CA SB1004

Requires the California Department of Health Care Services to establish standards and provide technical assistance for Medi-Cal managed care plans to deliver palliative care services.

Defines covered palliative care services to include hospice services available under Medi-Cal, hospice services provided alongside curative treatment, and hospice services for individuals whose conditions may result in death regardless of remaining life expectancy.

Authorizes licensed hospice agencies and home health agencies licensed to provide hospice care that are contracted with Medi-Cal managed care plans as providers of palliative care services.

Requires the department to establish guidance on medical conditions and prognoses that render beneficiaries eligible for palliative care services and to ensure delivery is cost neutral to the General Fund on an ongoing basis.

Permits the department to implement the provisions through all plan letters or similar instructions without formal rulemaking, requiring prior notification to stakeholders and legislative committees.