COVID-related Public Health Emergency (PHE) Extended Into October

As expected, the COVID-related Public Health Emergency (PHE) was extended for another 90 days on July 15, 2022. It is now set to expire on October 13, 2022, unless renewed again.  The federal Department of Health and Human Services has previously stated that they will give states 60-days’ notice of the end of the PHE (i.e., if the PHE is not going to be extended again).

During the PHE, Pennsylvania has continued Medicaid (Medical Assistance) coverage for most individuals who were enrolled in Medicaid at the start of the pandemic. The extension of the PHE means these maintenance of eligibility provisions from the Families First Coronavirus Response Act remain in effect until at least October 30, 2022 (the end of the month in which the PHE ends). The Biden Administration has promised to give states at least 60 days’ notice prior to the end of the PHE, so if the federal government has not announced an end to the PHE by August 14, 2022, we can expect they will issue another extension in October. 

When the PHE ends, Pennsylvania is expected to terminate Medicaid coverage for people who no longer meet eligibility criteria, as well as people who do not complete their renewal packets. If you are enrolled in Medicaid, it is important to update your contact information with the County Assistance Office (CAO) so that you can receive their correspondence, including your renewal packet. You can do so on the COMPASS website, on the myCOMPASS PA mobile app, or by calling the Statewide Customer Service Center at 1-877-395-8930 (in Philadelphia, call 215-560-7226). You will also have the option to sign up for text alerts related to your renewal.  

PHLP will continue to keep consumers informed of any updates around the PHE as we learn them.