State Lawmakers Send QCA Reauthorization to Governor’s Desk

Legislation includes five-year QCA reauthorization, rural health, funding for EMS, nursing homes

October 18, 2023

State lawmakers today agreed to reauthorize the Quality Care Assessment (QCA) for five years, sending the legislation to the governor’s desk for final approval.

The legislation—which is part of a broader bill to support hospitals, rural health, emergency medical services, and nursing homes—ensures support for Pennsylvanians’ health as lawmakers continue negotiations to finalize pieces of the state budget.

The health care package advanced through the House today after unanimous approval in the Senate Tuesday.

In a statement, HAP President and CEO Nicole Stallings said: “HAP and Pennsylvania hospitals applaud the General Assembly and the Shapiro administration for prioritizing Pennsylvanians’ access to health care, even as work continues to finalize the 2023–2024 state budget.

“Among the key components of House Bill 1351 are provisions that reauthorize for five years a program that helps to support care for millions of Pennsylvanians covered by Medicaid; improve the sustainability of emergency medical services and skilled nursing care; and update Pennsylvania’s innovative model that strengthens rural hospitals. These measures support providers across the health care continuum and help protect Pennsylvanians’ ability to get the care they need in their communities.

“HAP thanks both House and Senate leaders for working in a bipartisan way to support Pennsylvanians’ health and especially thanks Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman for offering the amendment that moved these health care priorities forward.”

Notably, the legislation will:

• Reauthorize the QCA for five years, supporting Medicaid patients and the sustainability of hospital care across the commonwealth
• Increase reimbursement rates for EMS services and ensure providers are compensated for all loaded miles
• Revise Medicaid reimbursement rates for nursing homes to help support their financial sustainability
• Update Pennsylvania’s rural hospital model to support rural health care

For more information about House Bill 1351, contact Heather Tyler, vice president, state legislative advocacy.