OHA Joins ‘All Sides’ Conversation on Challenges Facing Rural Health Care

AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio, Molina and CareSource are temporarily waiving prior authorization requirements for inpatient-to-nursing home transfers through March 9 to help manage rising hospitalizations due to influenza. The move aims to alleviate strain on hospitals, where a growing number of patients are waiting in emergency departments for inpatient beds. Prior authorization requests should still be submitted, but they will be reviewed same day or automatically approved. Health care providers can track regional flu trends here.

The Ohio Board of Nursing has released a new State of Ohio Certified Doula FAQs document, providing key information on certification requirements, scope of practice and other essential details for doulas in Ohio. This resource is designed to help doulas, health care providers and stakeholders understand the certification process and regulations. Read the FAQs

The Coalition to Strengthen America’s Healthcare launched a national campaign to emphasize Medicaid’s critical role in providing care for more than 72 million Americans, including children, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. A new television ad, set to air in Washington, D.C. and on national cable, will spotlight personal stories and the program’s impact. A complementary digital campaign further highlights Medicaid beneficiaries and the benefits of the health care they have accessed.

Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Aging recently announced an expansion of the Ohio Long-Term Care Quality Navigator, a digital tool that helps residents evaluate long-term care options. The update adds nearly 800 assisted living facilities to the existing database of 930 nursing homes, providing a more comprehensive resource for families and caregivers. Originally launched in 2024, the Navigator offers detailed facility metrics, side-by-side comparisons and a new Care Quiz feature to help users find the best care setting. Find more information here.