Change in Third Party Administrator for CMSP Benefits

As of April 1, 2015, CMSP medical and dental benefits will be authorized by Advanced Medical Management, taking over for Anthem Blue Cross.  On March 3, 2015, beneficiaries were mailed notices regarding this transition.  CMSP ACL 15-02 (3/3/15).

AEVS responses and the Medi-Cal Provider Operations Manual will be updated to reflect this change as of April 1, 2015.  DHCS MEDIL I 15-06 (3/6/15).

Updates to SSI Allocations and MSP property limits

DHCS has informed counties about the increase in the standard and parent allocations for SSI in 2015.  This DHCS letter also includes information about the decrease in Medicare Part A premiums, and the lack of change for Part B premiums and deductibles.  Similarly, the property levels for the various Medicare Savings Programs remain at $7,160 for an individual and $10,750 for a couple.  DHCS ACWDL 15-13 (3/3/15).

MAGI Medi-Cal Beneficiaries may be eligible for PACE program

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).

New Aid for determining MAGI income types and deductions

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).