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量子资源网 Insights 鈥 including our new podcast 鈥 puts the vast depth of 量子资源网鈥檚 expertise at your fingertips, helping you stay informed about the latest healthcare trends and topics. Below, you can easily search based on your topic of interest to find useful information from our podcast, blogs, webinars, case studies, reports and more.

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Blog

Highlights from 量子资源网 Analysis of Specialty Services in Medicaid

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This week, our鈥In Focus鈥痵ection highlights key insights from a new 量子资源网 (量子资源网), white paper,鈥. Experts from 量子资源网 and Wakely, an 量子资源网 company, used the national Transformed Medicaid Statistical Information System (T-MSIS) database to learn more about specialty provider networks and examine the provision of specialty services across various states.  

The analysis, released in January 2025 with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, focuses on three representative services that are relatively common, potentially difficult for Medicaid beneficiaries to access, significantly affect quality of life, typically accessed as elective procedures, and unlikely to be provided by other clinicians, such as primary care or mid-level practitioners.  

T-MSIS Analysis Overview  

T-MSIS analytic files are a comprehensive resource for Medicaid encounter, beneficiary demographics, program enrollment, service utilization, and payment data. Individual states compile their Medicaid claims data and submit monthly files to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). As each state submits data individually, numerous state-specific variations occur in data availability and quality. Currently, T-MSIS data are available for 2016鈭2023. 量子资源网 data scientists have permission to use the T-MSIS files for healthcare services research. 

This paper examines services in 10 states that met a threshold of data integrity in the T-MSIS dataset for 2022. Other important design aspects of the analysis are as follows:  

  • The three service procedures included in the analysis are total knee replacement (TKA), cataract removal, and impacted tooth extraction.聽
  • Selected states represented a diverse sample of geographic, socioeconomic, and other demographic factors.聽聽
  • The analysis includes non-dually eligible adult populations, ages 22鈭64 years.聽聽
  • The data cover all services provided in 2022 for each procedure and the providers who rendered the service; facilities are excluded.聽聽

Concentration of Specialty Providers  

Table 1 summarizes findings about the concentration of specialty services.  

table of percentage of procedures rendered by top ten percent of providers

The authors further analyzed the provision of services and, building on a previous study, examined network concentration. Findings were as follows: 

  • When looking at the same procedure across states, no consistent pattern emerged regarding which states had the highest and lowest concentration of services in the top 10/25 percentile of providers.聽
  • However, when looking at the same procedure across multiple states, TKA tended to have the lowest concentration of services among those studied.聽聽
  • Regardless of procedure and state, the 50 percent of providers with the lowest number of procedures tended to provide fewer than 10 percent of the total services combined.聽

These findings suggest that the specialty networks within each state are highly nuanced, and state policymakers need to look at individual specialty networks when considering health policy. State policymakers and managed care organizations (MCOs) need to examine each specialty individually to assess the distribution of services and access to care. 

Looking Ahead  

Timely access to healthcare services is critical for ensuring optimal health outcomes. The report authors鈥 analysis of T-MSIS data showed significant concentration of selected specialty services among providers, which may affect appropriate access to these services.  

The analysis of concentration of specialty services among Medicaid specialty providers can guide MCOs and state policymakers in developing strategies to improve network adequacy, including clarifying the level of network adequacy and developing policies to assess and regulate access to specialty care. Addressing gaps in access to specialty care can contribute to better health outcomes for Medicaid beneficiaries and may be aligned with provisions in value-based contracts.  

Connect with Us 

Medicaid consumers, providers, MCOs, and states all have an interest in ensuring access to specialty care for Medicaid beneficiaries. The methodology applied in the analysis for the 量子资源网 white paper can be applied and adapted for future analysis to monitor network stability and to compare access among various payers.  

For details about this analysis, its implications for state and local policies, and additional research using T-MSIS, contact聽our experts below.

Webinar

Webinar Replay: Medicaid in Motion – Navigating Post-Election Policy Changes and Opportunities

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This webinar was held February 26, 2025.

During this webinar, our experts as discussed the latest developments in Medicaid financing and policy. With Congressional leaders and new U.S. Department of Health and Human Services officials focusing on Medicaid, significant changes are on the table during the budget reconciliation process. These changes create both risks and opportunities for Medicaid stakeholders. Learn what Congress and the Administration are considering and how it impacts Medicaid markets.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand recent and potential federal statutory and regulatory policy changes affecting Medicaid.
  • Identify potential impacts of these policy changes on Medicaid programs, payers, healthcare providers, industry, and beneficiaries.
  • Explore changes in Medicaid funding structures and reimbursement mechanisms resulting from federal policy updates.
  • Discover feasible practices and strategies to adapt to the evolving federal policy landscape.
Blog

Could Congress Compromise Ohio鈥檚 Budget through Medicaid?

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As policymakers engage the state budget process, Medicaid continues to play a critical role. This role is programmatic, serving as the source of coverage for 1 in 4 Ohioans, including as the finance mechanism for half of all births in the state and the primary source of coverage for the elderly and disabled. However, a number of proposals are currently being discussed by the House, including changing how poverty programs are adjusted for inflation, reversing some Medicaid payment expansions, lowering the minimum federal funding rate for Medicaid, making the federal funding rate the same for all Medicaid expansion populations, limiting taxes on Medicaid providers, capping the amount spent per Medicaid enrollee, standardizing how administrative costs are matched, and other unspecified changes to Medicaid funding through Medicaid match. But these proposals can鈥檛 be viewed in isolation because the program is deeply intertwined with Ohio鈥檚 ability to have a balanced budget, serving a role in reducing direct state spending by enabling the draw down of federal dollars through 鈥淔MAP.鈥 But what is FMAP and what happens if Congress fundamentally changes how it鈥檚 calculated?

FMAP

The Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) is a critical component of Medicaid funding, ensuring that states receive federal support to provide healthcare services to low-income individuals. FMAP is calculated based on a state’s per capita income relative to the national average. States with lower per capita incomes receive a higher FMAP, meaning the federal government covers a larger share of Medicaid costs, while states with higher per capita incomes receive a lower FMAP. The FMAP formula ensures that states with greater financial need, like , receive more federal assistance. For Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025, Ohio’s FMAP is 64.6%, which means that for every dollar Ohio spends on most Medicaid services, 64.6 cents comes from the federal government. Even then, much of the state share is financed through fees on entities like hospitals, nursing facilities and health insurance companies.  

