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HB 337

Community health workers; DMAS to evaluate, etc., to integrate into Medicaid managed care, report.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony

Virginia directs Medicaid to evaluate integrating community health workers into managed care plans and report on feasibility, costs, and implementation strategies.

Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB337)
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Bill Summary · HB 337

Legislative bill overview

HB 337 directs the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) to evaluate how community health workers (CHWs) can be integrated into Virginia's Medicaid managed care programs and requires a report on findings. Community health workers are frontline public health workers who provide culturally competent services, health education, and care coordination within their communities.

Why is this important

Community health workers have demonstrated effectiveness in improving health outcomes, reducing emergency department utilization, and addressing health disparities in underserved populations. Integration into Medicaid managed care could expand access to preventive services and chronic disease management while potentially reducing overall healthcare costs through better care coordination.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Determining how to fund CHW positions and whether savings from reduced ED visits and hospitalizations justify the investment requires detailed fiscal analysis
  • Scope and regulation: Questions about CHW qualifications, licensing, oversight, and what clinical activities they can perform versus requiring licensed providers
  • Implementation timeline: Managed care plans may require significant operational changes to incorporate CHWs into existing care delivery networks and workflows

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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