MedicaidAdministrativeMedium impact
Timeliness of Supportive Living Program Pre-Admission Screenings Reminder
Illinois Medicaid - HFS·IL · Geriatrics, Palliative Care·Provider Notice
Effective date
Jul 7, 2026
We identified it
Aug 7, 2026
Summary
This is a compliance reminder for Long-Term Care facilities participating in Illinois's Supportive Living Program (SLP). Pre-admission screenings must only be requested when a potential resident is expected to move in within 90 days; premature screening requests are creating unnecessary re-screening delays and burden on families. Facilities must ensure screening requests align with actual admission timelines and comply with the 90-day rule for waitlisted individuals.
Action Required
Immediately upon receipt (July 2026): Long-Term Care facilities and Supportive Living Program providers must review and enforce the 90-day pre-admission screening window. Action items: (1) Billing/Admissions staff must verify expected admission date is within 90 days before requesting pre-admission screenings; (2) Update internal admission protocols to enforce the 90-day rule to prevent premature screening requests; (3) Do not conduct screenings for waitlisted individuals unless expected wait time is 90 days or less; (4) Communicate this policy change to intake/admissions teams and family coordinators to manage expectations; (5) Reference the February 20, 2019 Informational Notice for detailed SLP pre-admission process guidance. Failure to comply will result in repeated screening requests, claim processing delays, and operational inefficiencies. Direct policy questions to HFS.SLF@illinois.gov.