It is final. The new regulations eliminating the Medical Assistance (MA) requirement for a physical exam for outpatient treatment were published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, Volume 32, on November 9. The new regulations can be found in their entirety at www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol32/32-45/1999.html. PCPA has been working with the Bureau of Drug & Alcohol Programs, the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, D&A Licensing and the Office of Medical Assistance for over four years to get this regulation changed.
A client will no longer be required to get a physical exam before they receive outpatient services; with the exception of Methadone services. If it is determined that a physical exam is needed, the client will be referred for such, but the initiation of treatment and payment of service will no longer hinge on the physical exam.
Questions can be directed to Lynn Cooper at the Association.