PROVISIONS RESPECTING INAPPLICABILITY AND WAIVER OF CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS OF THIS TITLE

Sec. 1915. [42 U.S.C. 1396n] (a) A State shall not be deemed to be out of compliance with the requirements of paragraphs (1), (10), or (23) of section 1902(a) solely by reason of the fact that the State (or any political subdivision thereof)—

(1) has entered into—

(A) a contract with an organization which has agreed to provide care and services in addition to those offered under the State plan to individuals eligible for medical assistance who reside in the geographic area served by such organization and who elect to obtain such care and services from such organization, or by reason of the fact that the plan provides for payment for rural health clinic services only if those services are provided by a rural health clinic; or

(B) arrangements through a competitive bidding process or otherwise for the purchase of laboratory services referred to in section 1905(a)(3) or medical devices if the Secretary has found that—

(i) adequate services or devices will be available under such arrangements, and

(ii) any such laboratory services will be provided only through laboratories—

(I) which meet the applicable requirements of section 1861(e)(9) or paragraphs (16) and (17) of section 1861(s), and such additional requirements as the Secretary may require, and

(II) no more than 75 percent of whose charges for such services are for services provided to individuals who are entitled to benefits under this title or under part A or part B of title XVIII; or

(2) restricts for a reasonable period of time the provider or providers from which an individual (eligible for medical assistance for items or services under the State plan) can receive such items or services, if—

(A) the State has found, after notice and opportunity for a hearing (in accordance with procedures established by the State), that the individual has utilized such items or services at a frequency or amount not medically necessary (as determined in accordance with utilization guidelines established by the State), and

(B) under such restriction, individuals eligible for medical assistance for such services have reasonable access (taking into account geographic location and reasonable travel time) to such services of adequate quality.

(b) The Secretary, to the extent he finds it to be cost-effective and efficient and not inconsistent with the purposes of this title, may waive such requirements of section 1902 (other than subsection (s)) (other than sections 1902(a)(15), 1902(bb), and 1902(a)(10)(A) insofar as it requires provision of the care and services described in section 1905(a)(2)(C)) as may be necessary for a State—

(1) to implement a primary care case-management system or a specialty physician services arrangement which restricts the provider from (or through) whom an individual (eligible for medical assistance under this title) can obtain medical care services (other than in emergency circumstances), if such restriction does not substantially impair access to such services of adequate quality where medically necessary,

(2) to allow a locality to act as a central broker in assisting individuals (eligible for medical assistance under this title) in selecting among competing health care plans, if such restriction does not substantially impair access to services of adequate quality where medically necessary,

(3) to share (through provision of additional services) with recipients of medical assistance under the State plan cost savings resulting from use by the recipient of more cost-effective medical care, and

(4) to restrict the provider from (or through) whom an individual (eligible for medical assistance under this title) can obtain services (other than in emergency circumstances) to providers or practitioners who undertake to provide such services and who meet, accept, and comply with the reimbursement, quality, and utilization standards under the State plan, which standards shall be consistent with the requirements of section 1923 and are consistent with access, quality, and efficient and economic provision of covered care and services, if such restriction does not discriminate among classes of providers on grounds unrelated to their demonstrated effectiveness and efficiency in providing those services and if providers under such restriction are paid on a timely basis in the same manner as health care practitioners must be paid under section 1902(a)(37)(A).

No waiver under this subsection may restrict the choice of the individual in receiving services under section 1905(a)(4)(C).^[235]

Subsection (h)(2) shall apply to a waiver under this subsection.

(c)(1) The Secretary may by waiver provide that a State plan approved under this title may include as “medical assistance” under such plan payment for part or all of the cost of home or community-based services (other than room and board) approved by the Secretary which are provided pursuant to a written plan of care to individuals with respect to whom there has been a determination that but for the provision of such services the individuals would require the level of care provided in a hospital or a nursing facility or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded the cost of which could be reimbursed under the State plan. For purposes of this subsection, the term “room and board” shall not include an amount established under a method determined by the State to reflect the portion of costs of rent and food attributable to an unrelated personal caregiver who is residing in the same household with an individual who, but for the assistance of such caregiver, would require admission to a hospital, nursing facility, or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded.

(2) A waiver shall not be granted under this subsection unless the State provides assurances satisfactory to the Secretary that—

(A) necessary safeguards (including adequate standards for provider participation) have been taken to protect the health and welfare of individuals provided services under the waiver and to assure financial accountability for funds expended with respect to such services;

(B) the State will provide, with respect to individuals who—

(i) are entitled to medical assistance for inpatient hospital services, nursing facility services, or services in an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded under the State plan,

(ii) may require such services, and

(iii) may be eligible for such home or community-based care under such waiver,

for an evaluation of the need for inpatient hospital services, nursing facility services, or services in an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded;

(C) such individuals who are determined to be likely to require the level of care provided in a hospital, nursing facility, or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded are informed of the feasible alternatives, if available under the waiver, at the choice of such individuals, to the provision of inpatient hospital services, nursing facility services, or services in an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded;

(D) under such waiver the average per capita expenditure estimated by the State in any fiscal year for medical assistance provided with respect to such individuals does not exceed 100 percent of the average per capita expenditure that the State reasonably estimates would have been made in that fiscal year for expenditures under the State plan for such individuals if the waiver had not been granted; and

(E) the State will provide to the Secretary annually, consistent with a data collection plan designed by the Secretary, information on the impact of the waiver granted under this subsection on the type and amount of medical assistance provided under the State plan and on the health and welfare of recipients.

(3) A waiver granted under this subsection may include a waiver of the requirements of section 1902(a)(1) (relating to statewideness), section 1902(a)(10)(B) (relating to comparability), and section 1902(a)(10)(C)(i)(III) (relating to income and resource rules applicable in the community). A waiver under this subsection (other than a waiver described in subsection (h)(2))shall be for an initial term of three years and, upon the request of a State, shall be extended for additional five-year periods unless the Secretary determines that for the previous waiver period the assurances provided under paragraph (2) have not been met. A waiver may provide, with respect to post-eligibility treatment of income of all individuals receiving services under that waiver, that the maximum amount of the individual’s income which may be disregarded for any month for the maintenance needs of the individual may be an amount greater than the maximum allowed for that purpose under regulations in effect on July 1, 1985.

(4) A waiver granted under this subsection may, consistent with paragraph (2)—

(A) limit the individuals provided benefits under such waiver to individuals with respect to whom the State has determined that there is a reasonable expectation that the amount of medical assistance provided with respect to the individual under such waiver will not exceed the amount of such medical assistance provided for such individual if the waiver did not apply, and

(B) provide medical assistance to individuals (to the extent consistent with written plans of care, which are subject to the approval of the State) for case management services, homemaker/home health aide services and personal care services, adult day health services, habilitation services, respite care, and such other services requested by the State as the Secretary may approve and for day treatment or other partial hospitalization services, psychosocial rehabilitation services, and clinic services (whether or not furnished in a facility) for individuals with chronic mental illness.

