2015-16 Primary Care Fund Grant – remaining deadlines

“Below are the remaining important upcoming deadlines for the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund Grant:

• Thursday, May 7: Applicant Agencies Stakeholder Conference 2:30PM-4:00PM at 225 East 16th Ave, Denver, CO 80203 in conference rooms 6A/B. Click here to view call-in instructions for stakeholders that cannot attend in person.
• Friday, May 29: Application Responses due to the Department by Close of Business (5:00 p.m.)
• Monday, June 29: Tentative Award Notification (Time allotted for Appeal Process)” [Source: HCPF]

Colorado Health Access Fund - Proposals due May 15

“The Denver Foundation released the first Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Colorado Health Access Fund. This statewide Fund supports programs and activities that increase access to behavioral health care and strives to improve behavioral health outcomes for people in Colorado with high health care needs. Over the next eight years (2015 – 2022), the Fund is committed to allocating resources among rural, urban, and suburban areas.

Organizations interested in applying for funding can identify the behavioral health need that they want to address in their community. Funding is available for projects, programs, capital improvements, collaboratives, and general operating support. The first round of applications is due May 15th; grants will be awarded in late July 2015. More details can be found at www.denverfoundation.org.

Please contact our Project Manager, Summer Gathercole (CHA@denverfoundation.org) with any questions.” [Source: The Denver Foundation]

ClinicNET Webinar May 19th: Criminal Justice 101 and the Affordable Care Act

ClinicNET is hosting a webinar on May 19th, noon-1pm featuring the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition! Join us on your lunch break to learn more about the criminal justice system in Colorado, how to get justice involved individuals connected to care, other helpful resources including the Take Care Health Matters website, and a Q&A session. Click here to register for the webinar. Contact johanna.gelderman@clinicnet.org with any questions.

Next ClinicNET IT Cohort August 6th!

The next ClinicNET affiliate IT Cohort is scheduled for August 6th, 1:00-3:00pm at Clinica Tepeyac, 5075 Lincoln Street, Denver, CO 80216.Please RSVP to Brooke Powers at brooke.powers@clinicnet.org. We look forward to seeing you there!

2015 Medicaid Fee Schedule

“The 2015 Medicaid fee schedule is now posted on the Department’s Web site at:  https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/provider-rates-fee-schedule. The updated fee schedule includes the enhanced primary care (E&M) and vaccination rates that took effect on January 1, 2015.” [Source: HCPF]

Colorado Cancer Plan Questionnaire

“The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) invites you to complete a short questionnaire about your interest and perspective on the implementation of the 2016-2020 Colorado Cancer Plan.**

**Like all US states, Colorado has a statewide cancer plan developed by cancer community members and supported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These plans set forth measurable 5-year objectives with the potential to positively impact a state's cancer burden. Colorado's comprehensive 2016 - 2020 plan goals and objectives — currently under development — are intended to be a framework for collaborative efforts across the state that can empower individuals and organizations in Colorado’s fight against cancer.

The questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete and the anonymous, aggregated results will be used to help CDPHE make decisions about how to move forward with implementing the plan. To complete the questionnaire, please click on the following link or cut and paste into your browser by May 5, 2015: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CancerPlan.” [Source: CDPHE]

Denver Human Services Offers Navigator Training

Denver Human Services (DHS) is offering a navigator training for community partners. The navigator training includes an overview of the programs DHS offers, including food assistance, basic eligibility for Medicaid and cash programs, energy assistance, child support, childcare assistance program, PEAK, and a brief overview of the ACA. For more information and to register, please contact Kathy Crusan-Ford, Agency Trainer for SNAP Into Health, at Kathleen.Crusan-Ford@denvergov.org. The upcoming trainings will be held:

• May 22, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 1200 Federal Blvd., Denver
• June 26, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 1200 Federal Blvd., Denver [Source: Denver Human Services]

Remaining Non-ACA Compliant Health Insurance Plans Will End in 2015

“The Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) announced that all health insurance plans for individuals and small employers that do not meet Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements will not continue into 2016 (note: this decision does not impact grandfathered plans, defined by the ACA as plans with an effective date prior to March 23, 2010). This means that insurance companies will not continue to offer these plans and consumers will not be able to renew these plans. For 2016, individuals and small employers that are not enrolled in grandfathered plans must enroll in ACA-compliant plans in order to receive coverage. Based on a survey of health insurance carriers the DOI conducted earlier this year and reflective of enrollment as of Dec. 31, 2014, 189,779 people will have their non-ACA compliant individual or small group plans discontinued by the end of 2015, and will have to choose a new ACA-compliant plan for 2016.

