Temporary COVID-19 Medicare/Medicaid Changes: Updates In The Second Interim Final Rule

On April 30, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services ("CMS") issued its Second Interim Final Rule in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes additional regulatory waivers and rule changes. After reviewing comments to its First Interim Final Rule published on April 6, 2020, CMS is now attempting to provide even more flexibility to health care providers in furnishing services to combat the spread of COVID-19. To do so, CMS focuses on increasing access to hospital services and laboratory and diagnostic testing in settings that will allow individuals to receive the care without jeopardizing their health or the health of those providing the services.

The Second Interim Final Rule is effective as of today, May 8, 2020. Because it is an interim final rule, comments may be received within 60 days (by July 7, 2020).