Except as provided under paragraph (2)(D), the Secretary may not restrict the number of hours or days of respite care in any period which a State may provide under a waiver under this subsection.

(5) For purposes of paragraph (4)(B), the term “habilitation services”—

(A) means services designed to assist individuals in acquiring, retaining, and improving the self-help, socialization, and adaptive skills necessary to reside successfully in home and community based settings; and

(B) includes (except as provided in subparagraph (C)) prevocational, educational, and supported employment services; but

(C) does not include—

(i) special education and related services (as such terms are defined in section 602 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act^[236] (20 U.S.C. 1401)) which otherwise are available to the individual through a local educational agency; and

(ii) vocational rehabilitation services which otherwise are available to the individual through a program funded under section 110 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973^[237] (29 U.S.C. 730).

(6) The Secretary may not require, as a condition of approval of a waiver under this section under paragraph (2)(D), that the actual total expenditures for home and community-based services under the waiver (and a claim for Federal financial participation in expenditures for the services) cannot exceed the approved estimates for these services. The Secretary may not deny Federal financial payment with respect to services under such a waiver on the ground that, in order to comply with paragraph (2)(D), a State has failed to comply with such a requirement.

(7)(A) In making estimates under paragraph (2)(D) in the case of a waiver that applies only to individuals with a particular illness or condition who are inpatients in, or who would require the level of care provided in, hospitals, nursing facilities, or intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded, the State may determine the average per capita expenditure that would have been made in a fiscal year for those individuals under the State plan separately from the expenditures for other individuals who are inpatients in, or who would require the level of care provided in, those respective facilities.

(B) In making estimates under paragraph (2)(D) in the case of a waiver that applies only to individuals with developmental disabilities who are inpatients in a nursing facility and whom the State has determined, on the basis of an evaluation under paragraph (2)(B), to need the level of services provided by an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded, the State may determine the average per capita expenditures that would have been made in a fiscal year for those individuals under the State plan on the basis of the average per capita expenditures under the State plan for services to individuals who are inpatients in an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded, without regard to the availability of beds for such inpatients.

(C) In making estimates under paragraph (2)(D) in the case of a waiver to the extent that it applies to individuals with mental retardation or a related condition who are resident in an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded the participation of which under the State plan is terminated, the State may determine the average per capita expenditures that would have been made in a fiscal year for those individuals without regard to any such termination.

(8) The State agency administering the plan under this title may, whenever appropriate, enter into cooperative arrangements with the State agency responsible for administering the program for children with special health care needs under title V in order to assure improved access to coordinated services to meet the needs of such children.

(9) In the case of any waiver under this subsection which contains a limit on the number of individuals who shall receive home or community-based services, the State may substitute additional individuals to receive such services to replace any individuals who die or become ineligible for services under the State plan.

(10) The Secretary shall not limit to fewer than 200 the number of individuals in the State who may receive home and community-based services under a waiver under this subsection.

(d)(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall grant a waiver to provide that a State plan approved under this title shall include as “medical assistance” under such plan payment for part or all of the cost of home or community-based services (other than room and board) which are provided pursuant to a written plan of care to individuals 65 years of age or older with respect to whom there has been a determination that but for the provision of such services the individuals would be likely to require the level of care provided in a skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility the cost of which could be reimbursed under the State plan. For purposes of this subsection, the term “room and board” shall not include an amount established under a method determined by the State to reflect the portion of costs of rent and food attributable to an unrelated personal caregiver who is residing in the same household with an individual who, but for the assistance of such caregiver, would require admission to a hospital, nursing facility, or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded.

(2) A waiver shall not be granted under this subsection unless the State provides assurances satisfactory to the Secretary that—

(A) necessary safeguards (including adequate standards for provider participation) have been taken to protect the health and welfare of individuals provided services under the waiver and to assure financial accountability for funds expended with respect to such services;

(B) with respect to individuals 65 years of age or older who—

(i) are entitled to medical assistance for skilled nursing or intermediate care facility services under the State plan,

(ii) may require such services, and

(iii) may be eligible for such home or community-based services under such waiver,

the State will provide for an evaluation of the need for such skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility services; and

(C) such individuals who are determined to be likely to require the level of care provided in a skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility are informed of the feasible alternatives to the provision of skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility services, which such individuals may choose if available under the waiver.

Each State with a waiver under this subsection shall provide to the Secretary annually, consistent with a reasonable data collection plan designed by the Secretary, information on the impact of the waiver granted under this subsection on the type and amount of medical assistance provided under the State plan and on the health and welfare of recipients.

(3) A waiver granted under this subsection may include a waiver of the requirements of section 1902(a)(1) (relating to statewideness), section 1902(a)(10)(B) (relating to comparability), and section 1902(a)(10)(C)(i)(III) (relating to income and resource rules applicable in the community). Subject to a termination by the State (with notice to the Secretary) at any time, a waiver under this subsection (other than a waiver described in subsection (h)(2)) shall be for an initial term of 3 years and, upon the request of a State, shall be extended for additional 5-year periods unless the Secretary determines that for the previous waiver period the assurances provided under paragraph (2) have not been met. A waiver may provide, with respect to post-eligibility treatment of income of all individuals receiving services under the waiver, that the maximum amount of the individual’s income which may be disregarded for any month is equal to the amount that may be allowed for that purpose under a waiver under subsection (c).

(4) A waiver under this subsection may, consistent with paragraph (2), provide medical assistance to individuals for case management services, homemaker/home health aide services and personal care services, adult day health services, respite care, and other medical and social services that can contribute to the health and well-being of individuals and their ability to reside in a community-based care setting.

(5)(A) In the case of a State having a waiver approved under this subsection, notwithstanding any other provision of section 1903 to the contrary, the total amount expended by the State for medical assistance with respect to skilled nursing facility services, intermediate care facility services, and home and community-based services under the State plan for individuals 65 years of age or older during a waiver year under this subsection may not exceed the projected amount determined under subparagraph (B).

(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the projected amount under this subparagraph is the sum of the following:

(i) The aggregate amount of the State’s medical assistance under this title for skilled nursing facility services and intermediate care facility services furnished to individuals who have attained the age of 65 for the base year increased by a percentage which is equal to the lesser of 7 percent times the number of years (rounded to the nearest quarter of a year) beginning after the base year and ending at the end of the waiver year involved or the sum of—

(I) the percentage increase (based on an appropriate market-basket index representing the costs of elements of such services) between the beginning of the base year and the beginning of the waiver year involved, plus

(II) the percentage increase between the beginning of the base year and the beginning of the waiver year involved in the number of residents in the State who have attained the age of 65, plus

(III) 2 percent for each year (rounded to the nearest quarter of a year) beginning after the base year and ending at the end of the waiver year.

