Pending ARP Rural Awards

While 96% of ARP Rural Funds have been distributed, there are a notable number of members who have not yet received awards or their awards appear to be inaccurate.  HRSA has noted several key reasons for delays:

• Provider did not have Optum ID Accounts for all qualifying subsidiaries by 11/30
• Awards are substantial – over $100K
• Conflicting data comparing the Application and HRSA data
• Complex corporate structures
• Denial Letter is in process

If a provider did not have Optum ID Accounts set up by 11/20, HRSA has indicated it may be early 2022 before awards are made.  Regarding the latter three possibilities, HRSA is conducting manual paper reviews of the applications and, in some instances, will be requesting additional information from providers.  A few already have received such requests.

AHCA’s advocacy goal is to establish a process whereby HRSA provides status and status updates on applications so provider have predictability about when or if they funds will arrive.  Here is a link to a blog post and summary of HRSA’s 12/2 webinar explaining these points: https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/HRSA-Updates-on-Rural-Payments-and-Period-1-Reporting.aspx

AHCA understands the crisis this is creating for some providers and working hard on a solution.