Warren A. Jones, M. D., FAAFP
Executive Director
Office of the Governor
Division of Medicaid
Robert E. Lee Building, Suite 801
239 North Lamar Street
Jackson, MS 39201

Dear Dr. Jones:

Your transitioning the 65,000 members of the eligibility class of Poverty Level Aged and Disabled (PLADs) is a choice available to you in administering the Medicaid Federal-State program for Mississippi. We are aware of no barrier, under federal law or regulation, to your eliminating eligibility for those individuals on July 1, 2004, as called for in your State Plan Amendment (SPA) that I understand you anticipate submitting for federal approval.

Your decision for a 90-day extension of benefits following notification of the beneficiaries via letter is a commendable step, which is allowed under federal law. Indeed, federal requirements at 42 CFR 431.211 require beneficiaries receive advance notice before an adverse action such as termination of eligibility. As we discussed, CMS will assist the Mississippi Division of Medicaid in any way possible as beneficiaries apply for the most appropriate Medicare Drug Discount Card and any Patient Assistance Programs for which they may qualify from pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Again, I would like to commend your efforts to provide services for this most-vulnerable population during this transition. The members of my staff and I stand by to continue to support you.

Sincerely,

Dennis G. Smith
Director
Center for Medicaid and State Operations (CMSO)

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