MHA CEO Report - MHA | Michigan Health & Hospital Association

MHA Monday Report Sept. 11, 2023

September 11, 2023September 10, 2023 Monday Report

Interstate Nurse Licensure Compact Introduced in State House

Michigan House Bill 4935, also known as the Michigan Nurse Licensure Compact, was introduced in the state House on Aug. 24. Sponsored by Rep. Phil Green (R-Millington) and supported by the MHA, the …

Reproductive Health Act Introduced in State Legislature

A package of 21 bills, referred to as the “Reproductive Health Act”, were introduced in the state House and Senate Sept. 7. The legislation introduces a variety of changes to Michigan’s laws on abortion. The changes …

MHA Awards Behavioral Health Grants

The MHA issued a request for proposals earlier this year for a $50 million competitive grant program for Michigan healthcare entities to expand access to pediatric inpatient behavioral health services. The funding was appropriated by …

Webinar Teaches Ways to Amplify Contributions of Physician Board Members

The webinar Maximizing Contributions of Physician Board Members from noon to 1 p.m. EST Oct. 17 will guide attendees to utilize physician expertise related to advising on patient care decisions, the ethical considerations around biomedical, …

Critical Access Hospital Infection Control Opportunity

The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and its subsidiary organizations, APIC Consulting Services and the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, have joined together to launch the APIC Health Equity …

Three Upcoming MHA Workforce Webinars Provide Continuing Education

The MHA and other state hospital associations are hosting three workforce webinars in partnership with the Huron Consulting Group, a firm helping organizations develop future-ready leaders that can drive meaningful cultural and organizational change. Continuing …

MHA CEO Report — Preserving Patient Access to Care

Nurses are the heart and soul of our healthcare ecosystem. They were heroes long before the COVID-19 pandemic, they stepped up in extraordinary ways during the darkest days of that chapter in our history and they remain heroes today. …

The Keckley Report

The Medicare Drug Pricing Program Will Attract Uncomfortable Attention to the Rest of the Industry

“Last Tuesday, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the first 10 medicines that will be subject to price negotiations with Medicare starting in 2026 per authorization in the Inflation Reduction Act (2022). It’s a big deal but far from a done deal. …

There will be lessons learned as this Inflation Reduction Act program is enacted alongside others in the bill– insulin price caps at $35/month per covered prescription, access to adult vaccines without cost-sharing, a yearly cap ($2,000 in 2025) on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs in Medicare and expansion of the low-income subsidy program under Medicare Part D to 150% of the federal poverty level starting in 2024. And since implementation of these price caps isn’t until 2026, plenty of time for all parties to negotiate, spin and adapt.

But the bigger impact of this program will be in other sectors where pricing is opaque, the public’s suspicious and valid and reliable data is readily available to challenge widely-accepted but flawed assertions about quality, value, access and outcomes. It’s highly likely hospitals will be next.“

Paul Keckley, Sept. 4, 2023

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the weeks of August 28 and Sept. 4 regarding prescription drug affordability, the healthcare workforce and COVID-19. MHA CEO Brian Peters spoke with a variety of news outlets regarding these …

MHA Monday Report Aug. 7, 2023

August 7, 2023August 4, 2023 Monday Report

Governor Signs New Budget Including Investments in Hospitals

Gov. Whitmer signed the fiscal year 2024 state budget Aug. 1, which includes $92 million in new investments directly to hospitals. It specifically provides $59 million to support increased Medicaid reimbursement rates at Level I …

Michigan Supreme Court Decides Auto No-Fault Retroactivity Case

The Michigan Supreme Court issued an opinion July 31 upholding the Michigan Court of Appeals’ decision that changes to the auto no-fault law passed in 2019 on attendant care and other lifetime benefits cannot be …

CMS Releases FY 2024 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System Final Rule

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a final rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service hospital inpatient prospective payment system for fiscal year (FY) 2024. The final rule: Increases the …

CMS Releases FY 2024 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) 2024. Key provisions …

