Secretary of Health & Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar renewed the COVID-19 public health emergency, effective Oct. 23, 2020, which means that all current Medicare telehealth waivers and other flexibilities are also extended. The renewed pubic health emergency declaration will terminate 90 days thereafter, on Jan. 21, 2021, unless it is renewed again.

MGMA has advocated for renewal of this declaration as practices continue to need regulatory flexibility and expanded reimbursement for virtual care. Previous renewals were issued at the last minute, so MGMA appreciates the advanced notice of the most recent announcement. For more information on regulatory waivers, visit our COVID-19 Action Center.