SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Healthcare Medicaid Agency has activated a series of emergency waivers to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare services following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, effective April 11, 2026.
Operating under authority granted through Section 1135 of the Social Security Act and in coordination with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the agency adopted a set of blanket waivers intended to keep the healthcare system functional throughout the recovery period.
The measures include temporary flexibility for healthcare providers, with certain participation and certification requirements waived to allow care under modified conditions. Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries will continue to have access to medically necessary services. Beneficiaries who lost, damaged or cannot access prescriptions due to the typhoon may obtain replacement medications, with providers authorized to accept patient self-attestation. Healthcare services may also be delivered at alternative locations including shelters, mobile clinics and other approved sites.
“These actions reflect our commitment to ensuring that no one is left without care during this critical time,” said CMA Director George J. Cruz. “We are working closely with our federal partners and local providers to support recovery efforts and maintain access to essential health services for our community.”
The waivers will remain in effect for the duration of the federally declared Public Health Emergency. CMA said it will continue evaluating and implementing additional flexibilities as needed.
The agency’s Eligibility and Enrollment and Claims sections have temporarily relocated to the fourth floor of the Horiguchi Building. Public service hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact CMA at (670) 664-4880, info@cnmimedicaid.org or www.cnmimedicaid.org.
