Virginia Medicaid (DMAS) Emergency Weather Instructions

The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) has asked us to pass along the following information to members.

Due to the upcoming potential for inclement weather, DMAS has instituted the following emergency procedures.  (The timeframes may be adjusted based upon the severity of the weather on various areas of the Commonwealth.) 

• All pre-admission screening requirements are waived for admissions to nursing facilities from Friday, January 22, 2016 to Tuesday, January 26, 2016.  Following January 26, 2016 a PIRS form with the date of admission shall be sent to DMAS through the normal process.  If a uniform assessment instrument was not completed, it will need to be completed and submitted as quickly as possible through ePAS after January 26, 2016.

• All emergency or urgent transportation necessary to transport individuals from their homes to a nursing facility or hospital will be reimbursed by DMAS. The Transportation Brokers, MCO Contractor, and CCC Plans have been notified of DMAS' intent to honor all emergency transportation during the period of Friday, January 22, 2016 to Tuesday, January 26, 2016.  Following January 26, 2016, the claims should be submitted through the normal process. 

• During the period of Friday, January 22, 2016 to Tuesday, January 26, 2016 please contact the plan in which the member is enrolled for EMERGENCY PLACEMENTS ONLY.  The approvals will cover round trip transportation.  The telephone numbers for the plans are:

• DMAS Members enrolled in Fee for Service, and Humana CCC Plan call 866.679.6330.
• DMAS Members enrolled in Anthem CCC Plan call 855.253.6861.
• DMAS Members enrolled in VA Premier CCC Plan call 800.727.7536.

If we receive any additional information or updates related to the forecasted severe weather, we will forward it to you.