Cover Letter to CMS

"Cover Letter to CMS" is also available in PDF format (21KB, 2pg.)

State of New York
Department of Health
Corning Tower
The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza
Albany, New York 12237
Antonia C. Novello, M.D., M.P.H., Dr.P.H., Commissioner
Dennis P. Whalen, Executive Deputy Commissioner

November 23, 2005

Jean Sheil, Director
Family and Children's Health Program Group
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
7500 Security Boulevard, Mail Stop S2-01-16
Baltimore, Maryland 21244-1850

Dear Ms. Sheil: The New York State Department of Health is pleased to submit this request to extend the New York State section 1115 demonstration project No. 11-W-00114/2, entitled "The Partnership Plan" for an additional three years. This request is being filed pursuant to Section 1115(f) of the Social Security Act amended by the Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 (BIPA). In accordance with BIPA requirements, this request is being submitted at least 120 days prior to expiration of the current 1115(e) extension. The attached application to extend documents how the State has met its goals of improving access to services, expanding coverage to additional populations and substantially improving quality of care for enrollees in the Partnership Plan. Detailed information is provided concerning beneficiary satisfaction, quality of care and adequacy of networks. The application also reflects State compliance with all Terms and Conditions. In addition, documentation is enclosed demonstrating compliance with State Notice procedures as set forth in the Federal Register, September 27, 1994 and consultation with Federally recognized tribes. Budget neutrality data has been provided previously in the context of our discussions with respect to the pending F-SHRP amendment. That amendment has also been incorporated into this extension request. We will be happy to provide updated budget neutrality data as necessary for CMS to conduct its review. The Department is appreciative of the cooperation and assistance provided by CMS on Partnership Plan implementation and looks forward to continuing to work with CMS staff in this regard. We hope you and your staff enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Shure
Director, Office of Managed Care

CC: Dennis Whalen
Mark Kissinger

Attachments cc: Mark Kissinger
Megan Kearney
Dennis Whalen
Sue Kelly