Policy and Legislation
The Institute of Medicine has released its recommendations to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, urging HHS to create an essential health benefits package that provides needed healthcare coverage, but keeps an eye on affordability.
The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) voted Thursday to approve the sustainable growth rate (SGR) proposal it issued last month. Medical groups are already expressing their displeasure.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reported Thursday that nearly 20.5 million people with Medicare have had a free Annual Wellness Visit or received other preventive services with no deductible or cost sharing this year, thanks to funding through the Affordable Care Act.
The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) and the Access to Medical Imaging Coalition (AMIC) have called on Congress to reject a proposal that is part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association's plan to save the healthcare system $319 billion, because it would require Medicare to use prior authorization for advanced imaging services.
Pre-retirees do not fully anticipate the challenges of retirement suggests a new poll, and that disconnect has particular implications for the long-term care industry.
The Supreme court on Monday heard opening arguments for Douglas v. Independent Living Center, a California case focused on Medicaid program cuts that could have significant implications for cash-strapped states across the country.
The Senate and House have passed a bill that provides $4.2 billion to treat workers' injuries and illnesses resulting from exposure to toxic dust and debris at Ground Zero following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
In a move that dramatically changes how it pays end-stage renal disease facilities, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Wednesday issued a final rule that will allow payment adjustments based on how well facilities meet dialysis performance standards.
Citing low reimbursement rates that could threaten its ability to provide medical care to all patients, Appalachian Regional Healthcare on Monday filed a lawsuit against the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and its Bureau for Medical Services for inadequate Medicaid reimbursement rates.
State policy experts have named healthcare reform as one of the top issues that state lawmakers should expect to face in 2011.