House Bill 285, introduced in Mississippi on January 10, 2025, aims to address critical healthcare needs by regulating Medicaid participation in long-term care facilities and expanding rehabilitation services for individuals with severe disabilities. The bill includes provisions that limit the number of Medicaid-certified beds in certain facilities to thirty, ensuring that these establishments do not exceed their capacity for Medicaid patients. Violations of this agreement could lead to the revocation of the facility's license following a due process hearing.

A significant aspect of the bill is its proposal to allow the State Department of Health to issue a certificate of need for the construction of a sixty-bed long-term care nursing facility in Hinds County. This facility would specifically cater to individuals with severe disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries and patients who are ventilator-dependent. Notably, the bill waives certain compliance requirements typically necessary for such projects, indicating a push to expedite the establishment of these critical services.

Additionally, the bill permits a county-owned hospital in Panola County to convert up to seventy-two hospital beds into nursing facility beds, contingent upon the agreement to adhere to the terms set forth by the certificate of need.

The introduction of House Bill 285 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates regarding its potential impact on the state's healthcare infrastructure. Proponents argue that the bill addresses a pressing need for specialized care facilities, particularly for vulnerable populations. However, concerns have been raised about the implications of limiting Medicaid participation, with some stakeholders fearing it may restrict access to necessary services for low-income patients.

As the legislative process unfolds, the bill's future remains uncertain, with potential amendments and debates expected as lawmakers consider its broader economic and social implications. The Mississippi Legislature will continue to evaluate the bill's provisions, aiming to balance the needs of healthcare facilities with the rights and access of patients requiring long-term care.