Background -

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, federal and state policymakers have acted to preserve access to services for populations that use Medicaid-covered long-term services and supports (LTSS). These populations include older adults and people with chronic conditions or disabilities who are at high risk for experiencing severe cases if they contract COVID-19 and face disruptions in access to care if they or their caregivers must quarantine or isolate. Among other actions, policymakers have directed emergency funding to bolster providers and maintain Medicaid coverage for individuals, and have granted regulatory relief to minimize administrative, clinical or financial barriers to accessing services.