PENNSYLVANIA — The Department of Human Services (DHS) has opened a public comment period for a proposed federal flexibility that could lead to changes in the state’s Medicaid program. If approved, these changes aim to help Medicaid recipients live healthier lives.
DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh announced the opening of the comment period and is urging the public to provide feedback on the draft Federal Section 1115 Demonstration application. The proposal aims to expand opportunities in the Medicaid program to include services that address health-related social needs.
The public comment period will run through January 2, 2024. During this time, interested parties can review the draft waiver application and provide comments online, via mail, during various advisory and stakeholder meetings, or at three upcoming virtual forums.
“The 1115 waiver is an opportunity for the Shapiro Administration to leverage federal resources and provide additional tools that can improve the health and quality of life for certain vulnerable groups covered by Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program,” said Secretary Arkoosh.
Section 1115 of the Social Security Act allows the federal government to waive specific rules governing Medicaid. This enables states to design and evaluate new state pilot projects that promote the general goals of the Medicaid program. Many states have used Section 1115 waivers as a significant pathway for innovation in their Medicaid programs.
If approved, this would enable the DHS to introduce innovative programs and services that address health-related social needs. This could lead to improved health and quality of life for Pennsylvanians who access healthcare through Medicaid.
During the public comment period, the DHS will accept written and verbal comments on the draft application. The DHS will also present the application to multiple advisory committees and stakeholders for feedback. The public will also have the opportunity to attend virtual forums on December 11, 12, and 15, 2023, to learn more about the application and the proposed services. Learn more about the public information process here. For more information and to register to attend a virtual forum visit here.
For more information and to register to attend a virtual forum, and to submit a comment on the proposed Federal Section 1115 Demonstration application, visit www.dhs.pa.gov/Keystones-of-Health/.
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