COVID-19 Resource Catalog-AMA CARES Act Summary

AMA CARES Act Summary - Revised 3-30-2020
Pdf Summary
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) includes provisions that will benefit physicians, physician practices, and medical students. For physicians and practices, small business loans are available through the Payroll Protection Program for expenses such as payroll, rent, and utilities. Financial support is also provided through the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund to cover non-reimbursable expenses related to COVID-19. Emergency loans are authorized for eligible entities with fewer than 500 employees. Liability protections are given to volunteer health care professionals. Waivers are provided for face-to-face visits for home dialysis patients and physicians. Sequestration is adjusted to increase provider funding, and Medicare prescription drug plans are required to allow for refills of covered drugs for up to a 3-month supply. Confidentiality and disclosure of records relating to substance use disorders are addressed, and notification mechanisms and penalties for violations are created.<br /><br />For medical students, student loan payments, principals, and interests are deferred until September 30, 2020, and involuntary collection related to student loans is suspended. Flexibility is provided for students who withdraw from school due to COVID-19, and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants can be used for emergency financial aid. Federal Work-Study programs can be adapted to issue payments to students who are unable to work due to COVID-19. Continuing education at affected foreign institutions is supported.<br /><br />Telehealth services are expanded through grants and exemptions, allowing for increased use of telehealth technologies in rural or underserved communities. Access to post-acute care is increased by waiving certain requirements. Anti-discrimination protections and prosecution protections are included for individuals with substance use disorders. Further access to lab testing without cost-sharing and pricing of diagnostic testing are addressed. Funding is allocated for personal protective equipment and changes are made to the Strategic National Stockpile. Extension of funding is provided for community health centers, the National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Centers, and programs related to diabetes. The work Geographic Index under the Medicare program is extended for areas with lower labor costs.<br /><br />Overall, the CARES Act provides various forms of financial support, liability protection, and flexibility to physicians, physician practices, and medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Keywords
CARES Act
physicians
small business loans
COVID-19
emergency loans
telehealth services
student loan payments
post-acute care
substance use disorders
personal protective equipment