FDA no longer requires a positive COVID-19 test to receive a Paxlovid or Lagevrio prescription; CDC reports that bivalent boosters protect against XBB and XBB.1.5 SARS-Co-V-2 subvariants.
view more »CMS Update on COVID-19 Blanket Waivers and Flexibility
Feb. 7, 2023 ||The updated fact sheets share when specific waivers will end and whether they will continue after the public health emergency's end on May 11.
view more »CMS Guidance for States to Maintain Increased FMAP
Feb. 6, 2023 ||The guidance informs states how to maintain the temporary increased federal medical assistance percentage while returning to normal Medicaid operations.
view more »Qualified individuals and their families who lose Medicaid or CHIP eligibility once the continuous enrollment requirement ends can apply for marketplace coverage between March 31, 2023, and July 31, 2024.
view more »Administration Announces End of COVID-19 PHE
Jan. 31, 2023 ||The Biden administration announced that the COVID-19 public health emergency, initially declared Jan. 27, 2020, will end May 11.
view more »FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee votes to replace the original monovalent COVID-19 vaccine, Evusheld no longer is authorized under emergency use, and the CDC launches a COVID-19 testing locator.
view more »DEA Eliminates X-Waiver for Buprenorphine Treatment
Jan. 30, 2023 ||The Drug Enforcement Administration no longer will require additional registration for prescribers to prescribe buprenorphine.
view more »CMS Releases Final Open Enrollment National Snapshot
Jan. 30, 2023 ||CMS reports that open enrollment through the health insurance marketplaces for 2023 totals 16.3 million people, a 13 percent increase from 2022.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Committee to Vote on Vaccine Future, CDC Unveils Interactive Trackers
Jan. 24, 2023 ||An FDA committee will vote on the future of the COVID-19 vaccine, while CDC unveils two trackers for COVID-19, flu, and RSV–related hospital and emergency department visits.
view more »Association Comments on Proposed Part 2 Regulations
Jan. 24, 2023 ||The association supports HHS' work to align the rule more closely with HIPAA regulations, which will improve care coordination and mitigate discrimination.
view more »In a new podcast series by a physician at association member NYC Health + Hospitals, Beth Feldpush, DrPH, the association's senior vice president of policy and advocacy, unpacks the complex patchwork of payments that keep essential hospitals afloat.
view more »COVID-19: Home Test to Treat Program, Vaccine Safety Concern
Jan. 17, 2023 ||The National Institutes of Health launches the Home Test to Treat program; FDA and CDC report a COVID-19 vaccine safety concern for those ages 65 and older.
view more »America's Essential Hospitals and other plaintiffs had asked the judge to order an immediate repayment in full for five years of underpayments to 340B hospitals.
view more »New Requirements for Managed Care Coverage of In Lieu of Services
Jan. 13, 2023 ||A CMS letter to state Medicaid directors clarifies how in lieu of services (ILOS) can be used to mitigate health disparities, limits ILOS expenditures, and adopts documentation and review requirements.
view more »The association supports CMS' work to simplify enrollment and asks the agency to ensure equitable access to beneficiaries’ preferred health care providers.
view more »CMS Awards 200 New Residency Slots to Strengthen Workforce
Jan. 12, 2023 ||Prioritizing hospitals in health professional shortage areas, CMS awarded residency slots to 100 hospitals, including 27 essential hospitals.
view more »HHS Renews COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Jan. 12, 2023 ||Effective Jan. 11, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the COVID-19 public health emergency determination.
view more »COVID-19: XBB.1.5 Cases Evade Therapeutics; Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Pediatric Vaccination Status
Jan. 10, 2023 ||FDA and CDC say Evusheld is unlikely to neutralize the XBB.1.5 subvariant, and a CDC report indicates COVID-19 vaccination in children and adolescents is highest among Asian and Hispanic youth.
view more »CMS Updates Key Dates for Medicaid Redeterminations
Jan. 10, 2023 ||After the omnibus bill decoupled Medicaid redeterminations from the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, CMS updates key redetermination dates.
view more »Medicaid and CHIP coverage of interprofessional consultation is permissible as long as the consultation is for the beneficiary's direct benefit.
view more »FDA approves the use of Actemra, a monoclonal antibody treatment, as COVID-19 cases caused by the XBB.1.5 subvariant of SARS-CoV-2 spike.
view more »CMS Report on Access to Coverage and Care in Medicaid and CHIP
Jan. 3, 2023 ||The report summarizes responses to a 2022 request for information, which focus on eligibility and enrollment, access to hospital services, and payment.
