After much anticipation, we have received further guidance from the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). In the June 26th Medicaid Memo, DMAS indicated that Care Coordinators, Support Coordinators, and Service Facilitators could resume in person visits again starting August 1, 2020. On the provider call with DMAS on July 7, 2020, they offered further clarification around that point. Today, they put that and several other clarifications into an official Medicaid Bulletin to providers.
Video Conferencing:
In order to ensure the health and safety of those receiving services, it is important to DMAS and Moms In Motion that we see people in their homes. However, DMAS has now clarified that this could be done through video conferencing methods. DMAS recognizes that having us come into the home in-person introduces further risk. Therefore, if you have health concerns for you, your family, or your Service FacilitatorA Medicaid-enrolled provider who supports eligible people, and sometimes their families, in properly using consumer-directed services. More, Moms In Motion can and will continue to do virtual visits using video conferencing methods through January 26, 2021, or until otherwise directed by DMAS. In this way, we will be able to see people receiving services in their home without introducing any more risk to their health and safety.
Additional Clarification:
In addition to this clarification, DMAS is also extending the following flexibilities through January 26, 2021:
If you choose not to use your Personal Care Attendants or RespiteShort-term care for a child or adult that allows the primary caregiver relief. More workers during COVID, you will not lose your Medicaid eligibility. The requirement to use at least one waiver service every 30 days in order to maintain your services has been waived through January 26, 2021.
The flexibility to allow legally responsible individuals (parents of children under age 18 and spouses) to provide personal care/personal assistance services for reimbursement will continue through January 26, 2021.
Employee of Record Changes:
If you are interested in changing your Employee of Record (EOR) as a result of this information, please contact your Service Facilitator to initiate these changes. Fiscal Agents cannot make EOR changes without the authorized form completed by your Service Facilitator.
We look forward to the day when this pandemic has passed, when it no longer poses a health risk for our team to come see you in person again or to have your attendants working in your homes again. The safety of the families we serve, of their attendants, and of our team members remains our top priority. Thank you for your continued patience and for your trust in us to continue to serve you and your family with excellence.
As always, we are here to support you and your family and will continue to provide information as changes occur and as information is announced throughout this emergency.
