Biweekly Briefing Articles

A Fresh Start on Familiar Issues

2026 is here, bringing with it a new set of opportunities. In baseball terms, we’re in the first inning — just a few pitches in, but with a host of heavy hitters coming to the plate.

5 Things To Know: CARE Court Will Expand Eligibility, Include Bipolar 1 Disorder Effective Jan. 1

California Senate Bill (SB) 27 will take effect on Jan. 1, introducing key updates to the CARE Act — including expanding eligibility to include individuals with bipolar I disorder with psychotic features. SB 27’s main goal is to strengthen the original CARE Act by enhancing access, coordination, and efficiency in delivering mental health and housing services. 

5 Things To Know: CMS Updates Hospital Surveyor Guidance to Address Discharge Planning, Notification Requirements, and More

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has revised Appendix A of the State Operations Manual to reflect new guidelines related to Medicare Conditions of Participation regulations finalized in 2019 and 2020, including discharge planning requirements; notifications for patients receiving observation services; and admit, discharge, transfer notification requirements for psychiatric hospitals.