(ii) The aggregate amount of the State’s medical assistance under this title for home and community-based services for individuals who have attained the age of 65 for the base year increased by a percentage which is equal to the lesser of 7 percent times the number of years (rounded to the nearest quarter of a year) beginning after the base year and ending at the end of the waiver year involved or the sum of—

(I) the percentage increase (based on an appropriate market-basket index representing the costs of elements of such services) between the beginning of the base year and the beginning of the waiver year involved, plus

(II) the percentage increase between the beginning of the base year and the beginning of the waiver year involved in the number of residents in the State who have attained the age of 65, plus

(III) 2 percent for each year (rounded to the nearest quarter of a year) beginning after the base year and ending at the end of the waiver year.

(iii) The Secretary shall develop and promulgate by regulation (by not later than October 1, 1989)—

(I) a method, based on an index of appropriately weighted indicators of changes in the wages and prices of the mix of goods and services which comprise both skilled nursing facility services and intermediate care facility services (regardless of the source of payment for such services), for projecting the percentage increase for purposes of clause (i)(I);

(II) a method, based on an index of appropriately weighted indicators of changes in the wages and prices of the mix of goods and services which comprise home and community-based services (regardless of the source of payment for such services), for projecting the percentage increase for purposes of clause (ii)(I); and

(III) a method for projecting, on a State specific basis, the percentage increase in the number of residents in each State who are over 65 years of age for any period.

The Secretary shall develop (by not later than October 1, 1989) a method for projecting, on a State-specific basis, the percentage increase in the number of residents in each State who are over 65 years of age for any period. Effective on and after the date the Secretary promulgates the regulation under clause (iii), any reference in this subparagraph to the “lesser of 7 percent” shall be deemed to be a reference to the “greater of 7 percent”.

(iv) If there is enacted after December 22, 1987, an Act which amends this title whose provisions become effective on or after such date and which results in an increase in the aggregate amount of medical assistance under this title for nursing facility services and home and community-based services for individuals who have attained the age of 65 years, the Secretary, at the request of a State with a waiver under this subsection for a waiver year or years and in close consultation with the State, shall adjust the projected amount computed under this subparagraph for the waiver year or years to take into account such increase.

(C) In this paragraph:

(i) The term “home and community-based services” includes services described in sections 1905(a)(7) and 1905(a)(8), services described in subsection (c)(4)(B), services described in paragraph (4), and personal care services.

(ii)(I) Subject to subclause (II), the term “base year” means the most recent year (ending before the date of the enactment of this subsection) for which actual final expenditures under this title have been reported to, and accepted by, the Secretary.

(II) For purposes of subparagraph (C), in the case of a State that does not report expenditures on the basis of the age categories described in such subparagraph for a year ending before the date of the enactment of this subsection, the term “base year” means fiscal year 1989.

(iii) The term “intermediate care facility services” does not include services furnished in an institution certified in accordance with section 1905(d).

(6)(A) A determination by the Secretary to deny a request for a waiver (or extension of waiver) under this subsection shall be subject to review to the extent provided under section 1116(b).

(B) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, if the Secretary denies a request of the State for an extension of a waiver under this subsection, any waiver under this subsection in effect on the date such request is made shall remain in effect for a period of not less than 90 days after the date on which the Secretary denies such request (or, if the State seeks review of such determination in accordance with subparagraph (A), the date on which a final determination is made with respect to such review).

(e)(1)(A) Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall grant a waiver to provide that a State plan approved under this title shall include as “medical assistance” under such plan payment for part or all of the cost of nursing care, respite care, physicians’ services, prescribed drugs, medical devices and supplies, transportation services, and such other services requested by the State as the Secretary may approve which are provided pursuant to a written plan of care to a child described in subparagraph (B) with respect to whom there has been a determination that but for the provision of such services the infants would be likely to require the level of care provided in a hospital or nursing facility the cost of which could be reimbursed under the State plan.

(B) Children described in this subparagraph are individuals under 5 years of age who—

(i) at the time of birth were infected with (or tested positively for) the etiologic agent for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS),

(ii) have such syndrome, or

(iii) at the time of birth were dependent on heroin, cocaine, or phencyclidine,

and with respect to whom adoption or foster care assistance is (or will be) made available under part E of title IV.

(C) Projection of number of individuals to be provided home and community-based services.—The State submits to the Secretary, in such form and manner, and upon such frequency as the Secretary shall specify, the projected number of individuals to be provided home and community-based services. and

(2) A waiver shall not be granted under this subsection unless the State provides assurances satisfactory to the Secretary that—

(A) necessary safeguards (including adequate standards for provider participation) have been taken to protect the health and welfare of individuals provided services under the waiver and to assure financial accountability for funds expended with respect to such services;

(B) under such waiver the average per capita expenditure estimated by the State in any fiscal year for medical assistance provided with respect to such individuals does not exceed 100 percent of the average per capita expenditure that the State reasonably estimates would have been made in that fiscal year for expenditures under the State plan for such individuals if the waiver had not been granted; and

(C) the State will provide to the Secretary annually, consistent with a data collection plan designed by the Secretary, information on the impact of the waiver granted under this subsection on the type and amount of medical assistance provided under the State plan and on the health and welfare of recipients.

(3) A waiver granted under this subsection may include a waiver of the requirements of section 1902(a)(1) (relating to statewideness) and section 1902(a)(10)(B) (relating to comparability). A waiver under this subsection shall be for an initial term of 3 years and, upon the request of a State, shall be extended for additional five-year periods unless the Secretary determines that for the previous waiver period the assurances provided under paragraph (2) have not been met.

(4) The provisions of paragraph (6) of subsection (d) shall apply to this subsection in the same manner as it applies to subsection (d).

(f)(1) The Secretary shall monitor the implementation of waivers granted under this section to assure that the requirements for such waiver are being met and shall, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, terminate any such waiver where he finds noncompliance has occurred.

(2) A request to the Secretary from a State for approval of a proposed State plan or plan amendment or a waiver of a requirement of this title submitted by the State pursuant to a provision of this title shall be deemed granted unless the Secretary, within 90 days after the date of its submission to the Secretary, either denies such request in writing or informs the State agency in writing with respect to any additional information which is needed in order to make a final determination with respect to the request. After the date the Secretary receives such additional information, the request shall be deemed granted unless the Secretary, within 90 days of such date, denies such request.

(g)(1) A State may provide, as medical assistance, case management services under the plan without regard to the requirements of section 1902(a)(1) and section 1902(a)(10)(B). The provision of case management services under this subsection shall not restrict the choice of the individual to receive medical assistance in violation of section 1902(a)(23). A State may limit the provision of case management services under this subsection to individuals with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), or with AIDS-related conditions, or with either, or to individuals described in section 1902(z)(1)(A) and a State may limit the provision of case management services under this subsection to individuals with chronic mental illness. The State may limit the case managers available with respect to case management services for eligible individuals with developmental disabilities or with chronic mental illness in order to ensure that the case managers for such individuals are capable of ensuring that such individuals receive needed services.

(2) For purposes of this subsection, the term “case management services” means services which will assist individuals eligible under the plan in gaining access to needed medical, social, educational, and other services.

