February 20, 2025: On behalf of Dignity Alliance Massachusetts participants, I submit these comments in support of the state’s request that CMS waive all estate recovery requirements for all CommonHealth members in MassHealth’s 1115 Demonstration. Currently, many people who need the coverage and care offered under CommonHealth are afraid to apply because they worry about leaving their families in poverty after death. This is especially significant for individuals with disabilities who require the supports and services offered under CommonHealth – and unavailable under private insurance – that enable them to live and, in many cases, work independently in their homes and communities.
This amendment is important to the objectives of the Medicaid Act, as well as to the welfare of my state and my community. In particular, it supports the state’s goal to maintain near universal health care coverage, which improves health outcomes and reduces financial instability for Massachusetts residents. We fully support the 1115 Waiver amendment.
Sincerely,
Paul J. Lanzikos