The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications for funding under the 2026–2027 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) solicitation from eligible governmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations seeking to implement projects and programs that directly address the objectives and goals outlined in PCCD’s approved 2026–2030 Strategic Framework . Eligible organizations include local units of government (including counties) and non-profit organizations. A total of $8,221,880 in federal Byrne JAG funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund approximately 30–35 grants with budgets not to exceed $250,000 over the two-year project period. The funding announcement details new guidelines regarding eligibility criteria, eligible program activities, and documentation. Applications must be submitted electronically through PCCD’s Egrants system by July 14, 2026. Questions regarding this funding announcement should be emailed with “2026/27 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG)” as the subject line. Questions must be received by close of business on July 7, 2026. All questions and answers will be posted under this funding announcement title on the Active Funding Announcements page of the PCCD website.
Press Release from the Department of Human Services : Published May 14, 2026
Message from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing: Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released its proposed rule, Medicaid Managed Care State Directed Payments and Medicaid Fee-for-Service Targeted Medicaid Practitioner Payments , implementing provisions of H.R.1 to establish new limits on certain Medicaid managed care State directed payments (SDP). Additional information on the proposal can be found in the press release and fact sheet . In alignment with H.R.1, total SDP rates are capped at 100% of Medicare in expansion states and 110% in non-expansion states for inpatient hospital services, outpatient hospital services, nursing facility services, and qualified practitioner services at an academic medical center. Where a Medicare benchmark is unavailable, the payment limit would be 100% of the state-plan-approved rate. However, most significantly, the proposed rule would extend the SDP limits beyond the four original services under H.R.1 (listed above) to all SDPs, regardless of service type, in all states, Washington, D.C., and all territories beginning Jan. 1, 2029. The proposed rule would also apply similar limits to certain targeted Medicaid fee-for-service payments. This would include behavioral health SDPs and could lead to significant disruption in 2029. Additional provisions in the proposed rule include proposals to: Eliminate uniform increase SDPs as a permissible type of SDP for rating periods beginning on or after January 1, 2028, with a limited exception for grandfathered SDPs. Permit states to adopt minimum or maximum fee schedules that are no greater than the applicable payment rate limit without CMS prior approval for rating periods beginning on or after January 1, 2028. Establish new claims-level compliance and reporting requirements, including submission of provider-specific (NPI-level) data, identification of applicable benchmark rates, and documentation of controls to ensure that each individual service payment does not exceed the cap. Introduce new reconciliation requirements for value-based payment SDPs, requiring states to demonstrate post-period compliance with the cap at the service level. The rule specifies that payments exceeding the cap constitute Medicaid overpayments subject to recovery and reporting requirements, explicitly linking SDP limits to existing overpayment regulations. The rule is set to be formally published in the Federal Register on May 22, with a 60-day comment period following its publication. The National Council will continue to further review this proposal, provide you with timely updates, and will plan to submit comments on this rule. We are here to support you every step of the way through these changes. For additional information on H.R.1, please visit the National Council’s H.R.1 Hub . If you have any questions, please reach out via email .
The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS), in partnership with other Department of Human Services Program Offices and Executive Branch agencies, has issued OMHSAS-26-03: Rescission of Joint Class One Bulletins . The purpose of this is to rescind bulletins that do not align with current policies, practices, or procedures that were jointly issued by Program Offices/Departments in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This bulletin is also classified as ODP Bulletin 00-26-02, OCDEL-26-01, OCYF 00-26-01, and OIM 00-26-01. If you any questions, please contact your RCPA Policy Director.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH) has released an advisory regarding a multi-country cluster of Hantavirus cases linked to an international cruise ship expedition. The outbreak has been connected to the Andes virus strain, which is notable because it is the only known hantavirus capable of limited person-to-person transmission under close, prolonged exposure conditions. As of May 11, 2026, nine cases and three deaths have been reported internationally. At this time, PA DOH reports no known Pennsylvania residents connected to the outbreak. Hantavirus infections remain extremely rare in the United States and particularly in Pennsylvania, where only two cases have been reported since 2010. Most infections are associated with exposure to rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting materials in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas. Providers and organizations should be aware of symptoms consistent with Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), including fever, fatigue, muscle aches, cough, and shortness of breath, particularly when there is a known history of rodent exposure or close contact with a symptomatic individual linked to the Andes virus strain. Early symptoms may resemble influenza or COVID-19. The Department of Health is advising healthcare providers to immediately report suspected cases to local public health authorities or the PA Department of Health at 877-PA-HEALTH. RCPA encourages members to review the PA-HAN advisory and fact sheet for additional clinical guidance, infection control recommendations, and environmental cleaning protocols related to rodent exposure and prevention.
