MEDICAID REFORM RESEARCH ACT

Provides that the Act may be referred to as the Medicaid Reform Research Act. Provides that, given that Illinois' Medical Assistance Program is undergoing a transition to managed care for Medicaid populations subject to the Medicaid Reform Act of 2011, the Save Medicaid Access Together (SMART) Act of 2012, and other Acts affecting Medicaid populations and delivery systems, a lawful and well-regulated dissemination of Medicaid data to qualified researchers is the best way to create accurate and creative unbiased analysis and information about Illinois' Medical Assistance Program that will lead to better health outcomes at a lower cost. Amends the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability Act. Provides that the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability may, subject to appropriations, coordinate and enter into agreements with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services and certain institutions and entities for research on medical assistance managed care or other State medical assistance programs pursuant to the analysis purposes of the State-Funded Health Care Quality Assurance and Research Fund. Contains provisions concerning individual patient medical claims information provided by the Department to those institutions and entities and other matters. Amends the State Finance Act. Creates the State-Funded Health Care Quality Assurance and Research Fund to provide the General Assembly with an independent analysis on certain matters, including the efficacy of State managed care programs to improve continuity of care, ensure adequate provider participation, and maintain appropriate utilization of health services. Provides that the Fund shall consist of certain moneys, including transfers from the Healthcare Provider Relief Fund and other matters. Effective immediately.