view more »CMS Proposes 2024 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters
Dec. 21, 2022 ||The proposed rule updates essential community provider requirements for qualified health plans and adds a special enrollment period for those disenrolled from Medicaid or CHIP.
view more »Americans again can request four no-cost, at-home COVID-19 tests per address; FDA's vaccine committee will meet in January to develop a long-term strategy.
view more »SAMHSA Proposes to Update OUD Treatment Standards
Dec. 19, 2022 ||A proposed rule will make permanent a temporary policy to allow providers to initiate buprenorphine prescriptions for new patients through telehealth.
view more »White House Introduces National Opioid Overdose Tracker
Dec. 13, 2022 ||The dashboard tracks nonfatal opioid overdoses by state and county and will help service providers target substance use disorder interventions and treatment.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Expands Bivalent Vaccine Recommendation for Children
Dec. 13, 2022 ||CDC expands its recommendation for bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months to 5 years old as health agencies confront low vaccination rates among children.
view more »CMS Proposes Rule to Streamline Prior Authorization
Dec. 13, 2022 ||The proposed rule leverages application programming interfaces to exchange health information and automate the provider prior authorization process.
view more »FDA pauses its emergency use authorization of bebtelovimab, which does not protect against prevalent SARS-CoV-2 subvariants; CDC updates its guidance for managing COVID-19 in congregate living settings to align with previous guidance.
view more »The agency will not enforce a surprise billing requirement that requires good faith estimates to include cost estimates from co-providers and co-facilities.
view more »HRSA Proposes Revised 340B Dispute Resolution Process
Dec. 5, 2022 ||The proposed administrative dispute resolution process delegates the majority of decision-making authority to Office of Pharmacy Affairs staff and has no minimum monetary threshold for claims.
view more »SAMHSA Proposes Revisions to 42 CFR Part 2
Dec. 5, 2022 ||The proposed rule aims to align Part 2 more closely with HIPAA, improve care coordination, and increase anti-discrimination protections for patients with substance use disorder.
view more »COVID-19: Federal Vaccination Campaign, NIH Self-Reporting Website
Nov. 29, 2022 ||New COVID-19 vaccine initiatives seek to address access inequalities, and NIH launches a website where Americans can self-report COVID-19 test results anonymously to provide data to public health departments.
view more »CMS Releases Hospital Workplace Violence Memo
Nov. 29, 2022 ||The memo reviews regulatory obligations to care for patients in a safe environment, including the need to identify patients at risk for intentional harm to themselves or others.
view more »COVID-19: Bivalent Boosters Protect against New Subvariants, Pediatric Vaccination Rates Remain Low
Nov. 21, 2022 ||Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna data indicate that bivalent vaccines provide greater protection than the original monovalent vaccine against the emerging BQ.1.1 omicron subvariant, while the CDC reports low COVID-19 vaccination numbers among children.
view more »HHS to Create Action Alliance to Advance Patient Safety
Nov. 18, 2022 ||At a Nov. 14 listening session, HHS leaders announced plans to launch in 2023 a learning community focused on patient and health care worker safety.
view more »AHRQ Supports U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week
Nov. 18, 2022 ||The agency shares toolkits to help acute-care, long-term care, and ambulatory care facilities adopt the Four Moments of Antibiotic Decision Making framework.
view more »New CMS Resources for Hospital Price Transparency Requirements
Nov. 18, 2022 ||The agency shared three sample formats to help hospital staff build machine readable files to comply with the Hospital Price Transparency Rule.
view more »COVID-19: Test-to-Treat Access Study, White House Equity Summit
Nov. 15, 2022 ||A JAMA Network open study highlights disparities in access to Test-to-Treat sites; the Biden administration holds a White House COVID-19 Equity Summit.
view more »CMS Innovation Center Shares Progress Report, Specialty Care Plans
Nov. 10, 2022 ||The CMS Innovation Center shares a progress report on its 10-year strategy and a blog post announcing plans to improve integrated specialty care.
view more »COVID-19: Study Finds Paxlovid Reduces Long COVID-19 Risk, Pfizer Shares Bivalent Vaccine Data
Nov. 8, 2022 ||A new report from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicates that Paxlovid can reduce risk of long COVID-19; new data show Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccines substantially increase immune responses compared with monovalent vaccines.
view more »Association Comments on Proposed Updates to Medicaid Eligibility, Enrollment Policies
Nov. 8, 2022 ||The association urges CMS to educate and provide funding for essential hospital staff to conduct Medicaid and CHIP eligibility and enrollment activities.
view more »CY 2023 OPPS Final Rule Reverses 340B Cuts
Nov. 4, 2022 ||The Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System final rule for calendar year 2023 reverses cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and delays developing a remedy for cuts to 340B hospitals that have been in place since 2018.
