Chief Patron: Walker
Additional Staff Position

Item 12 #2s

Language
Page 11, line 3, strike "$498,457" and insert "$563,457".
Page 11, strike lines 8-27 and insert:
"As part of its ongoing responsibilities for making recommendations to the General Assembly regarding health care policy in the Commonwealth, the Joint Commission on Health Care shall review the efficiency, effectiveness, and outcomes of the Commonwealth's health workforce initiatives related to improving access to care in underserved areas.  The Joint Commission's ongoing review shall include the Area Health Education Center program, the various recruitment, scholarship and loan repayment programs, the activities of the Generalist Physician Initiative which relate to improving access to care in underserved areas, and the activities of the other related private, non-profit community-based organizations.  The Joint Commission on Health Care's review of health workforce activities and initiatives shall include, but not be limited to: (i) monitoring and analyzing the efficiency, effectiveness, and outcomes of existing programs designed to recruit and retain primary care providers in underserved areas; (ii) identifying new, innovative programs that can increase the number of primary care providers locating in underserved areas; (iii) identifying effective workforce programs in other states that could be implemented in Virginia; (iv) recommending appropriate modifications in Virginia's overall health workforce efforts; and (v) recommending appropriate funding strategies.  The Joint Commission shall conduct its review and analysis in cooperation with the Senate Finance and House Appropriations Committees.  The Joint Commission shall also consult with and involve the Department of Health and the affected workforce programs and initiatives in its review activities.  The Joint Commission shall complete its initial review by November 1, 1999, and shall reports its findings to the Governor and the 2000 Session of the General Assemby."

Explanation
(This amendment provides $65,000 and one FTE position the second year from the general fund to study the Commonwealth's various health workforce initiatives.)