Insurance companies will notify all of their individuals and small employers who hold non-ACA compliant plans of the discontinuation. These notices must contain information about all available options; whether or not the company will offer plans that meet ACA requirements; finding ACA-compliant plans offered through Connect for Health Colorado; and the ability to purchase plans from other insurance companies. Additional information, including FAQs, can be found on Colorado.gov/health or by contacting the DOI Consumer Affairs at 303-894-7490 / 1- 800-930-3745 (outside the Denver metro area) or email questions to insurance@dora.state.co.us.” [Source: DOI]

Connect for Health Colorado Updates

• “The Legislative Health Benefit Exchange Implementation Review Committee invited some of our key stakeholders to testify. They provided legislators some important insight in the hour long meeting. A recording is available online. Click here.
• Another report this week from Gallup-Healthways brought more good news. The uninsured rate among adults declined to 11.9% for the first quarter of 2015 -- down a percentage point from the previous quarter and 5.2 points since the end of 2013, just before the Affordable Care Act went into effect. Read more.” [Source: Connect for Health Colorado]

REGISTER TODAY for our June 11th ClinicNET Affiliate Convening!

 ClinicNET Affiliate Convening
June 11, 2015
8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Mile High Room at COPIC
7351 E. Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO
  

Please join us for a day of education and networking! Learn about current and upcoming practice transformation and innovation efforts in Colorado including the State Innovation Model (SIM), Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative (TCPI), ECHO Colorado, the State's eConsult/eReferral System, recent legislative changes and much more. Light breakfast and lunch will be served and there will be plenty of time to connect with your peers in the health care safety net. Click here to register today! (Please note this convening is rescheduled from March 20th.)

Reminder: ClinicNET Affiliate Practice Administrators Cohort April 30th

The next ClinicNET affiliate Practice Administrator Cohort is scheduled for April 30th, 9:00am-11:00am  at Inner City Health Center, 3840 York Street, Suite 100, Denver,(please note we will be meeting in the office building next door to the clinic). If you have not done so already, please RSVP to Brooke Powers at brooke.powers@clinicnet.org.

Recorded Webinar: Utilizing Colorado's All Payer Claims Database

We hosted a webinar featuring the Center for Improving Value in Healthcare (CIVHC) and the Colorado All Payer Claims Database (APCD). Click here to view the recording and learn more about Colorado's APCD, how you can use it and gain access to custom data for your community, and how you can provide feedback to CIVHC on how to make this important public resource even more useful for your clinic.

Audio and powerpoint slides from all ClinicNET webinars are on the Affiliate Only section of the ClinicNET website.

HCPF Updates: Enhanced rates for E&M and ACC Model Details and Policy Decisions

The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) is pleased to announce enhanced rates for E&M and vaccination codes are now loaded! Effective this week, any qualified E&M or vaccination claim will be paid at the December 2014 Medicare rate.  Providers are not required to attest to providing primary care. Our fiscal agent will also mass adjust all qualified claims paid since January 1st, and repay them at the higher rate.  Due to a limit on how many mass adjustments can be processed at a time, this process will take place over the next few weeks until all providers have been “made whole” for claims submitted since January 1st.

Please note that, although Medicare rates may be adjusted on a quarterly basis, Colorado Medicaid rates will not be adjusted to match these changes. HCPF will keep you posted if the rate benchmark changes.

ACC Model Details and Policy Decisions: Click here to view a document that summarizes three of the key structural decisions that will be in place starting July 1, 2017.  Over the next year, HCPF plans to continue stakeholder outreach and conduct additional research to continue developing the program model.

Parent and Caretaker Relative Eligibility Change FAQ Now Available: Beginning April 1, 2015, the income eligibility level for the Parent and Caretaker Relative MAGI Medicaid category was lowered from 107 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to 68 percent FPL. Through a mass update in the Colorado Benefits Management System (CBMS), most parents and caretaker relatives who were enrolled in this category were administratively moved to the Adult MAGI Medicaid category (the category for adults ages 19 to 64 with FPLs up to 133 percent FPL). Parents and caretaker relatives with Medicare are not eligible for the Adult MAGI Medicaid category, but will likely be eligible for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP). A small number of people may not be eligible for MSP, but they will be eligible to apply for private insurance through a SEP through Connect for Health Colorado. HCPF created a Parent/Caretaker Relative Federal Poverty Level Changes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document about this eligibility change.

