U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra today renewed the declaration that a public health emergency exists​. This was effective July 15, 2022, and will continue for 90 days pursuant to federal law.

PHE renewal through mid-October 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 October 30, 2022, and will be further if the PHE is extended again in October.  The increased FMAP ends in the calendar year quarter in which the PHE ends;
• 1135 waivers will continue, including:
  • Waiver of required three-day hospital state to access skilled nursing benefits; and
  • Spell of Illness.

• ​All state Medicaid flexibilities will continue, including:
  • ​Expedited state plan amendment review; and
  • Waiver of Medicaid redetermination requirements.

Please contact Mike Cheek with any questions.