Possible FEMA Funding for COVID-19 Expenses

March 24, 2020

As part of President Trump’s emergency declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was directed to assist eligible entities, including hospitals, with the health and safety actions they take on behalf of the American public. FEMA has indicated that it will be waving the 30-day deadline that is usually required and will accept applications through the duration of the Public Health Emergency.

As part of that assistance, eligible emergency protective measures taken at the direction or guidance of public health officials could be reimbursed under Category B of the FEMA Public Assistance program. Pertinent to hospitals, FEMA may reimburse for the provision of eligible medical care which includes items such as:

  • Triage and medically necessary tests and diagnosis;

  • Treatment, stabilization, and monitoring;

  • First-aid assessment and provision of first aid;

  • A one-time 30-day supply of prescriptions for acute conditions or to replace maintenance prescriptions;

  • Vaccinations for survivors and emergency workers to prevent outbreaks of infectious and communicable diseases;

  • Durable medical equipment;

  • Consumable medical supplies;

  • Temporary facilities, such as tents or portable buildings for treatment of survivors;

  • Leased or purchased equipment for use in temporary medical care facilities;

  • Security for temporary medical care facilities; and

  • Use of ambulances for distributing immunizations and setting up mobile medical units.

IHA advises members to consider tracking and documenting all services, resources and supplies used as part of their response to the COVID-19 outbreak. This documentation will be needed should it be determined eligible expenses exist.

More details can be found in an IHA memo.