422.107—Special needs plans and dual-eligibles: Contract with State Medicaid Agency.
(a) Definition.
For the purpose of this section, a contract with a State Medicaid agency means a formal written agreement between an MA organization and the State Medicaid agency documenting each entity's roles and responsibilities with regard to dual-eligible individuals.
(b) General rule.
MA organizations seeking to offer a special needs plan serving beneficiaries eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual-eligible) must have a contract with the State Medicaid agency. The MA organization retains responsibility under the contract for providing benefits, or arranging for benefits to be provided, for individuals entitled to receive medical assistance under title XIX. Such benefits may include long-term care services consistent with State policy.
(1)
The MA organization's responsibility, including financial obligations, to provide or arrange for Medicaid benefits.
(2)
The category(ies) of eligibility for dual-eligible beneficiaries to be enrolled under the SNP, as described under the Statute at sections 1902(a), 1902(f), 1902(p), and 1905.
(ii)
MA organizations with an existing dual-eligible SNP without a State Medicaid agency contract may continue to operate through 2010 provided they meet all other statutory requirements, that is, care management and quality improvement program requirements. However, they cannot expand their service areas during 2010.
[73 FR 54248, Sept. 18, 2008]