CMS Releases FY 2024 Inpatient Psychiatric Facility Final Rule

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 fiscal year (FY) 2024, which begins …

MHA Podcast Explores “Healthiest” Healthcare Jobs in Michigan

The MHA released another episode of the MiCare Champion Cast, which features interviews with healthcare policy experts in Michigan discussing key issues that impact healthcare and the health of communities. On the first episode of …

MHA CEO Report — Added Association Value

The healthcare industry is a vital cornerstone of any community, providing essential medical services to people in times of need – not to mention our role as economic engines. Behind the scenes, …

The Keckley Report

Thinking Long-Term: Changes in Five Domains will Impact the Future of the U.S. System but Most are Not Prepared

“What’s ahead? Everyone in the U.S. health system is aware that funding is becoming more scarce and regulatory scrutiny more intense, but few have invested in planning beyond tomorrow and the day after. Unlike drug and device manufacturers with global markets and long-term development cycles, insurers and providers are handicapped. Insurers respond by adjusting coverage, premiums and co-pays annually. Providers—hospitals, physicians, long-term care providers and public health programs– have fewer options. For most, long-range planning is a luxury, and even when attempted, it’s prone to self-protection and lack of objectivity. …

In 10 years, the health system will constitute 20% of the entire U.S. economy and play an outsized role in social stability. It’s path to that future and the greater good it pursues needs charting with open minds, facts and creativity. Society deserves no less. …“

Paul Keckley, July 31, 2023

News to Know

The MHA encourages MHA chief nursing officers and other Michigan hospital leaders to register for Hospitals for Patient Access Advocacy Day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 13 at the MHA Capitol Advocacy Center in downtown Lansing to discuss the substantial harm that proposed legislation mandating registered nurse staffing ratios would have on patient access to care, and real solutions to train and hire more nurses.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of July 31 regarding Michigan Supreme Court decision in Andary v. USAA, which the MHA published a media statement on following the opinion release. The MHA is also …

MHA Service Corporation Board Highlights Solutions and Successes

July 14, 2023 Member News

The MHA Service Corporation (MHASC) board held its final meeting of the 2022-2023 program year focused on supporting the MHA Strategic Action Plan priorities of workforce sustainability, financial viability, achieving health equity and improving access and funding for behavioral health. Members are invited to review the July MHA CEO Report for more information on the association’s efforts to address these ongoing priorities.

The MHASC board celebrated the 2023 Outstanding Performance award given to the MHA Unemployment Compensation Program (MHA-UCP) by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies. This award affirms the MHA-UCP’s dedicated work to reduce unemployment liability for its clients, decrease unemployment fraud and prevent waste with state unemployment agencies. The MHA-UCP has a large portfolio of healthcare employer clients throughout the country, including many MHA members. To learn more about the services available, members may contact Neil MacVicar at the MHA-UCP.

The board was joined by Kelsey Stevens, principal and senior consulting actuary, Wakely, for an overview of actuarial and risk management services for value-based payment arrangements and more. MHASC is planning to launch new Endorsed Business Partnerships in the coming weeks.

The MHASC board had several appointments and reappointments adding depth and breadth of expertise and welcomed new MHASC board members Melissa Holmquist, CEO, Upper Peninsula Health Plan, Marquette; Paul Karsten, CFO, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Grand Rapids; Peter Marinoff, south regional president, Munson Healthcare, Cadillac; and Scott McLean, managing director, Corewell Health Ventures, Grand Rapids. The board recognized David Leonard, JD, chief legal officer, Corewell Health, Grand Rapids and Southfield, and Dennis Smith, president, Dennis H. Smith Consulting, LLC, Marquette, for their service on the board ending this year. The board also affirmed the reappointments of Betty Chu, MD, chief quality officer, Henry Ford Health, Detroit; Brian Connolly, Connolly Associates, Rapid City; Brett Furst, founder & CEO, Foresight Ventures, Lake Orion; Marita Hattem-Schiffman, president & CEO, MyMichigan Health Central Region, Alma; and Chair Kent Riddle, CEO, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Rapids.

