CMS Warns States To Ensure Continuity Of Coverage For Medicaid HCBS During Eligibility Redetermination

In a recent informational bulletin, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urged states to ensure that Medicaid beneficiaries with disabilities retain coverage for home-and community-based services (HCBS). The loss of HCBS puts beneficiaries at risk of institutionalization. About 86% of people who used Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) were exclusively served in HCBS settings through 250 programs across all 50 states.

CMS advised states that the following flexibilities are available to facilitate continued coverage and access to HCBS:

Consider assets as stable and reliable in an ex parte renewal.

Disregard income, assets, or both . . .