Bill > AB284

This bill requires the Director of the Department of Health and Human Services to submit a request to the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish higher Medicaid reimbursement rates for vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy devices used to treat epilepsy. Specifically, the bill seeks to secure reimbursement rates of at least 82% of the device's acquisition cost, both for the initial device and for any replacement parts. These reimbursement rates would be separate from and in addition to the existing rates for medical procedures related to device implantation, repair, or part replacement. To support this initiative, the bill appropriates funds from the State General Fund and authorizes additional expenditures for the Division of Health Care Financing and Policy to cover the costs of implementing these new reimbursement rates and necessary computer system upgrades. The appropriations are allocated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with specific dollar amounts specified for each year. The bill aims to improve access to VNS therapy for Medicaid patients by making the devices more financially accessible through higher reimbursement rates.