SPECIAL BULLETIN COVID-19 #163: TEMPORARY PROVIDER RATE INCREASES AND CLINICAL POLICY CHANGES EXTENDED

During the COVID pandemic, nursing facilities have received different increases in their Medicaid rates. The duration of these increases has been extended several times. A recent COVID special bulletin addresses these rate increases as well as a few other COVID related topics. A portion of this bulletin is provided below. To read the bulletin in its entirety, click here.

In response to the NC General Assembly’s extension of the legislated 5% rate increase authorized under SL 2020-4 and consistent with the federal Department of Health and Human Services stated intent to extend the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), NC Medicaid is extending COVID-19 temporary provider rate increases and clinical coverage policies through June 30, 2021.

Although the current expiration date for the federal PHE is April 21, 2021, the federal government has informed states in writing that it plans to extend the PHE through at least the end of the calendar year. Please refer to the federal Public Health Emergency website for more information and updates.

Extended Temporary Rate Increases

NC Medicaid has determined that it is both necessary and feasible, contingent on official extension of the federal PHE, to continue all temporary fee-for-service rate increases related to COVID-19 through June 30, 2021. As we approach that date, NC Medicaid will reassess both needs and available funding for further extension of temporary rate increases. Please refer to relevant COVID-19 Medicaid Bulletins and Medicaid fee schedules for details and further communication.