Contextually, Ohio is a 鈥渞ecipient state,鈥 indicating it receives more in federal tax revenue than it collects to finance the program. And, as was noted in , Ohio continues to lag other states in terms of economic growth and has an aging population. As such, the availability and predictability of federal funding is a critical input in future years, particularly in long term care where most of the expense will continue to increase. With Congress deliberating all of these proposals, what could the impact be in Ohio? To illustrate, it may be good to focus on one area: the elimination of enhanced federal funding for those covered by the Medicaid expansion.

Impacts

There has been some discussion during testimony that if the FMAP rate for the expansion population were to change, it could trigger an automatic end to the expansion itself.  Importantly, there would be a disproportionate impact in Ohio鈥檚 rural counties where expansion coverage rates are higher. In fact, as of December 2024, 362,829 individuals in rural Ohio counties received their coverage through expansion, alone. These individuals, in addition to the 1.1 million others in these Ohio counties, rely on Medicaid for essential healthcare services, including addiction treatment.

highlighting the importance of maintaining robust funding for these programs. Expansion has also been the primary source of funding for addiction treatment in the state, with Medicaid . If expansion were eliminated due to the change in FMAP, the consequences for treatment may mean either a greater obligation on the state to finance those services directly, or, Ohio may exacerbate the opioid use disorder crisis, putting additional strain on our healthcare system, particularly for behavioral health providers.

Conclusion

As we consider the future of Ohio’s Medicaid expansion, it’s essential to recognize the critical role that FMAP plays in sustaining our healthcare system and supporting our state’s economy. Any changes to the FMAP rate must be carefully evaluated to ensure that we do not undermine the progress we have made in expanding access to care and addressing the opioid crisis.

Beyond the immediate impact on healthcare services, changes to FMAP could also have broader economic implications for Ohio. Medicaid represents about 4% of the state’s GDP, playing a vital role in supporting jobs and economic activity. If just 1% of that GDP were suddenly eliminated due to a cut in federal or state funding, the consequences could be severe. A sudden reduction in Medicaid funding could lead to job losses in the healthcare sector, reduced economic activity, reduced labor force participation, and increased financial strain on state and local governments. The ripple effects would be felt across the economy, impacting not only healthcare providers but also businesses and communities that rely on the stability and support provided by Medicaid as well as the budgetary stability it provides to Ohio鈥檚 process.

Brief & Report

340B Duplicate Discounts: Enforcement Inconsistent and Weak Due to Lack of Data Transparency and Despite Federal Prohibition

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At the intersection of the federal 340B Drug Pricing program and the federal Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP), a potentially large set of Medicaid claims are generating duplicate discounts, which pharmaceutical manufacturers provide to eligible entities such as hospitals and health centers. These two complex federal programs were designed to reduce the costs of prescription drugs for providers that serve low-income patients, but both state Medicaid agencies and federal policymakers have been actively working to eliminate the unintended overlap of these two programs. To gain deeper insights into why duplicate discounts continue to occur, the scope of this concern, and to identify considerations of future policymaking, 量子资源网 conducted interviews with Medicaid officials and drug policy experts across several states.

Duplicate discounts occur when for a single sale a manufacturer is required to: (1) prospectively reduce the price of the product (a discount) they sell to a 340B covered entity in advance of the delivery of care to the patient; and (2) provide a retrospective payment (a rebate) to a state Medicaid program or managed care plan under the MDRP after care is delivered to a Medicaid enrollee. When duplicate discounts occur the manufacturer鈥檚 product is discounted twice for the same sale, contravening federal law, which prohibits duplicate discounts.

Despite the statutory prohibition, duplicate discounts remain a concern. Both state and federal policymakers have been actively addressing duplicate discounts but have been unable to identify clear and consistent policy solutions that neutralize this inefficiency. On the state level, Medicaid agencies and state legislatures have implemented policies to address duplicate discounts. On the federal level, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have conducted audits and published best practices for states to eliminate duplicate discounts. Nonetheless, duplicate discounts persist. 

To gain deeper insights into how Medicaid agencies navigate duplicate discounts, 量子资源网 (量子资源网) conducted semi-structured interviews with former and current Medicaid directors and pharmaceutical policy experts in 14 states. Interviewees were asked about the frequency of duplicate discounts, the extent to which Medicaid agencies devote resources to tracking them, the policies states have implemented to address them, and the extent to which state or federal authorities are working to eliminate duplicate discounts.

Based on interviews, four key themes emerged:

  • Duplicate discounts remain a problem, the scope of the problem is unclear, and better data collection from covered entities is necessary.
  • The opacity and complexity of duplicate discounts create a burden for state Medicaid agencies, influencing the policies they implement, resulting in variable state policy strategies.
  • Contract pharmacies add an additional layer of complexity, exacerbating the burden that duplicate discounts create.
  • State and federal authorities could take more decisive action to address duplicate discounts.

Policymakers should consider that the environment for addressing duplicate discounts may become more complex in the future, which may increase the need for a federally coordinated policy solution. The complexity of the environment may deepen due to the increasing presence of contract pharmacies, the increasing presence of managed care in Medicaid programs, and the implementation of the drug pricing policies of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Policy action coordinated across the various stakeholders (e.g., HRSA, CMS, state Medicaid agencies, covered entities, and manufacturers) may represent the best opportunity for success in eliminating duplicate discounts.

Blog

A Closer Look at Gubernatorial Healthcare Priorities: 2025 State of the State Address Overview

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This week, our In Focus section examines governors鈥 healthcare priorities from their 2025 State of the State addresses. This article highlights common themes in addresses delivered between January 6, 2025, and January 16, 2025, and delves into specific proposals in Georgia, Iowa, New York, and Oregon, as analyzed in the 量子资源网 (量子资源网), Information Services (量子资源网IS) interim report, 2025 State of the State Overview.

State of the States in the Current Environment

Governors use their State of the State addresses to outline their priorities for the year, giving insight into the agendas and initiatives that their executive branches may pursue independently or in collaboration with their state legislature. These priorities often are informed by the status of the state鈥檚 budget, with some governors advancing healthcare proposals that will address budget deficits and others seeking to invest in services and workforce initiatives.

