The Michigan Senate Finance, Insurance and Consumer Protection Committee continued to hear testimony during the week of Oct. 9 on Senate Bills 530 and 531. Introduced by Sen. Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Township) and Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), the legislation would clarify and increase Medicare hospital reimbursements, clarify the definition of Medicare and create a new post-acute care provider fee schedule. The committee heard testimony from Laura Appel, executive vice president of government relations and public policy, MHA, who stressed the importance of a strong healthcare system to care for auto accident patients.
“Hospitals across Michigan stand ready to care for victims of auto accidents,” said Appel. “Whether you’re located in Detroit, Grayling, Battle Creek or the Upper Peninsula, you need hospitals prepared to provide access to high quality care at a moment’s notice.” The committee has not yet taken a vote on the legislation and the MHA will continue to advocate for improvements to Michigan’s auto no-fault laws.
The House Health Policy Committee advanced several bills that would enter Michigan into interstate licensure compacts. The legislation included House Bills 4169 and 4170 for occupational therapists, introduced by Rep. Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) and Rep. Doug Wozniak (R-Shelby Township), and House Bills 4504 and 4505 for physical therapists, introduced by Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Rep. Dale Zorn (R-Onsted). The MHA supported both packages in keeping with broad support for interstate licensure compacts to assist with ongoing professional shortages. The legislation now awaits a vote from the full House.
Members with any questions may contact Elizabeth Kutter at the MHA.