CFR

438.420—Continuation of benefits while the MCO or PIHP appeal and the State fair hearing are pending.

(a) Terminology. As used in this section, “timely” filing means filing on or before the later of the following:

(1) Within ten days of the MCO or PIHP mailing the notice of action.

(2) The intended effective date of the MCO's or PIHP's proposed action.

(b) Continuation of benefits. The MCO or PIHP must continue the enrollee's benefits if—

(1) The enrollee or the provider files the appeal timely;

(2) The appeal involves the termination, suspension, or reduction of a previously authorized course of treatment;

(3) The services were ordered by an authorized provider;

(4) The original period covered by the original authorization has not expired; and

(5) The enrollee requests extension of benefits.

(c) Duration of continued or reinstated benefits. If, at the enrollee's request, the MCO or PIHP continues or reinstates the enrollee's benefits while the appeal is pending, the benefits must be continued until one of following occurs:

(1) The enrollee withdraws the appeal.

(2) Ten days pass after the MCO or PIHP mails the notice, providing the resolution of the appeal against the enrollee, unless the enrollee, within the 10-day timeframe, has requested a State fair hearing with continuation of benefits until a State fair hearing decision is reached.

(3) A State fair hearing Office issues a hearing decision adverse to the enrollee.

(4) The time period or service limits of a previously authorized service has been met.

(d) Enrollee responsibility for services furnished while the appeal is pending. If the final resolution of the appeal is adverse to the enrollee, that is, upholds the MCO's or PIHP's action, the MCO or PIHP may recover the cost of the services furnished to the enrollee while the appeal is pending, to the extent that they were furnished solely because of the requirements of this section, and in accordance with the policy set forth in § 431.230(b) of this chapter.

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