Tag: Lauren LaPine

MHA Monday Report Sept. 9, 2024

Monday Report

MHA Updates Medicaid and Medicare Enrollment Analysis

The MHA updated its analysis of Medicaid and Medicare enrollment to reflect July 2024 data. The analysis now includes program enrollment as a percentage of each county’s total population and the split between fee-for-service and …

Oct 10 Webinar to Explore Health Equity Regulatory Requirements

The MHA and the MHA Keystone Center is hosting an educational webinar from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Oct 10 about the current and future state of regulatory and accrediting health equity requirements from the Centers …

Deadline Extended for Michigan Reconnect Scholarship Program

The Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential extended its deadline to enroll in the Michigan Reconnect scholarship program. Those interested now have until Dec. 31, 2024 to apply. Michigan Reconnect is a program …

Learn More About Munson Healthcare’s Ask-A-Nurse Program

The MHA released a new episode of the MiCare Champion Cast focused on Munson Healthcare’s innovative Ask-A-Nurse program. The free, 24/7 call center is staffed year-round by registered nurses and offers easy access to health-related …

MHA Rounds graphic of Brian PetersMHA CEO Report — Site-Neutral Payment Policies: The Latest Threat to Patient Access

Operating a hospital has never been more challenging than it is today. At the most fundamental level, hospitals are small towns that operate 24/7, year-round, built around expert clinicians, as well as a wide variety …

Keckley Report

The Four Questions Healthcare Boards must Answer

“In 63 days, Americans will know the composition of the 119th Congress and the new occupants of the White House and 11 Governor’s mansions. We’ll learn results of referenda in 10 states about abortion rights (AZ, CO, FL, MD, MO, MT, NE, NV, NY, SD) and see how insurance coverage for infertility (IVF therapy) fares as Californians vote on SB 729. But what we will not learn is the future of the U.S. health system at a critical time of uncertainty. …

For Boards of U.S. healthcare organizations, the imperative for transformational change is urgent: the future of the U.S. system is not a repeat of its past. But most Boards fail to analyze the future and construct future-state scenarios systematically. Lessons from other industries are instructive. …

Until and unless healthcare leaders recognize the imperative for transformational change, the system will calcify its victim-mindset and each sector will fend for itself with diminishing results. No sector—hospitals, insurers, drug companies, physicians—has all the answers and every sector faces enormous headwinds. Perhaps it’s time for a cross-sector coalition to step up with transformational change as the goal and the public’s well-being the moral compass.”

Paul Keckley, Sept. 3, 2024

 

MHA CEO Brian Peters

MHA in the News

Becker’s Hospital Review published an article Sept. 3 that provides responses from 87 healthcare executives sharing their ideas on ways to boost the patient experience. MHA CEO Brian Peters provided a response, mentioning the MHA …

Deadline Extended for Michigan Reconnect Scholarship Program

Member News

The Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) extended its deadline to enroll in the Michigan Reconnect scholarship program. Those interested now have until Dec. 31, 2024 to apply.

Michigan Reconnect is a program that allows Michiganders ages 25 or older, and who have not yet earned a college degree, to earn a skill certificate or degree tuition-free at a Michigan community college. The Whitmer Administration expanded the age range of the program in 2023 to include 21–24-year-olds. This expansion targets those who may have dropped out or have been unable to pursue higher education. The Reconnect program aims to address Gov. Whitmer’s “60 By 30” initiative to have 60% of Michiganders possess a skill certificate or degree by 2030. More than 177,000 people have already applied for the scholarship program and with the extension, the program hopes to continue to open the door to higher education for more Michigan residents.

