Skip to main content
  • Medicaid Provider Alert: Provider revalidation has begun and those not completing the process risk disenrollment.  Check your account now to learn when your revalidation is due. More information here.
Elizabeth M. Whitehorn, Director

Provider Notice issued 01/23/2024

 

To: Enrolled Hospitals:  Chief Executive Officers, Chief Financial Officers, and Patient Accounts Managers
​Date: ​January 23, 2024
​Re: Abandoned Newborns – Hospital Responsibility to Submit Medicaid Application per Public Act 103-0501

This notice informs hospitals of their responsibility to submit a medical application on behalf of an abandoned newborn under their care. This is effective January 1, 2024, in compliance with Public Act 103-0501 that amends the Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act. 

Abandoned Newborn Requirements

In accordance with the Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act, abandoned infants are defined as being 30 days old or less, based on the reasonable belief of a licensed physician. Under that Act, abandoned newborn infants are born outside of the hospital and later relinquished to a hospital, police station, fire station or emergency medical facility. Once an abandoned newborn has been relinquished to one of these establishments, personnel must arrange transportation for the newborn to the nearest hospital.

Medical Application for Abandoned Newborns

Hospitals providing medical care to abandoned newborn infants must complete and submit form HFS-2378H (medical-only paper application) to HFS.ACA@illinois.gov. The email subject line must state “Abandoned Newborn Application.” Applications will be processed by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) and the infants will be deemed eligible with a 12-month continuous eligibility period.

Note: After the initial eligibility period, infants who received medical coverage under the Act will not automatically receive a new certification period at redetermination. A new application must be submitted by the caring agency or adult if continued coverage is desired.

Questions regarding this notice may be directed to a hospital billing consultant in the Bureau of Professional and Ancillary Services at 877-782-5565.

 

 

Kelly Cunningham, Administrator
Division of Medical Programs