MSB Recruiting New Member: The board is currently seeking applications for a vacant position and is looking to expand its pool of applicants for consideration. Coloradans who meet the general requirements outlined below are strongly encouraged to submit an application through the Governor’s Office of Board and Commissions:

• Board members must have knowledge of Medical Assistance programs;
• Board members may include a person or persons who have received services through programs administered by HCPF;
• No more than six members can be of the same political party;
• At least one member shall be appointed from each congressional district;
• Membership shall include representation by at least one member who is a person with a disability, a family member of a person with a disability, or a member of an advocacy group for persons with disabilities, provided that the other requirements are met. [Source: HCPF]

Registration is open for the Colorado Health Symposium

"Registration is now open for The Colorado Health Foundation's annual Colorado Health Symposium, July 29-31 in Keystone Colorado. The Colorado Health Symposium, a national health policy conference, is a unique chance to interact with leading experts in health and health care, share ideas and learn about emerging health trends. After each day's discussions, you’re free to recharge in or around the resort, renew relationships or network at various informal social activities.

Creating a culture where people can achieve the healthiest state possible requires institutional and individual change, but the key to lasting transformation lies in making meaningful connections to build a sustainable and comprehensive health system. Over three days, we will explore innovative technologies, practices and policies that help us align systems, activate communities and connect our values with actions to achieve the optimal state of health.

Click here to register, space is limited!" [Source: TCHF]

National Health Service Corps Site Application Technical Assistance Webinar, April 30th

“Are you working on completing a National Health Service Corps (NHSC) site application? Please join the National Health Services Corps to learn more about the program and the application process. The webinar covers: benefits of becoming an NHSC-approved site, eligibility requirements and the online application process. NHSC is accepting applications through June 2nd.

To participate in this webinar, you must join online and by phone. Audio for the webinar can be accessed using the dial in number below:

• Use this link to login to the webinar as a guest
• Dial-in Number: 1-888-996-4919  Passcode: 8392355

In addition, applicants can participate in the NHSC Site Application Technical Assistance Conference Call on Wednesday, May 13 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. NHSC staff members will be available to answer any questions you may have about the application process. Learn more about these upcoming events and access a helpful application checklist.” [Source: NHSC]

HHS announces new grant programs to help improve sharing of health information

“The Department of Health & Human Services recently announced the availability of $1 million in grant funds to support community projects for the Community Interoperability Health Information Exchange (HIE) Program. The funding will help support and enable the flow of health information at the community level, leading to better care and better health.

The Community Interoperability and HIE program will provide funds to up to ten community organizations, state or local government agencies, or other community groups. The awards will help unlock health information and better integrate community resources advancing better care and healthier communities.

Under the new grant program, awardees will demonstrate the use of health IT to the wide range of health providers, including those that are not eligible under the Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Record Incentive Programs. These include long-term and post-acute care providers, behavioral health providers, individuals and their caregivers, and other care setting and providers. These additional providers could also be safety net providers, public health, social service, emergency medical services and other key members of the care continuum.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 11:59 p.m. EDT on June 15, 2015. The deadline to submit intent to apply notices is May 15, but intent to apply notices are not mandatory.  The submission application is available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=275875.” [Source: HHS]

Registration is open for CDPHE's Chronic Disease Prevention Conference

“Evidence-based Solutions for Prediabetes and Hypertension: Shifting the Practice Paradigm
Learn evidence-based strategies that can support the prevention and management of cardiovascular-related chronic diseases. Take away tools to translate evidence into practice. Check out the conference brochure.

Date: June 12, 2015
Time: 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Location: Inverness Hotel and Conference Center, 200 Inverness Drive West, Englewood, CO 80112
Cost: Free

Click here to register! Password: CDPHE

For more information, visit colorado.gov/cdphe/chronicdisease2015events." [Source: COPrevent]

Webinar and Fact Sheets about Taxes and Insurance for People with DACA

“A recorded webinar is now available on taxes from the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) and United We Dream (UWD) for immigrants with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. The webinar addresses confusion about taxes and health coverage for this population, including the steps they should take to avoid being assessed the tax penalty if they did not have health insurance during the year. Two fact sheets are also available:

• UWD: Taxes & DACA: What do I need to know?
• NILC: DACAmented and Undocumented Immigrants and the Obamacare Tax Penalty” [Source: NILC]

Oral health webinar on improving care and reducing costs, April 24th

“Oral health is linked to overall health, and mounting evidence suggests that addressing oral health can improve patient care, improve population health and reduce costs. In this webinar, a leading researcher will share findings from a study of private insurance claims linking treatment of gum disease with significantly lower costs for individuals with diabetes and other chronic conditions. You will also hear about a program under way at Hennepin Health in Minnesota to connect patients with regular dental care and prevent costly visits to hospital emergency departments. And NASHP will provide an overview of a new brief and online toolkit that explore these topics and draw out lessons for state policymakers. The webinar is April 24, 2:00-3:00EST. Click here to register.” [Source: COPrevent]

REGISTER TODAY! ClinicNET Webinar: Learn more from CIVHC about the All Payer Claims Databse on April 22nd!

