Medicare Telehealth Coverage Extended Through 2027
The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, recently signed into law, includes a two-year extension of pandemic-era Medicare Telehealth flexibilities, continuing expanded access to virtual care through December 31, 2027. The law maintains waivers of geographic site limitations, preserves coverage for audio-only visits, and retains the expanded list of providers authorized to provide telehealth services. The Act also extends Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver flexibilities through September 30, 2030.
Lorna Breen Act Initiatives Extended for Five Years
The Consolidated Appropriations Act also extends key provisions of the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act through September 30, 2030, ensuring continued federal support for initiatives that address mental health and burnout among health care professionals.
CMS Publishes CY 2027 Advance Notice for Medicare Advantage and Part D Payment Policies
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) released the Calendar Year 2027 Advance Notice for Medicare Advantage and Part D Payment Policies, proposing technical updates to both programs. The proposal includes changes to payment rates, Star Ratings, risk adjustment models, and beneficiary protections, with an estimated average net payment increase of 0.09% for Medicare Advantage plans.
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