A policy update on home environmental hazard assessment and remediation in Medicare and Medicaid

Abstract Hazards such as mold, pests, radon, carbon monoxide and poor indoor air quality are associated with a number of negative health outcomes, including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, exacerbation of asthma symptoms, lung cancer and death. To assess the landscape of available Medicare and Medicaid benefits that could help to address environmental health hazards, the authors reviewed service definitions from § 1915(c) waivers, health related social needs § 1115 waivers, Medicare managed care supplemental benefits, and Medicaid eligibility and needs assessment tools. While environmental hazard remediation benefits are somewhat limited and inconsistent in scope in Medicare and Medicaid, the recognition of the importance of these benefits is growing within these programs. Medicaid waiver programs in a majority of reviewed states offered some access to pest eradication, and about half of recently approved § 1115 waivers included assistance with mold, pest removal, and air filtration or air conditioners.