Enhancement Funds Extended
- EOHHS will extend the 10% rate enhancement only for rates that were not reset from January 1 - July 1, 2022. To view the list of which rates are affected, click here.
- This additional 10% will continue to be provided until each rate is reset at its next scheduled time.
- The amount of the 10% will be calculated from the average of your FY2022 monthly spend for that service.
- The attestation process will be the same as the prior funds.
- The allowable uses will be the same as the current 10%.
- The Administration is working with the Legislature to decide when and how this funding will be appropriated.
- The deadline to spend these funds is not yet determined but is likely to be the end of FY2023.
There will be an EOHHS hearing on the regulation putting this rate enhancement plan into effect on July 29. Please let Rachel know if you have suggestions for our rates testimony.
MAP Flexibilities Extended
MAP flexibilities have been further extended, expiring with the end of the state’s public health emergency or December 31, 2022, whichever comes first.
Click here for the most recent guidance on MAP (6/28/22)
Testing Guidance Updates
Required surveillance testing ended July 1. All congregate care sites may now choose over the counter rapid antigen tests or can continue with molecular PCR lab testing and no reporting will be required. Weekly testing of staff continues to be recommended, and DCF staff will continue weekly testing.
- Residential and Congregate Care Testing Guidance
- Guidance for organizations that operate congregate care programs
Color provided us with some additional information, including results from the recent provider survey, and other resources that are available to providers including access to treatments. As a reminder:
- Rapid tests are ordered and shipped through Color.
- PCR/lab testing is still available through Color, but state support for this option will likely end at some point soon as they are encouraging all to move to rapid tests.
- Color has optional tracking software available to providers; however this tracking and reporting is not required.
Color Health: A simple model for accessing basic and essential healthcare services
Vaccines
If you are a congregate care program or have foster families with young children who need to be vaccinated, EOHHS can send their mobile vax unit to your site. Contact Asya Rozental at asya.rozental2@mass.gov to make those arrangements.