HAP's Latest News

The COVID-19 pandemic spawned a surge in telehealth services, particularly for patients seeking care for behavioral health and chronic conditions, according to a study released this month in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

During a press conference today, the Wolf Administration reviewed the current status of COVID-19 in Pennsylvania and reinforced ongoing mitigation efforts, while confirming the time-limited order put into place on December 12 will expire on January 4. Officials also provided an update about progress in administering the COVID-19 vaccine and reinforced the priority of ensuring access to the COVID-19 vaccine for health care and emergency workers.

During a holiday season unlike any other, Pennsylvanians are asked to work together to stop the spread of COVID-19, holding virtual gatherings and avoiding unnecessary travel. The global pandemic has challenged everyone during 2020, and the physical distance from friends and families during the holidays can only amplify what has already been a very hard year.

HAP’s Achievement Awards showcase exceptional programs throughout Pennsylvania’s hospital community. This week, HAP is proud to recognize Washington Health System for its collaborative project offering peer support to hospital workers who become victimized or traumatized by an unanticipated experience.

This week, the American Hospital Association (AHA) released a public service announcement (PSA) and social media campaign thanking health care workers for their resiliency and service during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As winter holiday celebrations continue this week, HAP urges residents across the commonwealth to stay safe and follow the public health precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19.

A new HAP report released today shows that the economic impact of Pennsylvania’s hospital community extends far beyond the four walls of each facility, including providing family-sustaining jobs and powering local businesses and suppliers. 

Late Monday night, the U.S. House and U.S. Senate passed a year-end legislative package that provides critical support for small businesses, workers, and health care providers suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic; offers important relief for hospitals; and addresses the issue of surprise medical bills. The legislation extends funding for the federal government through the end of the federal fiscal year, but additional relief will be necessary during 2021 to continue to support the state’s hospitals and health system.

The deadline to enroll for health insurance that starts during the New Year closed today on Pennsylvania’s new health insurance marketplace, but residents still have time to enroll in plans that begin February 1, 2021.

In an effort to support the health care workforce, the Pennsylvania Department of State (DOS) announced today it is extending the license renewal deadline for health care professionals licensed under the State Board of Medicine for 90 days. The DOS also is extending emergency temporary licenses granted to out-of-state practitioners, and reactivated licenses for retired and inactive Pennsylvania-licensed practitioners.