Virginia Medicaid members have access, starting December 1, 2021, to six new behavioral health services that strengthen crisis response, address a national emergency in children’s mental health care and provide new supports for individuals with developmental disabilities. “These critical services will transform the way Virginians get care when they’re in crisis,” Governor Ralph Northam said. … Read more
The Biden-Harris Administration, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today approved extended Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) postpartum coverage in Virginia. This will provide access to essential care for an estimated 6,000 Virginians and provide peace of mind for people enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP, who will now be able … Read more
Virginia’s ongoing nursing home workforce shortage has caught the attention of policymakers and health leaders across the state. The Joint Commission on Health Care (JCHC), tasked with making health care policy recommendations and chaired by Del. Patrick Hope (D – Arlington), dedicated a specific study to the shortages in 2021, and found that one in … Read more
Conversations on equitable distribution and vaccinating kids were at the forefront of the Maryland Senate Vaccine Oversight Work Group meeting on Monday. The work group, which Senate President Bill Ferguson (D – Baltimore City) convened in January 2021, monitors the COVID-19 vaccine distribution in the state and discusses efforts to ensure efficiency and equitable access. … Read more
As the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) continues to adjust to an influx of new beneficiaries throughout the pandemic, the Commonwealth’s Medicaid program leadership is driving conversations on value-based purchasing models of care to improve health outcomes and affordability. DMAS’ Office of Value-Based Purchasing (OVBP) oversees financial and non-financial policies that promote … Read more
The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) is currently preparing for the impending end of the federal public health emergency (PHE) declaration, which will instigate a lengthy eligibility redetermination process for one in five Virginians who currently benefit from Medicaid. DMAS Director Karen Kimsey provided an update on the organization’s preparation for potential … Read more
Stephanie Spencer is the founder and executive director of Urban Baby Beginnings (UBB), a community based organization focused on providing care to families during pregnancy and with young children. UBB’s goal, according to Spencer, is to address systemic barriers to care, especially for Black and Brown families. In this Q&A, Spencer discusses Medicaid expansion, the … Read more