State solicits savings tips

Texans are asked to submit cost containment comments by Nov. 1 in an effort to achieve $350 million in savings at the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) pursuant to the 87th Legislature-mandated cost containment rider in the General Appropriations Act for the 2022-2023 fiscal year.

Lawmakers are directing a focus on culling costs as it related to: fraud, waste and abuse; federal flexibility under the Medicaid program; staffing resources; efficient use of telemedicine, telehealth or phone services; and programs and administrative supports. In addition, the state is also exploring ways to apply for a federal waiver of the institutions of mental disease exclusion, if it would result in a net cost savings.

“Stakeholder input is a critical element of this process,” HHSC states in the comment solicitation. Let HHSC know any cost containment initiatives to consider at HHS_CostContainment@hhsc.state.tx.us. Include your name and the name of the contact person in your email, as well as a clear, concise description of the recommendation; an estimate of the amount of savings this would achieve; and any expected impact or benefit to the state by Nov. 1. Also keep in mind, the legislative order details that, “HHSC shall achieve savings without adjusting amount, scope, or duration of services or otherwise negatively impacting access to care.”