COVID-19:  NC Medicaid Extends Rate Increase and Policy Changes through March 31, 2021

Special Bulletin COVID-19 #153 (1/21/21): Temporary Provider Rate Increases and Clinical Policy Changes Extended 

Highlights: 

In response to the Federal Department of Health and Human Services’ extension of the Federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, NC Medicaid is extending COVID-19 temporary provider rate increases and clinical coverage policies through March 31, 2021. 

What is the expiration date for the Federal Public Health Emergency (PHE)? 

The current expiration date for the federal Public Health Emergency is April 21, 2021. The federal government may continue to extend the Public Health Emergency at its discretion. Please refer to the federal Public Health Emergency website for more information and updates. 

Will there be another extension? 

NC Medicaid will reassess both needs and funding availability for further extension of temporary rate increases as it approaches the deadline.  The legislated 5% rate increases authorized under SL 2020-4 cannot be extended beyond March 31, 2021 unless there is additional legislation amending the end date set in SL 2020-4. 

How long will the temporary clinical policy provisions be in place? 

Consistent with Special Bulletin COVID-19 #139, many of the Clinical Policy Provisions, such as the telehealth provisions enacted to support COVID-19 response which do not require new federal authorities, are in the process of becoming permanent policy and DHB is seeking federal authority where appropriate.  

For further information review the Special Bulletin COVID-19 #153