In the ongoing government shutdown, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued updated guidance stating it will “continue to process and pay held claims in a timely manner with the exception of select claims for services impacted by the expired provisions.”
As of the Oct. 15 announcement, CMS said, “no payments have been delayed as statute already requires all claims to be held for a minimum of 14 days, and this recent hold is consistent with that statutory requirement. Providers may continue to submit claims accordingly.”
The clarification followed a previous CMS notice issued earlier the same day instructing Medicare administrative contractors to continue to temporarily hold claims.
The American Medical Association reports the expired provisions continue to include telehealth services (other than for behavioral or mental health care), and services provided in locations with a work geographic practice cost index below the 1.0 floor.
The CMS notice also includes updated telehealth guidance and FAQs.
AMA continues to monitor the impact of the government shutdown, and Texas Medicine Today will share updates. If you or your practice staff encounter obstacles or concerns, contact the Texas Medical Association’s Knowledge Center to help inform advocacy.
Last Updated On
October 16, 2025
Originally Published On
October 16, 2025
Amy Lynn Sorrel
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