MDHHS Update on 2023 Covid Relief Facility Application Process (SNF)

On February 6, MDHHS issued MSA L 23-13 which provides guidance and clarification to eligible Skilled Nursing Facilities on the Fiscal Year 2023 annual Nursing Facility application window and determination process for Covid Relief (CR) Facility designation as described initially in bulletin MSA 21-40.

Application process

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is issuing a stay on the FY23 application cycle for COVID Relief Facility designation. MDHHS is extending the period for SNFs with a previous CR Facility Tier 1 or Tier 2 designation, that remain in good standing, to care for COVID-positive residents in place. Facilities will retain their FY22 status until the FY23 period concludes on September 30, 2023.

Capacity Change Notice

The Capacity Change Notice allows MDHHS-designated CR facilities the flexibility to adapt to the changing conditions within their community to meet the needs specific to their facility as conditions change over time. Capacity changes support the opportunity for facilities to adapt the size, layout, location, and conditions of the designated areas to care for COVID-positive residents.

Effective March 1, 2023, facilities no longer need to submit capacity change requests to notify MDHHS of changes in COVID-19 bed counts. Facilities must only submit capacity change requests if they are seeking formal guidance and/or technical assistance from the IPRAT Unit in adapting to community conditions and/or managing COVID-19 within their facility.