view more »CMS Issues CY 2023 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule
Nov. 4, 2022 ||The rule finalizes the conversion factor and includes reimbursement provisions for telehealth and behavioral health services, the Quality Payment Program, and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
view more »COVID-19: Administration Launches Updated Vaccine Outreach
Nov. 1, 2022 ||President Joe Biden urges Americans to get their updated COVID-19 vaccine, which protects against the original SARS-CoV-2 variant and BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.
view more »GAO Report on Recruiting and Retaining Behavioral Health Workers
Nov. 1, 2022 ||Financial, educational, and workplace challenges pose obstacles to recruiting and retaining a diverse behavioral health workforce.
view more »Currently, 26 states have extended Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program coverage from 60 days to 12 months postpartum.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Recommends Immunization Schedule Update, Administration Launches Biodefense Strategy
Oct. 25, 2022 ||A CDC committee recommends the inclusion of COVID-19 vaccines in the 2023 immunization schedule; the administration releases a biodefense strategy.
view more »CDC recommends for younger age groups updated Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 booster vaccines that target the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of SARS-CoV-2.
view more »International Infection Prevention Week, Oct. 16–22, highlights infection preventionists' role in protecting public health through education.
view more »CMS to Pay 340B Hospitals at Full OPPS Rate for Remainder of 2022
Oct. 17, 2022 ||The decision to revert to the full payment rate is in compliance with a recent federal district court decision in favor of America’s Essential Hospitals.
view more »CMS Extends, Changes Bundled Payments Model
Oct. 17, 2022 ||CMS extends for two years the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Advanced Model and alters the accounting process for beneficiaries with COVID-19.
view more »HHS Renews COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Oct. 14, 2022 ||Effective Oct. 13, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the COVID-19 public health emergency determination.
view more »HHS links COVID-19 vaccinations to fewer COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths, and NIH details its plan to study long COVID-19 effects.
view more »CDC Urges Vigilance amid Uganda Ebola Outbreak
Oct. 11, 2022 ||CDC issued a health advisory reminding health care providers to remain aware of a patient’s international travel history.
view more »FDA now urges COVID-19 test developers to take traditional premarket review pathways, and HHS will cover the cost of 60,000 bebtelovimab doses.
view more »In a new Forefront commentary, the association's current, immediate past, and incoming board chairs say essential hospitals’ indispensable role, unique characteristics, and financial fragility argue for recognizing them as a distinct class in public health and policymaking.
view more »America's Essential Hospitals urges HHS to codify a nondiscrimination standard and establish nondiscrimination training for all health care workers.
view more »Essential Hospitals See New Win in Legal Challenge to 340B Payment Cuts
Sept. 29, 2022 ||A federal district court ruled that HHS must pay hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program the full Medicare Part B drug payment rate for the remainder of calendar year 2022.
view more »CDC updates guidance on infection control for health care personnel and staff shortages, as well as its global pandemic response strategy.
view more »AHRQ Releases Primer On Climate Change Mitigation in Health Care
Sept. 27, 2022 ||AHRQ published a primer detailing how hospitals and health systems can reduce their carbon footprint and protect communities from climate threats.
view more »HHS Releases Behavioral Health Integration Roadmap
Sept. 23, 2022 ||The roadmap implements the three pillars of the President's March 2022 Strategy to Address our National Mental Health Crisis.
view more »COVID-19: Mortality Lower from Omicron Variant, PRF Report Due Sept. 30
Sept. 20, 2022 ||CDC reports lower in-hospital mortality rates from the omicron variant, providers have until Sept. 30 to report period 3 Provider Relief Fund spending.
view more »HHS Issues RFI on No Surprises Act Requirements
Sept. 20, 2022 ||HHS seeks input on the No Surprises Act's advanced explanation of benefits and good faith estimate requirements for insured individuals; comments are due Nov. 15.
view more »Association Comments on CY 2023 OPPS Proposed Rule
Sept. 20, 2022 ||America's Essential Hospitals urges CMS to swiftly restore full Medicare Part B drug payment rates for hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and define a select group of hospitals with a safety net mission.
view more »Administration to Host Hunger Conference, Seeks Commitments
Sept. 19, 2022 ||The Biden administration encourages organizations to commit to working toward its goal of ending hunger and increasing healthy eating and physical activity by 2030.
view more »COVID-19: Biden Administration Announces Fall Strategy
Sept. 13, 2022 ||The Biden administration's fall plan to manage the COVID-19 pandemic includes securing millions of updated vaccines and additional at-home, rapid tests; ensuring vaccine access for higher-risk Americans; and fostering community conversations about updated vaccines.
