MedicaidPrior AuthHigh impact
Temporary Prior Authorization Requirement Changes Related to COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Illinois Medicaid - HFS·IL · Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy·Provider Notice
Effective date
Mar 1, 2020
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Illinois temporarily removed prior authorization requirements for physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, home health services, and certain durable medical equipment during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Face-to-face encounter requirements and participant signature requirements for delivery were also waived.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must update prior authorization workflows to remove requirements for physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, home health, and specified DME services for Illinois Medicaid patients. Update billing system to waive face-to-face encounter requirements for DME orders. Modify delivery procedures to accept electronic proof of delivery instead of signatures. Maintain documentation of medical necessity for all supplies and equipment.