The MHASC provides critical support to the MHA in the form of nondues revenue through its Data Services, Unemployment Compensation Program and Endorsed Business Partner program to address workforce, financial and other business needs. Visit the MHA Business Services webpage to learn more about resources available.

Questions regarding the MHASC Board should be directed to Ruthanne Sudderth at the MHA.

MHA Monday Report July 10, 2023

July 10, 2023July 7, 2023 Monday Report

MHA Board of Trustees Holds Final Meeting of Program Year

The MHA Board of Trustees held its final meeting of the 2022-2023 program year in conjunction with the MHA Annual Membership Meeting. As part of a standing agenda item focused on safety and quality lessons …

Policy Bills Advanced During Budget Week

Many MHA-tracked bills saw movement during the last week of June, with both the House and Senate taking floor votes on legislation before they broke for the summer. In the House, representatives voted in support …

Health & Hospital Association Elects 2023-2024 Officers and Board Members

Members of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) elected new officers and appointed board members during the association’s Annual Membership Meeting June 29. Officers of the 2023-2024 MHA Board of Trustees include Shannon Striebich, …

Healthcare Advocates Honored with MHA Special Recognition Award

The MHA announced two winners of its Special Recognition Award during the Annual Membership Meeting June 29, recognizing them for extensive contributions to healthcare. Each of the winners has uniquely influenced healthcare in Michigan. The …

MHA Meritorious Service Award Recognizes Sen. Stabenow

The MHA announced the 2023 winner of its highest achievement award during the association’s Annual Membership Meeting June 29. Receiving the award for her decades of leadership in elected office supporting healthcare is U.S. Senator …

Hospital Executives Recognized for Outstanding Leadership

The MHA announced the winners of its 2023 Healthcare Leadership Award during its Annual Membership Meeting June 29. Each year, the MHA recognizes outstanding individuals who have provided exceptional leadership to healthcare organizations and to …

Ludwig Community Benefit Award Honors Hospital Programs

The MHA announced the winners of its 2023 Ludwig Community Benefit Award during the association’s Annual Membership Meeting June 29. The honorees include programs supported by Detroit-based Henry Ford Health; Trinity Health Livonia; and ProMedica …

Henry Ford Kingswood Hospital Receives MHA Advancing Safe Care Award

The MHA announced the winner of its 2023 Advancing Safe Care Award June 29 honoring the dedicated team at Henry Ford Kingswood Hospital in Ferndale. The award was announced during the association’s Annual Membership Meeting. …

MDHHS Issues Updated MI-POST Form

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued a new Michigan Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (MI-POST) form. The MI-POST form is available in Spanish, Arabic and English. This update was made …

MHA Podcast Explores Michigan Health Policy Priorities feat. Rep. Julie Rogers

The MHA released another episode of the MiCare Champion Cast, which features interviews with healthcare policy experts in Michigan on key issues that impact healthcare and the health of communities. On episode 30, State Representative …

MHA CEO Report — The Story of the MHA Program Year

The theme of the 2022-2023 MHA program year was telling our story. With focus and passion, we told the stories of our hospitals and health systems, the challenges and adversity they face, and how they still provide high quality and accessible healthcare to their communities. …

The Keckley Report

SCOTUS Decisions open a Can of Worms for Healthcare

“Five recent Supreme Court rulings have reset the context for U.S. jurisprudence for years to come and open a can of worms for healthcare operators. …

Each of these is specific to a circumstance but collectively they expose industries like healthcare to greater compliance risk, potential court challenges and operational complexity.

