An Act To Update And Improve The Mainecare Reimbursement System

This bill updates Maine's MaineCare reimbursement system to ensure nursing homes and healthcare providers receive fair payment rates that reflect actual costs of care. It requires the Department of Health and Human Services to establish reimbursement rates based on regional labor costs, inflation adjustments, and audited cost reports rather than flat rates. The legislation mandates that rates be rebased every two years starting from a 2016 baseline, with protections against rate reductions and adjustments for cost-of-living increases. Additionally, it creates a framework for alternative payment models that link reimbursement to quality performance measures while maintaining compliance with federal requirements.