Bill > HB274

This bill establishes a medical respite care program for homeless individuals who are eligible for Medicaid in Montana. The program will provide short-term housing and supportive medical services for homeless people who are too ill to recover on the streets but not sick enough to require hospitalization. The medical respite care will include comprehensive services such as treatment plan development, medication management, immunizations, disease screening, discharge planning, care coordination, social service assistance, transportation to medical appointments, and meal provision. The Department of Public Health and Human Services is directed to apply for a federal waiver or state plan amendment from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) by January 1, 2026, to implement the program. The department will be required to report annually to the legislature on the number of individuals served, program costs, and healthcare cost reductions. The program will become effective once CMS approves the waiver or state plan amendment, with the definition of "homeless" following the federal standard under 42 U.S.C. 11302. The bill aims to provide critical medical support and temporary housing for a vulnerable population while potentially reducing overall healthcare expenses.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1384