view more »CMS Seeks Input on Health Equity, Program Efficiency
Sept. 12, 2022 ||The agency requests information on health care access and equity, provider experiences, and the effect of policies introduced in response to COVID-19.
view more »Association Comments on CY 2023 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
Sept. 12, 2022 ||The association urged CMS to adequately reimburse off-campus, provider-based departments; refine physician quality reporting; and codify a definition of essential hospitals.
view more »A September continuing resolution provides a potential legislative vehicle for health policy provisions. We summarize key workforce priorities and actions from Congress, the administration, and the association.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Recommends Bivalent Vaccine Boosters
Sept. 6, 2022 ||CDC recommends updated Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 booster vaccines that target the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of SARS-CoV-2.
view more »Proposed Rule Streamlines Medicaid, CHIP Enrollment
Sept. 1, 2022 ||An Aug. 31 CMS proposed rule aims to streamline Medicaid and CHIP enrollment and ensure continuous coverage throughout the renewal process.
view more »CMS Delays Indefinitely Radiation Oncology Model
Aug. 30, 2022 ||CMS on Aug. 29 finalized its decision to delay indefinitely implementation of the Radiation Oncology Model, which was scheduled to start Jan. 1, 2023.
view more »COVID-19: No-Cost, At-Home Tests to End, CDC Fall Vaccination Plan
Aug. 30, 2022 ||No-cost, at-home COVID-19 tests no longer will be offered through the United States Postal Service, CDC releases a fall vaccination plan, and FDA warns prescribers about Paxlovid drug interactions.
view more »DHS Finalizes Rule Codifying DACA Program
Aug. 26, 2022 ||The Department of Homeland Security finalized a rule codifying the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program with some limited changes.
view more »340B Recertification Open through Sept. 19
Aug. 26, 2022 ||The annual 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification period for hospitals began Aug. 24. Hospitals will have until Sept. 19 to complete the process.
view more »Pfizer applies for emergency use authorization for its omicron-specific booster vaccine, the National Healthcare Safety Network will take over hospital data reporting, and CMS tells hospitals to brace for the public health emergency's end.
view more »Administration Publishes No Surprises Act Final Rule
Aug. 23, 2022 ||The rule finalizes disclosure requirements for the qualifying payment amount and select provisions for the related independent dispute resolution process.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Updates Safety Guidance, Bebtelovimab Goes Commercial
Aug. 16, 2022 ||CDC updated its COVID-19 safety guidelines, FDA warned of false negative test risks, and bebtelovimab will transition to the commercial marketplace.
view more »COVID-19: Long COVID-19 Action Plan, ASPR Paxlovid Resource
Aug. 9, 2022 ||HHS releases two new reports on long COVID-19 research and support, while the Administration for Strategic Preparedness & Response shares guidance on Paxlovid efficacy and eligibility.
view more »HHS Reinstates, Adds ACA Nondiscrimination Protections
Aug. 9, 2022 ||The proposed rule expands the definition of discrimination "on the basis of sex" and explicitly includes telehealth services in nondiscrimination policies.
view more »HHS Declares Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency
Aug. 8, 2022 ||The declaration enables HHS to modify Medicare and Medicaid program requirements and could lead to more emergency funding for virus prevention and vaccines.
view more »Care Compare October 2022 Preview Reports Available
Aug. 8, 2022 ||Health care providers have until Aug. 30 to download their preview reports before CMS shares quality data publicly in October.
view more »CMS Issues FY 2023 IPPS Final Rule
Aug. 2, 2022 ||The regulation contains payment and quality reporting provisions, a new designation to identify “birthing-friendly” hospitals, and a 4.3 percent increase in operating payment rates for general acute-care hospitals, compared with a proposed 3.2 percent update.
view more »CMS Releases July 2022 Overall Hospital Star Ratings
Aug. 2, 2022 ||This is the second star ratings update since the agency updated its methodology in 2020 to include the use of peer grouping.
view more »COVID-19: HHS Secures Moderna Bivalent Vaccine Doses, CDC Releases Booster Safety Update
Aug. 1, 2022 ||HHS agreed to purchase 66 million Moderna bivalent COVID-19 vaccine doses, while the CDC reported fewer vaccine reactions for those older than 50 who receive a second mRNA booster shot.
view more »As the World Health Organization declares monkeypox a global health emergency, CDC updates clinical guidance, and HHS plans to allocate additional vaccine doses.
view more »CDC recommends the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine for adults and reports that additional mRNA COVID-19 vaccine booster doses increase protection against moderate and severe COVID-19.