Monitoring governors鈥 policy priorities and initiatives is especially important in 2025 given the changing federal landscape. The transition in both the administration and Congress will require state leaders to carefully consider the risks and opportunities. As detailed below, governors鈥 responses will unfold differently across states and markets.

Common Threads

In all, 24 governors delivered a State of the State Address between January 6, 2025, and January 16, 2025. Many gubernatorial leaders have similar areas of priority and concern, with some continuing multiyear initiatives to address unmet behavioral health needs and control healthcare costs. Table 1 identifies the themes emerging from the first group of addresses.

Governors also are considering possible policy changes under the new Trump Administration. For example, some governors reported that their state is looking to strengthen or add Medicaid work requirements to their programs, resuming initiatives that were initially pursued during the first Trump Administration. Though not directly related to healthcare, governors鈥 decisions to mirror President Trump鈥檚 Department of Government Efficiency, with Iowa as an example, could indirectly affect local programs and markets. Other states are considering the implications of possible changes to federal Medicaid funding. A deeper look into the priorities in Georgia, Iowa, New York, and Oregon follows.

Georgia

Gov. Brian Kemp Georgia鈥檚 State of the State address on January 16, 2025, during which he focused his healthcare remarks on the state鈥檚 Section 1115 demonstration. Georgia鈥檚 waiver extends Medicaid coverage to able-bodied adults who earn up to the federal poverty level if they meet certain work requirements. The governor emphasized that he intends to work with the Trump Administration to further advance innovative approaches to healthcare access.

Governor Kemp stated that his administration is making it easier to apply for Medicaid coverage and will submit an to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that would extend the Pathways demonstration for five years beyond the current expiration date of September 30, 2025. The state plans to request several changes to the demonstration, including:

  • Changing the reporting requirements for qualified work activities
  • Adding more activities that qualify for program eligibility
  • Adding a retroactive coverage policy
  • Removing premiums and Member Reports Accounts

The governor’s proposed fiscal year (FY) 2026 includes $324 million to fully fund projected Medicaid enrollment and utilization growth and $36 million in additional support for pharmacy benefits, including recently approved gene therapy treatments for sickle cell disease.

Iowa

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds the Condition of the State Address on January 14, 2025, during which she called for increased Medicaid reimbursement rates for OB/GYNs and primary care physicians who provide care to people with complex pregnancy cases, as well as certified nurse midwives. The governor also said she was in favor of adding doula services as a covered Medicaid benefit. Governor Reynolds is one of several governors who have announced plans to pursue a Section 1115 demonstration for Medicaid work requirements for able-bodied adults.

Governor Reynolds鈥檚 proposed FY 2026 includes investing $642,000 in newly unbundled Medicaid maternal rates, and more than double investments in five existing state healthcare loan repayment programs. The governor also proposes to establish a Medicaid Graduate Medical Education enhanced payment to draw down more than $150 million in federal dollars for more residency spots in Iowa鈥檚 teaching hospitals.

New York

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul her State of the State Address on January 14, 2025, at which time she also released a . Addressing behavioral health is one of her chief priorities, and proposals include:

  • Allowing more involuntary commitments for people with severe mental illness
  • Developing programs to support youth mental health through after school programs
  • Expanding peer support programs
  • Improving the diagnostic process for children with complex needs
  • Supporting mental wellness in historically marginalized neighborhoods
  • Expanding Mobile Medication Units to bring opioid treatments to underserved areas

Governor Hochul intends to expand support for the state鈥檚 healthcare safety net. This part of her agenda would provide financial assistance to struggling medical facilities and hospitals through expansion of the state鈥檚 Safety Net Transformation Program and participation in the US Food and Drug Administration鈥檚 program that allows states to import lower-cost drugs from Canada.

The governor鈥檚 proposed $252 billion for FY 2026 would allocate $35.4 billion for the state Health Department鈥檚 Medicaid budget鈥攁 14 percent increase from last year. Governor Hochul plans to offset some of the spending hike with revenue from the newly approved managed care organization tax, which is expected to raise $3.7 billion to help balance the state budget over three years.

Oregon

Gov. Tina Kotek Oregon鈥檚 2025 State of the State Address on January 13, 2025. The governor has a significant focus on mental health and substance use disorder treatment, as well as housing as an HRSN. Governor Kotek wants to strengthen the behavioral health system and proposed adding new treatment beds, increasing treatment capacity, eliminating backlogs at the state鈥檚 health licensing boards to improve access to qualified counselors, improving the provider pipeline, and increasing worker retention. During her speech, the governor also called for improved frontend care coordination to decrease the overflow of people at the Oregon State Hospital.

In addition, the governor intends to work toward improving care for the civil commitment population (i.e., people who are involuntarily detained in a psychiatric hospital) by dedicating permanent supportive housing funds to expanded residences with onsite services. Governor Kotek has directed her team to develop a new intensive permanent supportive housing model to more effectively support people with serious mental health needs.

Governor Kotek鈥檚 proposed for the 2025鈭2027 biennium includes $39.6 billion for the Oregon Health Authority, representing a 10.4 percent increase from the approved budget for 2023鈭2025. This budget includes $29.6 billion for the state Medicaid program and $1.6 billion for the Behavioral Health Division, in addition to $732.4 million for the division from the General Fund.

Connect With Us

has prepared a comprehensive report summarizing each State of the State Address, which is available to 量子资源网IS subscribers. The report also examines proposed budgets, highlighting key financial commitments and allocations that underscore these priorities for the upcoming year. The first iteration of the report covers AR, AZ, CO, CT, GA, IA, ID, KS, KY, MA, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OR, RI, SD, VA, VT, WA, and WY. The document will be updated periodically as speeches occur.

Contact our experts below for more information about the report or to connect with one of 量子资源网鈥檚 state policy and market experts.

Blog

Executive Actions and Congressional Budget Reconciliation: Trump Administration’s 2025 Healthcare Overhaul

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This week, our In Focus section highlights how the new Administration and Congress are poised to significantly change healthcare policies, ranging from health equity and Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace subsidies to Medicaid services and prescription drug costs. Stakeholders seeking to influence these potential changes should plan to engage quickly. Today鈥檚 section covers important developments that occurred through 2 pm January 29, and healthcare stakeholders will need to remain attune to future developments impacting federal healthcare programs.  

