Briefs

New federal figures mean higher income limits for benefit programs
HHSC eligibility workers have begun using revised income guidelines for benefit programs. The new guidelines are based on newly revised federal poverty limits, which go into effect March 1. The resulting effect is higher income limits for programs like TANF, SNAP, CHIP and Medicaid. The new income limits for women’s health care programs are posted on the HHSC website, and the new limits for CHIP and Children’s Medicaid are at CHIPmedicaid.org.

Women’s Health Program rule triggers certification
A new rule goes into effect March 14 that will require certification by each provider in the Women’s Health Program. The new rule prohibits a provider that performs elective abortions, or one that affiliates with an entity that performs or promotes elective abortions, from participation in the Women’s Health Program.

HHSC is developing the certification process and procedures through which each Women’s Health Program provider will assure they are eligible to participate in the program. Information, including the certification deadline, will be posted on the TMHP website.

In the meantime, information about the new rule, including answers to common questions, is posted in the Women’s Health Program section of the HHSC website.

2-1-1 report offers insight
Did you know that from 2005 through 2010 the 2-1-1 Texas Information & Referral Network handled more than 12 million information and referral calls statewide? It’s true. You can find more facts like that in the 2010 version of the 2-1-1 Texas Information & Referral Network Action Summary, now available on the HHSC website. The action summary is a comprehensive look at 2-1-1 and the 25 area information centers that make up the 2-1-1 network. 

New Medicaid committees tap top talent
Three Medicaid advisory committees created by the 2011 Texas Legislature are now flush with new members. HHSC has selected members to serve on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Council, the Quality-Based Payment Advisory Committee and the Physician Payment Quality Committee. The new committees will help improve Medicaid services and reform the payment system. A complete list of the new members is on the news release announcing the committees. 

HHSC advisory committee seeks member
Applications are being accepted for membership on HHSC’s Advisory Committee on Qualifications for Health Care Translators and Interpreters. The membership slot to be filled is for someone who represents a business that provides translators and interpreters to health care practitioners. The mission of the committee is to advise HHSC on qualifications and standards for health care translators and interpreters. Applications are being taken until March 5. For more information, visit the advisory committee’s web page.

Meetings, public hearings, workshops and events
Keep up with policy developments and discussions of interest at HHSC by viewing the Public Meetings page of the HHSC website.