Current Report Articles
Federal and National News

News (Dec. 20, 2024) – PREP Act Extended Allowing Pharmacists to Administer COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines to Children Ages Three and Up
On Dec. 11, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on Dec. 11 extended the PREP Act, allowing pharmacies to continue administering COVID-19 tests, as well as administering COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations to ages three years and older. The extension is valid through Dec. 31, 2029. The age limit for vaccines other than COVID-19 and flu administered in Kansas pharmacies is still subject to state statute, which is 12 years and older.

HRSA Announces Funding Opportunity for Behavioral Health Workforce
The Health Resources and Services Administration released a new Notice of Funding Opportunity to increase the number of highly trained behavioral health providers nationwide. HRSA will award one cooperative agreement of approximately $2.5 million annually over four years.

The Behavioral Health Workforce Development Technical Assistance Program aims to provide tailored technical assistance to current and future HRSA-funded programs. View the funding opportunity for complete eligibility information. Applications are due Monday, March 3, 2025.

MACPAC Releases 2024 Edition of MACStats
The Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Plan Payment and Access Commission published the 2024 MACStats Databook. The databook compiles updated data on national and state Medicaid and CHIP enrollment, spending, benefits, beneficiaries' health, service use and access to care.

MLN Connects Provider eNews Available
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued the following updates to MLN Connects Provider eNews: