Issue Briefs , Reports | Jul 1, 2016

Medicaid: States’ Most Powerful Tool to Combat the Opioid Crisis

Deborah Bachrach, Patricia Boozang, and Mindy Lipson, Manatt Health

With the United States in the midst of a worsening opioid epidemic, an examination of the resources and tools available to states in combating this crisis is critical.  With Medicaid serving as the largest source of coverage for behavioral health services, including those related to substance use disorders (SUDs), the role that it can occupy in addressing the epidemic is clear.  An additional 1.2 million individuals with SUDs have gained access to coverage in states that have expanded Medicaid under the ACA.  This issue brief, developed by Manatt Health, reviews Medicaid strategies to combat the opioid epidemic.  The issue brief underscores the vital nature of Medicaid expansion as part of this effort, with at least 1.1 million adults with SUDs currently residing in non-expansion states.  The issue brief is part of a continuing series investigating the fiscal implications of Medicaid expansion.


Expert Perspectives

November 22, 2024

Information Sharing Considerations for Implementing the Consolidated Appropriations Act’s Requirements for Justice-Involved Children and Youth

This expert perspective reviews the information sharing considerations for states in implementing the Consolidated Appropriations Act’s (CAA) requirements to provide targeted case management and screening and diagnostic services for children and youth who are incarcerated and enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP. The expert perspective highlights key areas of CAA implementation that require information sharing, which states will need to consider as they work towards coming into full compliance.

November 15, 2024

CMS Releases Guidance on Optional Long-Term Use of Unwinding-Related Section 1902(e)(14) Waivers

On November 14, 2024, CMS released its second installment in its series of Medicaid and CHIP guidance intended to support state efforts to verify eligibility and conduct renewals in compliance with federal Medicaid and CHIP requirements. A new expert perspective summarizes the latest CMCS Informational Bulletin and accompanying slide deck which address the continued use of unwinding-related section 1902(e)(14) waivers beyond the previously established expiration date of June 30, 2025.