Paul Keckley, July 3, 2023

News to Know

The MHA submitted a comment letter in response to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Medicaid Policy Bulletin (MMP) 23-39 on Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities issued May 30, 2023.
Michigan Medicaid Provider Outreach and Provider Support invite new or currently enrolled doula providers to attend the upcoming Doula 101 webinar scheduled Aug. 2 from 1 – 2 p.m. or Aug. 9 from 10 – 11 a.m. ET.
MDHHS issued MMP 23-45, Change in Non-Routine Therapy Prior Authorization Requirements for Medicaid Beneficiaries Residing in a Nursing Facility, June 30 with an effective date of Aug. 1, 2023.
The MHA and the Huron Consulting Group are hosting the webinar How AI @ Work Will Advance Human Intelligence Aug. 10 from 1 – 2 p.m.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of June 26 regarding the state budget, the healthcare workforce and auto no-fault utilization review. MHA CEO Brian Peters is quoted in multiple stories. Below is a collection …

MHA Monday Report June 19, 2023

June 19, 2023August 29, 2023 Monday Report

MHA Members Testify in House Judiciary Committee

Several MHA members testified June 13 to the House Judiciary Committee in support of legislation that would increase the fines for assaulting a healthcare professional or volunteer. House Bills 4520 and 4521 were introduced …

MHA Launches MI Hospital Careers Healthcare Career Campaign

Michigan hospital and education leaders joined forces June 8 to highlight the current state of Michigan’s healthcare workforce shortage and launch a campaign to expand interest in health careers in Michigan. The goal of the …

Webinar Reviews Medicare FFS Quality-based Programs

The MHA and Data Gen hosted June 14 the second webinar focused on the Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) quality-based programs to review the Medicare readmissions reduction program and hospital-acquired conditions reduction programs. The Medicare …

MDHHS Informs Hospitals on Medicare Crossover Files Issue

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently notified hospitals about an issue with the Medicare crossover files from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that impacts CMS files from May …

New Pediatric Specialty Loan Repayment Program

The Department of Health and Human Services launched a $15 million loan repayment program to recruit and retain clinicians who provide healthcare to children and adolescents. The Pediatric Specialty Loan Repayment Program aims to …

MDHHS Releases REH Medicaid Reimbursement Final Policy

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently released a final policy to establish Medicaid reimbursement for rural emergency hospitals (REHs) effective Jan. 1, 2023. The MDHHS reimburses REHs based on the existing …

Preceptor Training Available Through HRSA Grant

Michigan nurses have an opportunity to participate in preceptor training as part of a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention Clinical Faculty and Preceptor Academy grant awarded to Southern …

2023 Ludwig Nominee: Trinity Health Coalition Working to Prevent Youth Suicide

Since 1990, the MHA has honored member healthcare organizations working to enrich the overall welfare of their local communities through the Ludwig Community Benefit Award. This year, the MHA is excited to showcase all award nominees, …

The Keckley Report

Senate Finance Hearing on Hospital Consolidation: Political Theatre or Something More?

“Congress’ concern about consolidation in healthcare is broad-based. Pharmacy benefits managers and health insurers face similar scrutiny. Drug price control referenda have passed in several states and a federal cap was included in the Inflation Reduction Act. The reality is this: the entire U.S. health system is on trial in the court of public opinion for ‘careless disregard for affordability’. And hospitals are seen as part of the problem justifying consolidation as a defense mechanism. …

Sadly, this hearing is the latest evidence that the good will built by hospital heroics in the pandemic is now forgotten. It’s clear hospital consolidation is an issue that faces strong and increased headwinds with evidence mounting—accurate or not– showing more harm than good. …“

Paul Keckley, June 12, 2023

News to Know

MHA offices will be closed and no formal meetings will be scheduled June 19 in honor of Juneteenth.
MHA Endorsed Business Partner Medical Solutions’ Chief Nursing Officer, Patti Artley recently spoke with Becker’s Hospital Review to offer expert insight into the complex challenges facing nurses today and the proven strategies healthcare leaders must adopt to initiate lasting change.
Medicare prospective payment system hospitals are reminded that the completed 2022 occupational mix survey is due to the Medicare Administrative Contractor on June 30, 2023.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of June 12 regarding prescription drug costs, COVID-19 and behavioral health. MHA representatives appearing in published stories include CEO Brian Peters, Senior Vice President Sam Watson and Senior …