To receive the scholarship, individuals must enroll in coursework starting with the summer 2025 semester. Members are encouraged to visit the Michigan Reconnect webpage to learn more or apply for the scholarship.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

MHA Monday Report Aug. 26, 2024

Monday Report

Register for MHA 2024-25 Strategic Action Plan Webinar

The MHA is hosting a virtual member forum 11 a.m. to noon Oct. 14 to outline the MHA 2024 – 2025 strategic action plan approved by the MHA Board of Trustees. The plan will include …

MHA Submits Comments on Proposed MDHHS Medicaid Behavioral Health Policies

The MHA submitted comments to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) regarding two Medicaid proposed policies Aug. 20 pertaining to the establishment of Intensive Care Coordination with Wraparound and the implementation …

Kelley Cawthorne Ad

 

Guide for Michigan’s Adult Guardianship Process Available Digitally

The MHA published a resource for hospital and healthcare teams to support patients and families navigating the guardianship process. A printable copy as well as digital version are now available. The Guide for Michigan’s Adult Guardianship …

MHA CEO Report — Adding Value for Hospitals

I discussed last month how the MHA continues to create highly successful and impactful outcomes for our members through our outstanding advocacy in the public policy arena, at both the state and federal levels. …

The Keckley Report

The Two Tipping Points prompting Outsider Demand for Health System Transformation

“As Democrats gather in Chicago and Epic users convene in Verona WI this week, the future of the healthcare system will be on the agenda for both gatherings, but with a different focus: …

In Chicago and Verona, opportunities to improve the U.S. system are readily acknowledged. Which flaws deserve attention first, how and how fast reflect contrasting views. But perhaps as never before, the direction of the system is impacted by two convergent realities …

As congregants assemble in Chicago and Verona this week, outsiders hope they’ll look beyond incrementalism and pursue transformational change. They’re tired of waiting. It’s reached its tipping point. …”

Paul Keckley, Aug. 19, 2024

News to Know

  • MHA offices will be closed and no formal meetings will be scheduled Sept. 2 in honor of Labor Day.
  • Due to the holiday, Monday Report will not be published Sept. 2 and will resume its normal schedule Sept. 9.
  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner CorroHealth will host the webinar Investing Wisely in the Healthcare Continuum Aug. 28 to share strategic solutions for integrating utilization management, clinical documentation integrity and denials management into a unified revenue integrity framework.

MHA CEO Brian Peters

MHA in the News

MHA CEO Brian Peters joined The Common Bridge podcast for an episode published Aug. 18 to discuss various healthcare policy topics, particularly those impacting rural Michigan.  Areas of focus include the Affordable Care Act, the impact of Medicaid provider taxes …

MHA Submits Comments on Proposed MDHHS Medicaid Behavioral Health Policies

Member News

The MHA submitted comments to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) regarding two Medicaid proposed policies Aug. 20 pertaining to the establishment of Intensive Care Coordination with Wraparound (ICCW) and the implementation of the MichiCANS tool for Medicaid-Funded Specialty Behavioral Health Services.

The MHA outlined general support of the efforts in the two proposed policies. However, in the comment letter on ICCW establishment, the MHA requested clarification on the timeline for approval of requests, criteria used for re-evaluation or extension of services and more details on transition plans after cessation of ICCW services.

On the implementation of the MichiCANS tool, the MHA also requested clarification on the timeline for approval of ICCW requests and more details related to transition plans after the cessation of ICCW services. In addition, the MHA requested further detail on the transition process when a beneficiary ages out of relevant programs.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

MHA Monday Report Aug. 19, 2024

Monday Report

MHA Submits Comments on Speech-Language Pathologist Proposed Policy

The MHA recently provided comments to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) regarding a proposed policy change for Medicaid enrollment of speech-language pathologists. The MHA supports MDHHS’s efforts to align Michigan licensure …

Registration Open for Safe Table on Just Culture

The MHA Keystone Center Patient Safety Organization is hosting a Just Culture Safe Table from noon to 4 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 19 at the MHA headquarters in Okemos, MI. The peer-led discussion about Just …

Special Pathogen Preparedness and the Revised Infection Control Joint Commission Standards Webinar

The National Emerging Special Pathogens Training & Education Center, in collaboration with the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, are hosting the webinar Special Pathogen Preparedness and the Revised Infection Control Joint Commission Standards …

Kelley Cawthorne Ad

New CMS Requirements for Reporting of Hospital Respiratory Data

The MHA recently submitted formal comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the proposed updates to the Medicare Inpatient Prospective Payment System for fiscal year 2025. Updates to the hospital and …