Family-Centered Care: One Organization’s Revolutionary Approach to Include Families in All Aspects of Care Monday, June 15, 2026 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EDT; 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm CDT; 11:00 am – 12:00 pm MDT; 10:00 am – 11:00 am PDT Register Here We appreciate your patience with rescheduling this event. All previous registrants have been automatically registered for the June 15 session; no additional registration is required. We apologize if you are no longer able to attend. The webinar will be recorded and archived on the IPRC website. Donna Provenzano, Director of Family-Centered Care Donna Provenzano is the Director of Family-Centered Care at Children’s Specialized Hospital. She has thirty-nine years of experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families at Children’s Specialized. Donna serves on several hospital leadership committees and councils and provides administrative and operational management of Family-Centered Care and Volunteers. She supervises and partners with Family Faculty staff and coordinates with the Family Advisory Council. Donna has presented both nationally and internationally on Patient- and Family-Centered Care. Under Donna’s leadership, her department received the IPFCC Family-Centered Care Partnership Award for Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) in 2022. Donna has received additional leadership certifications from the Harvard Business School. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Ithaca College. Linda Waddell, Family Faculty Manager Linda Waddell is the Family Faculty Manager at Children’s Specialized Hospital. She has been employed at the hospital as a Family Faculty since June of 2008 and a member of the Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Family Advisory Council since 2014. On behalf of the hospital, Linda has presented with her team on Patient- and Family-Centered Care at regional, national, and international conferences. Most recently, Linda was a member of a panel that presented at the 2024 RISE Summit “Addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH): A Look into Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Program in NJ and Beyond.” Linda participates in various hospital committees and is also a member of the IPRC Steering Committee, where she provides a family member’s perspective for discussions and decision-making. Linda was the 2019 recipient of the Lester Z. Lieberman Humanism in Healthcare Award and received the IPFCC 30th Anniversary 2022 Partnership Award on Social Determinants of Health. Linda received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Kean University. Linda’s first experience with Children’s Specialized Hospital began in 1999, receiving multiple services for her newborn, medically fragile baby. She became an expert in the experience of pediatric rehabilitation through caring for her daughter with medical complications. Family Faculty at Children’s Specialized Hospital are paid positions held by parents and family members whose children have received or are still receiving services at Children’s Specialized Hospital Inpatient, Outpatient, or Long-Term Care sites. Their own day-to-day experiences provide a unique perspective, understanding, and empathy for families going through similar situations. Family Faculty partner with staff and families to build a respectful and understanding relationship by listening, providing insights, and encouraging positive communication between staff and families. Objectives: At the end of this session, the learner will identify strategies to: Embed Patient- and Family-Centered Care into your organization; Cultivate respectful partnerships and collaboration with leadership, staff, and families; Include families in education and training of staff at all levels; and Engage families and staff in creating valuable resources. Audience: This webinar is intended for all interested members of the rehabilitation team. Level: Beginner – Intermediate Certificate of Attendance: Certificates of attendance are available for all attendees. No CEs are provided for this course. Complimentary webinars are a benefit of membership in IPRC/RCPA. Registration fee for non-members is $179. Not a member yet? Consider joining today .
RCPA is happy to announce our 2026 Annual Membership meeting, which is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 9:30 am. We are offering this meeting as a hybrid event to all members. Please register here to attend in person at the RCPA Conference Center or via webcast. It is not necessary to attend in person to cast your vote. This year’s agenda and the 2025 Annual Meeting minutes are both available for review. The RCPA Nominating Committee has proposed a list of RCPA member representatives to serve as directors and officers of the RCPA Board of Directors. Please VOTE HERE in advance of the Annual Meeting for the election of RCPA Board of Directors and Officers. Following the Annual Meeting, RCPA is hosting a golf outing to benefit the RCPA PAC. It’s not too late to register and join us at the Colonial Golf & Tennis Club in Harrisburg, PA! You can also become a sponsor to support the event and receive recognition. If you are not a golfer but would like to support the RCPA PAC, please consider making a personal online contribution . For those members who wish to attend the Annual Meeting in person and need overnight accommodations, utilize the RCPA negotiated discounted rates at the following hotels: Best Western Premier is located across from the RCPA office. RCPA rate of $119.95 plus 11% occupancy tax. Rates are based upon room availability. Reservations can be made by calling 717-735-9397. Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey is located on Lindle Road, Harrisburg. Rates start at $165.00 plus tax. Please use corporate code A3933 to access the special rate online. Reservations can also be made by calling 1-800-325-3535. Indicate that you are with RCPA when booking. Thank you. We look forward to your participation!
Power in Purpose at the 2026 RCPA Conference! The RCPA 2026 Annual Conference, Power in Purpose: Promoting Possibilities, will take place from September 29 – October 2 at the Hershey Lodge. This conference is consistently a landmark event for the Pennsylvania behavioral health, brain injury, children’s, early intervention, intellectual and developmental disabilities, medical rehabilitation, and physical disabilities and aging provider communities. Several popular speakers are participating this year, including: Dave Raymond, the "Hero of Happiness" — Author, international keynote speaker, thought leader, and the original Phillie Phanatic. Judge Victor Reyes — Renowned facilitator of discussions on self-respect, self-compassion, domestic violence, and leader of yoga/mindfulness classes. Jennifer Lynn Robison – Lifestyle and communications expert, TEDx speaker, media contributor, and traumatic brain injury survivor/advocate. Ed Krow — Talent Transformation Expert on understanding the employee/employer dynamic, achieving talent and culture transformations, and turning negative growth into success. Connections Hall In addition to the Connections Hall activities, there are many networking opportunities throughout the conference. Exhibitors will also have the chance to compete for "Best of Show!" Sponsor and Exhibitor Opportunities Our conference is privileged to have the support of the finest organizations in the field. Contributing organizations are honored by RCPA through sponsorship circles. View our Sponsor/Exhibitor/Advertiser brochure , for the opportunity of name recognition and exhibitor booth self-selection (with completed contract and payment). Sponsorships and exhibit booths are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline to submit all materials and be listed on the website, mobile app, and in the conference program is Tuesday, September 8. Please contact Conference Coordinator Carol Ferenz with any questions. RCPA thanks these organizations that have committed their support to our 2026 Conference. You help make this conference an extraordinary, educational, and meaningful event for Pennsylvania's provider communities!
