NACDS, the Texas Federation of Drug Stores (TFDS) and the Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA) met with Stephanie Muth, Executive Commissioner of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), and her leadership team. Muth previously served as Medicaid Director during her more than 15-year tenure at HHSC, as well as holding roles as deputy executive commissioner and chief of staff before departing the agency in 2020. Bringing all Texas pharmacy groups together for this meeting was important to demonstrate unity on key priorities: no below-cost reimbursement; PBM reforms to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse; and the recognition of pharmacies as healthcare providers for Rural Health Transformation projects.
Also in Texas, the Health and Human Services Commissions (HHSC) Vendor Drug Program (VDP) revised Pharmacy Provider Procedure Manual that includes information about Medicaid benefits, policies and procedures for outpatient pharmacy claims and rebates was released.
Also in Texas, HHSC announced that in accordance with the requirements of HB229, ImmTrac2 forms have been updated.
Also in Texas, HHSC has transitioned to a new web-based software application, State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS), to collect information from providers for Medicaid and non-Medicaid cost reports, Supplemental and Directed Payment Program (DPP) enrollments and legislatively directed reports.
Finally in Texas, HHSC's Executive Council will meet on March 19 at 10:00 am. Members of the public are welcome to view the meeting by webcast and click on the Winters Live tab or you may attend in-person at the John H. Winters Building, Public Hearing Room 125, First Floor, 701 West 51st Street, Austin, Texas 78751. Information to watch the meeting virtually or to attend the meeting in-person is also located on the agenda.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.