(h)(1) No waiver under this section (other than a waiver under subsection (c), (d), or (e), or a waiver described in paragraph (2)) may extend over a period of longer than two years unless the State requests continuation of such waiver, and such request shall be deemed granted unless the Secretary, within 90 days after the date of its submission to the Secretary, either denies such request in writing or informs the State agency in writing with respect to any additional information which is needed in order to make a final determination with respect to the request. After the date the Secretary receives such additional information, the request shall be deemed granted unless the Secretary, within 90 days of such date, denies such request.

(2)(A) Notwithstanding subsections (c)(3) and (d) (3), any waiver under subsection (b), (c), or (d), or a waiver under section 1115, that provides medical assistance for dual eligible individuals (including any such waivers under which non dual eligible individuals may be enrolled in addition to dual eligible individuals) may be conducted for a period of 5 years and, upon the request of the State, may be extended for additional 5-year periods unless the Secretary determines that for the previous waiver period the conditions for the waiver have not been met or it would no longer be cost-effective and efficient, or consistent with the purposes of this title, to extend the waiver.

(B) In this paragraph, the term “dual eligible individual” means an individual who is entitled to, or enrolled for, benefits under part A of title XVIII, or enrolled for benefits under part B of title XVIII, and is eligible for medical assistance under the State plan under this title or under a waiver of such plan.

(i) State Plan Amendment Option To Provide Home and Community-Based Services for Elderly and Disabled Individuals.—

(1) In general.—Subject to the succeeding provisions of this subsection, a State may provide through a State plan amendment for the provision of medical assistance for home and community-based services (within the scope of services described in paragraph (4)(B) of subsection (c) for which the Secretary has the authority to approve a waiver and not including room and board) for individuals eligible for medical assistance under the State plan whose income does not exceed 150 percent of the poverty line (as defined in section 2110(c)(5)), without determining that but for the provision of such services the individuals would require the level of care provided in a hospital or a nursing facility or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded, but only if the State meets the following requirements:

(A) Needs-based criteria for eligibility for, and receipt of, home and community-based services.—The State establishes needs-based criteria for determining an individual’s eligibility under the State plan for medical assistance for such home and community-based services, and if the individual is eligible for such services, the specific home and community-based services that the individual will receive.

(B) Establishment of more stringent needs-based eligibility criteria for institutionalized care.—The State establishes needs-based criteria for determining whether an individual requires the level of care provided in a hospital, a nursing facility, or an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded under the State plan or under any waiver of such plan that are more stringent than the needs-based criteria established under subparagraph (A) for determining eligibility for home and community-based services.

(C) Projection of number of individuals to be provided home and community-based services.—The State submits to the Secretary, in such form and manner, and upon such frequency as the Secretary shall specify, the projected number of individuals to be provided home and community-based services

(D) Criteria based on individual assessment.—

(i) In general.—The criteria established by the State for purposes of subparagraphs (A) and (B) requires an assessment of an individual’s support needs and capabilities, and may take into account the inability of the individual to perform 2 or more activities of daily living (as defined in section 7702B(c)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986)^[238] or the need for significant assistance to perform such activities, and such other risk factors as the State determines to be appropriate.

(ii) Adjustment authority.—The State plan amendment provides the State with the option to modify the criteria established under subparagraph (A)(without having to obtain prior approval from the Secretary) in the event that the enrollment of individuals eligible for home and community-based services exceeds the projected enrollment submitted for purposes of subparagraph (C), but only if—

(I) the State provides at least 60 days notice to the Secretary and the public of the proposed modification;

(II) the State deems an individual receiving home and community-based services on the basis of the most recent version of the criteria in effect prior to the effective date of the modification to continue to be eligible for such services after the effective date of the modification and until such time as the individual no longer meets the standard for receipt of such services under such pre-modified criteria; and

(III) after the effective date of such modification, the State, at a minimum, applies the criteria for determining whether an individual requires the level of care provided in a hospital, a nursing facility, or an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded under the State plan or under any waiver of such plan which applied prior to the application of the more stringent criteria developed under subparagraph (B).

(E) Independent evaluation and assessment.—

(i) Eligibility determination.—The State uses an independent evaluation for making the determinations described in subparagraphs (A) and (B).

(ii) Assessment.—In the case of an individual who is determined to be eligible for home and community-based services, the State uses an independent assessment, based on the needs of the individual to—

(I) determine a necessary level of services and supports to be provided, consistent with an individual’s physical and mental capacity;

(II) prevent the provision of unnecessary or inappropriate care; and

(III) establish an individualized care plan for the individual in accordance with subparagraph (G).

(F) Assessment.—The independent assessment required under subparagraph (E)(ii) shall include the following:

(i) An objective evaluation of an Individual’s inability to perform 2 or more activities of daily living (as defined in section 7702B(c)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986)^[239] or the need for significant assistance to perform such activities.

(ii) A face-to-face evaluation of the individual by an individual trained in the assessment and evaluation of individuals whose physical or mental conditions trigger a potential need for home and community-based services.

(iii) Where appropriate, consultation with the individual’s family, spouse, guardian, or other responsible individual.

(iv) Consultation with appropriate treating and consulting health and support professionals caring for the individual.

(v) An examination of the individual’s relevant history, medical records, and care and support needs, guided by best practices and research on effective strategies that result in improved health and quality of life outcomes.

(vi) If the State offers individuals the option to self-direct the purchase of, or control the receipt of, home and community-based service, an evaluation of the ability of the individual or the individual’s representative to self-direct the purchase of, or control the receipt of, such services if the individual so elects.

(G) Individualized care plan.—

(i) In general.—In the case of an individual who is determined to be eligible for home and community-based services, the State uses the independent assessment required under subparagraph (E)(ii) to establish a written individualized care plan for the individual.

(ii) Plan requirements.—The State ensures that the individualized care plan for an individual—

(I) is developed—

(aa) in consultation with the individual, the individual’s treating physician, health care or support professional, or other appropriate individuals, as defined by the State, and, where appropriate the individual’s family, caregiver, or representative; and

(bb) taking into account the extent of, and need for, any family or other supports for the individual;

(II) identifies the necessary home and community-based services to be furnished to the individual (or, if the individual elects to self-direct the purchase of, or control the receipt of, such services, funded for the individual); and

(III) is reviewed at least annually and as needed when there is a significant change in the individual’s circumstances.

(iii) State option to offer election for self-directed services.—

(I) Individual choice.—At the option of the State, the State may allow an individual or the individual’s representative to elect to receive self-directed home and community-based services in a manner which gives them the most control over such services consistent with the individual’s abilities and the requirements of subclauses (II) and (III).

(II) Self-directed services.—The term “self-directed” means, with respect to the home and community-based services offered under the State plan amendment, such services for the individual which are planned and purchased under the direction and control of such individual or the individual’s authorized representative, including the amount, duration, scope, provider, and location of such services, under the State plan consistent with the following requirements:

(aa) Assessment.—There is an assessment of the needs, capabilities, and preferences of the individual with respect to such services.

(bb) Service plan.—Based on such assessment, there is developed jointly with such individual or the individual’s authorized representative a plan for such services for such individual that is approved by the State and that satisfies the requirements of subclause (III).