ClinicNET is hosting a webinar on April 22nd, noon-1pm, featuring the Center for Improving Value in Healthcare (CIVHC) and the Colorado All Payer Claims Database (APCD). Join us on your lunch break to learn more about Colorado's APCD, how you can use it and gain access to custom data for your community, and provide your feedback on how CIVHC can make this important public resource even more useful for your clinic. Click here to register for the webinar. Contact johanna.gelderman@clinicnet.org with any questions.

The Colorado All Payer Claims Database is the state’s most comprehensive health care claims (including Medicaid) database and is used to inform and support innovation in health care. Data is available publicly through www.comedprice.org, and custom data reports are available to communities, state agencies and other organizations looking for opportunities or working on specific projects to reach the Triple Aim of better health, better care and lower costs.

Primary Care Fund application - Intent to Apply Notification due April 21st!

“The Department has posted the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund application. The application includes important deadlines that must be met for consideration of the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund Grant including Intent to Apply Notification due April 21st and the actual application due by May 29th.

The Application looks a little different this year, in accordance with the American Disability Act; however there has not been any changes with regard to policies or requirements. In addition to the cosmetic changes to the application, the Department has created an Excel worksheet to assist Provider applicants with the Question 7 response. The worksheet is solely an option for providers to use. Both the application and Excel worksheet can be located in the Department’s website.” [Source: HCPF]

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY: The Denver Foundation's Colorado Health Access Fund

“The Denver Foundation released the first Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Colorado Health Access Fund. This statewide Fund supports programs and activities that increase access to behavioral health care and strives to improve behavioral health outcomes for people in Colorado with high health care needs. Over the next eight years (2015 – 2022), the Fund is committed to allocating resources among rural, urban, and suburban areas.

Funding is available for projects, programs, capital improvements, collaboratives, and general operating support. The first round of applications is due May 15th; grants will be awarded in late July 2015.

There is an upcoming Question & Answer session on April 20th at 10:30am. Attendees should RSVP to CHA@denverfoundation.org and indicate if they will attend in person or call in. It will take place at the Community Room of the Denver Foundation, 55 Madison Street, Room 745, Denver, CO.  To call in, dial 866-740-1260 and enter access code 1565286. PowerPoint slides can be viewed by visiting http://www.readytalk.com/ and entering access code 1565286 on the aforementioned days/times of the Q&A sessions.

Please contact our Project Manager, Summer Gathercole (CHA@denverfoundation.org) with any questions.” [Source: The Denver Foundation]

ACA Implementation News

Click here to view the latest issue of the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing’s ACA Implementation News. [Source: HCPF]

National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) Resources for National Minority Health Month

"Many racial and ethnic minority populations—including African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians and Alaska Natives, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and Native Hawaiians—are disproportionately affected by diabetes. During National Minority Health Month this April, join the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) to raise public awareness about this important health message.

The NDEP has a variety of publications and resources tailored for minority populations that you can use to educate your communities about diabetes and its related health problems:

• Choose More than 50 Ways to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
• We Have the Power to Prevent Diabetes
• Two Reasons I Find Time to Prevent Diabetes: My Future and Theirs
• Prevent Type 2 Diabetes. Step by Step. (Bilingual)
• You Are the Heart of Your Family...Take Care of It. (Bilingual)
• It’s Not too Late to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes (Spanish)
• Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Sorcy's Story Video
• Preventing Type 2 Diabetes: Maintaining a Healthy Weight Video
• GAME PLAN (Spanish)
• Four Steps to Manage Your Diabetes for Life (Spanish)

Visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org to learn more and find additional resources you can use to raise awareness about diabetes." [Source: COPrevent]

CCHAP Practice Manager Newsletter - Higher Medicaid Payments Approved for 2015

“Medicaid 2015 fee schedule: CMS has approved the rate increase to E&M and vaccination codes, bringing them on par with Medicare rates published in December 2014. These rates took effect on January 1, 2015, but Medicaid was unable to pay the rates until CMS approval was received.  The rates are currently being loaded into the MMIS claims system. Once loaded, any qualified E&M or vaccination claim will be paid at the new rate. Providers are not required to attest to providing primary care. All qualified claims from January 1st, 2015 will be mass adjusted and repaid at the higher rate. Click here for the fee schedules.

