As you know, Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA) is committed to keeping Ohio physicians informed on state and federal updates related to COVID-19, especially how they impact Ohio’s medical practices. Below is a round-up of recent federal funding and policy updates.

Update on Health & Human Services
Physician Relief Funds

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided additional information about allocation of the $100 billion CARES Act Provider Relief Fund.
Get the updated information >

OSMA has provided updates in the last two weeks for the first $30 billion distributed to doctors based upon their 2019 Medicare billing. HHS is now adding an additional $20 billion to this amount to be distributed, and it will be based on 2018 net patient revenue, not just Medicare fee-for-service. These allocations will be based on 2018 cost reports; however, guidance on the specifics of implementation for individual doctors isn’t clearly defined yet by HHS, and we are waiting for additional information.

A portion of the funds is also being used to compensate doctors and hospitals for uninsured COVID-19 patients. HHS has provided guidance for how to claim these funds. 
Read this HSS Guidance >

Increased Paycheck Protection
Program Funding

Today, Congress passed an additional $350 billion in funding for the Paycheck Protection Program. If you didn’t apply initially or were denied, make sure you talk to your bank now about preparing to apply for this new round of funding once the funds become available. We anticipate learning more about the process for applying for this new funding in the next few days.

As a reminder, OSMA provided a complimentary webinar to cover all aspects of applying for and accounting for PPP funds. If you missed the webinar, a recorded version will also be available for practices. OSMA has a business support section on our website with comprehensive information about the PPP and other programs available for small business support. Keep an eye on these resources and find our business-related webinars at OSMA.org/businessrelief.

Telehealth Funding Opportunities
for Certain Public Programs

If you are a physician that works with public or non-for-profit entities like schools, health clinics, etc., there are federal programs available to you to help fund telehealth programs. These funds are available now through grant and public programs.

These programs include:

• FCC COVID-19 Telehealth Program

• FCC Connected Care Pilot Program

We encourage you to look into these programs to learn more about the available assistance and how to apply.

Our team at OSMA is working hard to provide timely and useful information to
physicians and medical practices throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you have questions about this information
or OSMA’s services to physicians:
Call 800-766-6762 or email OSMA.