(III) Plan requirements.—For purposes of subclause (II)(bb), the requirements of this subclause are that the plan—

(aa) specifies those services which the individual or the individual’s authorized representative would be responsible for directing;

(bb) identifies the methods by which the individual or the individual’s authorized representative will select, manage, and dismiss providers of such services;

(cc) specifies the role of family members and others whose participation is sought by the individual or the individual’s authorized representative with respect to such services;

(dd) is developed through a person-centered process that is directed by the individual or the individual’s authorized representative, builds upon the individual’s capacity to engage in activities that promote community life and that respects the individual’s preferences, choices, and abilities, and involves families, friends, and professionals as desired or required by the individual or the individual’s authorized representative;

(ee) includes appropriate risk management techniques that recognize the roles and sharing of responsibilities in obtaining services in a self-directed manner and assure the appropriateness of such plan based upon the resources and capabilities of the individual or the individual’s authorized representative; and

(ff) may include an individualized budget which identifies the dollar value of the services and supports under the control and direction of the individual or the individual’s authorized representative.

(IV) Budget process.—With respect to individualized budgets described in subclause (III)(ff), the State plan amendment—

(aa) describes the method for calculating the dollar values in such budgets based on reliable costs and service utilization;

(bb) defines a process for making adjustments in such dollar values to reflect changes in individual assessments and service plans; and

(cc) provides a procedure to evaluate expenditures under such budgets.

(H) Quality assurance; conflict of interest standards.—

(i) Quality assurance.—The State ensures that the provision of home and community-based services meets Federal and State guidelines for quality assurance.

(ii) Conflict of interest standards.—The State establishes standards for the conduct of the independent evaluation and the independent assessment to safeguard against conflicts of interest.

(I) Redeterminations and appeals.—The State allows for at least annual redeterminations of eligibility, and appeals in accordance with the frequency of, and manner in which, redeterminations and appeals of eligibility are made under the State plan.

(J) Presumptive eligibility for assessment.—The State, at its option, elects to provide for a period of presumptive eligibility (not to exceed a period of 60 days) only for those individuals that the State has reason to believe may be eligible for home and community-based services. Such presumptive eligibility shall be limited to medical assistance for carrying out the independent evaluation and assessment under subparagraph (E) to determine an individual’s eligibility for such services and if the individual is so eligible, the specific home and community-based services that the individual will receive.

(2) Definition of individual’s representative.—In this section, the term “individual’s representative” means, with respect to an individual, a parent, a family member, or a guardian of the individual, an advocate for the individual, or any other individual who is authorized to represent the individual.

(3) Nonapplication.—A State may elect in the State plan amendment approved under this section to not comply with the requirements of section 1902(a)(10)(B) (relating to comparability) and section 1902(a)(10)(C)(i)(III) (relating to income and resource rules applicable in the community), but only for purposes of provided home and community-based services in accordance with such amendment. Any such election shall not be construed to apply to the provision of services to an individual receiving medical assistance in an institutionalized setting as a result of a determination that the individual requires the level of care provided in a hospital or a nursing facility or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded.

(4) No effect on other waiver authority.—Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as affecting the option of a State to offer home and community-based services under a waiver under subsections (c) or (d) of this section or under section 1115.

(5) Continuation of federal financial participation for medical assistance provided to individuals as of effective date of state plan amendment.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1)(B), Federal financial participation shall continue to be available for an individual who is receiving medical assistance in an institutionalized setting, or home and community-based services provided under a waiver under this section or section 1115 that is in effect as of the effective date of the State plan amendment submitted under this subsection, as a result of a determination that the individual requires the level of care provided in a hospital or a nursing facility or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded, without regard to whether such individuals satisfy the more stringent eligibility criteria established under that paragraph, until such time as the individual is discharged from the institution or waiver program or no longer requires such level of care.

(6) State option to provide home and community-based services to individuals eligible for services under a waiver.—

(A) In general.—A State that provides home and community-based services in accordance with this subsection to individuals who satisfy the needs-based criteria for the receipt of such services established under paragraph (1)(A) may, in addition to continuing to provide such services to such individuals, elect to provide home and community-based services in accordance with the requirements of this paragraph to individuals who are eligible for home and community-based services under a waiver approved for the State under subsection (c), (d), or (e) or under section 1115 to provide such services, but only for those individuals whose income does not exceed 300 percent of the supplemental security income benefit rate established by section 1611(b)(1).

(B) Application of same requirements for individuals satisfying needs-based criteria.—Subject to subparagraph (C), a State shall provide home and community-based services to individuals under this paragraph in the same manner and subject to the same requirements as apply under the other paragraphs of this subsection to the provision of home and community-based services to individuals who satisfy the needs-based criteria established under paragraph (1)(A).

(C) Authority to offer different type, amount, duration, or scope of home and community-based services.—A State may offer home and community-based services to individuals under this paragraph that differ in type, amount, duration, or scope from the home and community-based services offered for individuals who satisfy the needs-based criteria established under paragraph (1)(A), so long as such services are within the scope of services described in paragraph (4)(B) of subsection (c) for which the Secretary has the authority to approve a waiver and do not include room or board.

(7)State option to offer home and community-based services to specific, targeted populations.—

(A) In general.—A State may elect in a State plan amendment under this subsection to target the provision of home and community-based services under this subsection to specific populations and to differ the type, amount, duration, or scope of such services to such specific populations.

(B) 5-year term.—

(i) In general.—An election by a State under this paragraph shall be for a period of 5 years.

(ii) Phase-in of services and eligibility permitted during initial 5-year period.—A State making an election under this paragraph may, during the first 5-year period for which the election is made, phase-in the enrollment of eligible individuals, or the provision of services to such individuals, or both, so long as all eligible individuals in the State for such services are enrolled, and all such services are provided, before the end of the initial 5-year period.

(C) Renewal.—An election by a State under this paragraph may be renewed for additional 5-year terms if the Secretary determines, prior to beginning of each such renewal period, that the State has—

(i) adhered to the requirements of this subsection and paragraph in providing services under such an election; and

(ii) met the State’s objectives with respect to quality improvement and beneficiary outcomes.

(j)(1) A State may provide, as “medical assistance”, payment for part or all of the cost of self-directed personal assistance services (other than room and board) under the plan which are provided pursuant to a written plan of care to individuals with respect to whom there has been a determination that, but for the provision of such services, the individuals would require and receive personal care services under the plan, or home and community-based services provided pursuant to a waiver under subsection (c). Self-directed personal assistance services may not be provided under this subsection to individuals who reside in a home or property that is owned, operated, or controlled by a provider of services, not related by blood or marriage.

(2) The Secretary shall not grant approval for a State self-directed personal assistance services program under this section unless the State provides assurances satisfactory to the Secretary of the following:

(A) Necessary safeguards have been taken to protect the health and welfare of individuals provided services under the program, and to assure financial accountability for funds expended with respect to such services.

(B) The State will provide, with respect to individuals who—

(i) are entitled to medical assistance for personal care services under the plan, or receive home and community-based services under a waiver granted under subsection (c);

(ii) may require self-directed personal assistance services; and

(iii) may be eligible for self-directed personal assistance services, an evaluation of the need for personal care under the plan, or personal services under a waiver granted under subsection (c).