MHA Monday Report June 12, 2023

June 12, 2023June 12, 2023 Monday Report

Legislation to Codify Affordable Care Act Sees Action

Several bills being tracked by the MHA saw action during the week of June 5. In both chambers, bills to enshrine the protections of the federal Affordable Cara Act into state law saw initial …

Facing Workforce Shortages, Health and Education Leaders Launch Campaign to Increase Health Careers

MHA Comments on LTCH PPS Proposed Rule

The MHA recently submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service long term care hospital (LTCH) prospective payment system (PPS) for fiscal …

Webinar Series Continues on Medicare FFS Quality-based Programs

The MHA and DataGen hosted the first of two webinars focused on the Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) quality-based programs June 7 to review the Medicare value-based purchasing program. A recording and materials from the webinar …

AMN Healthcare Webinar on Implementing Language Services June 14

The number of Limited English Proficient individuals living in the U.S. continues to rise more rapidly than the general population, driving demand for language services in hospitals, physician practices and other patient care locations. …

CMS Releases Final Rule for MA Plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a final rule for Medicare Advantage plans (MA) and the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program for calendar year 2024. The rule increases oversight of …

2023 Ludwig Nominee: Exercise Program at Sparrow Eaton Helps Patients Manage Chronic Disease

The Keckley Report

Headwinds facing Not for Profit Hospital Systems are Mounting: What’s Next? (Corrected Edition)

Congressional Republicans and the White House spared Main Street USA the pain of defaulting on the national debt last week. No surprise. …

These reactions are understandable. But self-reflection is also necessary. To those outside the hospital world, lack of hospital price transparency is an excuse. Every hospital bill is a surprise medical bill. Supporting the community safety net is an insignificant but manageable obligation for those with tax exemption status. Advocacy efforts to protect against 340B cuts and site-neutral payment policies are about grabbing/keeping extra revenue for the hospital. What is means to be a “not-for-profit” anything in healthcare is misleading since moneyball is what all seem to play. And short of government-run hospitals, many think price controls might be the answer. …

What’s necessary is a reset for the entire US health system in which not-for-profit systems play a vital role. That discussion should be led by leaders of the largest NFP systems with the full endorsements of their boards and support of large employers, physicians and public health leaders in their communities. …”

Paul Keckley, June 5, 2023

MHA in the News

Fox 2 Detroit (WJBK-TV) published a story June 8 on the nationwide shortage of two critical chemotherapy medications. The two drugs, carboplatin and cisplatin, are used to treat several types of cancer, including bladder, lung, ovarian and …

MHA Monday Report June 5, 2023

June 5, 2023June 2, 2023 Monday Report

MHA Comments on Medicare Fee-for-Service Proposed Rules

The MHA recently submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service inpatient rehabilitation facility prospective payment system for fiscal year …

PRTF Proposed Policy Open for Public Comment

The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services released a proposed policy May 30 for public comment related to Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTFs). This policy will create a chapter in the Medicaid Provider …

FY 24 Hospital IPPS Payment System Comments

The MHA drafted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service hospital inpatient prospective payment system for fiscal year (FY) 2024. The MHA expresses …

MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship Application Deadline June 28

Applications are due June 28 for the 2023-2024 class of the MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship, which will be held from October 2023 through June 2024. The fellowship focuses on the functions of governance, leadership …

Upcoming Webinars on Medicare FFS Quality-based Programs

The MHA is partnering with DataGen to host two free webinars focused on Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) quality-based programs, which can reduce hospital inpatient FFS payments by up to 6%, depending upon hospital performance. The webinars …

MDHHS Announces Grant and Scholarship Program for EMS Students

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has issued a request for proposal for emergency medical services (EMS) workforce grants. This program aims to address the statewide shortage of EMS personnel through scholarships …

2023 Ludwig Nominee: Munson Healthcare Expanding Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Recovery in Northern Michigan

MHA CEO Report — Impact of Drug Shortages on Hospitals

“In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.” — Albert Einstein The shortage of key cancer treatment drugs carboplatin and cisplatin made national headlines in recent weeks, as hospitals implemented multiple strategies to maintain …

The Keckley Report

Special Report: Physicians on the Brink or At the Starting Line?

