The U.S. government stands at a high risk of a partial government shutdown as Congress remains unable to agree on a funding bill. The current funding expires today, Tuesday, September 30, and unless a compromise is reached, a partial shutdown will commence on October 1. In light of this potential scenario, HCAF strongly advises providers to proactively prepare for the possibility.

Telehealth & Hospital-at-Home

• If funding lapses, key telehealth flexibilities for home health providers will expire September 30, ending the ability to conduct face-to-face encounters virtually. Providers should complete any pending telehealth encounters by this date.
• The Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver will also expire, potentially forcing patients back into hospitals and straining local capacity. Providers should coordinate with hospital partners and prepare patients and families.
• Telehealth policies for Medicaid vary by state and are not affected by this deadline.

Medicare & Medicaid Payments

Mandatory programs like Medicare and Medicaid will continue paying claims during a shutdown. However, providers may experience administrative delays, including enrollments, appeals, waiver approvals, and the release of the 2026 home health final rule (normally expected by November 1).

Surveys & Quality Reporting

• Medicare certification and recertification surveys may be delayed, though complaint surveys could still occur if patient safety is at risk.
• Providers should continue submitting quality reporting data as usual; the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will communicate any changes through standard program channels.

Other Programs

Community-based supports funded through discretionary programs, such as the Older Americans Act and the Social Services Block Grant, may see lapses or service disruptions.

HCAF will continue to monitor developments and share updates with members as the situation unfolds.