(C) Such individuals who are determined to be likely to require personal care under the plan, or home and community-based services under a waiver granted under subsection (c) are informed of the feasible alternatives, if available under the State’s self-directed personal assistance services program, at the choice of such individuals, to the provision of personal care services under the plan, or personal assistance services under a waiver granted under subsection (c).

(D) The State will provide for a support system that ensures participants in the self-directed personal assistance services program are appropriately assessed and counseled prior to enrollment and are able to manage their budgets. Additional counseling and management support may be provided at the request of the participant.

(E) The State will provide to the Secretary an annual report on the number of individuals served and total expenditures on their behalf in the aggregate. The State shall also provide an evaluation of overall impact on the health and welfare of participating individuals compared to non-participants every three years.

(3) A State may provide self-directed personal assistance services under the State plan without regard to the requirements of section 1902(a)(1) and may limit the population eligible to receive these services and limit the number of persons served without regard to section 1902(a)(10)(B).

(4)(A) For purposes of this subsection, the term “self-directed personal assistance services” means personal care and related services, or home and community-based services otherwise available under the plan under this title or subsection (c), that are provided to an eligible participant under a self-directed personal assistance services program under this section, under which individuals, within an approved self-directed services plan and budget, purchase personal assistance and related services, and permits participants to hire, fire, supervise, and manage the individuals providing such services.

(B) At the election of the State—

(i) a participant may choose to use any individual capable of providing the assigned tasks including legally liable relatives as paid providers of the services; and

(ii) the individual may use the individual’s budget to acquire items that increase independence or substitute (such as a microwave oven or an accessibility ramp) for human assistance, to the extent that expenditures would otherwise be made for the human assistance.

(5) For purpose of this section, the term “approved self-directed services plan and budget”means, with respect to a participant, the establishment of a plan and budget for the provision of self-directed personal assistance services, consistent with the following requirements:

(A) Self-direction.—The participant (or in the case of a participant who is a minor child, the participant’s parent or guardian, or in the case of an incapacitated adult, another individual recognized by State law to act on behalf of the participant) exercises choice and control over the budget, planning, and purchase of self-directed personal assistance services, including the amount, duration, scope, provider, and location of service provision.

(B) Assessment of needs.—There is an assessment of the needs, strengths, and preferences of the participants for such services.

(C) Service plan.—A plan for such services (and supports for such services) for the participant has been developed and approved by the State based on such assessment through a person-centered process that—

(i) builds upon the participant’s capacity to engage in activities that promote community life and that respects the participant’s preferences, choices, and abilities; and

(ii) involves families, friends, and professionals in the planning or delivery of services or supports as desired or required by the participant.

(D) Service budget.—A budget for such services and supports for the participant has been developed and approved by the State based on such assessment and plan and on a methodology that uses valid, reliable cost data, is open to public inspection, and includes a calculation of the expected cost of such services if those services were not self-directed. The budget may not restrict access to other medically necessary care and services furnished under the plan and approved by the State but not included in the budget.

(E) Application of quality assurance and risk management.—There are appropriate quality assurance and risk management techniques used in establishing and implementing such plan and budget that recognize the roles and responsibilities in obtaining services in a self-directed manner and assure the appropriateness of such plan and budget based upon the participant’s resources and capabilities.

(6) A State may employ a financial management entity to make payments to providers, track costs, and make reports under the program. Payment for the activities of the financial management entity shall be at the administrative rate established in section 1903(a).

(k) State Plan Option to Provide Home and Communitybased Attendant Services and Supports.—

(1) In general.—Subject to the succeeding provisions of this subsection, beginning October 1, 2011, a State may provide through a State plan amendment for the provision of medical assistance for home and community-based attendant services and supports for individuals who are eligible for medical assistance under the State plan whose income does not exceed 150 percent of the poverty line (as defined in section 2110(c)(5)) or, if greater, the income level applicable for an individual who has been determined to require an institutional level of care to be eligible for nursing facility services under the State plan and with respect to whom there has been a determination that, but for the provision of such services, the individuals would require the level of care provided in a hospital, a nursing facility, an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded, or an institution for mental diseases, the cost of which could be reimbursed under the State plan, but only if the individual chooses to receive such home and community-based attendant services and supports, and only if the State meets the following requirements:

(A) Availability.—The State shall make available home and community-based attendant services and supports to eligible individuals, as needed, to assist in accomplishing activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and health-related tasks through handson assistance, supervision, or cueing—

(i) under a person-centered plan of services and supports that is based on an assessment of functional need and that is agreed to in writing by the individual or, as appropriate, the individual’s representative;

(ii) in a home or community setting, which does not include a nursing facility, institution for mental diseases, or an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded;

(iii) under an agency-provider model or other model (as defined in paragraph (6)(C )); and

(iv) the furnishing of which—

(I) is selected, managed, and dismissed by the individual, or, as appropriate, with assistance from the individual’s representative;

(II) is controlled, to the maximum extent possible, by the individual or where appropriate, the individual’s representative, regardless of who may act as the employer of record; and

(III) provided by an individual who is qualified to provide such services, including family members (as defined by the Secretary).

(B) Included services and supports.—In addition to assistance in accomplishing activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and health related tasks, the home and community-based attendant services and supports made available include—

(i) the acquisition, maintenance, and enhancement of skills necessary for the individual to accomplish activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and health related tasks;

(ii) back-up systems or mechanisms (such as the use of beepers or other electronic devices) to ensure continuity of services and supports; and

(iii) voluntary training on how to select, manage, and dismiss attendants.

(C) Excluded services and supports.—Subject to subparagraph (D), the home and community-based attendant services and supports made available do not include—

(i) room and board costs for the individual;

(ii) special education and related services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and vocational rehabilitation services provided under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973;

(iii) assistive technology devices and assistive technology services other than those under (1)(B)(ii);

(iv) medical supplies and equipment; or

(v) home modifications.

(D) Permissible services and supports.—The home and community-based attendant services and supports may include—

(i) expenditures for transition costs such as rent and utility deposits, first month’s rent and utilities, bedding, basic kitchen supplies, and other necessities required for an individual to make the transition from a nursing facility, institution for mental diseases, or intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded to a community-based home setting where the individual resides; and

(ii) expenditures relating to a need identified in an individual’s person-centered plan of services that increase independence or substitute for human assistance, to the extent that expenditures would otherwise be made for the human assistance.

(2) Increased federal financial participation.—For purposes of payments to a State under section 1903(a)(1), with respect to amounts expended by the State to provide medical assistance under the State plan for home and community-based attendant services and supports to eligible individuals in accordance with this subsection during a fiscal year quarter occurring during the period described in paragraph (1), the Federal medical assistance percentage applicable to the State (as determined under section 1905(b)) shall be increased by 6 percentage points.