Executive Action 

Over the first week of his second term, President Donald J. Trump has issued several executive orders (EOs) and presidential directives affecting healthcare stakeholders. Presidents have increasingly used EOs at the beginning of their administration to rescind policies of their predecessors and direct the federal departments and agencies to exercise their authorities in line with the president鈥檚 directives. 

Though some EOs require no further action, many are just the beginning of the policymaking process, with agencies tasked with implementing the directives. This timeline can provide stakeholders with opportunities to work with to policymakers to inform how they shape the rules for compliance with these directives. 

Initial EOs issued so far by President Trump include policies that: 

  • , including:
    • Executive Order 13985 of January 20, 2021, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government聽
    • Executive Order 13988 of January 20, 2021, Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation聽
    • Executive Order 13990 of January 20, 2021, Protecting Public Health and the Environment and Restoring Science to Tackle the Climate Crisis聽
    • Executive Order 14009 of January 28, 2021, Strengthening Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act聽
    • Executive Order 14070 of April 5, 2022, Continuing to Strengthen Americans鈥 Access to Affordable, Quality Health Coverage聽
    • Executive Order 14075 of June 15, 2022, Advancing Equality for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Individuals聽
    • Executive Order 14087, of October 19, 2022, Lowering Prescription Drug Costs for Americans聽
  • 聽the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Attorney General, and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to 鈥渃oordinate the termination of all discriminatory programs,鈥 including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, policies, and activities in the federal government.聽
  • 聽鈥渋llegal private-sector diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) preferences, mandates, policies, programs, and activities.鈥澛
  • 聽federal rulemaking until department heads appointed or designated by the president can review and approve the rules and withdraw rules that have been sent to but not yet published in the聽Federal Register聽so they can be reviewed.聽
  • 聽and implement the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as a temporary organization within the Executive Office of the President that reports to the White House Chief of Staff. Executive agencies are directed to establish DOGE teams of at least four employees. DOGE is intended to modernize Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity.聽
  • 聽OMB, OPM, and DOGE to submit a plan within 90 days to reduce the size of the federal government鈥檚 workforce through efficiency improvements and attrition.聽

Developments on the Federal Funding Pause 

Notably, the White House OMB issued a memo () on January 27, 2025, to all agencies with instructions to temporarily pause and provide a comprehensive analysis of all activities related to obligation or disbursement of federal financial assistance programs that EOs may affect. On January 29, 2025, the administration retracted the directive for a temporary pause on federal payments, though reiterated it will continue to review federal funding. 

Though it is customary for a new administration to pause communications, regulatory activity, and new funding opportunities as incoming political appointees are confirmed and policy agendas are solidified, the breadth of the federal funding pause exceeds prior orders. The first lawsuit was  on January 28, and a federal judge for the US District Court for the District of Columbia quickly issued a temporary stay on the federal funding pause until at least February 3, 2025, while she considers arguments in the case. 

The now-rescinded January 27 memo was scheduled to take effect at 5:00 pm ET on January 28, 2025, to give the Trump Administration 鈥渢ime to review agency programs and determine the best uses of the funding for those programs consistent with the law and the President鈥檚 priorities.鈥 According to the memo, the pause did not apply to Medicare or Social Security payments. In a subsequent , OMB further clarified that 鈥渕andatory programs like Medicaid and SNAP [the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] will continue without pause.鈥 

What to Watch: Executive Actions and Budget Reconciliation 

The Trump Administration has indicated that federal programs and funding should be aligned with his administration鈥檚 priorities. Healthcare stakeholders should be prepared for additional scrutiny of future funding awards. 

Meanwhile, congressional Republicans are preparing to quickly leverage the budget reconciliation process to pass legislation related to several priority areas, including taxes, immigration, and domestic energy production (see Spotlight on Congress: Budget Reconciliation Update). Budget reconciliation provides a rare opportunity to pass significant healthcare legislative changes on a party-line basis. House Republicans have begun to develop their menu of healthcare options, which range from changes to the ACA premium tax credit structure, expanding Health Savings Accounts, and changes in Medicaid financing and eligibility. 

In a January 2025 ,鈥痚xperts from Leavitt Partners, an 量子资源网 company, , ,&苍产蝉辫;补苍诲鈥痙iscussed the potential health policy priorities of the Trump Administration, the implications of reconciliation for healthcare stakeholders, and the challenges and opportunities presented while navigating this expedited process. 

Navigating Change 

量子资源网 experts are working with federally funded entities to quickly analyze their federal awards and plan for the next phase of federal agency actions and oversight. 量子资源网 companies also help healthcare stakeholders seeking to inform, shape, prepare for, and implement federal policy changes. Organizations seeking to influence the outcome of these policy debates and to thrive in a dynamic legislative and regulatory environment must have the most up-to-date information, informed by partners that understand the processes and the underlying policies under consideration. 

量子资源网 experts provide additional complementary services, including analyses to predict how the Congressional Budget Office will score the costs or savings of specific policies. Especially in the reconciliation environment, the budgetary impact of particular policies can significantly influence their likelihood of passage. 

Connect with Us 

To learn more about the these policy changes and the impact on your organization,聽聽our January 2025 policy webinar and contact one of our featured experts below.

Blog

CMS Approves CA鈥檚 State Plan Amendment for Dyadic Care Authorizing Payment to FQHCs at Fee-for-Service Rates for Dyadic Care

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On January 6, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved Medicaid State Plan Amendment . The SPA authorizes the California Department of Health Care Services Service (DHCS) to use an alternative payment methodology (APM) to pay Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), Rural Health Clinics (RHC), and Tribal Health Programs at the Medi-Cal fee-for-service (FFS) rate for dyadic services. FQHCs and RHCs will receive a separate payment for dyadic services in addition to their standard prospective payment system (PPS)/all-inclusive payment rates in certain circumstances. This SPA is retroactively effective to March 15, 2023.

