HB 1029 Summary

• Creates a new certification program for community health workers under the Department of Health and Human Services, with standards established by the department including education, experience requirements, and certification fees.

• Defines community health workers as certified individuals providing preventative health services to individuals with chronic conditions or documented health barriers, excluding practice within other regulated professions like nursing, medicine, or dentistry.

• Requires Medicaid and Medicaid expansion coverage to include payment for certified community health worker services provided under a care plan ordered by a licensed physician, physician assistant, registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, dentist, pharmacist, or psychologist.

• Lists covered services as care coordination, health system navigation, resource coordination, health promotion and coaching, and health education; excludes advocacy, case management, child care, transportation, enrollment assistance, and other enumerated services.

• Department of Health and Human Services must seek a Medicaid state plan amendment during the 2023-25 biennium, with the Medicaid coverage provision becoming effective 90 days after federal approval is certified to the legislative council.