CMS Asks for Input on CHIP Data Collection
Published Date: 7/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The government wants your thoughts on how it collects info for Medicaid and CHIP programs, which help kids and families get health care. They’re asking for feedback by July 30, 2026, to make sure the process stays easy and useful without causing extra work. This helps keep these programs running smoothly and saves time and money for everyone involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Limit on Retroactive CHIP Coverage
The rule adds a CHIP template that requires states to limit retroactive CHIP coverage so it cannot begin earlier than two months before the month you apply. The template also requires states to provide coverage during a reasonable opportunity period (ROP) of at least 90 days.
State Address Verification Requirement
Beginning no later than January 1, 2027, states must regularly obtain updated address information for Medicaid and CHIP enrollees from reliable data sources. Medicaid/CHIP managed care contracts must require prompt transmission to the state of any enrollee address information obtained or verified directly with the enrollee.
Faster Prior Authorization Deadlines
States must ensure prior authorization decisions are made within 7 calendar days for standard requests and within 72 hours for expedited requests. States must also post prior authorization data on the state's website by March 31 for the previous calendar year.
HCBS Quality Reporting for MFP Participants
Beginning September 1, 2026, states participating in the Money Follows the Person demonstration must report Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Quality Measure Set data. The notice lists the affected public as including individuals and households (48,048 respondents) and estimates 109,200 total annual respondent hours.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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