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What is the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for School-Based-Services? Is there any other FMAP for expanded school services?

The formula for State FMAP is established in statute and there is currently no FMAP specific to SBS. The FMAP for direct medical services provided in schools is the same as applicable for Medicaid or CHIP services provided in other service settings. Expenditures for Medicaid administrative activities are generally available at a 50% matching rate, with higher rates for certain activities as specified in the Social Security Act (the Act).

Can a State bill for extended school year services or other services that occur outside of school hours or the school year? (e.g., provided after school hours or on weekends)?

Generally, yes, but how this is achieved is dependent on the reimbursement methodology the State has approved for SBS in its Medicaid State plan. If SBS in a State are paid through fee for service (FFS), then each billed service is claimed and paid as provided in the State plan, regardless of when it occurs.

What is the process and timeline for CMS review and approval of SPAs? Additionally, what are the essential requirements for an SPA?

In order to submit an SPA package, States will formally submit a cover letter that briefly states the intention behind the SPA, a revised Form 179, the revised, applicable State plan pages, and if applicable, a sample cost report with cost report instructions. Please note that CMS does not formally approve the cost report, however the agency’s analysis of it will help to ensure the State is determining cost in a manner consistent with applicable regulation and statutes.

Given that LEAs no longer use Social Security numbers for identifying students, finding Medicaid identification

The system used to identify Medicaid members is unique to each State. The Technical Assistance Center can help with research and work with States to identify best practices to address this issue. We recommend the SMA work with LEAs to develop an integrated system used by both entities.