MEDICAID-NURSING RATES

Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that it shall be a matter of State policy that the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall set nursing facility rates by rule utilizing an evidenced-based methodology that rewards appropriate staffing, quality-of-life improvements for nursing facility residents, including the cessation of payments for rooms with 3 or more people residing in them by January 1, 2027, and the reduction of racial inequities and health disparities for nursing facility residents enrolled in Medicaid. Provides that the new nursing services reimbursement methodology taking effect January 1, 2022, upon federal approval, shall utilize the Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM) (rather than the RUG-IV 48 grouper model). Sets the statewide base rate for dates of service on and after January 1, 2022 at $85.25. Requires the Department to establish, by rule, a multiplier based on information from the Payroll Based Journal. Provides that, beginning on and after January 1, 2022, the Department shall allocate funding, by rule, for per diem add-ons to the PDPM methodology for each resident with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Contains provisions concerning funds allocated for certain incentive payments to nursing facilities; emergency rules; payments to improve the quality of care delivered by nursing facilities; long-term care provider assessments; and other matters. Amends the Nurse Agency Licensing Act. Prohibits nurse agencies from entering into covenants not to compete with certified nurse aides. Amends the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Permits the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to adopt emergency rules. Effective immediately.