Section 31, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) Retroactive Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
As noticed earlier today, this e-message contains additional information specific to services provided under Section 31.
MaineCare is increasing all in-state FQHC rates to reflect a 1.0% COLA retroactively, effective July 1, 2025. The 1.0% COLA is provided in accordance with P.L. 2025, Ch. 388, (Part GGG), which has notwithstanding language that requires the department to give this appropriated adjustment over any other COLA specified in state law.
Funding for this COLA will be made available to the Department on September 24, 2025, pending a 90-day waiting period that began with the adjournment of the Legislature on June 25, 2025.
In accordance with federal requirements, MaineCare has ensured that FQHC Alternative Payment Method (APM) rates continue to exceed their Prospective Payment System (PPS) rates, so no additional adjustments are federally required.
Billing Guidance
We will provide additional noticing when revised rate letters reflecting this 1.0% COLA are posted. Providers should continue to bill the rates that are currently in effect. Once new rates are implemented, the Department will reprocess all affected claims.
For questions, please contact your Provider Relations Specialist.