Key provisions are as follows:

  • 颁补濒颈蹿辞谤苍颈补鈥檚 new set of dyadic benefits supports relationship-based caregiver and family surveillance and family-based interventions that bolster child development, recognizing the importance of the parent/caregiver and child dyad to support healthy child development. Dyadic health care services are ideally provided in the context of routine well child care in pediatric settings, meeting families where they regularly receive health care and related services.
  • Services are linked to a child鈥檚 Medi-Cal coverage, providing a basis for revenue recovery for primary care pediatric settings and for cases in which the parent/caregiver may not be a Medi-Cal beneficiary.
  • Services are exempt from the same day exclusion applied to FQHC and RHC settings. If FQHCs or RHCs have met their visit per day limit, then dyadic services provided to Medi-Cal-eligible members (children or parents/caregivers) will be reimbursed at the FFS rate. Any dyadic services that are provided to a non-Medi-Cal-eligible parents/caregivers for the direct benefit of Medi-Cal-eligible children will be reimbursed at the FFS rate.
  • Payment for dyadic FQHC and RHC services will be reimbursed at the applicable FFS rate in addition to Medi-Cal member visits, which are reimbursed at the applicable PPS rate.

In addition, the dyadic care benefit provides a pathway for families to access additional supports via the new . Family therapy is a psychotherapy service that managed care plans provide under Medi-Cal鈥檚 Non-Specialty Mental Health Services benefits. Family therapy services support members younger than age 21 to receive up to five family therapy sessions before a mental health diagnosis is required. More importantly, children and youth (younger than age 21) may receive family therapy without the five-visit limitation if they (or their parents/caregivers) demonstrate certain risk factors, including separation from a parent/caregiver because of incarceration, immigration status, or death; foster care placement; food insecurity; housing instability; exposure to domestic violence or trauma; maltreatment; severe/persistent bullying; and discrimination.

量子资源网 (量子资源网) has been proud to partner with HealthySteps, as a DHCS-recognized model, to provide an evidence-based ( approach to implementing the new dyadic care benefits. Contact our experts below to learn more.

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CMS Releases Final 2026 Marketplace Benefit and Payment Parameters

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Trump Administration and Congress to Consider Policy Changes

This week, our In Focus section reviews the final . The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rule, released January 13, 2025, describes the policy and payment parameters for issuers that participate in federally facilitated and state-based marketplaces in 2026.

The NBPP is particularly notable given that marketplace enrollment is at an all-time high. Last week, CMS  that 24.2 million people joined a marketplace plan during 2025 Open Enrollment,  last year鈥檚 historically high enrollment levels by more than 2 million people.[1] With millions more individuals covered in the individual market, this final rule presents several opportunities for the healthcare industry to improve the well-being of covered individuals and families and the financial health of participating organizations.

Marketplace policies are under scrutiny, however, from new Trump Administration officials and congressional leaders. Subsidies, eligibility, and reimbursement are among the topics receiving the greatest attention.

Key highlights from the final rule and considerations for stakeholders in the changing healthcare landscape follow.

Consumer Protections

The final rule further strengthens consumer protections, consistent with the policies advanced during the Biden Administration. CMS finalized policies to achieve the following:

  • Protect consumers from agents and brokers seeking to make unauthorized changes to their healthcare coverage
  • Allow the agency to take enforcement actions against lead insurance agents for violations of marketplace standards
  • Expand the agency鈥檚 authority to immediately suspend an agent or a broker鈥檚 ability to make transactions within the marketplace if the information creates an unacceptable risk to the accuracy of marketplace eligibility determinations, operations, applicants, or enrollees, or marketplace IT systems
  • Update the model consent form, which helps agents and brokers document consent from consumers to assist with their marketplace enrollments and submission of marketplace eligibility applications

Revisions to Marketplace User Fees

The enhanced premium tax credits are the driving force behind the  in nationwide marketplace enrollment to more than 24 million today from 11.4 million in 2020. If not extended, or if Congress takes no action by July 31, 2025, CMS will increase the user fees collected to pay for administration of HealthCare.gov as follows:

  • Increase fees to 2.5 percent of monthly premiums in 2026 for federally facilitated marketplaces (FFM) states, up from 1.5 percent in 2025
  • Increase fees to 2.0 percent of monthly in 2026 for state-based marketplaces on the federal platform (SBM-FPs)鈥攗p from 1.2 percent in 2025

CMS also is finalizing an alternative set of user fee rates. If enhanced premium tax credit subsidies are extended through the 2026 benefit year by July 2025 at the current or a higher level the following user fees rates will apply:

  • 2 percent for FFM states
  • 1.8 percent for SBM-FPs

CMS originally proposed a March 2025 subsidy extension deadline for activating the lower user fee. Insurer should take into account the higher user fees when setting their 2026 premiums鈥擲BMs as they finalize their 2026 user fee levels and FFM states considering the costs of staying in Healthcare.gov or transitioning to a SBM.

Premium Payment Threshold Options

CMS finalized new options for insurers to avoid triggering late payment grace periods for members who make most but not all their premium payment. The new threshold options are intended to minimize termination of coverage for people who owe small amounts. The options include:

  • For the first month鈥檚 premium payment to effectuate coverage鈥攐r binder payments鈥攖he only option is to use a net premium threshold as low as 95 percent
  • For all other premium payments after the first month鈥檚 payment, the options include:
    • Net premiums as low as 95 percent or a fixed dollar threshold of up to $10
    • Gross premiums percent of as low as 98 percent or fixed dollar threshold of up to $10

Fixed dollar thresholds will be adjusted for inflation.

Information Sharing and Transparency

CMS is finalizing policies designed to increase transparency and promote program improvements by publicly releasing state marketplace operations data, including spending on outreach and additional open enrollment customer service metrics, such as for call center performance surveys and website visits. The final rule clarifies that CMS will not publicly release each SBM鈥檚 annual State-based Marketplace Annual Reporting Tool (SMART), a reversal from what was proposed.

In addition, CMS is finalizing that it will share aggregated, summary-level Quality Improvement Strategy (QIS) information publicly on an annual basis starting January 1, 2026, with data submitted during the 2025 qualified health plan application period.

奥丑补迟鈥檚&苍产蝉辫;Next/Key Considerations

The new leadership at the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CMS will likely conduct a thorough review of these payment and policy changes. In consideration of potential repeals or modifications, states and marketplace plans will need to consider the following:

  • Uncertainty around extending or modifying Affordable Care Act subsidies
  • Potential statutory changes approved by Congress and regulatory changes from the Trump Administration
  • Review of existing operations and policies in light of the new regulations and the changing policy environment

Connect With Us

量子资源网 experts support states, managed care organizations, consumer groups, and other interested stakeholders to achieve success in the operation of and participation in the marketplaces. Our team has the broadest historical perspective on the challenges and opportunities in this market and can support every step of the planning and execution processes to optimize markets as they continue to evolve in the coming months and years. If you have questions or want to discuss the final rule, contact聽our experts below.

