Announcement/Press release

This bulletin reviews policy when Medicaid funding is available for certain administrative costs related to activities conducted by state Long Term Care Ombudsman (LTCO) programs that benefit the state's Medicaid program. It also summarizes the basic requirements for Medicaid administrative claiming of LTCO program activities and provides a link where states and LTCO programs can find more information regarding specific program activities that may be eligible for Medicaid administrative funding.

CMS has released two important documents that outline essential elements of MLTSS programs that are in line with current best practices. The first document summarizes these essential elements and the second provides guidance for incorporating these essential elements into MLTSS programs operating under section 1115 or 1915(b) authorities. These standards will be used when CMS reviews states’ design, implementation and operation of MLTSS programs for approval and ongoing quality assurance.

SAMHSA has updated its definition of recovery as it pertains to substance use and mental disorders. This working definition and set of guiding principles reflects the increased role peer supports and Peer Specialists have been playing in mental health programming. This document provides a summary of SAMHSA’s new definitions, as well as a checklist for effectively using peer supports in a variety of mental health programs.

CMS will provide individualized technical assistance to the states on managed care program operations, including planning and procurement, benefit design and serving the needs of complex populations, access and quality, and the use of data for program oversight and management. The Medicaid Managed Care Technical Assistance Center is part of CMS's larger efforts to provide comprehensive information and guidance on Medicaid managed care program operations.

This fact sheet describes “Community First Choice Option” – one of the rules that the CMS recently released to expand access to home and community based services (HCBS) for people with disabilities. States that elect the Community First Choice option are eligible for a 6 percentage point increase in their federal medical assistance percentage. Individuals who require an institutional level of care are eligible for the services, which will be offered in community-based settings.