“The backdrop for the APG and AMA meetings in the next 2 weeks could not be more daunting. Inflationary pressures dog the health economy as each advances an advocacy agenda suitable to their member’s needs. But something is missing: a comprehensive, coherent, visionary view of the health system’s future in the next 10-20 years wherein physicians will play a key role. That view should include… …

The U.S. health system’s future is not a repeat of its past. Recognizing this, physicians and the professional associations like APG and AMA that serve them have an obligation to define its future state NOW.

Some physicians are on the brink of despair; others are at the starting line ready to take on the challenge. …“

Paul Keckley, May 30, 2023

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of May 28 regarding the continued shortage of cancer drugs carboplatin and cisplatin and hospital workforce shortages. MHA representatives appearing in published stories include CEO Brian Peters and Executive Vice …

MHA Monday Report May 22, 2023

May 22, 2023May 19, 2023 Monday Report

Urge State Lawmakers to Oppose Harmful Hospital Nurse Staffing Legislation

Harmful legislation was introduced in the Michigan Legislature May 11 that proposes mandated nursing staffing ratios, which would exacerbate existing shortages and restrict important access to healthcare services for Michigan patients. The MHA voiced their …

Patient Treatment Impacted by Shortage of Cancer Drugs

Manufacturing delays at several pharmaceutical companies are causing nationwide shortages of two critical chemotherapy medications – forcing Michigan hospitals and health systems to find alternative treatments for patients, some of which may be less effective. …

MHA Annual Membership Meeting Registration Deadline May 26

Registration is due May 26 for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 28 through 30 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Education sessions highlight tactics to address structural inequalities by leveraging data and partnerships, …

MHA Celebrates National Hospital Week with Messages from Michigan Leaders

During the week of May 7, the MHA celebrated National Hospital Week (NHW) by sharing a series of videos featuring healthcare, education, government and agriculture leaders across the state thanking Michigan hospitals and healthcare workers …

MHA Webinar Reviews PACE Programs

With the closure of nursing homes and long-term care facilities, hospitals and health systems need options to care for seniors. Dually eligible frail seniors are one of the most complex cohorts with multiple comorbidities, frequent hospital admissions and readmissions, and expensive care needs that span acute, post-acute and long-term care. …

Registrations Due May 22 for Person & Family Engagement Webinar

Registrations closes May 22 for the MHA webinar Person & Family Engagement: A Roadmap to Patient-Centered Care and Outcomes from 8:30 to 10 a.m. ET May 24. The webinar will review the newly released MHA …

Governance Fellowship Helps Trustees Think Critically About the Future

Strategic thinking is a critical skill for all healthcare leaders and the future belongs to organizations whose governing board, working in strategic partnership with management, helps envision the future and assists in discerning and framing …

2023 Ludwig Nominee: Bronson Task Force Addressing Racial Bias in Maternal and Infant Care

The Keckley Report

Hospital Boards are Not Prepared for the Future

“While Congressional leaders play chicken with the debt ceiling this week, antipathy toward hospitals is mounting. To be fair, hospitals are not alone: drug companies and PBMs share the distinction while health insurers, device companies, medical groups and long-term care providers enjoy less attention…for now.