[1] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Over 24 Million Consumers Selected Affordable Health Coverage in ACA Marketplace for 2025. January 17, 2025. Available at: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/over-24-million-consumers-selected-affordable-health-coverage-aca-marketplace-2025.

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Federal election impacts on Ohio Medicaid

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Ohio Medicaid is no stranger to change. Over the last several years, there have been several broad policy changes, from a new managed care system, to new programs like OhioRISE, to an expansion of MyCare Ohio. And, during this time, there have been complicating factors like the covid-19 public health emergency and the resultant impact of inflation on the basic delivery of services and care. Now, as the Trump administration comes in for the second time, questions arise as to what to expect in Medicaid policy and how it may impact Ohio.

While it鈥檚 often overlooked, federal rule making has a significant impact on the operations of states. Just in the last couple of years, the Biden Administration has implemented policies including:

  • 罢丑别听, such as the 80/20 policy, implementation timelines, and other questions regarding Home and Community Based Services waivers that states and certain stakeholders elevate to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
  • 罢丑别听, which聽addresses Medicaid聽managed care聽access, financing, and quality, including strengthening standards for timely access to care and states鈥 monitoring and enforcement efforts.
  • The Long-Term Care Facility (聽requires minimum聽聽for nursing facilities.
  • Two rules streamline Medicaid enrollment and renewal processes for the聽聽(MSP) and for聽. Each rule is expected to increase Medicaid enrollment by about one million people.

These rules are set to be implemented over several years. The Trump Administration could delay implementation of certain provisions, which would eliminate regulations while rolling back enrollee protections, payment transparency, and improved access. Alternatively, the Trump Administration could adjust their enforcement strategy or issue new regulations that would undo or augment these final regulations.

Beyond regulation, there is still the potential for fundamental policy change to the program鈥檚 financing. Notably, the concept of block grants or per-capita caps has reemerged as a potential option, where states would no longer receive federal 鈥渕atch鈥, but rather a fixed amount based on historical averages. In fact, Energy and Commerce as an area of active conversation in the House Republican Caucus.

Making a fundamental, national change in the financing arrangement of Medicaid would require an act of Congress. Many think this movement away from a traditional reimbursement structure was one of the main reasons for the failure to repeal the Affordable Care Act during the first Trump administration. Notably, as Ohio is a 鈥渞ecipient鈥 state, meaning it receives more in federal taxes than it provides for the Medicaid program, this could significantly impact the long-term financial stability in future state budgets. Often, this challenge is why block granting is usually associated with additional state powers around curbing enrollment, services and coverage, so states may more easily cut the program to accommodate tighter financing.

Depending on how all of these changes would unfold, Medicaid programs, including Ohio鈥檚 may have to adopt their systems to accommodate. However, the Trump administration may also pursue greater flexibility for states to design and innovate in Medicaid in ways that are consistent with their goals. This could include greater flexibility to limit covered services, raise cost-sharing requirements, limit enrollment or require more frequent determination of eligibility. There may also be programmatic refocusing away from initiatives which center health equity and expanded coverage, including alternatives to 鈥淢edicaid expansion鈥, as well as a fundamental reorientation of the use of waivers.

Speaking of waivers, there is likely going to be a dramatic change in the way waivers are applied and executed. This can include, but is not limited to, waivers that test new policies the prioritize cost-cutting measures over access and coverage, including waivers which change how the Medicaid expansion group is managed in states. Included in this are 鈥淲ork Requirement鈥 waivers, something . While examples from other states have shown that such waivers are , the Trump administration and many policymakers see these requirements as a way to ensure labor force participation. Though there is evidence to suggest

As Ohio providers, plans and policymakers gear up for the next state budget, the landscape of Medicaid policy will be something to pay attention to. While Medicaid represents nearly 48% of the total state budget, . What鈥檚 more, nearly 1 in 3 Ohioans rely on the program, disproportionately in rural communities, and it supports Ohio鈥檚 second largest industry in healthcare. Make sure you stay on top of the latest updates to the program in Ohio and beyond and sign up for 量子资源网s Weekly Roundup.

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MyCare Ohio: The Next Generation鈥檚 Impact on the Ohio Medicare and Medicaid Landscape

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This week, our In Focus section also reviews the significant efforts under way in Ohio to transform how the state provides healthcare services to its Medicare and Medicaid dual-eligible population. Effective January 1, 2026, MyCare Ohio will transition to the Next Generation of its program for people who are dually eligible for both programs.

Overview of Ohio鈥檚 Transition to Next Generation MyCare Ohio

This evolution moves Ohio to a fully integrated dual-eligible special needs plan (FIDE-SNP) model that seeks to achieve several key goals through a population-based health approach designed to address inequities and disparities in care for dual-eligible individuals. Examples include:

  • Improved Care Coordination: Strengthening integration between Medicare and Medicaid services to provide seamless, holistic care for individuals, thereby reducing fragmentation and ensuring comprehensive management of medical, behavioral, and social needs
  • Personalized Care:聽Applying data analytics and technology to create more tailored care plans, with a focus on proactive care to address the unique health needs of each individual, especially people with chronic conditions
  • Expanded Access to Services: Increasing accessibility, particularly through telehealth and digital tools, to reach underserved populations and improve accessibility, particularly for people living in rural or remote regions
  • Enhanced Quality of Care:聽Shifting focus from service volume to outcomes, encouraging providers to deliver high-quality care and improve patient satisfaction, while incentivizing preventive care to reduce hospital admissions and other high-cost interventions
  • Technology Integration:聽Leveraging advanced technologies like mobile apps, predictive analytics, and telemedicine to monitor patient health, improve communication between patients and providers, and deliver care more efficiently

The program currently is offered in 29 counties across Ohio but will transition to a statewide program as a part of the Next Generation changes. In addition, coordination only dual-eligible special needs plans (CO-DSNP) will no longer be permitted.

After the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) publicly released the request for applications and evaluated submitted proposals, the agency selected four managed care organizations (MCOs), which will become the Next Generation MyCare plans. The ODM contracts to the following MCOs that will serve MyCare members beginning in January 2026: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Buckeye Health Plan, CareSource, and Molina HealthCare of Ohio.

