State Medicaid Directors Report Section 1115 Waiver Approval Delays at CMS

The National Association of Medicaid Directors (NAMD) has raised concerns about delays and challenges in the Section 1115 waiver approval process at CMS. Section 1115 waivers allow states to test innovative approaches in their Medicaid programs, including managed care delivery system reforms, coverage expansions, and payment models. The delays affect states' ability to implement planned program changes and innovations. This matters for Medicaid managed care organizations because Section 1115 waivers frequently authorize new managed care authorities, quality initiatives, value-based payment arrangements, and coverage requirements that MCOs must operationalize.

Managed Care