view more »HRSA Hosts 340B Recertification Webinar
July 25, 2022 ||The Aug. 22 webinar will complement other federal resources on the annual 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification period for hospitals, open from Aug. 24 to Sept. 19.
view more »The Department seeks comment on Public Service Loan Forgiveness program eligibility policies for physicians at nonprofit hospitals.
view more »CMS to Hold Listening Session on End of APM Incentive Payments
July 19, 2022 ||CMS seeks feedback at a July 21 listening session on the 5 percent lump sum Alternative Payment Model Incentive Payment, set to expire at the end of 2022.
view more »FDA approves the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine for those 18 and older as the Biden-Harris administration releases an action plan to take on the BA.5 subvariant.
view more »CMS Issues CY 2023 OPPS Proposed Rule, Plans to Reverse 340B Cuts
July 19, 2022 ||The Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System proposed rule for calendar year 2023 reverses cuts to 340B Drug Pricing Program hospitals and seeks comment on remedying existing cuts to 340B hospitals.
view more »HHS Renews COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
July 18, 2022 ||Effective July 15, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the COVID-19 public health emergency determination.
view more »CMS Issues CY 2023 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
July 12, 2022 ||CMS proposes to decrease the conversion factor determining physician payment rates for specific services by $1.53. The proposed rule also includes provisions related to Medicare reimbursement of telehealth services, vaccine administration, and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
view more »FDA approves the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for use in individuals ages 12 to 15 and authorizes state-licensed pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid.
view more »HRSA to Reopen First PRF Reporting Period
July 5, 2022 ||Certain providers who returned Provider Relief Fund payments because they were unable to meet the period 1 reporting deadline can apply for reissuance of these funds.
view more »White House Releases Maternal Health Blueprint
July 5, 2022 ||The document outlines five priority goals to improve maternal health and outcomes and, for each, actions the federal government will take.
view more »GAO Releases Study on Medicaid Directed Payments
July 5, 2022 ||The GAO reviewed recent and planned actions to enhance oversight of state-directed payments and found the effectiveness of these actions is unknown and information gaps remain.
view more »Administration Announces First Phase of Monkeypox Response
July 5, 2022 ||The strategy aims to deploy vaccines rapidly in the most affected communities, facilitate testing, and engage stakeholders to mitigate spread.
view more »HHS to Host Climate Change Webinar Series
July 5, 2022 ||The HHS Office of Climate Change and Health Equity announced a climate change webinar series, beginning July 14, and shared a companion resource compendium.
view more »FDA advises vaccine manufacturers to incorporate an omicron variant component into booster doses; Pfizer requests FDA approval of antiviral pill Paxlovid.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Committee to Deliberate Vaccine Composition
June 28, 2022 ||CDC recommends the Moderna vaccine for kids ages 6 to 17; an FDA committee will consider modifying COVID-19 vaccine composition to reflect virus mutations.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Recommends Moderna, Pfizer Vaccines for Children
June 20, 2022 ||CDC recommends that children ages 6 months to 5 years receive a COVID-19 vaccine; Pfizer study data shows Paxlovid failed to alleviate COVID-19 symptoms.
view more »Association Prevails at Supreme Court on OPPS Cuts to 340B Hospitals
June 20, 2022 ||In a resounding victory for essential hospitals, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of America’s Essential Hospitals in its years-long legal challenge to restore full Medicare payment rates for 340B Drug Pricing Program hospitals.
view more »President Biden Signs Executive Order on LGBTQI+ Equality
June 20, 2022 ||The order instructs the HHS Secretary to use the agency's authorities to protect LGBTQI+ individuals' access to medically necessary care.
view more »In its June report to Congress, the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission considers oversight of managed care directed payments and examines Medicaid's role in advancing health equity.
view more »MedPAC Considers Safety Net Funding, Site-Neutral Policies
June 20, 2022 ||The commission's June report to Congress includes illustrative policies about defining and supporting Medicare safety net providers and aligning payments across outpatient settings, among other topics of interest to essential hospitals.
view more »The Supreme Court’s dismissal of the appeal does not touch on the legality of the public charge rule but only on the ability of the 13 states to intervene in defense of the rule.
view more »Association Comments on FY 2023 IPPS Proposed Rule
June 20, 2022 ||America's Essential Hospitals commented on several policy proposals of interest to essential hospitals and responded to requests for information on maternal health, equity, and climate change.
view more »CMS Releases New Medicaid Tool: Top 10 Ways to Unwind
June 14, 2022 ||The tool compiles existing guidance to help states prepare to return to regular Medicaid operations after the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
view more »CDC no longer requires a negative COVID-19 test or proof of COVID-19 recovery from travelers to the United States; an FDA advisory committee recommends the Novavax vaccine.
