NEWS ALERT - CMS COVID-19

Why This Topic Matters

The update brings together multiple CMS emergency actions that affected reimbursement, facility operations, and state program administration during the COVID-19 public health emergency. It helps readers identify which areas of Medicare, hospital payment, rehabilitation coverage, and Medicaid/CHIP waiver activity may require attention.

Article Sections

1. CMS Increases Medicare Payment for High-Production Coronavirus Lab Tests

   Summarizes a CMS announcement about Medicare payment changes tied to rapid COVID-19 laboratory testing capacity. The section also references related CMS testing efforts during the public health emergency.

2. CMS Implements CARES Act Hospital Payment and Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Waivers

   Covers CMS guidance related to CARES Act provisions affecting hospital and inpatient rehabilitation facility policies during the emergency period. It also points readers to related CMS emergency resources.

3. CMS Approves Additional State Medicaid Waivers and Amendments to Give States Flexibility to Address Coronavirus Pandemic

   Describes CMS approval activity for COVID-19-related Medicaid and CHIP waiver actions across states and territories. The section also notes the types of emergency flexibilities being used to support program administration.

4. Section 1135 Waivers / 1915(c) Waiver Appendix K Amendments / Medicaid State Plan Amendments / CHIP State Plan Amendments

   Lists the categories of waiver and amendment authorities referenced in the alert. These items identify the general program mechanisms discussed in the update.