Considerations for the Market

The shift to the FIDE-SNP model and selection of four participating health plans will have a considerable impact on the competitive landscape for Medicare and Medicaid managed care in Ohio. The resulting changes may affect both selected and non-selected participants in different ways, including:

  • Increased competition among MyCare MCOs: MCOs will need to focus on enhancing their care coordination systems, adopting new technologies, and developing personalized care plans to compete not just in terms of the volume of services provided, but also to the quality and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. Those plans that can best integrate services, offer proactive care management, and improve patient outcomes through value-based care and advanced technology initiatives will gain the competitive advantage, potentially attracting more beneficiaries.
  • Strategic responses of nonparticipating MCOs to counter potential membership and financial losses: MCOs that lose members because they were not selected or are unable to offer CO-DSNPs moving forward, will likely strategize to gain membership through other product lines or benefit design to offset losses. Strategies may vary but might include tactics such as: enhancing benefits or decreasing member cost sharing to entice member movement across carriers for non-D-SNP plans; finding innovative ways to further reach different segments of the Medicare population, such as Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill (SSBCI) packages or Chronic Condition SNP plans; or shifting their focus to product lines outside of Medicare Advantage and Medicaid.

Connect with Us

Ohio is one of many states transitioning to a FIDE model beginning January 2026. 量子资源网, Inc. (量子资源网), has successfully supported participating and nonparticipating carriers throughout the transition process and continues to be a dedicated partner to organizations navigating Medicare and Medicaid changes across the country.

Contact our featured experts below, to learn more about the Ohio FIDE-SNP initiative and 量子资源网鈥檚 capabilities and expertise to support states, carriers, and other key partners with these transitions.

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Congress Continues Negotiations on 2025 Spending and End-of-Year Package

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This week, our In Focus section reviews the year-end legislative package congressional leaders announced as part of the stopgap funding to prevent a government shutdown. The , which was unveiled December 18, 2024, would extend expiring Medicaid and Medicare policies, reauthorize health and human services programs, and extend federal funding for discretionary programs through March 14, 2025. The existing temporary funding measure expires December 20, 2024.

Following is a summary of several major healthcare policies that, if approved, will inform the shifting federal policy landscape and state and local programs in 2025.

Pharmacy Benefit Managers

The healthcare package includes policies that reflect several years of increased scrutiny on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), including:

  • Prohibiting PBMs from charging a Medicaid managed care organization more for a drug than the amount that a PBM pays a pharmacy (i.e., spread pricing)
  • Requiring consistency and additional transparency in contracts between Part D plans and PBMs
  • Prohibiting Medicare Part D plans from linking payments to drug list prices
  • Adding report requirements for PBMs

Medicaid Policies and Programs

The legislative text includes 13 separate sections that address Medicaid policies, including extensions on expiring policies, establishment of new programs, and plans to codify certain other policies related to Medicaid eligibility and renewals. These policy changes include:

  • Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) allotment: Eliminates reductions for fiscal year (FY) 2025; delays the effective date of the two remaining years of Medicaid DSH allotment reductions until January 1, 2027; and changes the definition of the Medicaid shortfall component of the Medicaid DSH cap to include costs and payments for patients who have Medicaid as their primary source of coverage and for patients who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
  • Home and community-based services (HCBS) waiver: Establishes a three-year, five-state Medicaid HCBS waiver program, which would allow states to cover these services for individuals who need them but do not meet the current statutory requirement of needing 鈥渋nstitutional level of care.鈥 States will have an opportunity to apply for planning grants.
  • Services for juveniles leaving public institutions: Delays by 12 months the requirement that state Medicaid programs provide screenings, diagnostic services, and targeted case management services for eligible juveniles within 30 days of their scheduled date of release from a public institution following adjudication.

Medicare Payments

The compromise package also increases the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule conversion factor by 2.5 percent in 2025 to partially offset a 2.83 percent cut that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized in November. Providers consider this a short-term fix, however, and Congress, provider advocates, and other interested parties are engaged in discussions about making broader changes to Medicare physician pay in 2025.

Notably, the agreement includes a payment policy consistent with a bill that the House of Representatives passed earlier this year鈥攖he Lower Cost More Transparency Act鈥攖o provide enhanced information about payment differentials between off鈥恈ampus outpatient departments and other outpatient facilities. The provision requires each off-campus outpatient department to obtain and bill for services under a unique national provider identifier.

Other notable Medicare policies include:

  • Telehealth: Extends Medicare telehealth flexibilities through December 31, 2026; establishes special rules for telehealth services provided by Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics for prospective payment and all-inclusive rates; adds modifiers for telehealth services provided incident-to other services and those offered via contracts with virtual platform vendors; expands services that can be provided via telehealth; and enhances tracking of telehealth use
  • Payment extensions: Extends the Medicare low-volume hospital payment adjustment and Medicare-dependent hospital program through December 31, 2025; Medicare ground ambulance add-on payments through December 31, 2026; incentive payments for advanced alternative payment models through payment year 2027 at an adjusted amount of 3.53 percent; and Qualifying Participant eligibility thresholds in effect for performance year 2023 through payment year 2027
  • Hospital at-home program: Extends the Acute Hospital Care at Home initiative through December 31, 2029
  • Part D: Prohibits cost sharing for generic drugs for Part D beneficiaries who are eligible for the low-income subsidy
  • Provider directories: Requires Medicare Advantage plans to maintain accurate provider directories on a public website beginning in plan year 2027
  • Screening: Adds multi-cancer early detection screening tests as a covered benefit beginning in 2029
  • Home infusion: Allows coverage of home infusion treatments by classifying certain approved infusion treatments as Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

Other Notable Provisions

  • Reauthorizes and revises the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2024, including allowing substance use disorder (SUD) services to be provided through the State and Local Reentry Demonstration Projects program
  • Reauthorizes and modernizes several aspects of child welfare programs
  • Provides mandatory funding for community health centers and the National Health Service Corps through FY2026, the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Program through FY2029, and the Special Diabetes Programs (SDP) for Type I diabetes and the SDP for Indians through FY2026
  • Reauthorizes through FY 2029 the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, which includes a range of mental health and SUD prevention, treatment, and recovery programs
  • Reauthorizes Older Americans Act programs
  • Reauthorizes several programs and authorities related to preparedness and response through FY2026, including the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program and the Hospital Preparedness Program

What鈥檚 Next

Funding for the federal government expires December 20, 2024. Congress will need to approve another temporary measure to avert a government shutdown. The length and scope of such an extension remains under discussion, though the current continuing resolution would push the funding deadline into the first few months of the incoming Trump Administration and new Congress. Healthcare stakeholders, including payers, state and local governments, providers, and community organizations, should continue to monitor the congressional negotiations and be prepared to analyze the impact of legislation that Congress ultimately approves.

