Today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) distributed a press release that summarizes their recent activities and actions in response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), as part of the ongoing White House Task Force efforts.
The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) has been in communication with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), to make emergency amendments to its Home and Community-Based Waivers in response to COVID-19. Members should refer to the document that was issued to the Community Health Choices Managed Care Organizations (CHC-MCOs), which contains the temporary changes that are to be implemented immediately.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Medicare Provider Enrollment Relief related to COVID-19. Also included are toll-free hotlines available to provide enrollment information and answer questions related to COVID-19 enrollment requirements.
For a complete and updated list of CMS actions, guidance, and other information in response to COVID-19, members should visit the Current Emergencies website.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued an updated stakeholder message regarding their actions in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Included in this message are updates to: 1135 Waiver, Appendix K Waiver, Residential Treatment Facility Visitation guidance, licensing, and Electronic Visit Verification (EVV). DHS also continues to work on updating a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document, which is expected to be shared very soon. Members are encouraged to frequently check the DHS website for the most up-to-date information.
In addition, Secretary Miller will host a call for stakeholders on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at 4:00 pm. Registration information for this call will be shared on March 23, 2020.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance for healthcare providers that provides information on the best ways to conserve personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gowns, facemasks, N95 respirators, and eye protection as they experience supply shortages due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
The agenda for the upcoming April 1, 2020 Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) Subcommittee has been released. This meeting is scheduled to take place from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. As a reminder, this meeting has been changed to webcast/teleconference only. Use this link for LISTServs and websites to ensure you receive email from DHS, including communication regarding the MLTSS Subcommittee and the Community HealthChoices Program.
Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and pandemic, OLTL has granted permission for brain injury providers to conduct the following services via virtual therapy on a temporary basis:
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