CMS limits use of special enrollment periods in 2016

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services yesterday issued new guidance related to certain special enrollment periods available to consumers purchasing coverage on the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Specifically, CMS announced through a blog post and Frequently Asked Questions document that, as of Jan. 1, 2016, it has discontinued the use of seven SEPs that it has determined are no longer necessary and clarified eligibility for another SEP. CMS indicated that it is doing so to reinforce that SEPs are not available for people who choose to remain uninsured and then seek to purchase coverage only when they become sick. Further, the agency indicated that it will increase overall oversight and enforcement of consumers’ use of SEPs. AHA members today received a Special Bulletin with more information.