view more »NSC Urges Commitment to Patient and Workforce Safety
June 13, 2022 ||The National Steering Committee for Patient Safety calls on health care providers to put its 2020 Action Plan into practice.
view more »Hospitals have until June 16 to preview their Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating, measure group score, and individual measure results, along with peer grouping.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Committee to Review Vaccine Authorization Requests
June 7, 2022 ||An FDA advisory committee deliberates the safety of Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine and will consider amendments to Pfizer's and Moderna's authorization requests later this month.
view more »CMS Outlines Behavioral Health Care Strategy
June 7, 2022 ||The agency's strategy to strengthen behavioral health care focuses on improving access, equity, quality, and data integration.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Revises Treatment EUAs, Issues Fraud Warning
May 31, 2022 ||FDA extended the shelf life of select lots of bebtelovimab and updated the authorization for Evusheld to include information about hypersensitivity risks.
view more »Four States Expand Postpartum Medicaid Coverage
May 27, 2022 ||CMS on May 25 approved proposals in four states to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to one year after birth.
view more »A new advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, MBA, calls for a whole-of-society approach to protect and support health workers facing burnout.
view more »CMS Launches New Medicaid, CHIP Renewal Webpage
May 24, 2022 ||The webpage includes renewal instructions for eligible beneficiaries and guidance for ineligible beneficiaries to secure insurance through the marketplaces.
view more »CDC Confirms Monkeypox Case in United States
May 24, 2022 ||CDC is tracking monkeypox, a virus endemic to west and central Africa, after confirming a case in a Massachusetts resident who recently traveled to Canada.
view more »A new CMS resource highlights federal requirements for program renewals, verifications, applications, and oversight amid the anticipated COVID-19 public health emergency unwinding.
view more »Pfizer and BioNTech release promising data on a three-dose COVID-19 vaccine for children six months to younger than 5; CDC expands booster shot eligibility to include everyone 5 years old and older.
view more »New 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Live in July
May 23, 2022 ||The current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number, 1.800.273.8255, will transition to 988 on all devices on July 16.
view more »Association Comments on HHS Climate Strategy Plan Outline
May 22, 2022 ||The association urged HHS to provide funding, educate stakeholders, and build capacity to execute the 2022 Environmental Justice Strategy and Implementation Plan.
view more »COVID-19: Post-PHE Planning; Pediatric Booster Authorized
May 17, 2022 ||HHS urges governors to start planning for the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency; FDA authorizes a Pfizer booster vaccine for children ages 5 to 11.
view more »New Climate Resilience and Emissions Reduction Resources
May 16, 2022 ||New HHS initiatives focus on climate change, health equity, and the role health care stakeholders can play in promoting climate resilience.
view more »COVID-19: Janssen Limits, Vaccines Linked to Medicare Savings
May 10, 2022 ||FDA limits authorized use of the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine after reports of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome following vaccination; a new analysis estimates vaccines are associated with $2.6 million in savings due to a reduction in Medicare hospitalizations.
view more »A new omicron subvariant, BA.2.12.1, constitutes more than 30 percent of U.S. genomic sequences; Moderna files for emergency use authorization for a vaccine for children younger than 6.
view more »Association Comments on Public Charge Proposed Rule
May 3, 2022 ||The association thanked the administration for taking steps to reverse the damaging 2019 broadened definition of public charge and made recommendations for developing and implementing a new definition.
view more »2023 Marketplace Benefit and Payment Parameters Finalized
May 3, 2022 ||The final rule raises the essential community provider threshold from 20 to 35 percent and uses wait time standards to evaluate qualified health plans for network adequacy.
view more »Leveraging Section 1115 Demonstrations to Drive Equity in Medicaid
April 29, 2022 ||In a white paper, the association encourages CMS to develop policies that reduce disparities and incorporate equity into waiver approval and evaluation processes.
view more »COVID-19: Moderna Bivalent Booster, CDC Forecasting Center
April 26, 2022 ||Moderna releases promising preliminary data on its variant-specific COVID-19 booster shot; CDC launches a Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics.
view more »New Resources for GME Development in Underserved Areas
April 25, 2022 ||The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education introduced two rural track program designations to accredited residency programs and seeks members for an advisory group on health care access for medically underserved areas and populations.
view more »HHS Launches Pledge to Reduce Health Care Emissions
April 25, 2022 ||Hospitals and other industry stakeholders are invited to pledge by June 3 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase their climate resilience.
