Expert Perspectives

Sep 26, 2024 

CMS Releases Guidance Outlining Expectations for State Compliance with Medicaid and CHIP Renewal Requirements

On September 20, 2024, CMS issued guidance detailing the timeline and expectations for states to fully comply with federal Medicaid and CHIP renewal requirements. This expert perspective summarizes the guidance, which requires every state to submit by December 31, 2024 a plan (using CMS’ template) that assesses state compliance with the federal renewal requirements and describes the plan for addressing deficiencies to achieve full compliance by December 31, 2026.

Sep 20, 2024 

Utilizing WhatsApp in State Medicaid and Marketplace Outreach Efforts

In today’s dynamic digital landscape, state Medicaid agencies and Marketplaces have various tools to reach their audiences efficiently and effectively with important information. WhatsApp, a globally adopted direct messaging platform, has risen in popularity with users in the U.S. and shown increased potential for reaching specific populations. While WhatsApp is commonly used as a direct-to-consumer tactic, this expert perspective explores strategies and best practices for states that are interested in using WhatsApp in their member outreach and support efforts.

Sep 6, 2024 

Current Considerations for State Reinsurance Programs

Reinsurance is a long-standing tool for stabilizing health insurance markets and reducing premiums, and has played an important role in the success of the Affordable Care Act’s individual market as part of section 1332 state innovation waivers. Reinsurance increases affordability for consumers ineligible for the premium tax credit (PTC). However, the effects on PTC recipients are smaller, mixed, and have received little attention. This expert perspective summarizes recent research which raises questions about the impact of reinsurance programs on PTC recipients, and highlights related considerations for state policymakers.

Aug 30, 2024 

CMS Issues Guidance on Renewal Timeliness Post-Unwinding

On August 29, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a CMCS Informational Bulletin (CIB) and accompanying slide deck to support states facing renewal backlogs. With this guidance, CMS is providing states additional time—until December 31, 2025—to complete Medicaid and CHIP eligibility renewals, address persistent backlogs in processing redeterminations, and achieve compliance with federal renewal timeliness requirements. This expert perspective provides an overview of the CIB.