Key September 2025 updates on U.S. healthcare funding, CDC leadership changes, AI in healthcare, Medicare and Medicaid policies, and COVID-19 vaccine authorization shifts impacting insurers and providers.

TeamHealth’s TeamACO reduces Medicare post-acute care costs by $15.8M in 2024 through readmission reductions and value-based care strategies across 33 states.

CMS GUIDE program integrates palliative care to improve support and care coordination for dementia patients and caregivers under Medicare Part B, addressing challenges in symptom management and caregiver respite.

Relation Insurance Services acquires two independent insurance firms to expand commercial, employee benefits, and Medicare-related offerings amid industry consolidation.

The CMS 2026 proposed physician fee schedule includes updates to Medicare telehealth reimbursement, frequency limits, and supervision rules, aiming to codify pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities.

Congress returns to negotiate FY 2026 government funding with a deadline on Sept 30, facing bipartisan challenges and potential shutdown.

HHS OIG finds widespread errors in Medicare cost report desk reviews by NGS and recommends enhanced reviewer training and procedures to improve audit accuracy and compliance.

Key Medicare enrollment rules for HR managing employees over 65 with employer health benefits. Guidance on timing, documentation, and regulatory compliance to avoid coverage gaps.

Medicare's pay-for-performance programs face criticism for inefficacy and inequity. Experts advocate shifting to supportive models rewarding incremental improvement and incorporating patient-reported outcomes to enhance quality care.

Congress returns from recess with five key U.S. health policy priorities including FY26 appropriations, OTC drug fee program reauthorization, drug pricing reform, Medicare/Medicaid extenders, and ACA tax credits.