Connect with Us

量子资源网, Inc. (量子资源网) experts will continue analyzing the implications of the funding and policy updates in the December 18 package and ongoing congressional discussions to reach an agreement. 量子资源网鈥檚 experts have the depth of knowledge, experience, and subject matter expertise to assist organizations with navigating these changes and the impact for health and health adjacent sectors. Please contact Laura Pence and Andrea Maresca to connect with our experts.


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The Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration landscape: past trends and anticipated shifts

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This week’s聽In Focus聽section summarizes states’ Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration priorities over the last four years and highlights predicted changes coming with a new presidential administration. In the waning days of any presidency, regardless of party, reviewing and approving pending Section 1115 applications that reflect the current administration鈥檚 key policy initiatives is a priority for officials at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).聽

Each administration has discretion over which Section 1115 demonstrations to encourage and approve. Though specific Medicaid priorities under the upcoming Trump Administration are still nascent, 量子资源网, Inc. (量子资源网), federal, and state experts are monitoring these developments. This article describes a subset of the signature initiatives the Biden Administration permitted states to pursue in their Medicaid Section 1115 demonstrations and how the new administration could focus on different priorities, rescind existing guidance, or potentially withdraw already approved waivers. 

Overview of Biden-Era Section 1115 Demonstration Initiatives 

CMS-approved Section 1115 demonstrations permit alternative methods to improve the accessibility, coverage, financing, and delivery of healthcare services under joint federal-state funded programs, specifically Medicaid and the Children鈥檚 Health Insurance Program (CHIP). 

Addressing health disparities and promoting integrated care in Medicaid became a primary focus of the Biden Administration. In November 2023, CMS introduced a , giving state Medicaid agencies the opportunity to address the broader social determinants of health (SDOH) that affect their enrollees, leading to better health outcomes. The new initiatives were not intended to replace other federal, state, and local social service programs, but rather to coordinate with those efforts. HRSN demonstration approvals to date include coverage of rent/temporary housing and utilities for up to six months and nutrition support (up to three meals per day), departing from longstanding prohibitions on payment of room and board in Medicaid. 

During the present administration, CMS also has provided novel opportunities for states to adopt strategies that promote continuity of Medicaid coverage, mainly through bolstering Section 1115 demonstrations to provide 鈥痜or children. In addition, CMS released鈥痠n April 2023 so states could apply for a new Section 1115 demonstration opportunity to test transition-related strategies that support community鈥痳eentry鈥痜or incarcerated people who would otherwise be eligible for Medicaid or CHIP. 

The table and map below show the types of demonstrations approved and pending to date. We anticipate that incoming administration officials will closely examine the four demonstration initiatives outlined as they determine their own Medicaid policy agenda and priorities. Under President Biden鈥檚 Administration, nine states received federal approval for HRSN demonstrations under the new framework. Another 10 states have applications pending. 

Rescissions and renewals. Incoming Trump Administration officials technically could attempt to rescind some of the Section 1115 demonstrations approved during the Biden Administration. The Biden Administration unsuccessfully pursued with, a similar strategy for certain 1115 demonstration components approved during President-Elect Trump鈥檚 first term. Like the Biden Administration, the incoming Trump officials may choose not to renew demonstrations, even if the courts prevent them from rescinding approvals. 

Any signature Section 1115 policy is unlikely to emerge until the new administration鈥檚 policy officials are in place. There are, however, important insights to consider based on the first Trump Administration鈥檚 priorities and areas of common ground across the Biden and first Trump administrations. 

Signature 1115 initiatives. During President Trump鈥檚 first term, one signature鈥痑llowed states to apply work requirements to some eligibility groups. CMS officials at that time also approved 鈥痜or certain components of a state鈥檚 Medicaid program. Some states might consider revisiting these options with incoming administration officials. Two other key policy areas to watch following the transition include: 

  • The first Trump Administration聽鈥痑 pilot program to test interventions addressing HRSNs in 鈥疢edicaid 1115 demonstration program. Though the approved HRSNs were less expansive than the HRSN 1115 interventions later announced by the Biden Administration, this could be an area of common ground where the policy evolves and can be incorporated into discussions on other nascent initiatives.聽
  • Multiple administrations, including the first Trump Administration, have prioritized Medicaid policies and demonstration initiatives to address substance use disorders (SUD) and, separately, reentry. The intersection of these issues can provide another area of common ground and opportunity to continue work on state reentry initiatives, though likely with new and modified parameters.聽

Implementation Considerations 

Federal approval of Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration proposals is a critical milestone for states. Demonstration implementation also requires significant and ongoing leadership, resources, and collaboration between states and CMS and states and their partners. 

The type of state demonstration activity is expected to shift dramatically over the course of the new administration. For example, proposals may shift from expansions in coverage and benefits to reflect the new administration鈥檚 other priorities. States, too, may consider alternative approaches to Section 1115 demonstrations, such as state plan authorities like in lieu of services (ILOS), to pursue certain innovative approaches that they might otherwise have implemented with demonstration authority. 

Connect with Us 

量子资源网 empowers states, providers, and other stakeholders to thrive in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. With deep expertise at every level, 量子资源网 teams support state Medicaid programs and stakeholder partners nationally to address a range of operational challenges, including designing innovative healthcare approaches to address urgent healthcare challenges, expanding coverage opportunities, and optimizing integration to address program efficiencies and improved 鈥渨hole person鈥 care.  

We have expertise in all of the components critical to developing Section 1115 programs鈥攆rom the policy knowledge, to actuarial/budgeting talent, to communications and project management skills, as well as the necessary IT infrastructure. 

Contact鈥痮ur featured experts below聽to learn more about 量子资源网鈥檚 capabilities and expertise.聽

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