• Read more about Syringe Services Programs Rule, 10-144 CMR Ch. 252

The Department is proposing to amend Maine's Syringe Services Programs Rule (10-144 CMR Chapter 252) to implement recently enacted 22 M.R.S. § 1341(5), which expressly permits a certified hypode1mic apparatus exchange program (also known as a syringe service program or SSP) to operate mobile sites and offer delivery services, and further clarify the parameters under which SSPs may operate, including by establishing a geographic zone or "Operation Area" for each SSP. The Department is proposing rule provisions that prohibit SSPs from operating within 1,000 feet of school property; amendments to clarify the application process prescribed by the Department for SSP certification, program operations and staff training requirements; changes to require proof of compliance with municipal zoning ordinances and local regulations within the designated Operation Area; and changes that revise data reporting requirements by directing SSPs to submit monthly data electronically as prescribed by this rule. Additionally, the Department is proposing changes to the definition section by adding, removing and amending terms, as well as changes to update rule format. Date, time and location of PUBLIC HEARING (if any): Monday, October 20, 2025 COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, October 31, 2025 1-4pm, Conference Rm. Maine A & B 109 Capitol Street Augusta, Maine 04330 CONTACT PERSON FOR TIIIS FILING (include name, mailing address, telephone, fax, TTY, email): Bridget Danis, Policy Analyst; 286 Water Street - l l State House Station, Augusta, ME, 04333-001 l; Tel: 287-9394 or 711 (TTY); Fax: 287-2887; Bridget.Danis@maine.gov

• Read more about Elimination of Mailing Paper Remittance Advice (RA) and Reduction of Paper Checks, CR 132320

Paper RAs

This fall, the Office of MaineCare Services (OMS) will eliminate the mailing of all paper RAs to providers. This is a cost-saving initiative for the department. We encourage those receiving paper RAs to reference the electronic PDF versions posted on the Health PAS Online Portal. Advantages of using the PDF version include easier member and claim searching and access to previous RAs.

• Read more about MaineCare Provider Training Opportunities

Health PAS Online Portal Training

Gainwell Technologies continues to offer weekly training through Microsoft Teams on the following Health PAS Online Portal topics:

• Read more about HIV Prevention for Medical Practitioners

The Department is offering a series of HIV focused webinars. The first, led by Dr. Stephen Rawlings, covers the latest in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) including a review of the twice-yearly injectable PrEP drug Yeztugo.

Dr. Rawlings, a MaineHealth practitioner, is Board certified in Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine. He seeks opportunities to teach at all levels so that we can all enjoy the best medical care possible.

• Read more about Job post test

https://maine.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Executive?Department=473d696f7b7210…

• Read more about Children’s Behavioral Health & Residential Treatment

Applying for Children’s Residential Care Facility Services

CBHS contracts with Acentra to manage Children’s Residential Care Facility Services (CRCF). Children’s Residential Care Facility Services for children follows the MaineCare Section 97 eligibility criteria. Acentra processes all applications and completes Prior Authorizations for Children’s Residential Care Facility Services, and they are your contact related to approval for admissions to Children’s Residential Care Facility.

• Read more about 10-148 C.M.R. ch. 31; Quality Rating and Improvement System: Rising Stars for ME

This rule outlines how the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (the Department) pays a differential rate for child care services that meets or that makes substantial progress toward meeting nationally recognized quality standards, as required by 22 M.R.S.A § 3737. The emergency rulemaking allows the Department to immediately start paying a higher quality differential to such early care and education programs, addressing the lack of access to high-quality early care and education programs in Maine, which presents an ongoing threat to Maine’s general welfare.

• Read more about Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) Swing Bed and Nursing Facility (NF) Days Awaiting Placement (DAP) Rate Updates, CRs 134801, 134803

Effective July 1, 2025, the CAH swing bed and NF DAP rates are recalculated for State Fiscal Year 2026. You can view both related memos on the rate setting page of the Health PAS Online Portal. 

• Read more about 10-144 C.M.R. Ch. 301; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Rules; Sections 555-4 and 555-5

10-144 C.M.R. Ch. 301 – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Rules; Sections 555-4 and 555-5

EMERGENCY RULE: SNAP Rule #242E – Income and Deductions Update

Effective Date:

September 18, 2025

• Read more about Delayed July 1, 2025, Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Section 97, Appendix C, Residential Care Facilities (RCFs)

The Department is temporarily delaying implementation of the previously announced 1.0% COLA rates for RCF direct care. The Department requires additional time to make these updates, and we anticipate implementation of new rates on October 1, 2025.

Billing Guidance for Dates of Service July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025