CMS Responds to Hawaii Wildfires

On Aug. 11, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra officially recognized a Public Health Emergency (PHE) in Hawaii due to wildfires that began several days earlier. This proclamation ensures that Hawaii will receive the support and resources it needs during this dire time.

In light of the recent devastation, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is also stepping up to provide critical resources and flexibilities to ensure that those impacted receive the healthcare support they require. The rapid response by CMS reflects its commitment to the welfare of U.S. citizens, especially during times of crisis, and includes:

Hawaii Waivers:

• Healthcare providers requiring additional flexibilities due to the wildfires can send their requests to CMS.
• Submit your requests here: (https://cmsqualitysupport.servicenowservices.com/cms_1135).
• Disaster Toolkit for Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
• CMS offers a toolkit with a collection of Medicaid and CHIP flexibilities for states during disasters.
• This ensures continued coverage for those dependent on these programs during crises.
• Access the toolkit here: (https://www.medicaid.gov/state-resource-center/disaster-response-toolkit/index.html).

Dialysis Care:

• The Kidney Community Emergency Response (KCER) program has been activated by CMS.
• In collaboration with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network 17, they assess the status of dialysis facilities in Hawaii’s affected areas.
• Recommendations include having an emergency supply kit in a waterproof bag, with essential personal, medical, and insurance details.
• A three-day emergency diet supply is advised.
• Reach out to the ESRD Network 17 (Hawaii) hotline at 800-232-3773 or visit the KCER website (www.kcercoalition.com).

Replacement of Medical Equipment and Supplies:

• CMS is waiving certain requirements temporarily.
• This is to ensure those with Medicare can replace their damaged or lost medical equipment and supplies.
• Medicare beneficiaries requiring assistance can dial 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

HIPAA Privacy Rule during Public Health Emergencies:

To understand how the HIPAA Privacy Rule is applied during PHEs, visit the HHS Office for Civil Rights website: (https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/special-topics/emergency-preparedness/index.html).

Resources for Emergency Responders/Officials:

• To ensure that individuals have equal access to emergency services, resources have been provided for language access and effective communication.
• Access the Emergency Preparedness Checklist here: (https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/lang-access-and-effective-comm-checklist-for-emergency-responders.pdf).
• More preparedness and response resources are available online here: (https://aspr.hhs.gov/Tools/Pages/default.aspx).

Looking Ahead:

CMS continues to work closely with the State of Hawaii in addressing the aftermath of the wildfires. Beneficiaries and healthcare service providers impacted are urged to reach out for support via CMS’s emergency web page (www.cms.gov/emergency).

For a comprehensive set of resources tailored for health sector professionals and emergency management experts, please visit this web page: (https://www.phe.gov/emergency/Tools/Pages/default.aspx).

In these challenging times, agencies like CMS play a pivotal role in providing a safety net for those affected by unforeseen calamities. The proactive approach and rapid response measures highlight their unwavering commitment to public welfare.