RCPA continues our advocacy efforts with the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) as they are evaluating the ongoing impact of COVID-19 and considering the appropriate percentage for retainer payments for providers. Additionally, we have been advocating on a federal level for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to allow for more flexibility with retention and advanced payments to providers during this pandemic.

Senator Casey, along with eight other United States Senators, sent a letter to CMS regarding retainer payments for HCBS services. The letter, addressed to CMS Administrator Seema Verma, expressed their concerns regarding the “limits imposed on retention and advanced payments as outlined in Frequently Asked Questions issued by CMS on June 30, 2020. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has levied unprecedented strains on providers’ HCBS programs. We urge you to reconsider this guidance and adopt an approach that will provide continued financial relief that ensures the availability of HCBS during and after the COVID-19 crisis for millions of individuals living with disabilities.” The letter was shared with ODP as well.