The bill establishes that Medicaid reimbursement rates for inpatient room and board services in licensed hospice care programs must be equal to those provided by nursing homes for similar services. This new provision aims to ensure equitable funding for hospice care, allowing patients to receive consistent treatment regardless of their care setting. The reimbursement rate will specifically apply to days when patients are receiving routine hospice care and for those awaiting transfer after hospice services have concluded.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the new reimbursement rate does not apply to hospice medical services provided in a patient's home or to inpatient care already covered under existing hospice medical benefits. The Commissioner of Human Services is responsible for applying for any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement these changes and secure federal funding for state Medicaid expenditures. This legislation is designed to enhance the financial sustainability of hospice care programs while ensuring that patients receive the necessary support during their end-of-life care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-6