MHA Provides Comment on Proposed Medicaid Reimbursement for Group Prenatal Care

The MHA submitted a comment letter to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services regarding the proposed Medicaid coverage of group prenatal care, set to begin in October 2024. The MHA expressed support for …

The Keckley Report

Healthcare’s Three Big Tents have Much in Common

“Arguably, three trade groups have emerged at the center of healthcare system transformation efforts in the U.S.: the American Hospital Association (AHA), America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). Others weigh in—the American Medical Association, AdvaMed, the American Public Health Association and others—but this trio is widely regarded as the Big Tents under which policy changes are pursued. …

The Boards of the Big Tent trio weigh in, but senior staff in each of the Big Tents drive the organization’s strategy. They’re experienced in advocacy, well-paid and often heavy-handed in dealing with critics.

Operationally, the 3 Big Tents have much in common. Strategically, they’re far apart and the gap appears to be widening. Each blames the other for medical inflation and unnecessary cost. Each alleges the others use unfair business practices to gain market advantages. And each thinks their vision for the future of the U.S. health system is accurate, complete and in the best interest of the public good.

And none of the three has put-forth a vision for the long-term future of the U.S. health system.  Protecting the immediate interests of their members against unwelcome regulatory changes is their focus.”

Paul Keckley, Aug. 12, 2024

News to Know

The MHA Keystone Center is partnering with the Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan to host a two-part, virtual series about peer recovery services for substance and opioid use disorders from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Sept. 17 and Sept. 23.

MHA CEO Brian Peters

MHA in the News

U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) issued a press release Aug. 8 highlighting her introduction of the American Made Pharmaceuticals Acts that included a quote of support from MHA CEO Brian Peters. The bipartisan bill, introduced with U.S. Rep. Don …

MHA Provides Comment on Proposed Medicaid Reimbursement for Group Prenatal Care

Member News

The MHA submitted a comment letter to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services regarding the proposed Medicaid coverage of group prenatal care, set to begin in October 2024. The MHA expressed support for the policy, highlighting its potential to significantly improve maternal and infant health outcomes in Michigan. However, in its comment letter, while supporting the policy, the MHA requested clarification on the reimbursement rate and suggested a higher rate for sessions with larger attendance due to the increased resources required.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

MHA Monday Report Aug. 5, 2024

Monday Report

Michigan Supreme Court Issues Ruling on Paid Sick Leave & Minimum Wage

The Michigan Supreme Court issued a ruling July 31 in Mothering Justice v. Attorney General that upholds voter initiative petitions on paid sick leave and minimum wage. Those laws, as originally enacted, will go into …

Michigan Medicaid Facility Rates Increased for Dental Procedures Under General Anesthesia

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a final policy to increase Medicaid payment rates for dental services provided to patients under general anesthesia in ambulatory surgical centers and outpatient hospitals, …

MDHHS and Michigan 211 Launches New Website for Grief and Bereavement Support

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), in partnership with Michigan 211, recently launched a new website aimed to providing support services for families who have experienced loss of a mother or infant. …

Kelley Cawthorne Ad

CMS Releases FY 2025 Final Rule for Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a final rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service prospective payment system for inpatient psychiatric facilities for federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. Key provisions …

Applications Open for MI Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has allocated $3.5 million for the Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program. This program will offer up to $15,000 stipends to student interns enrolled in behavioral health …

CMS Releases FY 2025 Final Rule for Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a final rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service prospective payment system for inpatient rehabilitation facilities for federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. Key provisions …

The Keckley Report

The Five Characteristics of the Blame and Shame Game in Healthcare

“The Blame and Shame Game spikes in election cycles as candidates pit themselves against their opponents. Healthcare plays its own version: last week is indicative: …

As Congress heads home for their August recess this week and Campaign 2024 intensifies, there’s no doubt healthcare issues will be prominent in local, state and national news. It’s also likely much of that coverage will be negative due to mounting cynicism about the industry’s business, consolidation, and opaque pricing and intensifying blame and shame games between hospitals and insurers, primary care and specialty physicians, PBMs and drug manufacturers, public health and healthcare delivery and others.

