AzHHA breaks down the 2020 election results so far; HHS releases reporting data for Arizona hospitals and a look into two new projects to assist with hospital data reporting requirements.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began posting reports on its HHS Protect Public Data Hub this week on how hospitals are reporting COVID-19 situational awareness data to the agency.

This week's Connection Newsletter highlights AzHHA's new board chair, John Amos president and chief executive officer of Yavapai Regional Medical Center. You can also find out more about our new AzHHA Affiliated Partners mobile app.

Three new healthcare executives added to Board of Directors

AHCCCS has released a waiver renewal proposal, which is now open for public comment. As outlined in its waiver public forum presentation, AHCCCS is requesting an extension for the vast majority of its current Section 1115 waiver authorities, including the authority to administer AHCCCS Complete Care and the ALTCS program.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Secretary, Alex Azar has extended the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) for the third time. The renewal is effective October 23, 2020 for 90 days. The Section 1135 Waivers authorized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are tied to the duration of the federal PHE and are therefore also extended. The Section 1135 waivers issued by CMS can be viewed here.

Read the latest COVID-19 related news including vaccine updates, provider relief funding, reporting and other important topics. 

The U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) posted a 60-day notice in the Federal Register last week seeking comment on the COVID-19 hospital data collection, which is done through the HHS Teletracking COVID-19 Portal.

Ask your US Senator and Congressional Representative to urge the White House and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reinstate the previous COVID-19 Provider Relief Fund reporting requirements.