ASH Seeks Glide Path to Provider Tax Changes
In the wake of recent efforts to limit the ability of states to use provider taxes to help fund their Medicaid programs, the Alliance of Safety-Net Hospitals has asked the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to phase in changes [...]
Hospitals Shedding OB Services
Hospitals are closing down their obstetric services at an alarming rate – especially rural hospitals. According to a recent study: In eight states, more than two-thirds of rural hospitals do not offer OB services. In 2022, the majority of rural [...]
Federal Health Policy Update for July 10
The following is the latest health policy news from the federal government for July 4-10. Some of the language used below is taken directly from government documents. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services CMS has posted an FAQ on inpatient [...]
States Mull Responses to Reconciliation Medicaid Cuts
Establishing new grant programs for hospitals, especially for rural hospitals. Reducing or eliminating optional Medicaid benefits such as dental and vision. Cutting payments to providers. Calling their legislature back into session. These are among the moves states are considering in [...]
340B on the Move – For the Worse for Providers?
The 340B Drug Pricing Program may soon find itself under the direction of a new federal administrator – one that might be inclined toward changes in the program. While the current home of 340B is the Department of Health and [...]
Federal Health Policy Update for July 3
The following is the latest health policy news from the federal government for June 27 – July 3. Some of the language used below is taken directly from government documents. Congress/Budget Reconciliation After more than 36 hours of intense lobbying [...]
Health Care Implications of Senate Reconciliation Bill
On Tuesday the Senate passed an FY 2026 budget reconciliation bill by a vote of 51-50, with Vice President Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. The bill cuts $1 trillion in Medicaid spending and keeps most of the Medicaid provisions included [...]
CMS Introduces First Prior Authorization Program for Traditional Medicare
Some Medicare-covered services will be subject to prior authorization in some parts of the country under a new model to be launched by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services next year. To run from 2026 through 2031, the “Wasteful [...]
State Spending on Medicaid Rising – Fast
The states are experiencing almost unprecedented increases in their Medicaid spending – both more money and a larger share of their overall state budgets. According to a new Pew Research Center report, In fiscal year 2023, the combination of expiring [...]
Federal Health Policy Update for June 26
The following is the latest health policy news from the federal government for June 20-26. Some of the language used below is taken directly from government documents. Congress Senate Majority Leader Thune and House Speaker Johnson continue to press for [...]