RCPA Presents HR 1 Medicaid Summit
Please disregard this reminder if you have already registered. Palliative Care Through the Rehab Continuum: Caring for Children With Complex Needs Thursday, May 14, 2026 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm EDT; 11:00 am – 12:00 pm CDT; 10:00 am – 11:00 am MDT; 9:00 am – 10:00 am PDT Register Here Kara Monnin, PhD Kara Monnin is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) and Ohio State University’s School of Medicine in Columbus, OH. She provides clinical services across multiple inpatient units, including Complex Healthcare, Inpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and acute care services (PICU, Trauma/Surgery/Neurosurgery). Dr. Monnin also serves as a member of the Advanced Illness Management/Palliative Care Team at NCH, and she specializes in traumatic brain injury, rehabilitation populations, and children and adolescents with complex medical needs. Ryan Jenkins, MD Ryan Jenkins is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology and a pediatric hospice and palliative medicine physician on the Advanced Illness Management Palliative Care Team at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He provides inpatient, outpatient, and home-based palliative and hospice care to patients and families across the Nationwide Children’s healthcare system. His academic work includes the teaching of primary palliative care skills to learners of different disciplines and backgrounds. Objectives: At the end of this session, the learner will: Engage with palliative care providers (in the full scope of their practice) throughout the spectrum of illness, not just at end of life; Recognize common medical and psychological paradigms at key stages of illness; Understand how the goals of medical care after a significant neurological illness can change over time to include elements of recovery, stabilization, and/or prioritizing comfort; and Identify key takeaways for practice across the rehab continuum. Audience: This webinar is intended for all interested members of the rehabilitation team. Level: Beginner-Intermediate Certificate of Attendance: Certificates of attendance are available for all attendees. No CEs are provided for this course. Complimentary webinars are a benefit of membership in IPRC/RCPA. Registration fee for non-members is $179. Not a member yet? Consider joining today.
The Office of Child Development & Early Learning (OCDEL) notified all County Early Intervention (EI) Programs and Providers that they will perform one final Mass Claims Adjustment on April 21, 2026. As a result of the final analysis of the denied claims file, they were able to identify that many of the denied claims can be processed again and should result in a Paid claim. This final Mass Claims Adjustment will significantly reduce the manual efforts for both the County and EI Provider. Immediately following this final Mass Claims Adjustment, a revised and final report of denied claims will be issued to all County EI programs to distribute to their contracted providers. Reminder of Next Steps: Using the newly published Fiscal Year 2025/26 Fee Schedule — File NEW claims on or after March 9, 2026, that contain a date of service on or after July 1, 2025. Using the newly published Fiscal Year 2025/26 Fee Schedule — Adjust claims filed on or after March 9, 2026, that contain a date of service on or after July 1, 2025, if the OLD fee schedule was used. The Bureau thanks all stakeholders for their patience as they work to streamline the process and expedite the payments for provided Early Intervention services.
Palliative Care Through the Rehab Continuum: Caring for Children With Complex Needs Thursday, May 14, 2026 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm EDT; 11:00 am – 12:00 pm CDT; 10:00 am – 11:00 am MDT; 9:00 am – 10:00 am PDT Register Here Kara Monnin, PhD Kara Monnin is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) and Ohio State University’s School of Medicine in Columbus, OH. She provides clinical services across multiple inpatient units, including Complex Healthcare, Inpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and acute care services (PICU, Trauma/Surgery/Neurosurgery). Dr. Monnin also serves as a member of the Advanced Illness Management/Palliative Care Team at NCH, and she specializes in traumatic brain injury, rehabilitation populations, and children and adolescents with complex medical needs. Ryan Jenkins, MD Ryan Jenkins is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology and a pediatric hospice and palliative medicine physician on the Advanced Illness Management Palliative Care Team at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He provides inpatient, outpatient, and home-based palliative and hospice care to patients and families across the Nationwide Children’s healthcare system. His academic work includes the teaching of primary palliative care skills to learners of different disciplines and backgrounds. Objectives: At the end of this session, the learner will: Engage with palliative care providers (in the full scope of their practice) throughout the spectrum of illness, not just at end of life; Recognize common medical and psychological paradigms at key stages of illness; Understand how the goals of medical care after a significant neurological illness can change over time to include elements of recovery, stabilization, and/or prioritizing comfort; and Identify key takeaways for practice across the rehab continuum. Audience: This webinar is intended for all interested members of the rehabilitation team. Level: Beginner-Intermediate Certificate of Attendance: Certificates of attendance are available for all attendees. No CEs are provided for this course. Complimentary webinars are a benefit of membership in IPRC/RCPA. Registration fee for non-members is $179. Not a member yet? Consider joining today.
