On Tuesday, April 12, 2022, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra announced an extension of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). This extension will last another 90 days from April 16, 2022. Any PHE declaration can only last for 90 days at a time but can be subsequently extended or renewed. It has already been renewed multiple times prior to this week.
There are several provisions tied to the duration of the PHE that will remain in place due to the extension of the PHE, including:
- Medicare’s 75/25 blended rates for non-rural, non-CBA areas
- Certain COVID-19 testing and treatment provisions
- Waivers of certain telehealth restrictions
- Waivers related to Medicare medical policies (LCDs)
- Pre-approval requirements
Remember, the competitive bid areas (CBAs) continue with existing payment methodology, known as the single payment amount (SPA); the PHE extension does not affect payments in these areas.
Reimbursement is based on the beneficiary's permanent address on file with SSA.
HHS will provide states and territories with no less than 60 days’ notice prior to the termination of the public health emergency declaration for COVID-19.
The full announcement regarding the PHE extension can be viewed HERE.