Today’s NewsStand

Today’s NewsStand

By Iowa Hospital Association|
|May 12, 2021

Iowa news

Managed Medicaid in Iowa: What members, state leaders are saying five years out

It’s been five years since Iowa moved its Medicaid program from a state-run system to one led by private, out-of-state insurance companies, but criticism of the transition has continued. The newer $5 billion program, which now covers more than 700,000 Iowa residents with low incomes and disabilities, has been met with complaints from providers, members and state representatives about low service reimbursement rates, struggles to obtain care and whether the transition is saving the state money. (Becker’s Hospital Review)

Experts say largest Iowa health systems not in compliance with price transparency rule

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently began sending noncompliance letters to health systems and hospitals across the country that are not meeting the requirements of a new federal rule that went into effect on Jan. 1 mandating consumer-friendly price transparency disclosures. It may be a large list, as some medical industry journals have reported that most of the largest US hospital systems have been found to not be complying with the new rules. (Business Record)

Iowa Farm Bureau highlights resources for farmers struggling with mental health

During May Mental Health Month, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is reaching out to farmers to let them know help is available. The federation said stress is, of course, normal and part of our everyday lives. This is especially true for the agricultural community with farmers competing against uncontrollable factors such as weather, markets and local and federal policies that affect their bottom lines. But stress can affect decision-making, relationships and physical health. (KWWL)

 

National news

Three remote workforce strategies from the revenue cycle exchange

Managing a remote workforce was a hot topic at the HealthLeaders Spring Revenue Cycle Exchange, which is underway this week in Naples, Florida. Although remote work poses challenges, revenue cycle leaders shared some of the solutions they’ve implemented at their organizations to maintain productivity, effectiveness and engagement among their staff. (HealthLeaders)

First Stop Health releases mental health solutions guide to help employers support their workforces with the latest benefits

In recognition of recent US mental health trends and Mental Health Awareness Month, leading telemedicine provider First Stop Health has released A Guide to Mental Health Solutions for Employees. Whether it’s anxiety about returning to offices or the stress of constant digital connection to work environments, this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month has never been more relevant to employers and their workers. (Chronicle Journal)

GAO report recommends data changes and better coordination to combat maternal mortality and morbidity in rural and underserved areas

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Health Resources and Services Administration should disaggregate and analyze maternal health data for rural and underserved communities, and adjust maternal health program efforts to meet the needs in those communities, the Government Accountability Office said in a report released this week. It also recommended the Department of Health and Human Services’ workgroups coordinate their approaches for monitoring maternal health efforts. (GAO@100)

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