Hearing.  Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on Feb. 10, 2016, at 9 a.m. to receive public comment on proposed payment rates for the PPECC program operated by HHSC.

The hearing will be held in compliance with Texas Human Resources Code §32.0282 (relating to public hearing on rates) and Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 1, §355.9080 (relating to general reporting and documentation, methods, and procedures), which require public notice of and hearings on proposed Medicaid reimbursements. 

Proposal.  HHSC proposes to administer and implement rates and establish a reimbursement methodology for Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers (PPECCs). A PPECC provides non-residential, facility-based care as an alternative to private-duty nursing for individuals under the age of 21 with complex medical needs. In accordance with Texas Human Resources Code section 32.024(jj), HHSC is establishing PPECCs as a separate Medicaid provider type.  The proposed rates will be effective Feb. 15, 2016.

Methodology and Justification.  HHSC calculated the proposed payment rates in accordance with the rate-setting methodologies codified in the TAC Title 1, §355.9060 (relating to reimbursement methodology for the Youth Empowerment Services waiver program).

Briefing Package.  On Jan. 22, 2016, a briefing package describing the proposed payment rates will be available.  Those interested may also obtain a free copy of the briefing package by contacting the HHSC Rate Analysis department by U.S. mail addressed to Health and Human Services Commission, Rate Analysis Department, Mail Code H-400, P.O. Box 149030, Austin, Texas 78714-9030; by telephone at 512-730-7401; by fax at 512-730-7475; or by email at RAD-LTSS@hhsc.state.tx.us.  In addition, free copies of the briefing package will be available at the public hearing. 

Written Comments.  Written comments regarding the proposed payment rates may be submitted instead of, or in addition to, oral testimony until 5 p.m. the day of the hearing.  Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail, overnight mail, special delivery mail, hand delivery, fax, or email.

U.S. Mail
Health and Human Services Commission
Rate Analysis Department, Mail Code H-400
P.O. Box 149030
Austin, Texas 78714-9030

Overnight mail, special delivery mail or hand delivery
Health and Human Services Commission
Rate Analysis Department, Mail Code H-400
4900 North Lamar Blvd.
Austin, Texas 78751

Phone number for package delivery:  512-730-7401

Fax
Attention:  Kyle Baxter at 512-730-7475

Email
RAD-LTSS@hhsc.state.tx.us