ICD-10 implementation presentation: This presentation is for providers, managers, and staff on April 23rd noon-1pm. The presenter is a national expert on ICD-10 and we are excited to be able to bring his expertise to medical home practices in Colorado. You may attend in person or via webinar remotely. RSVP by emailing joanie.muzzulin@childrenscolorado.org. The meeting will be held at Fitzsimons Village, 13100 East Colfax Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, Silverton Conference Room - 6th Floor.

Instructions to join the meeting remotely:
1. Open a web browser and enter URL: www.readytalk.com
Enter participant access code: 2093166
2. Dial in by phone for the audio portion of the conference: 1-866-740-1260
Enter the participant access code: 2093166

National Correct Coding Initiative Challenges: The National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) was introduced to Medicaid claims processing for claims filed on and after October 1, 2010. The NCCI consists of code edit files and a manual that provides instruction on reporting multiple procedures and services or multiple units of a procedure, service, or supply. The Medicaid NCCI manual for 2015 was published in November 2014 and can be downloaded here: Medicaid NCCI Reference Documents. Click here for more information about how to use the NCCI procedure-to-procedure code edit files and examples of commonly used modifiers.

Developmental Screening in Practice: Are you interested in using standardized developmental screening tools to improve screening for developmental delays?  Birth to 5: Watch Me Thrive! is a guide for primary care providers, which includes information about healthy development, developmental concerns, how to select an appropriate screening tool, where to go for help, how to talk to families and tips on how to best support children.” [Source: Colorado Children’s Healthcare Access Program’s Practice Manager Newsletter]

Connect for Health Colorado Updates - Health Literacy Resources

• “The IRS has announced that taxpayers who have questions about their Form 1095-A or who have not received one yet can delay filing their income tax return without penalty. State and federal Marketplaces have all encountered some challenges with the first-time process for reporting premium financial assistance through tax credits and the IRS has given consideration to consumers who might not have complete information by the April 15 deadline. Read more.
• The Kaiser Family Foundation published a story about providing consumers the support they need to make informed decisions about their coverage and their care. Connect for Health Colorado is the only state Marketplace cited as a leader. We are mentioned for providing a formulary tool. Read more.
• Speaking of healthcare literacy, Consumer Reports has developed a library of infographics that can help you explain topics such as the benefits of health insurance, provider networks, co-insurance, co-pays and dozens more topics. Find them all here.” [Source: Connect for Health Colorado]

NASHP Webinar: Oral Health – Evidence and Strategies to Improve Care and Reduce Costs

Webinar: Oral Health – Evidence and Strategies to Improve Care and Reduce Costs
Friday, April 24, 2:00-3:00 PM EST
Register Here

"Oral health is linked to overall health, and mounting evidence suggests that addressing oral health can improve patient care, improve population health, and reduce costs. In this webinar hosted by the National Academy for State Health Policy, a leading researcher will share findings from a study of private insurance claims linking treatment of gum disease with significantly lower costs for individuals with diabetes and other chronic conditions.  You will also hear about a program under way at Hennepin Health in Minnesota to connect patients with regular dental care and prevent costly visits to hospital emergency departments. And NASHP will provide an overview of a new brief and online toolkit that explore these topics and draw out lessons for state policymakers.” [Source: NASHP]

Register now for our June 11th ClinicNET Affiliate Convening!

 ClinicNET Affiliate Convening
June 11, 2015
8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Mile High Room at COPIC
7351 E. Lowry Blvd., Denver, CO
  

Please join us for a day of education and networking! Learn about current and upcoming practice transformation and innovation efforts in Colorado including the State Innovation Model (SIM), Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative (TCPI), ECHO Colorado, the State's eConsult/eReferral System, recent legislative changes and much more. Light breakfast and lunch will be served and there will be plenty of time to connect with your peers in the health care safety net. Click here to register today! (Please note this convening is rescheduled from March 20th.)

REGISTER TODAY! ClinicNET Webinar: Learn more from CIVHC about the All Payer Claims Databse on April 22nd!

ClinicNET is hosting a webinar on April 22nd, noon-1pm, featuring the Center for Improving Value in Healthcare (CIVHC) and the Colorado All Payer Claims Database (APCD). Join us on your lunch break to learn more about Colorado's APCD, how you can use it and gain access to custom data for your community, and provide your feedback on how CIVHC can make this important public resource even more useful for your clinic. Click here to register for the webinar. Contact johanna.gelderman@clinicnet.org with any questions.

The Colorado All Payer Claims Database is the state’s most comprehensive health care claims (including Medicaid) database and is used to inform and support innovation in health care. Data is available publicly through www.comedprice.org, and custom data reports are available to communities, state agencies and other organizations looking for opportunities or working on specific projects to reach the Triple Aim of better health, better care and lower costs.

