In this letter, DHCS walks through the various efforts the state has made to expedite processing and eligibility for applicants waiting for eligibility determinations throughout the ACA era.  Of the described batches, the state is still processing the following batches:

• Processing applications for short term negative actions due to the absence of such functionality in CalHEERS;
• Transition to Medi-Cal cases from Covered California annual redetermination period; and
• Accelerated enrollment for cases that have not been processed within 45 days since the second open enrollment period.

The letter includes a graph describing each batch process and relevant state instruction letters.  DHCS MEDIL I 15-05 (3/5/15).

As of March 2, 2015, the online CalHEERS application portal has been changed to be more consumer friendly and in line with the paper application.  This DHCS letter explains that changes were made to simplify language and improve applicant understanding by putting some information front and center and making links available in easier places.  The changes include:

• Asking questions about whether applicant qualifies for subsidies up front;
• Links to information about the Deemed Infant Program, the Former Foster Youth program, and programs for pregnant women;
• Updating the household information section to clarify what documentation is required;
• Preventing the entry of contradictory tax information; and
• Offering the opportunity to register online to vote.

Paper applications are being reviewed and will be printed when approved.  DHCS MEDIL I 15-04 (3/4/15).

DHCS issued guidance to the counties, noting that MAGI Medi-Cal beneficiaries could be eligible to participate in Programs for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) as long as they met all other requirements.  The letter provides a list of program contacts for PACE, a program that allows participants to avoid institutionalization and stay at home.  DHCS ACWDL 15-11 (2/27/2015).

DHCS issued guidance to the counties about what types of income deductions are used for MAGI Medi-Cal and Covered California determinations.  The information is being incorporated into CalHEERS.  The letter includes a chart that lists the types of deductions and sources of income, as well as whether to count it for either Medi-Cal or Covered California purposes.  DHCS MEDIL I 15-03 (2/27/15).

This letter informs counties that they no longer have to make a third contact for verification of pending applications.  DHCS MEDIL I 15-02 (2/12/15).