AN ACT RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES -- MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

HB 5144 proposes to change the methodology for Medical Assistance (Medicaid) payments to nursing facilities and other long-term care providers. It authorizes the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) to review and modify the current system, allowing a shift from a price-based methodology back to a cost-based one. This new system would account for factors like patient needs, facility operating costs, and include regular inflation adjustments. A significant portion of future rate increases would be dedicated to boosting compensation for eligible direct-care workers. The bill also mandates comprehensive rate reviews every three years and establishes incentives for facilities that meet performance benchmarks.