HealthCare.gov enrollment ends this weekend Dec. 13, 2019

Patients without health insurance are still able to enroll on HealthCare.gov - but the deadline to get coverage for 2020 is Dec. 15. This is also the deadline for re-enrollment or making changes to an existing 2020 plan. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports those who miss the enrollment period may not be able to sign up again until the following fall unless they have an approved "life event."

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) will implement a statewide preferred drug list (PDL) for the state’s medical assistance fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems on Jan. 1, 2020. All "non-preferred" medical assistance prescriptions will be subject to prior authorization. The PAFP encourages members to contact DHS with any questions or concerns.

Atlantic Health Partners is a strong resource for PAFP members, offering the most favorable vaccine prices, terms, and purchasing support. Atlantic has expanded its program with the addition of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) vaccines, including options for practices interested in the GSK portfolio or for those just interested in using Bexsero (Meningitis B vaccine). Click here for details.

Berks County authorities have issued a public health alert after a mass overdose event this weekend. According to PennLive, 12 overdoses - three of them fatal - were reported in Reading, West Reading, Exeter Township and Rockland Township between Friday and Sunday. Cocaine powder laced with an opioid, likely fentanyl, is believed to have contributed.

Senate Bill 25 seeks to remove the collaborative agreement requirements for CRNPs, contending the agreements are no longer necessary and restricting service to rural areas. The PAFP opposes this legislation in the name of patient safety. Tell your representative to oppose SB 25, and click here to learn more about SB 25 in a video from PAFP President Mary Stock Keister, MD.