Today, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the declaration that a public health emergency exists. This is effective January 16, 2022 and will continue for 90 days pursuant to federal law.
PHE renewal through mid-April is welcome news. It provides for the uninterrupted continuation of several flexibilities that have protected beneficiary access to important services in as safe and effective manner as possible. With this renewal:
- Enhanced FMAP to states (6.2%) is extended to at least June 30, 2022, and will be further if the PHE is extended again in April. The increased FMAP ends in the calendar year quarter in which the PHE ends;
- All 1135 waivers will continue including
- Temporary nurse aide
- Waiver of required three day hospital state to access skilled nursing benefits
- Spell of Illness
- All state Medicaid flexibilities will continue including
- Expedited state plan amendment review
- Waiver of Medicaid redetermination requirements