Extension of the Public Health Emergency

A Public Health Emergency was initially announced in January 2020 in response to the global COVID-19 outbreak. The Public Health Emergency allows for new healthcare policies to help individuals be resilient throughout a time of uncertainty. Although there has been a decrease in the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States, the government has again extended the Public Health Emergency through January 2023, when it will be reevaluated and potentially extended for an additional 90 days. We’ve answered some questions about the recent renewal, and what will happen when the Public Health Emergency ends:
 

• How will the end of the Public Health Emergency affect healthcare status?
  • At the beginning of the pandemic, Congress passed legislation to prevent individuals from being unenrolled from their healthcare programs during the duration of the Public Health Emergency. Individuals enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Programs, will need to check their eligibility and status to ensure the can continue to receive healthcare. 
• Will individuals have access to COVID-19 testing and treatments when the Public Health Emergency ends?
  • Depending on their insurance status, COVID-19 testing and treatment may still be available for free or a reduced price. Remind the individuals you serve to check with their insurance provider to see their updated COVID-19 protocols. Help constituents find free community based testing sites near them, here! 
• When will the public health emergency end? 
  • The current extension of the public health emergency will last until January 11, 2023. If extended, the public health emergency will renew for another 90 days. Although there is no indication as to whether the PHE will be extended, the current Congressional Administration has indicated they will give a 60-day notice before the PHE ends. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response will make any updates on the Public Health Emergency here.