Senate Bill 843 would direct DMAS to plan Medicaid expansion for remote patient monitoring

Senator Favola told the subcommittee Senate Bill 843 is a recommendation from the Joint Commission on Health Care and "directs, DMAS to develop a plan, for expanding eligibility criteria under Medicaid for remote patient monitoring." She said the policy is aimed at people with chronic conditions and that a report is due to the Joint Commission on Health Care on Oct. 1, 2025: "We believe that this will help, help them keep themselves healthier, which is a very good thing. And there is a report due to the Joint Commission on Healthcare, October first, 20 25."

Favola noted she did not have a fiscal statement available during her presentation. No public opposition was recorded in the transcript. A committee member moved to report the bill; the motion was seconded, the roll was opened, and the clerk recorded that the bill "moves on to the next step, unanimously." The measure will proceed from the subcommittee for further legislative processing.

Background and implications: The measure directs the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) to produce a plan expanding Medicaid eligibility criteria to cover remote patient monitoring — technology-enabled monitoring of patients outside clinical settings. Supporters framed the policy as a care-management tool for people with chronic disease; the bill includes a reporting deadline to the Joint Commission on Health Care. The transcript does not specify budget figures or whether new funds would be required.