view more »Association Comments on Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool
April 25, 2022 ||America's Essential Hospitals generally supports the tool, as it will direct investments to target several social determinants of health, but recommended the tool show aggregate data at the state and county levels.
view more »CMS Releases Health Equity Action Plan
April 22, 2022 ||The action plan includes goals to close gaps in health care access, quality, and outcomes through data collection, outreach, and community engagement.
view more »CMS Releases FY 2023 IPPS Proposed Rule
April 19, 2022 ||The proposed fiscal year 2023 Inpatient Prospective Payment System rule would increase operating payment rates by 3.2 percent and make other changes to Medicare payment and quality reporting policies. CMS is accepting comments on the proposed rule until June 17.
view more »CMS Opens Federal IDR Portal
April 19, 2022 ||The independent dispute resolution process can be initiated to resolve payment disputes between health care providers and issuers.
view more »Association Comments on Medicaid Access
April 19, 2022 ||The association made recommendations on payment rates, workforce development, eligibility and enrollment policies, and measuring access to hospital services.
view more »COVID-19: Travel Mask Mandate Ends; New Vaccine Effectiveness Study
April 19, 2022 ||A federal judge in Florida ruled against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel mask requirement, ending the Transportation Security Administration's enforcement of the mandate. But the CDC continues to recommend masking during traveling.
view more »HHS Renews COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
April 19, 2022 ||Effective April 16, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the public health emergency determination related to the continued effects of COVID-19; the determination has been in place since Jan. 27, 2020, and has been renewed every three months.
view more »COVID-19: Long COVID-19 Initiative; Sotrovimab Authorization Limited
April 11, 2022 ||President Joe Biden announces a national research plan on prolonged illness developed after COVID-19; FDA limits authorization of sotrovimab to treat COVID-19.
view more »CMS Issues FAQs on Surprise Billing, Good Faith Estimates
April 11, 2022 ||Two new documents provide guidance for health care providers on No Surprises Act compliance and good faith estimates for uninsured or self-pay patients.
view more »New Tools for Medicaid Fair Hearings, PHE Unwinding
April 8, 2022 ||CMS shares tools to mitigate an anticipated increase in Medicaid fair hearing requests and resume normal operations after the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
view more »Association Makes Equity Measurement Recommendations to CMS
April 4, 2022 ||Recommendations for Medicare and Medicaid equity measures under development focus on standardized data collection and opportunities for testing and feedback.
view more »COVID-19: New Booster Recommendations, COVID.gov Site
April 4, 2022 ||CDC recommends an additional COVID-19 booster for older and immunocompromised adults; COVID.gov aggregates COVID-19 prevention and treatment tools; CDC data show threats to youth mental health during the pandemic.
view more »COVID-19: Second Booster Authorized for Older, Immunocompromised People
March 29, 2022 ||FDA authorizes a second vaccine booster for older and immunocompromised individuals; OSHA reopens the comment period for its emergency temporary standard.
view more »CDC Releases Health Equity, Antibiotic Resistance Fact Sheet
March 28, 2022 ||The fact sheet highlights CDC goals of expanding collection of disparities and equity data; supporting infection control and patient safety efforts; addressing educational needs that impact diverse health care workers’ ability to protect themselves and their patients from infections; and more.
view more »Research shows mRNA vaccines effectively prevent ventilation and death from COVID-19; Pfizer and Moderna seek authorization for an additional booster dose.
view more »MACPAC Issues Annual DSH Analysis
March 21, 2022 ||In its March report to Congress, the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission examines the relationship between Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) allotments, uncompensated care costs, and services for low-income, uninsured populations.
view more »HRSA to Stop Accepting COVID-19 Uninsured Claims
March 21, 2022 ||Citing a depletion of funds for the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program, the agency says the last day for providers to submit claims for testing and treatment is March 22 and the last day to submit vaccine administration claims is April 5.
view more »COVID-19: Public Transit Mask Mandate, Test-to-Treat FAQs
March 15, 2022 ||The Transportation Security Administration extends to April 18 its public transit mask mandate; HHS shares a fact sheet on the COVID-19 Test-to-Treat initiative.
view more »CMS Releases PHE Unwinding Guidance for Medicaid Renewals
March 8, 2022 ||A State Health Official letter includes guidance for states to prepare for the COVID-19 public health emergency unwinding and return to regular Medicaid program operations.
view more »Federal Judge Strikes Down Key Portion of Surprise Billing Rule
March 8, 2022 ||The court ruled the qualifying payment amount should not be the main factor in determining payment for out-of-network services in independent dispute resolution.
view more »COVID-19: National Preparedness Plan, FEMA Aid, OSHA Inspections
March 8, 2022 ||President Joe Biden unveils a new COVID-19 National Preparedness Plan; FEMA extends its 100 percent federal cost share for COVID-19 efforts.
