To raise the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries from 100 percent to 138 percent and the Qualified Individual's eligibility level to greater than 138 percent FPL to 186 percent FPL.

This SPA reflects a Behavioral Health Treatment and Personal Care Services Direct Care Worker rate increase.

Budget Rate Increase extended services to pregnant women and personal care service

To include a self-directed model for some Community First Choice (CFC) services, implement changes to the current Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirements for CFC, and better align the State Plan with current practice regarding CFC covered services, limitations, and the program’s quality improvement strategy. CMS conducted the review of the state’s submittal according to statutory requirements in Title XIX of the Social Security Act and relevant federal regulations.

The Maryland Department of Health is submitting this SPA to implement a 3% rate increase, provided through the Maryland Budget Bill, for the 1915(i) Home and Community-Based Services Program.

The reimbursement rates for lactation counseling services will be increased.

This amendment will allow enhanced payments to providers associated with teaching hospitals.

This transmittal is being submitted to continue the ambulance treat in place rate approved in the Disaster relief SPA 20-0014 past the PHE period.