The following information was obtained from the December 31 issue of the Texas Register:
Public Notice
HHSC intends to submit to CMS an amendment to the TxHmL waiver, which would implement an optional program that offers additional funds to providers to pass on to community support staff through salaries, wages, benefits, and mileage. For details, see the Texas Register.
Adopted Rules
HHSC adopted new §354.1261, Benefits and Limitations, and new §354.1262, Conditions for Participation. The new rules will bring HHSC into compliance with the Affordable Care Act by identifying birthing centers as eligible Medicaid providers and providing for direct payments to birthing centers.
HHSC adopted new §355.8181, Birthing Center Reimbursement, which adds freestanding birthing center services to section 1905(a) of the Social Security Act as a mandatory Medicaid state plan service.
HHSC also adopted an amendment to §355.8441, Reimbursement Methodologies for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Services, which updates and clarifies existing rule language.
HHSC adopted new Chapter 356, Subchapter A, §356.101, which implements the Medicaid Eligibility and Health Information System, designed to automate Medicaid eligibility verification, provide an electronic health record for all Medicaid clients, offer electronic prescribing, and establish a foundation for future health information exchange.
Finally, HHSC adopted new Chapter 356, Subchapter B, §356.201, within Title 1, Part 15, which establishes an incentive program in Texas.
See the Texas Register for details about each adopted rule.