(3) State requirements.—In order for a State plan amendment to be approved under this subsection, the State shall—

(A) develop and implement such amendment in collaboration with a Development and Implementation Council established by the State that includes a majority of members with disabilities, elderly individuals, and their representatives and consults and collaborates with such individuals;

(B) provide consumer controlled home and community-based attendant services and supports to individuals on a statewide basis, in a manner that provides such services and supports in the most integrated setting appropriate to the individual’s needs, and without regard to the individual’s age, type or nature of disability, severity of disability, or the form of home and community-based attendant services and supports that the individual requires in order to lead an independent life;

(C) with respect to expenditures during the first full fiscal year in which the State plan amendment is implemented, maintain or exceed the level of State expenditures for medical assistance that is provided under section 1905(a), section 1915, section 1115, or otherwise to individuals with disabilities or elderly individuals attributable to the preceding fiscal year;

(D) establish and maintain a comprehensive, continuous quality assurance system with respect to community-based attendant services and supports that—

(i) includes standards for agency-based and other delivery models with respect to training, appeals for denials and reconsideration procedures of an individual plan, and other factors as determined by the Secretary;

(ii) incorporates feedback from consumers and their representatives, disability organizations, providers, families of disabled or elderly individuals, members of the community, and others and maximizes consumer independence and consumer control;

(iii) monitors the health and well-being of each individual who receives home and community-based attendant services and supports, including a process for the mandatory reporting, investigation, and resolution of allegations of neglect, abuse, or exploitation in connection with the provision of such services and supports; and

(iv) provides information about the provisions of the quality assurance required under clauses (i) through (iii) to each individual receiving such services; and

(E) collect and report information, as determined necessary by the Secretary, for the purposes of approving the State plan amendment, providing Federal oversight, and conducting an evaluation under paragraph (5)(A), including data regarding how the State provides home and community-based attendant services and supports and other home and community-based services, the cost of such services and supports, and how the State provides individuals with disabilities who otherwise qualify for institutional care under the State plan or under a waiver the choice to instead receive home and community-based services in lieu of institutional care.

(4) Compliance with certain laws.—A State shall ensure that, regardless of whether the State uses an agency-provider model or other models to provide home and community-based attendant services and supports under a State plan amendment under this subsection, such services and supports are provided in accordance with the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and applicable Federal and State laws regarding—

(A) withholding and payment of Federal and State income and payroll taxes;

(B) the provision of unemployment and workers compensation insurance;

(C) maintenance of general liability insurance; and

(D) occupational health and safety.

(5) Evaluation, data collection, and report to congress.—

(A) Evaluation.—The Secretary shall conduct an evaluation of the provision of home and community-based attendant services and supports under this subsection in order to determine the effectiveness of the provision of such services and supports in allowing the individuals receiving such services and supports to lead an independent life to the maximum extent possible; the impact on the physical and emotional health of the individuals who receive such services; and an comparative analysis of the costs of services provided under the State plan amendment under this subsection and those provided under institutional care in a nursing facility, institution for mental diseases, or an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded.

(B) Data collection.—The State shall provide the Secretary with the following information regarding the provision of home and community-based attendant services and supports under this subsection for each fiscal year for which such services and supports are provided:

(i) The number of individuals who are estimated to receive home and community-based attendant services and supports under this subsection during the fiscal year.

(ii) The number of individuals that received such services and supports during the preceding fiscal year.

(iii) The specific number of individuals served by type of disability, age, gender, education level, and employment status.

(iv) Whether the specific individuals have been previously served under any other home and community based services program under the State plan or under a waiver.

(C) Reports.—not later than—

(i) December 31, 2013, the Secretary shall submit to Congress and make available to the public an interim report on the findings of the evaluation under subparagraph (A); and

(ii) December 31, 2015, the Secretary shall submit to Congress and make available to the public a final report on the findings of the evaluation under subparagraph (A).

(6) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Activities of daily living.—The term “activities of daily living” includes tasks such as eating, toileting, grooming, dressing, bathing, and transferring.

(B) Consumer controlled.—The term “consumer controlled” means a method of selecting and providing services and supports that allow the individual, or where appropriate, the individual’s representative, maximum control of the home and community-based attendant services and supports, regardless of who acts as the employer of record.

(C) Delivery models.—

(i) Agency-provider model.—The term “agency-provider model” means, with respect to the provision of home and community-based attendant services and supports for an individual, subject to paragraph (4), a method of providing consumer controlled services and supports under which entities contract for the provision of such services and supports.

(ii) Other models.—The term “other models” means, subject to paragraph (4), methods, other than an agency-provider model, for the provision of consumer controlled services and supports. Such models may include the provision of vouchers, direct cash payments, or use of a fiscal agent to assist in obtaining services.

(D) Health-related tasks.—The term “health-related tasks” means specific tasks related to the needs of an individual, which can be delegated or assigned by licensed health-care professionals under State law to be performed by an attendant.

(E) Individual’s representative.—The term “individual’s representative” means a parent, family member, guardian, advocate, or other authorized representative of an individual

(F) Instrumental activities of daily living.—The term “instrumental activities of daily living” includes (but is not limited to) meal planning and preparation, managing finances, shopping for food, clothing, and other essential items, performing essential household chores, communicating by phone or other media, and traveling around and participating in the community.

(l)[240]State Plan Amendment Option to Provide Medical Assistance for Certain Individuals Who Are Patients in Certain Institutions for Mental Diseases.—

(1) In general.—With respect to calendar quarters beginning during the period beginning October 1, 2019, and ending September 30, 2023, a State may elect, through a State plan amendment, to provide medical assistance for items and services furnished to an eligible individual who is a patient in an eligible institution for mental diseases in accordance with the requirements of this subsection.

(2) Payments.—Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4), amounts expended under a State plan amendment under paragraph (1) for services described in such paragraph furnished, with respect to a 12-month period, to an eligible individual who is a patient in an eligible institution for mental diseases shall be treated as medical assistance for which payment is made under section 1903(a) but only to the extent that such services are furnished for not more than a period of 30 days (whether or not consecutive) during such 12-month period.

(3)Maintenance of effort.—

(A) In general.—As a condition for a State receiving payments under section 1903(a) for medical assistance provided in accordance with this subsection, the State shall (during the period in which it so furnished such medical assistance through a State plan amendment under this subsection) maintain on an annual basis a level of funding expended by the State (and political subdivisions thereof) other than under this title from non-Federal funds for—

(i) items and services furnished to eligible individuals who are patients in eligible institutions for mental diseases that is not less than the level of such funding for such items and services for the most recently ended fiscal year as of the date of enactment of this subsection or, if higher, for the most recently ended fiscal year as of the date the State submits a State plan amendment to the Secretary to provide such medical assistance in accordance with this subsection; and

(ii) items and services (including services described in subparagraph (B)) furnished to eligible individuals in outpatient and community-based settings that is not less than the level of such funding for such items and services for the most recently ended fiscal year as of the date of enactment of this subsection or, if higher, for the most recently ended fiscal year as of the date the State submits a State plan amendment to the Secretary to provide such medical assistance in accordance with this subsection.

(B) Services described.—\For purposes of subparagraph (A)(ii), services described in this subparagraph are the following:

(i) Outpatient and community-based substance use disorder treatment.

