INSURASALES
CMS Finalizes 2026 OPPS Rule: Payment Updates and Policy Changes for Outpatient Care

CMS Finalizes 2026 OPPS Rule: Payment Updates and Policy Changes for Outpatient Care

CMS’s 2026 OPPS final rule updates outpatient payment policies, adjusts 340B drug recoupment, extends site-neutral payment models, expands ASC services, and enhances hospital price transparency requirements effective January 2026.

CMS Proposes Major 2027 Medicare Advantage, Part D Rule Revisions

CMS Proposes Major 2027 Medicare Advantage, Part D Rule Revisions

CMS proposes extensive 2027 changes to Medicare Advantage and Part D, including Star Ratings overhaul and $14B spending increase. Insurers should assess impacts on quality bonuses and compliance.

Medicare Premiums and Deductibles Rise in 2026 Amid Growing Costs

Medicare Premiums and Deductibles Rise in 2026 Amid Growing Costs

CMS announces increases in Medicare Parts A and B premiums and deductibles for 2026, reflecting rising medical costs and usage. Explore implications for senior care, Medicaid, and insurance professionals.

Indian National Sentenced for Medicare Fraud via COVID-19 Testing Lab Scheme

Indian National Sentenced for Medicare Fraud via COVID-19 Testing Lab Scheme

Indian national sentenced to two years for Medicare fraud involving fake COVID-19 testing claims totaling over $1.17 million. The case highlights ongoing challenges in health care fraud detection and regulatory compliance.

Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program Faces Low Enrollment and Operational Challenges

The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program has enrolled less than 1% of eligible beneficiaries since 2018 due to administrative, referral, and awareness challenges despite proven effectiveness. CMS changes aim to improve access and provider reimbursement.

Medicare Reimbursement Challenges Threaten Rural Office-Based Medical Practices

Medicare's outdated reimbursement system is jeopardizing rural office-based medical practices by underpaying for advanced outpatient procedures, leading to consolidation and increased healthcare costs. Proposed reforms aim to preserve independent care and improve access.

CMS Proposes Medicare Advantage Star Ratings Changes for 2027, Emphasizes Integrated Care for Duals

CMS's 2027 Proposed Rule for Medicare Advantage revises Star Ratings by focusing on clinical quality and member experience, delaying equity-focused rewards, and enhancing integrated care for dual-eligible populations.

CMS Launches ACCESS Model to Advance Medicare Chronic Care with Digital Tools

CMS introduces the ACCESS Model to enhance chronic care for Medicare beneficiaries using digital health tools and outcome-based payment models starting in 2026.

Medicare Payment Reform Bill Aims to Index Physician Fees to Economic Conditions

The Strengthening Medicare for Patients and Providers Act proposes indexing Medicare physician payments to the Medicare Economic Index to reflect economic realities and stabilize reimbursement.

Medicare Part D Coverage Shrinks in 2026 Amid Plan Reductions and Cost Shifts

Medicare Part D faces significant plan reductions and rising costs in 2026. Beneficiaries must review their drug plans before the December 7 deadline to avoid premium hikes and coverage losses.