A recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey highlights common trends in health equity, telehealth access and quality, and coverage expansion initiatives.

Section 1115 waivers in Massachusetts and Oregon aim to test improvements in coverage, access, and quality and target unmet health-related social needs.

Several state Medicaid programs have begun reimbursing for vaccine counseling services amid efforts across the country to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates. Vaccine counseling services can provide reassurance, education, and clarity to those experiencing vaccine hesitancy.

People experiencing homelessness face barriers to vaccination, including lack of transportation, limited availability of technology, and no established connection to a health care provider. More than 30 states have specifically prioritized vaccinations for homeless populations.

Governors from six states — Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, and Virginia — announced a bipartisan interstate compact to expand COVID-19 testing, stop the spread of the virus, and help state economies safely recover.

Some states are using their own means to assist hospitals on the front lines of this public health emergency. Massachusetts' state Medicaid agency will infuse $800 million in stabilization funding, while Pennsylvania launched a loan program to help hospitals adversely affected by the pandemic.

States are expanding requirements for hospitals to report their bed capacity and supply inventory, and readying facilities to expand capacity to treat patients with COVID-19. CMS has approved Section 1135 waivers for 38 states.