Practice Applications for BC3 Program are due by 5pm on April 17th

“The BC3 Program is a 2 year initiative sponsored by The Colorado Health Foundation with practice transformation support provided HealthTeamWorks. The program areas of focus are: Quality Measures, Cost Reduction, Patient Engagement, Provider and Staff Experience, and Community Learning. Click here to view powerpoint slides that will explain the program curriculum for each area of focus in more detail. The BC3 program intentionally aligns with other statewide programs such as the Comprehensive Primary Care Initiative and the State Innovation Model.

The practice requirements for participation in the BC3 Program are:

• Previous practice transformation experience
• QI Team established and meeting 2x/month
• Practice Champion identified
• Reporting Quality Measures in the HealthTeamWorks® Measures Database monthly
• Completion of program evaluation surveys
• Participation in community learning sessions and events

Practice Applications are due by 5pm on April 17th. Completed forms may be submitted: electronically to Heather Walker (hwalker@healthteamworks.org), by fax 303.934.6200, or by mail to the HealthTeamWorks® Office.  Outlined below the steps for the Practice Application:

1. Complete a Practice Information Application electronically via this link:  Practice Information Application
2. Sign and submit a Business Associate Agreement
3. Sign and submit a Data Use Agreement

There is limited space available in this program and practices will be selected for participation based on engagement and previous accomplishments in their transformation work. Practices will be notified if they have been selected to participate in the BC3 Program by April 30, 2015. We strongly encourage you to apply and look forward to continuing our work with Colorado-based practices! Contact Kristin Martina at kmartina@healthteamworks.org with any questions.” [Source: HealthTeamWorks]

Primary Care Fund application - Intent to Apply Notification due April 21st!

“The Department has posted the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund application. The application includes important deadlines that must be met for consideration of the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund Grant including Intent to Apply Notification due April 21st and the actual application due by May 29th.

The Application looks a little different this year, in accordance with the American Disability Act; however there has not been any changes with regard to policies or requirements. In addition to the cosmetic changes to the application, the Department has created an Excel worksheet to assist Provider applicants with the Question 7 response. The worksheet is solely an option for providers to use. Both the application and Excel worksheet can be located in the Department’s website.” [Source: HCPF]

Save the date: Safety Net Clinic Week 2015 August 17-21!

Safety Net Clinic Week (SNCW) will be here in no time!  The 6th annual SNCW will take place August 17-21.  In an effort to celebrate, support and raise awareness for Colorado’s health care safety net, the week is devoted to educating the public, policymakers and other community leaders about Colorado’s Community Safety Net Clinics (CSNCs) and federally certified Rural Health Clinics (RHCs). More details are to come so be sure to check in with the Safety Net Scene and our website for details!

SIM Workgroup and Advisory Board – Application deadlines extended to April 17

“The application deadline for SIM Workgroups has been extended to close of business on April 17th. You will find the links provided below to the application for the workgroups, criteria for each workgroup and the expectations for workgroup members. All applications should be submitted to gov_simgrant@state.co.us.

• Health Information Technology, Data, and Quality Measures: Criteria and Application
• Workforce Development: Criteria and Application
• Population Health and Consumer Engagement: Criteria and Application
• Service Delivery and Practice Transformation: Criteria and Application
• Policy and Evaluation: Criteria and Application
• Payers, Purchasers, and Payment Reform: Criteria and Application

NOTE: Workgroup membership may preclude you or the organization you work for from competitively bidding on SIM grants.  Specifically if the workgroup members are significantly contributing to the design of work on working product that will be a part of the procurement opportunities that will become available later in the cooperative agreement.  The SIM office is working with the Attorney General's Office to clearly define what conflict of interest means when it comes to bidding on procurement. A position statement will be released once available. In addition, we have provided a diagram that will clarify the process for the workgroups.

The SIM Advisory Board application process has also been extended to Friday, April 17, 2015. Please submit your application no later than close of business on April 17th. Those interested in applying for the State Innovation Model Advisory Board shall do so at the following web address: http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/GovHickenlooper/CBON/1249674847715” [Source: Colorado SIM]

Denver Foundation Request for Proposals: Colorado Health Access Fund

“The Denver Foundation released the first Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Colorado Health Access Fund. This statewide Fund supports programs and activities that increase access to behavioral health care and strives to improve behavioral health outcomes for people in Colorado with high health care needs. Over the next eight years (2015 – 2022), the Fund is committed to allocating resources among rural, urban, and suburban areas.

