For the last three years (almost to the day) we have been under a federal “Public Health Emergency”. This means that there have been certain allowances or flexibilities during this time. The Biden administration has stated that this Public Health Emergency will be ending in May 2023 and no further extensions will be given.
Some of the flexibilities that will end in May 2023 include:
- Automatic Medicaid re-certifications
- Verbal approval for the Life Plan
- “Face to Face” meetings via phone calls (and video conferencing, but this may continue in some capacities – more to come!)
Southern Tier Connect has already begun phasing out many of the allowances offered, so you shouldn’t see many differences in your services with your Care Manager, but we wanted to ensure you are aware of the changes that will be coming.
What you should do NOW!
- Call your local DSS Office (or your Care Manager who can do this for you) – and make sure you have a correct and updated address on file for Medicaid applications
- Sign up for Medicaid text alerts (Text START to 1-866-988-0327)
- Call your Care Manager and talk about when and where you want your next meeting
- Be responsive!
- Your Care Manager may be reaching out to you about these things and it’s important you get back to them and know how these changes may affect you personally
- Ask Questions
- If you aren’t sure how this could impact you or are feeling uneasy, we are here to help every step of the way. Call your Care Manager and ask questions to learn more.