Hospitals are soft targets. They’re also vulnerable. They operate in a sector that’s labor intense, capital intense and highly regulated by federal, state and local governments. They’re high profile: many advertise regionally/nationally, all claim unparalleled clinical excellence and unfair treatment by health insurers. …

Most hospital boards of directors, especially not-for-profit organizations, are not prepared to calibrate the pace of these changes nor active in developing scenario possibilities for their future. That’s the place to start. …“

Paul Keckley, May 15, 2023

News to Know

The MHA and Endorsed Business Partner AMN Healthcare Language Services are hosting the webinar New Organizational Responsibilities in Health Equity Regulation: ACA Section 1557 from 3 to 4 p.m. ET June 14.
Completed 2022 occupational mix surveys must be submitted by acute care hospitals paid under the Medicare prospective payment system to the Medicare Administrative Contractor by June 30, 2023.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of May 15 regarding a shortage of two critical chemotherapy medications, hospital nurse staffing legislation and the well-being of hospital workers. A press release was published May 17 by the …

MHA Monday Report May 15, 2023

May 15, 2023May 15, 2023 Monday Report

Harmful Nurse Staffing Legislation Introduced in Michigan Legislature

Harmful nurse staffing legislation was introduced May 11 in the Michigan Legislature that would mandate nurse staffing ratios, require public disclosure of the ratios and restrict mandatory overtime for nurses. The bill package is pushed by the Michigan Nurses Association and was ….

Behavioral Health ED Boarding Data Available

Behavioral health emergency department (ED) boarding data the MHA has been collecting on a weekly basis from acute care hospitals across Michigan since March 2023 is now available on the Health Data webpage of the …

MHA Annual Membership Meeting Includes Ways to Support Michigan Hospitals

The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 28 through 30 at Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The annual meeting will feature an outstanding lineup of speakers, the family …

DEA Issues Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications

After delaying the final rule for ending COVID-19 telehealth prescribing rules, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has issued a temporary rule to allow the following: The full set of telemedicine flexibilities regarding prescription of controlled …

Upcoming Webinars on Medicare FFS Quality-based Programs

Webinar Outlines Practices to Re-engage Patients and Families in Care

Fractured social contracts in today’s world have changed the healthcare landscape and culture. There is a convergence of patient consumerism and digital transformation happening, and those who focus on patient-centered care and person and family …

MHA Keystone Center PSO Safe Table – Health IT & Risk Safety

The MHA Keystone Center PSO is hosting a Health IT & Risk Safety Safe Table from 12:30 to 3 p.m. June 14. The event will be held at Goshen Health, located at 200 High Park …

Direct Care and Behavioral Health Workforce Assessment: Regional Feedback Sessions

Public Sector Consultants and Health Management Associates are partnering with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to gather the perspectives of people impacted by the direct care worker and behavioral health workforce …

MHA Webinar Focuses on Building Trust and Relationships for Trustees

When stakeholders gather to discuss community vitality, the health and wellbeing of the community is not only about access to safe, affordable healthcare, but about non-medical health influences that have an impact on the community. …

MDHHS Releases Beginner Guide for Doula Providers

Michigan Medicaid began reimbursing doula services provided to individuals covered by or eligible for Medicaid as of Jan. 1, 2023. Doula providers are required to be on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services …

The Keckley Report

The End of the Pandemic Health Emergency is Ill-timed and Short-sighted: The Impact will further Destabilize the Health Industry

“The national spotlight this week will be on the debt ceiling stand-off in Congress, the end of Title 42 that enables immigrants’ legal access to the U.S., the April CPI report from the Department of Labor and the aftermath of the nation’s 199^th mass shooting this year in Allen TX.

The official end of the Pandemic Health Emergency (PHE) Thursday will also be noted but its impact on the health industry will be immediate and under-estimated. …

In the weeks ahead as the debt ceiling is debated, the Federal FY 2024 budget finalized and campaign 2024 launches, the societal value of the entire health system and speculation about its preparedness for the next pandemic will be top of mind. …“

Paul Keckley, May 8, 2023

News to Know

Upon the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the Health Resources & Services Administration will end a 2020 policy allowing hospitals to use 340B drugs for eligible patients in new hospital locations, even if they have not yet appeared on a filed Medicare cost report.
The MHA is hosting the webinar MHA Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): An Alternative to Traditional Nursing Home care from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. May 23.
Completed 2022 occupational mix surveys must be submitted by acute care hospitals paid under the Medicare prospective payment system to the Medicare Administrative Contractor by June 30, 2023.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of May 8 regarding nurse staffing legislation, healthcare worker shortages, the ending of the COVID-19 public health emergency and more. A joint media statement was published May 11 …