Each year, the beginning of April marks the start of our membership renewal period. The renewal email has been sent to the renewal contact(s) for Rehabilitation and Community Providers Association (RCPA) members, as well as members of the International Pediatric Rehabilitation Collaborative (IPRC).To renew your organization’s membership, please forward a completed membership application and dues payment by July 1, 2026, to Tieanna Lloyd . RCPA members can access membership applications on our website’s Join/Renew web page . IPRC members can access the membership application on IPRC’s website . Questions? Contact Tieanna Lloyd , Membership Services/Business Partnerships Manager.
On Monday, May 11, 2026, RCPA will be hosting a virtual H.R. 1 Medicaid Summit for all members, non-members, and stakeholders from 9:00 am – 10:00 am. This summit will feature guest panelists who will provide Federal and State updates on the implementation and impacts of the pending Medicaid changes. We will also explore the role of providers, advocates, and stakeholders in the process to ensure access and care for vulnerable Pennsylvanians. Register for the summit here . As part of the event, we will have a Q&A segment. If you have any questions you would like to ask during the Q&A segment, or if you have any general questions regarding the virtual summit, please forward them to RCPA Behavioral Health Policy Associate Emma Sharp .
The Office of Child Development & Early Learning (OCDEL) has completed the Mass Claims Adjustment for all PAID CLAIMS of Early Intervention (EI) services that contain a date of service between July 1, 2025 – March 8, 2026 and were filed on or before March 8, 2026. Due the high volume of claims, the Mass Claims Adjustment was processed in daily batches with a summary of claims below: Week 1: March 16, 2026 Claims Adjusted for Speech Therapy Claims Adjusted for Occupational Therapy Claims Adjusted for Physical Therapy Week 2: March 23, 2026 Claims Adjusted for Special Instruction Claims Adjusted for Audiology/Evaluation/Teaming Claims Adjusted for Service Coordination A complete review of the Mass Claims Adjustment was performed during the week of March 30, and a final batch of claims were processed on April 7, representing claims with a date of services of July 1, 2025. Reminder of Next Steps: Using the newly published Fiscal Year 2025/26 Fee Schedule, file NEW claims on or after March 9, 2026, that contain a date of service on or after July 1, 2025. Using the newly published Fiscal Year 2025/26 Fee Schedule, adjust claims filed on or after March 9, 2026, that contain a date of service on or after July 1, 2025, if the OLD fee schedule was used. IMPORATANT: As expected, OCDEL reports that there are many ICNs that failed the Mass Claims Adjustment. The Bureau is preparing a document for each County to distribute to their contracted providers that includes the original ICN that did not successfully Mass Adjust. Detailed instructions will be included with this document for how the Infant Toddler program and EI Provider can work together to resolve the claims errors. After successful resolution of the claims error, providers will be responsible for performing their own Claims Adjustment for the claims that failed the Mass Claims Adjustment . View the following links for more information: EI Fee Schedule 2025/26 Announcement EI 26-03 Claims Process Steps: RA Mailing Dates | Department of Human Services | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, recently announced a hearing titled Healthier America: Legislative Proposals to Improve Public Health . The hearing, scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 10:15 am, will focus on the bills below that address various areas of public health, including disease research and prevention efforts, bolstering resources for rural medical services and health care providers, promoting healthy activities, and increasing access to care. H.R. 4348 , To reauthorize the Kay Hagan Tick Act, and for other purposes Reps. Smith-NJ and Doggett H.R. 4541 , EARLY Act Reauthorization of 2025 Reps. Wasserman Schultz and Miller-Meeks H.R. 3747 , Accelerating Access to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Provider Training Act Reps. Balderson and Barragán H.R. 8209 , School-Based Health Centers Reauthorization Act of 2026 Reps. Tonko and Balderson H.R. 5160 , Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2025 Reps. Smith-NJ and Matsui H.R. 8205 , Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act of 2026 Reps. Quigley and Calvert H.R. 6121 , Promoting Physical Activity for Americans Act Reps. Moore and Panetta Nutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026 Rep. Harshbarger H.R. 8201 , Expanding Community Access to Health Services Act Rep. Lee-NV Digital Health Screeners Act of 2026 Rep. Balderson The hearing will be open to the public and will be livestreamed online.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) held a “kickoff” webinar to discuss the Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) and have released the recording and slides for the presentation, which are available here . DHS is currently awaiting the release of the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the first phase of Year 1 implementation. Year 1 Funding Mechanisms will include: Expansion of existing programs; Program payments; Intergovernmental agreements; and Grant agreements. If your organization has an interest in these RFPs, RCPA will provide updates as appropriate, but we also encourage you to sign up directly for the DHS listserv info. Direct RHTP inquiries can be sent here .
