NESCSO proactively invests in State employees to improve the effectiveness of Health and Human Service agencies.

NESCSO helps State agencies improve the effectiveness of publicly funded health and human services by investing in State employees

LEARNING COMMUNITIES

On a regional basis, NESCSO hosts four Learning Communities (outlined below) with the goals of supporting peer relationships across the New England region, to discuss and learn from issues impacting States, and to identify regional initiatives that will positively impact States’ programs. Participants come from a wide range of backgrounds, levels of experience and expertise in managing programs in Health & Human Services.

Data and Analytics Learning Community

Lead Facilitator: Molly Umana, Project Director, NH Citizens Health Initiative, Institute for Health Policy and Practice at the University of New Hampshire

Recent Activities Completed and Planned for 2024-2025:

  • Monthly calls to discuss approaches to how to effectively utilize data within the Health & Human Service arena to improve the efficiency of state resources.

Market Oversight Learning Community

Lead Facilitator: Gerard Goulet, Consultant

Recent Activities Completed and Planned for 2024-2025:

  • Monthly calls to discuss regional activities regarding healthcare provider mergers, acquisitions, and the potential impact on patients in the region. Topics have included:
      • Hospital Ownership Transparency
      • Loper-Bright Decision
      • Medicare Drug Price Negotiations
      • New York’s Health Equity Impact Law
      • Private Equity in Healthcare
      • Steward Health Care
      • Rhode Island Hospital Conversions Act

Pharmacy Learning Community

Lead Facilitator: Andrés Vasquez, Consultant

Recent Activities Completed and Planned for 2024-2025:

  • Policy options to ensure that states have the necessary data available regarding efficacy and clinical appropriateness.
  • Development of a regional dashboard to compare and contrast key measures regarding the management of pharmaceuticals and utilization.
  • NESCSO Cost of Dispensing Survey: Partnering with Myers & Stauffer, LLC, NESCSO is facilitating the completion of a survey on the cost of dispensing medications across New England. This survey is being conducted proactively to meet upcoming CMS requirements and will provide individual state reports for Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont; as well as a comprehensive report for the region.

Quality of Care Learning Community

Lead Facilitator: Andrés Vasquez, Consultant

Recent Activities Completed and Planned for 2024-2025:

Improving access to primary and preventive care for members through:

  • Stronger Member-Provider Relationships: Building trust and communication.
  • Improved Accessibility: Addressing geographic and transportation challenges.
  • Language & Cultural Sensitivity: Ensuring clear communication and cultural competence.
  • Enhanced Care Management: Optimizing care coordination and support.
  • Person-Centered Care: Prioritizing individual needs and preferences.
  • Preventive Care Focus: Improving performance on key health screenings and interventions.
  • Workforce & Network Adequacy: Ensuring access to a sufficient and sustainable healthcare workforce.

Hot Topics in 2025 – A Collaborative Learning Community

To stay ahead of the curve, we’re partnering with the Private Sector Technology Group to create a dynamic learning community. This initiative will focus on the most pressing issues impacting health and human services, particularly Medicaid agencies.

Through this collaborative platform, we’ll:

  • Gain valuable insights: Discover how other states are adapting to evolving legislative and regulatory landscapes.
  • Share best practices: Learn from successful initiatives and innovative approaches.
  • Stay informed: Gain a deeper understanding of the latest trends and technologies shaping the healthcare landscape.

Do you have a hot topic you’d like to explore?

We encourage you to share your interests and help shape the direction of this valuable learning opportunity. Please contact David Huffman to discuss.