MHA Monday Report May 8, 2023

May 8, 2023May 5, 2023 Monday Report

State Legislation Introduced to Address Violence Against Healthcare Workers, Strengthen Healthy Michigan Plan and Expand Organ Donor Registration

Legislation to increase the penalties for assaulting healthcare employees and volunteers was introduced in the state House of Representatives during the week of May 1. Additional legislation was introduced to remove unnecessary provisions of the …

Michigan’s Largest Private-sector Employer Remains Healthcare

The Partnership for Michigan’s Health reports healthcare directly employed nearly 568,000 Michigan residents in 2021, demonstrating that healthcare remains the largest private-sector employer in the state despite continued staffing losses attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. …

Webinar Reveals New Tool to Improve Person and Family Engagement

The MHA is hosting a webinar from 8:30 to 10 a.m. May 24 to review the newly released MHA Person & Family Engagement Roadmap, which includes recommended policies to re-engage patients and caregivers and …

Final Medicaid Bulletin on Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a final Medicaid Policy Bulletin May 1 with revisions to the Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems Policy. In response to the proposed policy issued April 1, …

E.W. Sparrow Hospital Nurse Receives Q2 MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award

The MHA Keystone Center presented Cheryl Kay, RN, at E.W. Sparrow Hospital with the quarterly MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award, which celebrates individuals or teams in Michigan hospitals demonstrating a commitment to the prevention of …

DEA Delays Ending COVID-19 Telehealth Prescribing Rules

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is delaying draft rules that proposed stricter telehealth limits on providers prescribing controlled substances, like buprenorphine for opioid use disorder or Adderall for ADHD. The DEA will temporarily extend …

MHA Webinar Reviews PACE Programs

MHA Podcast Explores How Michigan Leaders Can Collaborate to Address Gaps in Behavioral Health

2023 Ludwig Nominee: Priority Health, National Fitness Campaign Partner to Offer Free Fitness Courts

MHA CEO Report — Attracting Healthcare Talent

Talent acquisition is always top of mind for all business leaders. Demand for workers now outpaces supply throughout the U.S., but particularly here in Michigan due to our demographic realities, including an aging baby-boom generation entering retirement in significant numbers. …

The Keckley Report

The Tit for Tat Game in Healthcare produces No Winners

“Tit for Tat battles in healthcare are nothing new. Last week, they were on full display. …

Most of the food fights in healthcare like last week’s revolve around each sector’s unique response to the three challenges above. That’s why they exist: to protect the interests of their members and advocate on their behalf. All believe their mission and vision is essential to the greater good and the moral high ground theirs. Some are imperiled more than others: not for profit, rural and safety net hospitals, long-term care operators, direct caregivers and public health programs at the top of this list.

Educating lawmakers is necessary but what’s needed is serious, objective forward-looking definition of the U.S. health system’s future. The tit for tat game will not solve anything. That’s where we are. …“

Paul Keckley, May 1, 2023

News to Know

National Hospital Week 2023 is May 7-13.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services created a series of short videos to help providers and community partners navigate policies impacted by the ending of the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.
Registration remains open for the 2023 MHA Annual Membership Meeting, scheduled June 28 through 30 at Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.
Completed 2022 occupational mix surveys must be submitted by acute care hospitals paid under the Medicare prospective payment system to the Medicare Administrative Contractor by June 30, 2023.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of May 1 on the economic impact of healthcare in Michigan and planned state legislation that would require nurse-to-patient staffing ratios in hospitals. Crain’s Grand Rapids Business published …

The Keckley Report

The Keckley Report

The Keckley Report

The Keckley Report

The Keckley Report

The Keckley Report

The Keckley Report<img decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-11798 size-full" src="https://www.mha.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Paul-Keckley.png" alt="Paul Keckley" width="137" height="126" />

The Keckley Report

Michigan Health & Hospital Association

The Keckley Report