The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has proposed a regulation that would implement preventive health benefits created under the Affordable Care Act for seniors and persons with disabilities who rely on Medicare for their healthcare coverage.
The new rule would expand Medicare coverage beginning Jan. 1 to include wellness visits and most preventive services, according to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.
It would also boost payments for wellness services provided by primary care physicians and create wellness payment incentives for general surgeons and other healthcare providers."Improving access to preventive services and primary care is a top priority for HHS," Sebelius said. "The proposed rule is just one part of a broader effort we are making to improve the health status of Medicare beneficiaries – and all Americans."
The proposed rule follows HHS' recent $500 million allocation from the Prevention and Public Health Fund, under the Affordable Care Act, for the training and development of primary care professionals, preventive care activities and public health infrastructure.
"With these new benefits under Medicare, and investments in our healthcare system, the Affordable Care Act is continuing the Obama administration's historic work to promote wellness and reduce chronic disease," Sebelius said.