DRG update for SoonerCare delayed

Posted on: 10/25/17


The Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) informed hospitals today that its annual update to Medicaid inpatient payment rates will be delayed.

Each year, OHCA analyzes SoonerCare claims classified by Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs) along with Medicare cost report information to adjust the weight, and therefore the SoonerCare payment amount, assigned to each DRG. This process also updates the base rates to which DRG weights are applied.

SoonerCare Provider Reimbursement Notice 2017-08, issued Oct. 25, 2017, said OHCA intended these changes to be effective Oct. 1, 2017, but the implementation has been postponed for continued analysis. OHCA now plans to update their DRG weights and base rates effective Jan. 1, 2018. Until then, OHCA will continue to use the Medicare Grouper MS-DRG Version 34.

This delay is unrelated to any potential rate cuts the agency may be forced to make because of reductions in legislative appropriations. (Rick Snyder)

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.