CMS Unveils Toolkit to Strengthen Vaccine Coverage for Medicaid and CHIP Beneficiaries

In a recent press release, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) unveiled a vaccine toolkit designed for states with the essential resources needed to address the vaccination needs of Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) beneficiaries. The toolkit serves as a guide for states, offering insights into coverage, cost-sharing, and payment structures for vaccines, including those administered under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) within the Medicaid, CHIP, and Basic Health Program (BHP) frameworks. Recognizing the vital role vaccinations play in disease prevention, outbreak control, and response to public health emergencies, the toolkit becomes especially relevant in the post-COVID-19 era. With a focus on navigating vaccination coverage post the COVID-19 public health emergency, the toolkit provides guidance on the commercialization of COVID-19 vaccines and addresses the conclusion of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) COVID-19 vaccination coverage period, extending until September 30, 2024.