Public health emergency extended another 90 days

Photo: Westend61/Getty Images

The Department of Health and Human Services has renewed the public health emergency for the eighth time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Friday, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra issued the renewal for another 90 days.

A public health emergency has existed since January 27, 2020. The PHE was renewed four times by former HHS Secretary Alex Azar and now by Becerra four times.

WHY THIS MATTERS 

PHE renewals keep in place flexibilities under Section 1135 waivers, such as the expanded use of telehealth. They also extend public aid programs.

On January 11, the American Hospital Association wrote a letter to Becerra urging him to extend the PHE and also asked President Biden to extend for another year the national emergency concerning the COVID-19 pandemic under the National Emergencies Act. 

"Both of these steps are necessary so healthcare providers can continue to offer the most efficient and effective care possible during the
continuing COVID-19 pandemic," the AHA said. "More specifically, these declarations are necessary to ensure continuation of the critical 1135 waivers and Medicaid coverage flexibilities."

THE LARGER TREND

The pandemic has been ongoing in the United States for two years, with some hospitals still struggling with high numbers of hospitalizations, staff burnout and workforce shortages and supply chain challenges.

"Many states have reported record high COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, with drug and device shortages, as well employee illness and burnout, rising dramatically in recent weeks," the AHA said. "The challenges associated with this pandemic will definitely continue beyond Jan. 16, and possibly through the remainder of the year."

Kirsten Allen, a spokesperson for Health and Human Services, said Wednesday that "HHS will provide states with 60 days' notice prior to any possible termination or expiration in the future," according to NBC News.

However, Telehealth Access for America said Congressional action is needed to make the benefits of telehealth access permanent.

"Patients and caregivers shouldn't have to live their lives in 90-day increments, wondering if their access to telehealth will be covered when they need it next," spokesperson Julia Mirich said by statement.
 
ON THE RECORD

"As the nation continues to battle COVID-19, we applaud Secretary Becerra's decision to extend the public health emergency and COVID-19 waivers which have helped provide much-needed flexibility and access to telehealth for millions of patients over the past nearly two years. But while this extension is welcomed, the decision underscores the need for action by Congress to permanently protect patients' access to virtual care," Mirich said.

 
Twitter: @SusanJMorse
Email the writer: susan.morse@himssmedia.com