The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced additional resources and flexibilities in response to Hurricane Ian in Florida. On September 26, 2022, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra determined that a Public Health Emergency (PHE) exists in the State of Florida, retroactive to September 23. CMS stands ready to help with resources and waivers to ensure hospitals and other facilities can continue to operate and provide access to care.

• CMS Emergency Preparedness & Response Operations webpage
• Technical Assistance and Tools for Health and Emergency Management Professionals webpage

Under section 1135 of the Social Security Act (SSA), HHS can temporarily modify or waive certain Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, or HIPAA requirements, called 1135 waivers. There are different kinds of 1135 waivers, including Medicare blanket waivers, to help beneficiaries access care. When a blanket waiver is issued, providers don't have to apply for an individual 1135 waiver. When there's an emergency, CMS can also offer health care providers other flexibilities to make sure Americans continue to have access to the health care they need.

Fee-for-service (FFS) home health providers can apply for a waiver on the Hurricane Ian 1135 waiver web portal. A fact sheet on existing waivers can be found here.