iHere are the most recent health care related regulatory developments as published in the New Jersey Register in September 2018:
On September 4, 2018, at 50 N.J.R. 1926(a), the Department of Banking and Insurance proposed a rule readoption with amendments regarding the standards and practices for the regulation of dental plan organizations (DPOs) and the provision of dental services on other than a pure fee-for-service basis by insurers, DPOs, and dental service corporations (DSCs). Included in the this readoption is new provision that would require that any employee dental plans offered as alternate coverage through an insurance contract intended to be sold as a pediatric dental plan to satisfy the EHB requirement of the ACA and fulfill certain requirements set forth in the proposed rules.
On September 4, 2018, at 50 N.J.R. 1931(a), the State Board of Medical Examiners proposed rules to amend the continuing education requirements to require physicians and physician assistants to complete one credit of continuing education in topics concerning prescription opioid drugs every biennial renewal period. These topics would have to include responsible prescribing practices, alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain, and the risks and signs of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion.
On September 4, 2018, at 50 N.J.R. 1932(a), the Division of Consumer Affairs proposed rules to increase Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) registration fees after 21 years. All registrations fees are proposed to be doubled. Under the proposed rules, the initial and annual registration fee for dispensers and practitioners, it would change from $20 to $40.
On September 17, 2018, at 50 N.J.R. l987(a), State Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy issued proposed amendments to existing rules regarding licensure to require applicants to complete a course of study of at least 500 hours in massage and bodywork therapies and to pass a written examination. The Board would no longer allow licensure based on passing a written examination.
On September 17, 2018, at 50 N.J.R. 1992(b), Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Human Services, adopted amendments and new rules regarding home care services. There is a new provision regarding the transfer of beneficiary care to a different service provider. (N.J.A.C. 10:60-3.10).
On September 17, 2018, at 50 N.J.R. 2030(a), the Department of Health cancelled a call for pediatric intensive beds, citing that there is no current need. The notice stated that the Department issued approval for 22 new beds in response to 2017 pediatric intensive bed call. The next scheduled call is September 2, 2019.
