Emily C Yona

The meeting focused on the formal launch of the Beneficiary Advisory Committee (BAC) and the establishment of commitments to ensure Medicaid member feedback is integrated into program oversight and continuous improvement. Key discussion topics included the legal authority for the committee under the Medicaid and CHIP Access Final Rule 2024, the definition of executive sponsorship roles, the purpose and composition of the committee, meeting frequency and structure, and an overview of the proposed bylaws and operating framework. Additionally, the committee discussed the member-led leadership structure and identified various Medicaid-related areas upon which the committee can advise, such as services, quality, enrollment, and access.

The committee meeting covered a range of administrative and operational topics. Key discussions included identifying agenda items for the next quarterly session, such as dental providers, prescription changes, access waivers, and ABA services. Administrative discussions focused on selecting virtual meeting platforms, determining officer positions, and reviewing organizational bylaws. The group also addressed communication challenges, scheduling improvements, and the necessity of clarifying member roles and responsibilities. Furthermore, an action plan was established for finalizing the agenda, conducting surveys for input, and improving website transparency regarding meeting schedules.

The GREAT Health Program is Georgia's strategy for long-term rural healthcare transformation, aimed at advancing federal goals tailored to the state's needs. The program's core goals include improving health outcomes, increasing access to care, strengthening rural healthcare systems, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability for providers. These goals are addressed through five transformative initiatives focused on sustainable health systems, a strengthened continuum of care, expanded access via technology, healthcare workforce development, and leveraging innovation. The overall vision is to foster resilient rural health systems, reduce mortality and hospital readmissions, and expand primary and preventive care services for rural Georgians.

The Audit Committee meeting covered several key agenda items, including a review of the audit committee charter and a suggestion for future discussions on major financial risk exposures such as cybersecurity. The committee received an update on the request for information regarding fraud, waste, and abuse efforts and reviewed the status of various federal and state audits, including those conducted by HHS and the Department of Audits. Specific findings from fiscal year 2024 and 2025 audits were discussed, along with the status of corrective action plans for identified deficiencies in areas such as financial reporting and Medicaid program integrity.

The board meeting covered several agenda items, including updates from the audit committee regarding its charter and federal fraud, waste, and abuse initiatives. The Commissioner provided updates on legislative activity, the rural health transformation program, and the directed payment program. Key actions included the final adoption of changes to school-based services guidance, modifications to disproportionate share hospital payment allocation methodology, and revisions to rules for nursing homes and intermediate care homes. Additionally, the board initiated a review of rule changes for end-stage renal disease facilities.