The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) has released the Family Leadership Toolkit, which is designed for state-level professionals and family leaders working to elevate family voices in systems changes. The Family Leadership Toolkit offers practical tools, strategies, and real-world examples to help build strong, collaborative partnerships between professionals and family leaders. You can: Use it to guide leadership development. Share it with your networks and colleagues. Introduce it in meetings, trainings, and planning sessions. Promote it through your organization’s communication channels. Access The Family Leadership Toolkit here . For questions, please reach out to OCDEL via email . Additional questions can be directed to RCPA COO and Mental Health Policy Director Jim Sharp .
Press Release from RCPA Member Keystone Human Services : Published April 1, 2026
Yesterday, March 31, 2026, the Department of Human Services (DHS) held a “kickoff” webinar to discuss the Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP). The slides have not been released; however, RCPA will share the PowerPoint with members once they are available. The webinar did not provide definitive next steps in terms of which category of Request for Proposal (RFP) would be released and when. RFPs will be periodically rolled out, and DHS indicated that the first RFP release would be in the next two weeks. The Department also shared the broad categories of project areas for consideration, stating that all RFP responses should closely tie back to their approved CMS plan. DHS touched on the fact that RHTP funding and compliance will be achieved through continual cooperative agreements with CMS. Below is a broader timeline highlighting certain reporting and funding dates, as well as broader categorical areas the state is pursuing. End of First Reporting Period – July 31, 2026 First Annual Report Due to CMS – August 31, 2026 Obligation of Year 1 Funding – October 30, 2026 Year 2 Funding – October 31, 2026 Quarterly Reports Due to CMS – November 29, 2026; March 1, 2027, May 30, 2027 Spending Deadline for Year 1 – September 30, 2027 By March 31, 2028, CMS will begin determining the amount of unused funds from the prior period to redistribute them to other states. Year 1 Funding Mechanisms will include: Expansion of existing programs; Program payments; Intergovernmental agreements; and Grant agreements. If your organization has an interest in these RFPs, RCPA will provide updates as appropriate, but we also encourage you to sign up directly for the DHS listserv info. Direct RHTP inquiries can be sent here . If you have further questions, please contact your RCPA Policy Director.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has been rolling out new tools over the last year to help Pennsylvanians track, manage, and protect their benefits. Here’s what’s new: My Benefits Status Tracker Self-Service Password Reset Lock EBT Cards View the Substack post for complete details!
As the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) continues to provide updates on the H.R. 1 implementation, the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) has provided some updated information and guidance on their activities outlining the state’s plan for compliance by January 1, 2027. DHS H.R. 1 Steering Committee As previously reported, DHS has created an H.R. 1 Steering Committee, which was initially thought to be the group tasked with oversight of implementation and stakeholder feedback as the state seeks to finalize their policies and practices to support implementation of the Medicaid eligibility and community engagement requirements. The first meeting yielded a slide deck outlining the timeframes for implementation, and RCPA has created a one-page timeline for Medicaid change implementation. It was reported this week at the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC)meeting that the DHS H.R. 1 Steering Committee will be responsible for reporting out of activities but will not serve as a work group. RCPA CEO and President Richard Edley, a member of the Steering Committee, questioned the lack of stakeholder engagement, with an emphasis on the need for a group that can provide critical feedback to DHS. The hope is the MAAC and its various subcommittees can function as this forum. Eligibility Redeterminations CMS has released guidance to the States relating to the eligibility standards with two separate options for implementation timelines: either beginning all new redetermination effective January 1, 2027, or redetermination will occur at the natural expiration of the current expansion enrollees’ eligibility in 2027. Our partners at the National Council have provided the following resources: Overview of Key Takeaways From the CMS Eligibility Redetermination Letter HR. 1 Implementation Journey Map White Paper on the Community Engagement Requirements New SNAP Work and Education Program Certification Process DHS has also announced a new initiative to certify more eligible work and education programs that serve SNAP recipients. This new certification program will increase the number of work and education providers available statewide, which will help SNAP recipients meet their federal work and community engagement reporting requirements . Through the new process, work and education programs that are not currently contracted as DHS SNAP Employment and Training (SNAP E&T) programs but provide similar services can apply for PA DHS certification. This certification is only through PA DHS and helps ensure SNAP recipients are meeting federal work and community engagement requirements. The certification program eligibility criteria and application form can be found here . Previously, there was no way for other work and education programs to receive PA DHS certification. This new, simple process requires some basic information about the organization, the number of anticipated participants slots, and typical weekly program hours. Streamlining the certification process means that more Pennsylvanians who are already participating in work, education, or training can meet their federal work and community engagement reporting requirements to remain eligible for SNAP benefits. PA DHS encourages work and education programs that are not already a PA DHS SNAP E&T program to apply for certification if they already provide work and education services to SNAP recipients and meet the outlined criteria. Please note that becoming DHS-certified as a qualified SNAP work and education program recognizes that a program meets the requirements of a SNAP E&T program and does not mean state or federal funding will be available for this program. If SNAP recipients have questions about how to report work, education, training, or volunteering activities, they can talk with a caseworker at DHS’ County Assistance Office or call the Customer Service Center at 877-395-8930 (or 215-560-7226 for people living in Philadelphia). If a Pennsylvanian loses SNAP benefits, they can reapply anytime. PA DHS strongly encourages people to reapply if they lost benefits but have since started to meet work, training, education, or volunteering requirements or meet an exemption . If Pennsylvanians aren’t sure whether they are eligible for SNAP benefits, PA DHS’ online screening tool can help. By answering a quick and simple set of yes or no questions , SNAP applicants and recipients can find out if they still need to meet the work requirements, if they’ve started meeting the work requirements, or if they are likely to now be eligible for an exemption. Please contact your RCPA Policy Director with any questions.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the final rule that implements requirements of the Administrative Simplification subtitle of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, enacted on March 30, 2010. Specifically, this final rule adopts standards for health care claims attachments transactions, which will support health care claims transactions and a standard for electronic signatures to be used in conjunction with health care claims attachments transactions. The final rule will slash wasteful spending and antiquated paperwork by swapping out faxing and mailing for streamlined electronic transactions. This action lets providers spend less time on administrative hassle and more time caring for patients and is projected to save the healthcare industry approximately $781 million on an annual basis. The final rule will be published in tomorrow’s (March 24, 2026) Federal Register and will become effective on May 19, 2026. Covered entities must comply by May 19, 2028.
From Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): On February 25, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) had the pleasure of hosting the 2026 CMS Burden Reduction Conference. Thank you to everyone who joined us, both in person and virtually, and contributed to such a thoughtful and energizing discussion. Conference videos are now available here . This year’s conference featured a keynote address from CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, opening remarks from CMS Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Administrator Kim Brandt, closing remarks from CMS Center of Medicare Director, Deputy Administrator, and HHS Chief Counselor Chris Klomp, and panel discussions focused on: Increasing transparency in healthcare; Transforming chronic care; and Using technology and AI tools to empower clinicians and patients. What We Heard Across conversations, several clear and actionable themes stood out: A call for faster, more measurable action: Stakeholders are looking to CMS to simplify requirements, better align programs, and deliver changes that are clear and trackable. Prior authorization is a top near-term opportunity: Participants emphasized more standardized, transparent, and automated processes, including reduced documentation and real-time decisions. Stronger Medicare Advantage oversight can reduce downstream burden: Clearer expectations and more consistent enforcement across MA plans were seen as key to reducing friction for providers and improving patient experience. Administrative burden impacts patient access: Burden is not just operational, it contributes to delays in care, clinician burnout, and reduced capacity. Technology should reduce work, not add to it: Stakeholders support AI and digital tools that eliminate manual processes and integrate into existing workflows. At CMS, we are committed to turning these insights into action, advancing meaningful, measurable changes that reduce burden and improve care. CMS also remains committed to continuing this dialogue and working alongside all of you as we move forward. Thank you again to the nearly 2,000 participants from across the country who made this conference such a success. The momentum from this conference is just the beginning and we’re excited for what’s ahead as we work together to improve patients’ lives by transforming how care is delivered and putting Patients over Paperwork!
The 2025/26 Budget signed by Governor Josh Shapiro included an additional $13.2 million in state funding for Early Intervention services, with $10 million of this funding specifically targeting provider rates. Last month, the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) released Announcement EI 26-03 and the 2025/26 Fee Schedule , which included a 7% rate increase for Early Intervention services, with some exceptions. This week, OCDEL announced next steps for a coordinated mass adjustment for processed and paid Early Intervention claims for services delivered in Fiscal Year 2025/2026. The adjustment process will begin the week of March 16, 2026; OCDEL did not give a timeline for completion. The notice reads: The Office of Child Development & Early Learning is preparing to perform a Mass Claims Adjustment for all PAID CLAIMS of Early Intervention services that contain a date of service between 7/1/25 – 3/8/26 and were filed on or before 3/8/26. The adjustment process will begin the week of 3/16/26. Due to the high volume of claims, they will be processed in batches. OCDEL is committed to providing updates on the progress of the mass adjustment throughout the week. Any providers with paid claims that contain a date of service between 7/1/25 – 3/8/26 and were filed on or before 3/8/26 do not need to process their own claims adjustments. When the Mass Claims Adjustment is completed, providers will receive Payment Files and RAs (as applicable) displaying a new ICN beginning with 52. A uniform “billed amount” is being applied to this special Mass Adjustment of $1,000. All claims will correctly “cut-back” to the new Fiscal Year 2025-2026 rates. Providers are responsible for the following: Using the newly published Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Fee Schedule — File NEW claims on or after 3/9/26 that contain a date of service on or after 7/1/25. Using the newly published Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Fee Schedule — Adjust claims filed on or after 3/9/26 that contain a date of service on or after 7/1/25 if the OLD fee schedule was used. While it is not recommended that providers submit their own Claims Adjustments for PAID CLAIMS of Early Intervention services that contain a date of service between 7/1/25–3/8/26 and were filed on or before 3/8/26, this will not impact the OCDEL initiated Mass Claims Adjustment. For OCDEL initiated Mass Claims Adjustments, denied claims will be reported directly from our MMIS provider to OCDEL. In the unlikely event of a Mass Claims Adjustment denial, an OCDEL team member will reach out to the County in which