$20 Billion in New Phase of Provider Relief Funding
On October 1st, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced additional funding for Assisted Living and Mental Health facilities. The $20 Billion dollars considers financial losses and changes in operating expenses caused by the coronavirus. Providers can begin applying for funds from October 5, 2020 through November 6, 2020.
According to HHS Secretary Alex Azar, “This new round helps ensure that we are reaching America’s essential behavioral health providers and takes into account losses and expenses relating to coronavirus.” HHS has already issued over $100 billion in relief funding to providers through prior distributions. Still, HHS recognizes that many providers continue to struggle financially from COVID-19’s impact. They also recognize constraints such as the stay-at-home orders and social isolation have been particularly difficult for American’s that live in assisted living facilities.
Eligibility
- Providers who previously received or rejected Provider Relief Fund payment. Providers that have already received payments of approximately 2% of annual revenue from patient care may submit more information to become eligible.
- Behavior Health providers.
- Healthcare providers that began practicing Jan. 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020
Payment Methodology
- Applicants that have not yet received Relief Fund payments of 2% of patient revenue will receive a payment that, when combined with prior payments, equals 2% of patient care revenue.
- With remaining balance an equitable add-on payment will be calculated considering: a provider’s change in operating revenues, change in operating expenses related to coronavirus and payments already received through prior Relief Fund distributions.
Application Deadline
- HHS is urging all eligible providers to apply early; do not wait until the last day or week of the application period.
- Application period is Oct. 5, 2020 – Nov 6, 2020
- Applying early will help to expedite HHS’s review process and payment calculations, and ultimately accelerate the distribution of payments.
- Flor updates and to learn more about the Provider Relief Program, visit; hhs.gov/providerrelief.
