Virginia Departments of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)

Notice of Public Comment Period

The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) will welcome public comment regarding the renewal submission to the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for the 1915(c) Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Community Living (CL) Medicaid Waiver.

This notice serves to inform interested parties that a 30-day public comment period will open on February 1, 2024 and closes at midnight on March 2, 2024.  The 1915(c) HCBS Waiver renewal application can be located at:  https://dmas.virginia.gov/media/6508/community-living-waiver-renewal-application-effective-july-1-2024.pdf

The state is required to submit a renewal every five years for the continuation of home and community-based services.  The significant changes being requested in this renewal application are the following:

1. Allowing telehealth as an appropriate method of delivery for certain activities for the following services: Community Coaching, Group Day Services, Group Supported Employment, In-Home Support Services, Individual Supported Employment, and Workplace Assistance.
2. Updating language to the state’s Performance Measures for compliance and reporting purposes to CMS.
3. Updating language to service specifications to match current regulations and practices.

Instructions for Public Comment Submissions:

Electronic Submission:  Comments should be submitted via the Virginia Town Hall public comment forum.

Or submit via US Postal Mail to:

Department of Medical Assistance Services

ATTN:  Andrew Greer/Senior Policy Analyst – Office of Community Living

Suite 1300

600 East Broad Street

Richmond, VA 23219