your claims denied to coordinate corrections. OCDEL would like to remind providers of the timely filling of all claims. Timely Filing The regulation at 55 Pa. Cde § 1101.68 (relating to invoicing for services) establishes requirements for submitting claims for services rendered. Early Intervention evaluations, IFSP services and Service Coordination claims are all required to follow this regulation. There are only a few exceptions that are permitted which are related to PELICAN-EI record issues when there is a change of the child’s MCI or a record change for an adoption. OCDEL is not permitted to allow payment for claims submitted beyond the 180-day regulatory timelines for reasons including but not limited to provider billing errors, billing software issues or personnel vacancies/absences. Any claims filed after the 180-day filing limit will result in a suspended status. When this happens, an email must be sent immediately to ra-ocdintervention@pa.gov with the ICN for the suspended claim and a description for the system reason. If an email regarding the suspended claim(s) is not received, the claim will be automatically denied. Please forward this message to your contracted providers and direct any questions to your assigned EI Advisor. OCDEL would like to remind providers of the opportunity to receive claims processing training Gainwell Technologies. Gainwell Technologies offers PROMISe™ enrollment and billing training for Early Intervention providers. Accessing these training courses is a good opportunity for all Early Intervention providers to be supported in implementing accurate enrollment and billing practices. PROMISe™ Provider Education & Training : Webinar recordings are available on the website related to: How to Submit 180 Day Electronic Submissions and ACN Electronic Attachments How to Submit Revalidations, Reactivations, and Change Request Applications Provider Portal Training on the topics listed below are also offered on request. Training is conducted via a virtual room (VR) and can be requested via email . Providers should please include the following information when making a request: 13-digit Provider Number, Provider name, Contact name and phone number: Review of PROMISe™ Portal including registration Eligibility Verification Claim completion review (new, adjustments and voids) Claim Inquiry Search Enrolled Provider Search ERA and EFT Enrollment Review of Remittance Advice Statement Enrollment Information Review of DHS Website including fee schedule, MA regulation, MA Bulletins and Provider Quick Tips Questions should be directed to the County in which services are contracted. Visit here for more information on Claims Processing Steps. Contact Cindi Hobbes if you have any questions.
Press Release From RCPA Member Achieva : Published March 10, 2026
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (PA DHS) has developed a communications toolkit available at DHS’s website to help Pennsylvanians understand SNAP work and reporting requirements as well as how to meet them. SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) services are important for Pennsylvanians who are applying for or receiving SNAP and who must meet federal work and reporting requirements because these services will help them meet the requirements. SNAP recipients must work, volunteer, or participate in an education or training program for at least 20 hours a week (or 80 hours each month) AND report to PA DHS they are meeting this requirement. If SNAP recipients do not meet the work and reporting requirements, they can only receive three months of SNAP benefits in a three-year period. Please contact RCPA Policy Associate Emma Sharp with any questions.
From our national partners at ANCOR:
As the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) prepares for the upcoming changes in the federal Medicaid standards set for implementation in January 2027, DHS has convened a statewide HR1 Steering Committee. This group is tasked with reviewing policy and practice drafts from the Department as it relates to their response to the pending Medicaid changes, including new eligibility and work requirements for recipients and communicating the implementation of Pennsylvania’s overall plan. The steering committee is comprised of state leadership, advocates, and payers. RCPA providers will be represented by RCPA President and CEO Richard Edley. RCPA’s involvement will bolster our role as a lead advocate for members and stakeholders as it relates to Medicaid HR 1 activities. Additionally, RCPA has contracted with former Pennsylvania Medicaid Director Leesa Allen to assist in developing our internal strategies and advocacy platform. The steering committee had its initial meeting yesterday, March 5, 2026, to lay out the groundwork for the group and presented an initial PowerPoint presentation that looks at some of the foundational information around Medicaid, CHIP, and SNAP changes. If you have questions or feedback, please contact your respective RCPA Policy Director or COO Jim Sharp .
