clinical social work association

A new source of funds for behavioral health/mental health providers who have worked with anyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic is now open. Phase 3 of the CARES Act Relief Fund will be available starting today, October 5, 2020, to any LCSWs who have met the criteria listed below until November 6, 2020. Any LCSW who meets one of the yellow outline requirements in the first section may apply.  All criteria in the second section must be submitted.  The link to apply is also listed below.

To be eligible to apply, the applicant must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Billed Medicaid / CHIP programs or Medicaid managed care plans for health-related services between Jan.1, 2018-Mar.31, 2020; or
• Billed a health insurance company for oral healthcare-related services as a dental service provider as of Mar. 31, 2020; or
• Be a licensed dental service provider as of Mar. 31, 2020 who does not accept insurance and has billed patients for oral healthcare-related services; or
• Billed Medicare fee-for-service during the period of Jan.1, 2019-Mar. 31, 2020; or
• Be a Medicare Part A provider that experienced a CMS approved change in ownership prior to Aug. 10, 2020;
• Be a state-licensed / certified assisted living facility as of Mar. 31, 2020
• Be a behavioral health provider as of Mar. 31, 2020 who has billed a health insurance company or who does not accept insurance and has billed patients for healthcare-related services as of Mar. 31, 2020

Additionally, to be eligible to apply, the applicant must meet all of the following requirements:

• Filed a federal income tax return for fiscal years 2017, 2018, 2019 if in operation before Jan. 1, 2020; or be exempt from filing a return; and
• Provided patient care after Jan. 31, 2020 (Note: patient care includes health care, services, and support, as provided in a medical setting, at home, or in the community); and
• Did not permanently cease providing patient care directly or indirectly; and
• For individuals providing care before Jan. 1, 2020, have gross receipts or sales from patient care reported on Form 1040 (or other tax form)

Note: Receipt of funds from SBA and FEMA for coronavirus recovery or of Medicaid HCBS retainer payments does not preclude a healthcare provider from being eligible.

To apply go to https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/cares-act-provider-relief-fund/for-providers/index.html#how-to-apply

Let me know if you have any questions.

Laura Groshong, LICSW, Director, Policy and Practice