Blame and shame rhetoric about these tensions is not new, but its intensity is higher than ever as are the stakes. Blame and Shame is Chapter Two in most organization’s playbooks. Chapter One, the organization’s mission, vision, purpose and strategic plan is often missing and frequently premised on false assumptions. Thus, the “strategy” defaults to calling out the wrongdoings/shortcoming of adversaries and critics and little more. And their rhetoric is laced with terms for which accountability is suspect i.e. community benefit, affordability, value, quality and others. …

Here’s too much at stake to expect any inside sector to do this on its own: Blame and Shame is easier.”

Paul Keckley, July 29, 2024

News to Know 

The Primary Election is Tuesday, Aug. 6. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Voters in line at 8 p.m. can still cast ballots. Those who missed the deadline to register online or by mail can do so in-person through Election Day with their local clerk. To check registration status, polling location or preview a ballot, visit the Michigan voter webpage.

MDHHS and Michigan 211 Launches New Website for Grief and Bereavement Support

Member News

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), in partnership with Michigan 211, recently launched a new website aimed to providing support services for families who have experienced loss of a mother or infant. The website was made possible by a grant awarded to the MDHHS Division of Maternal and Infant Health by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.

The goal of the website is to improve access to grief and bereavement support services for families during their time of need. The website serves as a resource hub where individuals can easily find and access a variety of services such as perinatal hospice care, palliative support, assistance with burial and cremation services, financial aid options, mental health resources and support resources for sudden loss.

The website allows users to search for services based on their geographic location using ZIP codes, ensuring that families can find local support that meets their specific needs. Any member of the community including bereaved families and healthcare professionals will be able to access resources through the site or by calling 211.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

Applications Open for MI Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program

Member News

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has allocated $3.5 million for the Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program. This program will offer up to $15,000 stipends to student interns enrolled in behavioral health degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate level.  

Students are eligible to apply for the stipend if they are pursuing careers as marriage or family therapists, behavior analysts, social workers, professional counselors or psychologists and have secured an unpaid internship in Michigan at one of, or contracted by, the following behavioral health settings:

  • Community Mental Health agency
  • Pre-paid Inpatient Health Plans
  • Tribal Health Centers Indian Health Service/Tribally Operated Facility or Program/Urban Indian Clinic
  • Public School

Through this program, MDHHS aims to address the growing demand for behavioral health professionals in the state. The stipends could fund between 230 and 700 interns.

Participants applying for the stipends should be dedicated to working in the behavioral health sector within Michigan. Members seeking more information about the program may refer to the Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program application.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.

Media Recap: State of Healthcare, State Budget & Public Health Partnerships

Member News, MHA In The News
MHA CEO Brian Peters
MHA CEO Brian Peters

The MHA received media coverage the week of July 15 on healthcare priorities in Michigan, the state budget and the intersection between public health and healthcare.

Hillsdale Hospital published an episode of the Rural Health Rising podcast July 18 featuring an interview with MHA CEO Brian Peters discussing the state of healthcare in Michigan and efforts underway to support rural hospitals.

“We have to really focus on the right strategies – the right tactics – to make sure we can continue providing access to care for all rural Michiganders,” said Peters. “It’s really an honor to be a part of that journey.”

Laura Appel, Executive Vice President, Government Relations and Public Policy, MHA, was also featured as a guest on Hillsdale’s podcast July 11 discussing the fiscal year 2025 state budget.

“The passage [of the state budget] is a culmination of many months,” said Appel. “The big thing we got is direct funding for hospitals to have peer recovery coaches to help people who have substance use issues that come to the ED or into the hospital for any reason.”

Lauren LaPine, Senior Director, Legislative and Public Policy, MHA, was featured July 16 in a story from Model D and Flintside exploring how collaboration between hospitals and public health partners benefits Michigan communities.

“Public health and hospitals working in tandem really protects and promotes community health,” said LaPine. “Public health focuses on prevention while hospitals focus on health intervention.”

Members with any questions regarding media requests should contact John Karasinski at the MHA.