What’s happening: CHA DataSuite has issued a hospital-specific analysis of the final data for wage index and occupational mix. The analysis is intended to provide hospitals with a comparative review of the wage data that will be used to develop the upcoming federal fiscal year (FFY) 2027 Medicare hospital wage index.
(more…)CHA DataSuite Releases Analysis of FFY 2027 Wage Index and Occupational Mix Final Data
State Resubmits Hospital Fee Program 9, Draft Model Available for Members
What’s happening: On May 15, the state submitted the payment policies for the next iteration of the Hospital Fee Program (Program 9) to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This is the final piece needed for CMS to review the full application.
(more…)Comments Due in July for CMS’ Medicaid Supplemental Payments Proposal
What’s happening: Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a proposed rule outlining changes to Medicaid supplemental payments, including managed care state-directed payments. This is some of the implementation rulemaking associated with the payment reductions Congress enacted in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
(more…)EDs Encouraged to Complete Pediatric Readiness Survey
What’s happening: All emergency departments (EDs) are encouraged to take part in the 2026 National Pediatric Readiness Program Assessment. This nationwide assessment, which is completed every five years, is open until May 30.
(more…)CHA DataSuite Analysis Shows Impact of FFY 2027 IPPS Proposed Rule
What’s happening: CHA DataSuite has released a hospital-specific analysis of the federal fiscal year (FFY) 2027 inpatient prospective payment system (IPPS) based on the proposed rule.
(more…)CHA DataSuite Releases Analyses for Three Proposed Rules
What’s happening: CHA DataSuite has issued hospital-specific analyses of three prospective payment system proposed rules for federal fiscal year (FFY) 2027: inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPF), inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRF), and skilled-nursing facilities (SNF). Analysis descriptions, which provide detailed information on the sources and methods, are available for the IPF, IRF, and SNF proposed rules.
(more…)CDPH Notifies SNFs of Poster Requirements
What’s happening: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued All Facilities Letter AFL 26-14, which outlines requirements for posting information related to the State Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman in skilled-nursing facilities (SNFs).
(more…)AI Isn’t the Boogeyman
Earlier this week, representatives from multiple hospitals and health systems had an important opportunity at the Capitol to speak directly with key lawmakers about the value of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and the dangers of severely curbing these tested and valuable supports for health care workers.
(more…)May Budget Revision Avoids Broad Health Care Cuts
What’s happening: Gov. Newsom’s May Revision to the proposed 2026-27 state budget reflects a stronger-than-expected revenue outlook that avoids broad cuts to health care while maintaining a cautious fiscal approach that includes significant changes to Medi-Cal coverage.
(more…)Hospital Fee Program: Updates and Next Steps – Participant Information
On May 15, the state submitted the payment policies for the next iteration of the Hospital Fee Program (Program 9) to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), completing the full application for federal review. California now awaits final approval from CMS.
Join us to hear the latest updates on Program 9, including key model revisions and CHA’s federal advocacy efforts to secure program approval.
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