Feds signal a PHE cease. Expect some waivers, like Stark Law, to go when it does.

Why This Topic Matters

The end of the PHE may trigger the expiration or modification of multiple temporary flexibilities that practices have relied on for operations, coverage, and compliance. Knowing which broad policy areas are affected helps organizations prepare for transitions in billing, telehealth, referrals, and administrative processes.

Article Sections

1. COVID-19 public health emergency status and policy retreat

   Introduces the status of the federal COVID-19 emergency and notes signs that federal and state policies are shifting back toward pre-pandemic rules. It also references recent federal actions and the timeline for renewal or notice.

2. Review the flexibilities in place

   Summarizes the main categories of temporary Medicare and federal health care flexibilities discussed in the article. The section also addresses which areas have already changed or may be revisited when emergency authority ends.

3. Keep an eye on timelines, declarations

   Covers expected notice periods, the uncertainty around some telehealth policy changes, and the general outlook for administrative adjustments as the emergency ends. It also discusses state-level follow-on effects and possible implementation timing.

4. Monitor PREP progress

   Explains the article’s discussion of the PREP Act and how its emergency liability framework could interact with the end of the federal PHE. It also addresses possible issues for states with continuing emergency declarations.