Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI) has introduced the Safety Net Provider Drug Pricing Protection Act 2.0 BERGMI_084.

This new legislation would prohibit any arrangement under the 340B Program that would allow drug manufacturers to require any of the providers listed below to pay more than the 340B ceiling price at the time of purchase, with later reconciliation through a rebate, reimbursement, or other payment including FQHCs, Hemophilia Treatment Centers, Critical Access Hospitals, Sole Community Hospitals, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Clinics, and other safety net providers.

Together, these providers represent just 15 percent of all 340B spending, yet they are among the most vulnerable to a rebate-based model for the 340B Program. For them, the up-front 340B discount is not surplus revenue – it is a critical lifeline that sustains clinic operations and keeps rural hospitals open.

Rep. Dianna Harshbarger, (R-TN) and Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) are circulating a letter Rebate Support Letter among the House of Representatives “supporting the Administration’s implementation of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program.”

They cite that the rebate model is an important step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and program integrity within the 340B program. Both representatives are pharmacists.

Deadline for signing is noon April 20.

On April 2, CMS finalized the annual Medicare Advantage/Part D rule for coverage year 2027.

In January, NACHC commented on the rule and its potential impact on CHCs and their patients. The final rule includes updates to STAR Ratings, changes to disclaimer requirements for third-party marketing organizations, and the elimination of the 48-hour scope of appointment waiting period.

On April 14, CMS released a proposed rule on interoperability and prior authorization for drugs across Medicare Advantage and Medicaid managed care plans.

The rule builds on prior interoperability efforts, expands requirements to prior authorizations of drugs, and proposes the adoption of Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) standards.

See the CMS factsheet for more information.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released new guidance outlining changes to federal Medicaid and CHIP funding for certain noncitizens that states must implement by October 1, 2026.

With limited exceptions, federal funding will no longer be available for full Medicaid or CHIP benefits for some qualified noncitizens, unless they meet specific immigration status criteria.

In order to enroll in the Pennsylvania Medical Assistance Program, Community Health Workers (CHW) must be certified through an approved CHW training program. If you have CHWs looking to obtain certification, the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) offers Pennsylvania Certification Board-approved training programs at all regional AHEC centers.

In addition to an approved training program, AHEC also offers a CHW Apprenticeship program that gives the opportunity for uncertified CHWs to earn while they learn, and the added benefit of mentorship and the work hours required to be eligible for the certification exam.

Learn more about the PA AHEC’s CHW Training programs and register your CHWs today!