State and Federal entities are taking steps to address the COVID-19 Crisis. Some of the most recent changes include the following:
Bed Assignments
In an attempt to control the spread of COVID-19, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has announced policy changes designed to give nursing homes flexibility with respect to bed assignments and resident placement. These tools include the ability to reassign beds without the usual red-tape delays, and to create distinct areas of the facility to house COVID-19 infected patients.
These changes have immediate effect. They will continue until the end of April or the end of the month following the end of the Governor’s COVID State of Emergency Order, whichever comes first.
To read the policy bulletin, click here.
MFP Funds
On a related note, the $2.5 Trillion stimulus package passed by Congress and signed by President Trump includes continued funding for the Money Follows the Person programs through November 30, 2020.
MFP funds, in Michigan and elsewhere, facilitate transitioning individuals from institutional settings to less restrictive options.
Medicaid Negative Action Stayed
A previous announcement from the DHHS, Economic Stability Administration precludes negative case actions for existing Medicaid cases. It says:
Effective 03/19/2020, Medicaid cases (including HMP) must not be closed unless the client requests such closure (verbal or written), death, or the client moves out of state. DO NOT certify any Medicaid/HMP closures until further notice. This includes NOT marking any Medicaid EDGs for closure due to negative action.
A longer-term solution is being investigated and updates will be shared.