NC S119

Department of Public Safety shall develop a plan by December 1, 2019 to increase use of Central Prison Healthcare Complex for non-life-threatening emergencies within 60 miles of Raleigh, including consideration of telemedicine services.

Beginning July 1, 2019, DPS shall reimburse outside medical providers at the lesser of 70% of prevailing charge or 200% of Medicaid rates, with exceptions allowed for providers necessary to ensure continued access to care.

DPS must develop an electronic medical supply inventory management system tracking supply arrival, departure, expiration dates, and employee custody to ensure adequate stock levels and prevent waste.

DPS and Department of Health and Human Services shall collaborate to enable social workers to qualify for federal Medicaid reimbursement for inmate eligibility activities, with quarterly reporting on applications and approvals beginning October 1, 2019.

DPS shall study in-prison health services employee salaries and establish vacancy reduction initiatives including signing bonuses, loan forgiveness, and differential pay, with findings due February 1, 2020; telemedicine pilot program expansion prohibited until results are demonstrated and reported.