This week, March 2-6, the Pennsylvania House Appropriations Committee held their budget hearing for the Department of Human Services (DHS), giving legislators an opportunity to ask the Department questions regarding the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026/27 budget. Many of the questions posed by legislators were in regard to federal changes from HR 1 and the impacts that these changes will have on Pennsylvanians. DHS Secretary Arkoosh explained how changes presented in HR 1 will affect the Commonwealth’s Medicaid and SNAP systems, as well as how these changes are directly reflected in the proposed budget. The changes made to Medicaid through HR 1 will result in an increased number of uninsured Pennsylvanians and a potential $20 billion cut to the program over the next decade. The Secretary noted this would be a worst-case scenario but a scenario that stakeholders need to be mindful of. She also explained that Governor Shapiro has proposed several initiatives to help reduce the future Medicaid spend, such as the Food is Medicine program and housing supports for unhoused individuals with significant medical conditions. These programs will be evaluated for their effectiveness for the possibility of future expansion. Legislators are also concerned with how these changes will impact Pennsylvania’s hospitals, since an increase in uninsured individuals will lead to an increase in uncompensated care, putting more hospitals at risk of closure, as many are already operating with negative profit margins. Legislators asked if the $193 million that Pennsylvania secured through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) will be utilized. Secretary Arkoosh explained that the dollars will be allocated to each region using a formula allocation, then the region will be able to prioritize how those dollars are used based on what is allowed in the grant. The Secretary noted that, unfortunately, RHTP grant dollars are not allowed to be used to aid in covering hospital operating expenses. RCPA Divisional Highlights: Behavioral Health: Behavioral Health Capitation: Legislators voiced concern that increases in capitation will become unsustainable and were interested in possibilities to reduce the cost of growth while still acknowledging that this is necessary expenditure. Secretary Arkoosh assured the House that DHS has developed programs that will lead to lower Medicaid utilization. She also noted that through fraud, waste, and abuse efforts, the state has recouped more than $400 million in recoveries in the last year, and the state is continuing to ensure that payment error rates remain as low as possible. County Mental Health Funding: Secretary Arkoosh states that despite Governor Shapiro’s initial investments in County Mental Health Base Funding, they have fallen short of the $60 million investment that was promised. The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) is working with counties for a consolidated community reporting initiative to indicate how the money has been spent by the counties and joinders. As of December 2025, 97% of counties or joinders have submitted their data for the report. Brain Injury: Residential Habilitation Rate Increases: Representative Flood focused on the findings from the HCBS Rate & Wage Study from 2025 that showed rate inadequacies that exist in HCBS. Specifically, a 44% rate increase was necessary for Residential Habilitation services, along with the lack of rate increases to this group of providers since 2010. Secretary Arkoosh was also asked whether there is a capacity issue. Secretary Arkoosh cited that they have no evidence of a wait-list issue. When asked if DHS is considering a future increase for this group of providers, Secretary Arkoosh stated they have no evidence that individuals are not getting the services they need, and that if an individual had an unmet need, CHC-MCO Service Coordinators would report this. Regarding rates, Arkoosh stated the providers are able to negotiate their rates with the CHC-MCOs. Children’s Services: Representative Donahue referenced the 2024 Early Intervention Rate Methodology Study, which found that infant and toddler EI services are underfunded by about $71 million statewide, and asked if DHS has a plan to close the gap. The Secretary did not commit to additional funding but ensured that the Department is monitoring rates and access to services, believes that provider networks are adequate, and that children are receiving services. She mentioned that DHS would raise the issue again if they determine a rate increase becomes essential. Intellectual Disabilities & Autism: Placement of Individuals with ID/A in Community HealthChoices vs. ODP Waivers: Appropriations Committee members raised concerns about individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism (ID/A) who are placed in the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program rather than the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) waiver system. Secretary Arkoosh clarified that CHC is an entitlement program and some individuals with ID/A may qualify for it while they wait for an ODP waiver slot. For individuals whose primary needs are medical or nursing services, CHC may be sufficient. However, for those who require specialized developmental disability supports such as habilitation, skill development, and disability-specific staffing, CHC may not fully meet their needs because providers are not specifically trained for the ID/A population. As a result, some individuals remain on the adult emergency waiting list for ODP waivers while receiving partial services through CHC. Reducing the ID/A Emergency Waiting List: During the hearing, Secretary Arkoosh addressed questions regarding Pennsylvania’s emergency waiting list for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. DHS reported that the list has been reduced by approximately 31% since 2024 due to a combination of increased state funding for additional waiver slots and policy changes allowing counties greater flexibility to manage services within budget allocations rather than fixed slot counts. Once an individual is enrolled in an ODP waiver, they are removed from the waiting list because the program becomes responsible for meeting their assessed needs through services or unpaid supports. Oversight occurs through supports coordinators who meet regularly with participants to ensure service plans are implemented. The Department also monitors spending and service authorizations through dashboards shared with counties to ensure resources remain within appropriated budgets. Access to Services Challenges After Waiver Approval for Individuals with ID/A: Appropriate Committee members shared concerns from families that even after individuals with intellectual disabilities receive approval for waiver services, they may struggle to access those services because providers lack sufficient workforce capacity. Constituents described situations where individuals technically have service authorization but cannot find staff or providers to deliver supports. DHS acknowledged that these challenges can occur and explained that service coordination systems track individuals’ needs and monitor whether services are being delivered as planned. While the state may authorize services through waiver enrollment, the ability to fully implement those services can depend on provider staffing levels and workforce availability. This issue reflects broader workforce shortages in human services and affects how quickly individuals can begin receiving the full set of supports for which they are eligible. Note: RCPA has requested DHS provide data around the “hidden” waiting list where an individual is authorized but does not receive any/all of the services needed. RCPA would like to thank the legislators who took the time to ask questions impacting our membership. Please contact your RCPA Policy Director with any questions.