Washington Severe Storms Public Health Emergency: CMS Response

A public health emergency (PHE) was declared for the state of Washington on December 23, 2025, effective date retroactive to December 9, 2025, or when no longer needed, due to Washington Severe Storms. This declaration allows flexibility for Medicare providers, suppliers and beneficiaries affected by the disaster.

CMS authorized waivers under §1812(f) of the Social Security Act for Washington residents who are evacuated, transferred, or displaced as a result of the effect of the disaster. The waivers are valid for 90 days from the effective date, unless extended.

Waivers apply for:

  • Telehealth
  • Hospitals, Psychiatric Hospitals, including Cancer Centers and Long-Term Care Hospitals (LTCHs)
  • Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF)
  • Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS)

For details, visit the Washington Available Waivers webpage.

Providers and suppliers must resume compliance with normal Medicare Fee-for-Service rules and regulations as soon as they are able to do so, or after the emergency period ends.

Mandatory Use of CR Modifier and DR Condition Code

Providers must use the "CR" modifier (CMS-1500) or "DR" condition code (UB-04) on claims for items and services covered by formal waivers, as required by CMS Interned Only Manual (IOM) Publication100-04, Chapter 38 Section 38.10.

Resources

CMS has announced additional resources and flexibilities to support beneficiaries during the Washington PHE. For more information, review:

Last Updated Jan 07 , 2026