulatory flexibility