This six-month grant presents a unique opportunity for an Arizona community-based entity to partner with Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) to ensure Medicaid members can access covered services, which is a critical function of the Medicaid program and a top priority of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Medicaid programs increasingly recognize the value of partnering directly with individuals with Medicaid lived experience to inform program and policy design and implementation. Under new rules from CMS, states are required to create two new (or update existing) advisory bodies — the Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC) and the Beneficiary Advisory Council (BAC) — to bring more transparency and accountability around Medicaid program decision-making, and to create opportunities for states to actively engage members in their Medicaid programs.

The Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) is making available up to $25,000 to a community-based entity in Arizona to incorporate Medicaid lived experience and guidance into the BAC design process and implementation strategy. Funding for this opportunity is provided by CHCS and not tied to the State of Arizona or AHCCCS.

Eligibility

This Opportunity for Engagement presents an opportunity for community-based entities to directly influence the creation and strengthening of new Medicaid member advisory groups in Arizona. Any state or local community-based entity is eligible to apply, including for-profit and non-profit community entities.

Community Entity Expectations:

  • Recruit a diverse set of Medicaid members to participate in BAC planning and implementation efforts;
  • Identify a process for recruitment of new Medicaid members to participate in BAC;
  • Convene member listening sessions, focus groups, or other facilitated sessions to meet state objectives for the BAC;
  • Capture member input and share information with AHCCCS to inform BAC planning;
  • Provide organizational capacity to compensate members for their time and expertise; and
  • Participate in regular meetings with AHCCCS and CHCS.

How to Apply:

  • To learn more and apply, download the Opportunity for Engagement.
  • Applications are due January 17, 2024, at 5:00 pm MST (Phoenix).
  • Questions? Please email Jamye Chapman, CHCS senior program officer, at .