Hello Readers!
In this February edition of Health Policy News, we continue our coverage of the Rural Health Transformation Program, highlighting the growing momentum as participating communities shift from early planning into active implementation. We have three articles this month focused on rural health care- from EMS, to AI- each article calls attention to different components of this complex policy area.
Lastly, we highlight major regulatory changes from the 2027 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters that will impact healthcare in the years ahead.
This edition features insights and highlights from the National Rural Health Association’s Policy Institute, contributed by HPN team members who attended the event in Washington, DC earlier this month.
We explore the expanding role of Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) within the EMS world and how these models are reshaping community‑based patient care. Together, these articles offer a comprehensive look at the evolving policies and innovations influencing today’s health systems.
As we look forward to implementation, we highlight emerging RHTP evaluation solutions and the role of AI in designing rigorous, actionable frameworks that strengthen rural health outcomes.
Conference Recap: National Rural Health Association Hosts Policy Institute
Earlier this month, rural health leaders convened in Washington, DC for the NRHA Policy Institute to discuss the key issues shaping rural health care today. Our team attended the event and gathered insights on the Rural Health Transformation Program, workforce challenges, maternal health access, and ongoing federal legislative efforts. We’ve summarized the most notable themes, trends, and policy developments that may influence the next steps for states and providers. To read more, Click Here.
Equipping States for the Rural Health Transformation Program: Evolving Federal Health Evaluation Priorities and AI Techniques Evaluators Can Leverage
As the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) continues to grow and evolve, states are navigating new expectations around evaluation, financial sustainability, and the use of advanced analytics. To support this work, we are excited to share an article highlighting emerging evaluation solutions – covering CMS requirements, best practices, and the role of AI in designing rigorous, actionable frameworks that strengthen rural health outcomes. To read more, Click Here.
The Role of Mobile Integrated Health and Community Paramedicine in Preventive Care
Fire and EMS agencies are navigating a service environment shaped by chronic care needs, behavioral health, and access gaps. This article explores how mobile integrated health and community paramedicine extend traditional EMS roles through home‑based services, preventive care, and coordination with healthcare partners. It examines how Medicaid policy is evolving to support these models and what that shift may mean for reimbursement, documentation, and sustainability. Broader federal and state initiatives may further shape how community‑based EMS services are delivered. To read more, Click Here.
HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 Proposed Rule
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the proposed Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for the 2027 plan year, outlining updated standards for Health Insurance Exchanges and key policy changes affecting insurers, brokers, and consumers. The proposal includes adjustments to ACA implementation, updates to risk‑adjustment programs, revisions to qualified health plan certification requirements, and various provisions aimed at strengthening oversight and improving access to coverage. To read more, Click Here.
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