WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1151

Maryland Department of Health - Study on Maryland Medical Assistance Program Reimbursement of Hospice Room and Board Services

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 16 co-sponsors

Maryland orders health department study on Medicaid hospice room-and-board reimbursement rates to assess adequacy and inform future policy adjustments.

Passed Enrolled
#a
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1151

Legislative bill overview

HB 1151 directs the Maryland Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive study on how the state's Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) reimburses hospice providers for room and board services. The study will examine current reimbursement rates, costs to providers, and potential policy improvements, with findings due to the legislature within a specified timeframe.

Why is this important

Hospice care is a critical end-of-life service for vulnerable populations, many of whom rely on Medicaid. Reimbursement rates directly affect whether hospice providers can afford to serve Medicaid patients and maintain quality care. This study could inform future policy decisions about whether current rates adequately cover costs or need adjustment.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Study findings may recommend higher reimbursement rates, creating budget pressures on the state's already-strained Medicaid program
  • Scope definition: Unclear what "room and board" precisely includes and whether the study will address other hospice service reimbursements beyond housing costs
  • Implementation timeline: No specified deadline in the bill summary, potentially delaying policy action while patients' needs continue unmet

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

Sign in to ask a question.