CMS delays BHP until 2015

Posted on February 11, 2013 | No Comments
Filed under Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department of Health and Human Services, Health Insurance, Key Developments, Medicaid and CHIP

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According to a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), federal officials are delaying until 2015 the Basic Health Program (BHP), a health care overhaul option that would enable states to use federal tax subsidies to cover low-income people (those with incomes between 139 and 200 percent of the federal poverty level) whose income is too high to qualify for Medicaid. The BHP is an alternative to offering this population coverage through the exchanges that will begin operation in January 2014. Consumers receiving insurance through the BHP would not have to reimburse the federal government if their income fluctuates during the year.

CMS officials intend to release BHP proposed rules for comment in 2013 and final guidance in 2014, in order for the program to begin operation in 2015.

The FAQ covers a number of other topics as well. The document provides information regarding the increased federal matching rate for consumers newly eligible for Medicaid in 2014 and addresses coverage for pregnant women and children.

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The Basic Health Program

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CBPP releases Basic Health option report

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July 29, 2011

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