CMS announces flexibilities in response to Hurricane Idalia

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra last week declared a public health emergency for Florida in response to Hurricane Idalia and waived or modified certain Medicare, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program requirements to ensure sufficient health care items and services are available. Health care providers who need additional flexibilities may submit a waiver request to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Among other flexibilities, CMS also will make special enrollment periods available through the federal health insurance marketplace for eligible people impacted by the storm.