Advocacy Agenda to Improve Part C EI Services for PA

IV. Priority Recommendations (continued)

MA3. Leverage Medicaid MCO quality/performance initiatives to increase maternal depression screening and referrals

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, as well as professional associations, give priority to maternal depression screening in pediatric primary care visits. However, providers and families report continued gaps in screening and referrals to Part C EI. Missed opportunities exist to use MCO contracts and other mechanisms to improve maternal depression screening and to make appropriate referrals for mothers and infants and toddlers. Leverage Medicaid MCO contracts and quality/performance initiatives to increase maternal depression screening (based on national recommendations) and referrals to Part C EI.

Issue

Solution

Administrative Minimal additional funding needed

Type

MA5. Use increased federal funding for Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) to enlarge support for infants and toddlers with disabilities

Medicaid is the primary source of funding for HCBS for people with disabilities, including children, in Pennsylvania and most states. Federal funding to states increased under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and further investments are under discussion by Congress. With additional funds, Pennsylvania can continue its investments in HCBS for children and in Part C EI for infants and toddlers. Use increased federal funding for Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) to enlarge support for infants and toddlers with disabilities (e.g., workforce development, rates, mental health).

Issue

Solution

Administrative and legislative Decisions on allocation of any new federal financial resources required

Type

June 2022

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