This bill amends the Pennsylvania Rural Health Redesign Center Authority provisions within the Human Services Code, specifically focusing on the definitions, powers, and duties related to rural health care delivery. Key changes include the introduction of new definitions such as "alternative payment model" and "budget," which replace the previous "global budget" terminology. The bill clarifies that "eligible hospital services" now specifically refers to inpatient and hospital-based outpatient services, excluding a range of other services previously listed. Additionally, the roles of participating payers and participant rural hospitals are defined in the context of the new alternative payment model, emphasizing the need for agreements and transformation plans.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the board overseeing the authority, including the evaluation and selection of rural hospitals for participation in the alternative payment model, as well as the monitoring and assessment of their compliance with transformation plans. The authority is granted the power to collect and analyze data necessary for administering the alternative payment model, with strict guidelines on data usage and retention. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery in rural areas while ensuring that participant hospitals meet specific health care goals.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1312 (Nov 17, 2025): P.L.31, No.21