DSRIP Weekly Update-Sept. 23, 2014
Among the new Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) program updates this week are updated Safety Net lists.
Safety Net Appeals
As a result of the second and reportedly last appeals process for the purposes of being designated as a Safety Net Provider, DOH has been updating lists. Click here to view the updated information. LeadingAge NY advocated with the Department of Health (DOH) regarding safety net issues; 1) to allow for non-Medicaid providers that otherwise meet the Safety Net definition to be deemed as Safety Net providers; and 2) that new Certified Home Health Agencies (CHHAs) that are too new to have the data to demonstrate Safety Net status be reviewed differently, with an appreciation to the unique factors of these organizations. It remains unclear what DOH’s final stance is regarding the non-Medicaid provider issue, as many non-Medicaid providers remain on the Safety Net lists, despite the clear indication in the second appeals process that this was a requirement. Based on the CHHA Safety Net updated list, it is clear that we need to advocate further. While the Vital Access Exemption may be another opportunity, it will not be an opportunity for all. We are currently strategizing on next steps for both concerns.
Regulatory Reform
According to statutory language in last year’s budget, DSRIP presents the opportunity for regulatory reform in the event that it poses a barrier to DSRIP objectives. LeadingAge NY provided DOH with preliminary ideas, which can be accessed here. In addition, as reported by Hinman Straub, LeadingAge NY's counsel, Dan Sheppard from the Department’s Office of Health System Management provided a presentation last Wednesday to the PHHPC’s Public Health Committee on the process that will allow PPSs to request to have specific State regulations waived in order to help implement specific DSRIP projects. The presentation focused on the “DSRIP Regulatory Flexibility Guidance Document”, which is intended to provide information to PPSs on every type of regulatory waiver that is permissible and the criteria to qualify for each Waiver. We encourage members to let us know of other reforms that would support your ability to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and emergency room visits.
Medicaid Analytics Performance Portal (MAPP) Export and Import Functionality
DOH announced the addition of new functionality to the DSRIP Provider Network Tool. PPS users will be able to export their provider data and import a file containing provider data. DOH will provide guidance regarding the use of this new functionality. The MAPP webpage can be viewed here.
Frequently Asked Questions
The DOH DSRIP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document has been updated and now includes some new sections. We are currently analyzing the changes, but highlights include:
- A new section regarding the new Project 2.d.i
- New guidance DSRIP Project Advisory Committees (PACs)
- Updates to the Vital Access Provider (VAP) Exception
- Information regarding Attribution and Valuation
The updated FAQ document can be viewed here.
Webinars/Presentations
On Sept. 10, 2014, DOH provided an informational webinar on the role of Health Homes in the Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) program. The webinar slides and the audio recording, along with additional information about the DSRIP program, are available here. The Questions and Answers from the webinar will be transcribed and posted on the DOH DSRIP webpage shortly.
DOH also posted Developing a Performing Provider System: A Real-Life Example from Westchester Medical Center, which can be accessed here. This webinar was developed by the emerging Westchester Medical Center PPS and explains its planning process to date. The webinar covers specific topics, including: network development, governance, DSRIP program management and staffing, conducting the DSRIP Community Needs Assessment, project selection/planning considerations, community and stakeholder engagement.
Questions?
As always, if you have questions or needs related to DSRIP, please let us know. Questions to DOH regarding DSRIP can be directed to dsrip@health.ny.gov, and questions related to Health Homes can be submitted here.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828