CMS Releases New Public Health Emergency Unwinding Guidance

On October 17, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the new COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Unwinding Frequently Asked Questions for State Medicaid and CHIP Agencies. The FAQ document is focused primarily on the renewal and unwinding eligibility process for Medicaid-eligible beneficiaries. The document does not make specific reference to the unwinding of certain flexibilities authorized under the public health emergency such as those allowable under Appendix K and Section 1135.

The public health emergency declaration was most recently renewed for another 90 days on October 13. If not renewed once again, the declaration will expire in mid-January 2023.