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.
HHS follows up on Draft Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters with the Release of the Draft Letter to Issuers
As a follow up to our article on the proposed Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 last month, this article provides updates on the Draft Letter to Issuers in the Federally-facilitated Exchanges for the 2027 plan year. We cover significant policy changes related to standardized plans, provider network adequacy, and Essential Community Providers that are spelled out in greater detail in the Letter as well as implementation of the federal rule om prior authorization. To read more, Click Here.
Evaluators Can Leverage State Action to Align Policy with Clinical Best Practice: Updating Mandated Reporting Laws to Support Family-Centered Care
Federal law requires states to identify infants affected by prenatal substance exposure and develop Plans of Safe Care, which frequently results in automatic reports to child protective services (CPS). These reporting practices can deter pregnant people with substance use disorders from seeking care. After research conducted by a team at Massachusetts General Hospital showed that mandatory reporting caused stigma, fear, and treatment avoidance, Massachusetts enacted legislation in 2024 ending automatic CPS reports based solely on prenatal substance exposure and allowing clinicians to use judgment when assessing risk. To read more, Click Here.
How EMS on the Hill Day 2026 Connects EMS Experience and Federal Policy
EMS on the Hill Day continues to serve as a national forum where EMS professionals and policymakers connect around issues shaping prehospital care. In this article, we take a closer look at what the event is, how it has evolved, and the policy conversations taking place in 2026. To read more, Click Here.
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