The Denver Foundation commissioned the Colorado Health Institute (CHI) in 2014 to conduct an asset and gap analysis to glean a solid understanding of Colorado’s current diverse health care landscape to guide the development of this Request for Proposals. CHI’s report, which can be found on the Fund’s webpage, informed the Fund’s Advisory Committee and the decision to focus on behavioral health.

Organizations interested in applying for funding can identify the behavioral health need that they want to address in their community. Funding is available for projects, programs, capital improvements, collaboratives, and general operating support. The first round of applications is due May 15th; grants will be awarded in late July 2015. There are two optional opportunities for interested organizations to participate in Q&A sessions prior to the due date, and details can be found at www.denverfoundation.org.

Please contact our Project Manager, Summer Gathercole (CHA@denverfoundation.org) with any questions.” [Source: The Denver Foundation]

HCPF Provider News - Resources for provider enrollment, claims and reimbursement questions

“Colorado Medicaid contracts for many important provider-related services.  While we enjoy working with you directly, our goal is to connect you to the appropriate resource as quickly as possible to resolve your questions and concerns. Here is a brief summary of resources available to you:

Xerox State Healthcare 1-800-237-0757

• Medicaid Billing and Bulletin questions
• Medicaid Claims and PAR submissions
• Correspondence, Inquiries and Adjustments
• Enrollment, Changes, Signature Authorization and Claim Requisitions

CGI 1-888-538-4275 or Helpdesk.HCG.centra.us@CGI.com

• Colorado Medicaid Web Portal technical support
• Web Portal Password resets
• Web Portal End User training

ColoradoPAR 1-888-454-7686

• Prior authorization requests for: diagnostic imaging (non-urgent CTs, MRIs, PETs); durable medical equipment/supplies; pediatric home health; medical/surgical services; EBI bone stimulator; EPSDT; surgical 2ndopinions; PT/OT; out-of-state transportation and non-emergency surgery; organ transplants; private duty nursing, vision.

DentaQuest 1-855-225-1731

• Dental and orthodontia PARs
• Dental billing and claims questions

These kinds of questions should be brought to Provider Relations or other Department staff if the appropriate contractors have been unable to resolve your issue. We will do our best to move things forward.  We are also happy to help direct you to other resources, as needed, and to research policy or program questions that are not covered by our contractors. Our Provider Help Page is available online at:  https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/provider-help.” [Source: HCPF]

Oral Health Colorado’s Industry News and Updates

“Dental Trade Alliance Foundation: If your organization has an innovative project designed to improve oral health care for the growing number of needy Americans and would like to be considered for a grant, please review the guidelines. Each applicant must demonstrate that their innovative project will not only improve access to oral care in their immediate area, but also have the potential to grow and be implemented in other areas of the country.  Each applicant must complete the electronic 2015 DTA Foundation Grant Proposal Application Form. Grant applications are due no later than May 27, 2015.

DentaQuest Foundation Information Webinars: The DentaQuest Foundation is hosting a series of informational webinars on each of the Oral Health 2020 Targets over the next few weeks.  These target webinars will focus on regrounding us in the importance of each target, sharing a vision for how the target can be realized, hearing from the leaders in the field about what’s happening today, and wrapping up with exploring where we still need to go from here. Click on the links below to register for the webinar.

• April 13 - Measurement - 2 pm EDT
• April 14 - Patient-Centered Care - 4 pm EDT
• April 14 - Medicaid - 4 pm EDT (Note: This is at the same time at a different phone number)
• April 20 - Children - 3 pm EDT
• April 22 - Schools - 2 pm EDT

Healthcare Policy and Finance Update: In case you missed the HCPF Colorado Medicaid Dental Program updates, here is a link for review. The revisions to the Adult Dental Services rule passed its final reading for permanent adoption at the Medical Services Board (MSB) meeting on March 13, 2015 and will be effective on April 30, 2015. The final version will be made available on the Code of Colorado Regulations website. Dental updates begin on page 7.” [Source: Oral Health Colorado]

CCHAP Practice Manager Meeting April 23rd: Get Ready for ICD-10

“The Colorado Children’s Healthcare Access Program (CCHAP) will be hosting a presentation on ICD-10 implementation for providers, managers, and staff on April 23rd noon-1pm. The presenter is a national expert on ICD-10 and we are excited to be able to bring his expertise to medical home practices in Colorado. You may attend in person or via webinar remotely. RSVP by emailing joanie.muzzulin@childrenscolorado.org. The meeting will be held at Fitzsimons Village, 13100 East Colfax Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, Silverton Conference Room - 6th Floor.

