Medicaid Access Rule Takes Next Step

Last week, CMS sent the proposed Medicaid Access Rule, which would require that at least 80% of Medicaid payments for personal care, homemaker, and home health aide services be spent on compensation for the direct care workforce, to the Office of Management and Budget. This marks the next step in the lengthy rulemaking process and signals that a final rule could be released this Spring.

HCAOA has been working with a coalition of home and community-based service organizations to oppose this provision, which could create financial challenges for providers. HCAOA has formally requested a meeting with OMB to discuss the negative ramifications that would result from the finalization of this rule. Stay tuned for updates.