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Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released guidance to highlight federal renewal requirements and available flexibilities to promote continuity of coverage for individuals eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) through Medicaid. HCBS are a cornerstone of long-term services and supports (LTSS) in the Medicaid program and make it possible for eligible Medicaid to receive services and supports in their home or the community rather than an institution, and in such a way that promotes individual choice, control, and access to services. HCBS offer a critical lifeline for individuals with chronic conditions and those who need assistance with activities of daily living, and the loss of HCBS can pose a risk to beneficiaries’ health or result in institutionalization. States have an ongoing obligation to conduct periodic renewals of eligibility in Medicaid consistent with federal regulations and to facilitate continued access to HCBS for those who remain eligible. These federal requirements, as well as the flexibilities and strategies outlined in this informational bulletin, help to ensure that eligible people successfully renew their Medicaid coverage so they can continue receiving the critical services they need.

Further detail is available in the informational bulletin on Medicaid.gov.