Instructions to join the meeting remotely:
1. Open a web browser and enter URL: www.readytalk.com
Enter participant access code: 2093166
2. Dial in by phone for the audio portion of the conference: 1-866-740-1260
Enter the participant access code: 2093166” [Source: CCHAP]

Articles & Publications and new resources

Flashpoints and Fixes: An Asset and Gap Analysis of Barriers to Care for Coloradans with High Health Needs
April 6, 2015 – The Colorado Health Institute

Lessons from Project Health Colorado and Building Public Will to Achieve Access to Health
April 2015 – The Colorado Trust

Colorado Access to Care Index
March 22, 2015 – The Colorado Health Institute and the Colorado Coalition for the Medically Underserved

Filling the Dental Gap: Can Colorado Meet the Growing Need?
February 19, 2015 – The Colorado Health Institute

We’ve also added new resources to our website, including:

• Mental Health America developed a variety of multi-lingual educational materials to assist individuals in understanding the marketplace application, enrollment, and eligibility process.

Visit the ClinicNET website for more Articles and Publications and Resources.

ClinicNET Webinar: Learn more from CIVHC about the All Payer Claims Databse on April 22nd!

ClinicNET is hosting a webinar on April 22nd, noon-1pm, featuring the Center for Improving Value in Healthcare's (CIVHC) Colorado All Payer Claims Database (APCD). Join us on your lunch break and hear from CIVHC about Colorado's APCD, why its a valuable tool, and how you can use it! Click here to register for the webinar. Contact johanna.gelderman@clinicnet.org with any questions.

The Colorado All Payer Claims Database is a statewide resource to inform and support innovation in health care. Data is available publicly through www.comedprice.org, and custom data reports are available to communities, state agencies and other organizations working on specific projects to reach the Triple Aim of better health, better care and lower costs.

Reminder: ClinicNET Affiliate IT Cohort April 9th

The next ClinicNET affiliate IT Cohort is scheduled for April 9, 1:00-3:00pm at Inner City Health Center, 3840 York Street, Suite 100, Denver,(please note we will be meeting in the office building next door to the clinic). If you have not done so already, please RSVP to Brooke Powers at brooke.powers@clinicnet.org.

Primary Care Fund application is now open!

“The Department has posted the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund application. The application includes important deadlines that must be met for consideration of the 2015-16 Primary Care Fund Grant including Intent to Apply Notification due April 21st and the actual application due by May 29th.

The Application looks a little different this year, in accordance with the American Disability Act; however there has not been any changes with regard to policies or requirements. In addition to the cosmetic changes to the application, the Department has created an Excel worksheet to assist Provider applicants with the Question 7 response. The worksheet is solely an option for providers to use. Both the application and Excel worksheet can be located on the Department’s website.” [Source: HCPF]

ClinicNET Bill Position Update

Since March 30, 2015 we've taken positions on the following bills (in italics are new bill positions since our last update on March 11th):

Active Support

• SB15-197: Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriptive Authority

Support

• HB15-1032: Licensed Mental Health Professionals Treat Minors
• HB15-1039: Prescription Give-back for Institutions
• HB15-1194: Authorize General Fund Dollars for LARC Services
• HB15-1238: Tax Credit Preceptors Health Professional Shortage Areas
• HB15-1242: Patient Caregiver Designation Hospital Requirement
• HB15-1309: Interim Therapeutic Restorations by Dental Hygienists
• SB15-053: Dispense Supply of Emergency Drugs for Overdose Victims

Click here to view ClinicNET's 2015 Legislative and Policy Priorities. Click here to view ClinicNET’s Bill List for more information on bills we've taken a position on and are monitoring. If you have any questions or concerns please contact brooke.powers@clinicnet.org.

2015 National Health Service Corps Site Application Now Open!

“The 2015 NHSC New Site application cycle is now open for eligible health care sites. The application cycle will close on June 2, 2015, at 7:30 p.m. ET.  Interested sites are encouraged to read the 2015 NHSC Site Reference Guide for all program requirements. Eligible sites include health care facilities that provide outpatient, ambulatory and primary health care services (medical, dental, and behavioral) to populations residing in high-need urban and rural areas.

2015 NHSC Site Application Technical Assistance Webinar:  
Thursday, April 30 from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. ET.
Access link: https://hrsaseminar.adobeconnect.com/nhscsite2015
Dial-in Number: 1-888-996-4919
Passcode: 8392355

NHSC Site Application Technical Assistance Conference Call 
Wednesday, May 13 from 12:00-2:00pm ET
Dial-in Number: 1-888-790-1868
Passcode: 8788160” [Source: National Health Service Corps]