CMS published a final rule that would require Medicare skilled nursing and long-term care facilities to disclose certain ownership and managerial information. SNF and LTC facilities would be required to disclose each member of the facility’s governing body; each person or entity who is an officer, director, member or partner; and the organizational structure for each party. This information must be disclosed upon initial enrollment and when revalidating enrollment status. MHA published an issue brief with additional information.
CMS approved Missouri’s state plan amendment to extend postpartum coverage under the Medicaid for Pregnant Women program from 60 days to 12 months effective July 7, 2023. Covered women have access to the full range of Medicaid benefits. The coverage extension was authorized by the Missouri General Assembly during the 2023 legislative session.
A new APS vendor, AblePay Health, is helping providers dramatically improve collections while lowering out-of-pocket medical costs for consumers. Using a unique patient financial engagement platform, providers are reimbursed within 14 business days at an agreed-upon rate for all out-of-pocket expenses incurred by AblePay-enrolled patients. For more information, contact Dennis George at 913-327-8730.
Staff Spotlight
Congratulations to Kim Duggan on an incredible 40 years of service to MHA!
Kim is the Vice President of Medicaid and FRA, which includes analyzing data for FRA negotiations with the MO HealthNet Division, working with MHD and members to develop new and/or alternative payment methodologies, and educating members about the FRA and Medicaid payment issues. In addition, she oversees the preparation of FRA models, manages the bimonthly FRA payroll process, and works closely with the FRA Policy Committee to establish policies and procedures for the pooling arrangements.
Over the past few years, Medicaid transformation efforts substantially changed hospital reimbursement methodologies, requiring MHA and its members to evaluate the short- and long-term implications of these efforts on the MSC pooling arrangements, which were under stress. Kim is most proud of her recent work with a subcommittee of the FRA Policy Committee to develop and implement a more sustainable pooling methodology.
“I feel fortunate to have spent my career at MHA. It is both a family-friendly and professional organization. I have built many lasting friendships – both personal and professional – and I continue to feel like I learn something new every day.”
When Kim is not at work, she enjoys playing piano, working in her flower gardens and perhaps, most importantly, playing with her grandchildren.
Kim has an impressive musical background. She directs the handbell choir at her church, and has provided music direction and played piano for more than 35 community musical theatre productions.
Before You Go
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Tomorrow is National Rural Health Day. To join the “Power of Rural” celebration, NOSORH published a promotional toolkit designed for individuals and organizations who serve and support the health needs of rural communities. Resources include an updated logo, social media templates, activity sheets and more.
November is National Diabetes Month. To support this year’s theme, “Take Charge of Tomorrow: Preventing Diabetes Health Problems,” NIDDK released a toolkit to help individuals in their diabetes management journey. Resources include flyers, social media posts and graphics, and more.