(ii) Evidence-based recovery and support services.

(iii) Clinically-directed therapeutic treatment to facilitate recovery skills, relapse prevention, and emotional coping strategies.

(iv) Outpatient medication-assisted treatment, related therapies, and pharmacology.

(v) Counseling and clinical monitoring.

(vi) Outpatient withdrawal management and related treatment designed to alleviate acute emotional, behavioral, cognitive, or biomedical distress resulting from, or occurring with, an individual’s use of alcohol and other drugs.

(vii) Routine monitoring of medication adherence.

(viii) Other outpatient and community-based services for the treatment of substance use disorders, as designated by the Secretary.

(C)State reporting requirement.—

(i) In general.—Prior to approval of a State plan amendment under this subsection, as a condition for a State receiving payments under section 1903(a) for medical assistance provided in accordance with this subsection, the State shall report to the Secretary, in accordance with the process established by the Secretary under clause (ii), the information deemed necessary by the Secretary under such clause.

(ii) Process.—Not later than the date that is 8 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall establish a process for States to report to the Secretary, at such time and in such manner as the Secretary deems appropriate, such information as the Secretary deems necessary to verify a State’s compliance with subparagraph (A).

(4)Ensuring a continuum of services.—

(A) In general.—As a condition for a State receiving payments under section 1903(a) for medical assistance provided in accordance with this subsection, the State shall carry out each of the requirements described in subparagraphs (B) through (D).

(B) Notification.—Prior to approval of a State plan amendment under this subsection, the State shall notify the Secretary of how the State will ensure that eligible individuals receive appropriate evidence-based clinical screening prior to being furnished with items and services in an eligible institution for mental diseases, including initial and periodic assessments to determine the appropriate level of care, length of stay, and setting for such care for each individual.

(C)Outpatient services; inpatient and residential services.—

(i) Outpatient services.—The State shall, at a minimum, provide medical assistance for services that could otherwise be covered under the State plan, consistent with each of the following outpatient levels of care:

(I) Early intervention for individuals who, for a known reason, are at risk of developing substance- related problems and for individuals for whom there is not yet sufficient information to document a diagnosable substance use disorder.

(II) Outpatient services for less than 9 hours per week for adults, and for less than 6 hours per week for adolescents, for recovery or motivational enhancement therapies and strategies.

(III) Intensive outpatient services for 9 hours or more per week for adults, and for 6 hours or more per week for adolescents, to treat multidimensional instability.

(IV) Partial hospitalization services for 20 hours or more per week for adults and adolescents to treat multidimensional instability that does not require 24-hour care.

(ii) Inpatient and residential services.—The State shall provide medical assistance for services that could otherwise be covered under the State plan, consistent with at least 2 of the following inpatient and residential levels of care:

(I) Clinically managed, low-intensity residential services that provide adults and adolescents with 24-hour living support and structure with trained personnel and at least 5 hours of clinical service per week per individual.

(II) Clinically managed, population-specific, high-intensity residential services that provide adults with 24-hour care with trained counselors to stabilize multidimensional imminent danger along with less intense milieu and group treatment for those with cognitive or other impairments unable to use full active milieu or therapeutic community.

(III) Clinically managed, medium-intensity residential services for adolescents, and clinically managed, high-intensity residential services for adults, that provide 24-hour care with trained counselors to stabilize multidimensional imminent danger and preparation for outpatient treatment.

(IV) Medically monitored, high-intensity inpatient services for adolescents, and medically monitored, intensive inpatient services withdrawal management for adults, that provide 24-hour nursing care, make physicians available for significant problems in Dimensions 1, 2, or 3, and provide counseling services 16 hours per day.

(V) Medically managed, intensive inpatient services for adolescents and adults that provide 24-hour nursing care and daily physician care for severe, unstable problems in Dimensions 1, 2 or 3.

(D) Transition of care.—In order to ensure an appropriate transition for an eligible individual from receiving care in an eligible institution for mental diseases to receiving care at a lower level of clinical intensity within the continuum of care (including outpatient services), the State shall ensure that—

(i) a placement in such eligible institution for mental diseases would allow for an eligible individual’s successful transition to the community, considering such factors as proximity to an individual’s support network (such as family members, employment, and counseling and other services near an individual’s residence); and

(ii) all eligible institutions for mental diseases that furnish items and services to individuals for which medical assistance is provided under the State plan—

(I) are able to provide care at such lower level of clinical intensity; or

(II) have an established relationship with another facility or provider that is able to provide care at such lower level of clinical intensity and accepts patients receiving medical assistance under this title under which the eligible institution for mental diseases may arrange for individuals to receive such care from such other facility or provider.

(5) Application to managed care.—Payments for, and limitations to, medical assistance furnished in accordance with this subsection shall be in addition to and shall not be construed to limit or supersede the ability of States to make monthly capitation payments to managed care organizations for individuals receiving treatment in institutions for mental diseases in accordance with section 438.6(e) of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations^[241] (or any successor regulation).

(6) Other medical assistance.—The provision of medical assistance for items and services furnished to an eligible individual who is a patient in an eligible institution for mental diseases in accordance with the requirements of this subsection shall not prohibit Federal financial participation for medical assistance for items or services that are provided to such eligible individual in or away from the eligible institution for mental disease during any period in which the eligible individual is receiving items or services in accordance with this subsection.

(7) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Dimensions 1, 2, or 3.—The term “Dimensions 1, 2, or 3” has the meaning given that term for purposes of the publication of the American Society of Addiction Medicine entitled “The ASAM Criteria: Treatment Criteria for Addictive Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions, 2013.^[242]”

(B) Eligible Individual.—The term “eligible individual” means an individual who—

(i) with respect to a State, is enrolled for medical assistance under the State plan or a waiver of such plan;

(ii) is at least 21 years of age;

(iii) has not attained 65 years of age; and

(iv) has at least 1 substance use disorder.

(C) Eligible institution for mental diseases.—The term “eligible institution for mental diseases” means an institution for mental diseases that—

(i) follows reliable, evidence-based practices; and

(ii) offers at least 2 forms of medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders on site, including, in the case of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder, at least 1 antagonist and 1 partial agonist.

(D) Institution for mental diseases.—The term “institution for mental diseases” has the meaning given that term in section 1905(i).

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^[235]  See Vol. II, P.L. 99-272, §9524, with respect to the Wisconsin health maintenance organization waiver.

^[236]  See Vol. II, P.L. 91-230, §602(c)(5)(C).

^[237]  See Vol. II, P.L. 93-112, §110.

^[238]  See Vol. II, P.L. 83-591, §7702B(c)(2)(B).

^[239]  See Vol. II, P.L. 83-591, §7702B(c)(2)(B).

^[240]  P.L. 115–271, §5052(a) added subsection (l). Effective October 24, 2018. See Vol. II, P.L. 115–271, §5052(b) for further applicability.

^[241]  See. Vol. II, 42 C.F.R. §438.6(e).

^[242]  This publication is available for purchase at https://www.asam.org/resources/the-asam-criteria.