view more »HHS to Distribute $560M in PRF Phase 4
March 1, 2022 ||Coupled with the $11 billion previously distributed, this brings total phase 4 payments to about $11.5 billion, leaving less than $6 billion in pledged funds. These new funds will reach more than 4,000 providers across the United States this week.
view more »COVID-19: Community Levels Framework; Accessibility Plan
March 1, 2022 ||CDC announces a new community-level framework that assesses COVID-19 risk; the Biden administration unveils a new COVID-19 mitigation plan for people with disabilities.
view more »CMS Issues FAQs on New GME Slots
March 1, 2022 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services outlines the application process for 1,000 new graduate medical education slots created by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. Applications for the first round of slots are due March 31, 2022, and CMS intends to award slots July 1, 2023.
view more »CMS Announces ACO Model With Health Equity Focus
March 1, 2022 ||The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation will release a request for applications for the Realizing Equity, Access, and Community Health accountable care organization model, which will focus on promoting health equity and mitigating health disparities for underserved communities.
view more »COVID-19: National Emergency Extended; Post-Infection Conditions
Feb. 22, 2022 ||National emergency extended; new study highlights conditions and symptoms developed after COVID-19 infection; CDC updates vaccine guidance with clarifications for immunocompromised people.
view more »CMS Seeks Information on Medicaid, CHIP Access to Care and Coverage
Feb. 18, 2022 ||Through a request for information, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services hopes to better understand enrollees' barriers to coverage and access to care to inform future policies and regulatory actions. A 60-day public comment period began Feb. 17.
view more »COVID-19: Pediatric Vaccine Delayed; Bebtelovimab Authorized
Feb. 15, 2022 ||Authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children six months to four years old is delayed; FDA authorizes the monoclonal antibody bebtelovimab.
view more »CMS Delays Hospital Star Ratings Update Until July
Feb. 15, 2022 ||Due to a calculation error in measure results used for calendar year 2021 public reporting, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has delayed until July the overall hospital star ratings update originally scheduled for April.
view more »The Department of Health and Human Services will distribute $19.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to help train primary care residents to provide quality care to diverse populations and communities, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
view more »Pfizer and BioNTech apply for emergency use authorization for their pediatric COVID-19 vaccine; CDC recommends the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine; Medicare will cover over-the-counter COVID-19 tests.
view more »FDA approves the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and limits a monoclonal antibody authorization; OSHA withdraws its vaccine mandate emergency temporary standard.
view more »14.5M Americans Enroll in Marketplace Coverage
Jan. 31, 2022 ||An estimated 5.8 million people newly gained coverage during this open enrollment period; 32 percent of consumers using the federal marketplace selected a plan that costs them $10 or less per month. Enrollment remains open through Jan. 31 in five states and the District of Columbia.
view more »CMS to Award $49M to Increase CHIP, Medicaid Enrollment
Jan. 31, 2022 ||Each awardee will receive up to $1.5 million for a three-year period to reduce the number of uninsured children by advancing Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program enrollment and retention. Grant applications are due March 28.
view more »HHS to Distribute $2B More in Provider Relief Payments
Jan. 28, 2022 ||The funds will reach more than 7,600 providers across the country this week; $6 billion in pledged phase 4 funds remain undistributed.
view more »COVID-19: N95 Mask Distribution, Vaccine Studies
Jan. 25, 2022 ||The Biden administration will distribute 400 million no-cost N95 masks; CDC studies highlight the importance of boosters in protecting against COVID-19.
view more »HHS Awards $103M to Reduce Provider Burnout, Support Mental Health
Jan. 24, 2022 ||HHS awarded $103 million to improve health care worker retention by reducing staff burnout and promoting mental wellness. Several essential hospitals were among the awardees, including the University of New Mexico, Virginia Commonwealth University, and the University of Utah.
view more »Association Comments on Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters
Jan. 24, 2022 ||In response to the proposed rule for the 2023 plan year, the association urged the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure equitable access, finalize nondiscrimination policies, standardize collection of Z codes, and prorate premiums and advanced premium tax credits.
view more »CDC Updates Antibiotic Resistance Website
Jan. 20, 2022 ||The revised site reflects new information, partner feedback, and industry best practices and includes fact sheets on the agency's AR Laboratory Network and innovative investments to respond to AR globally.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Mandate Ruling; Testing and Therapeutics Access
Jan. 18, 2022 ||The U.S. Supreme Court upheld CMS' vaccine mandate but struck down the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's mandate; President Joe Biden announced new initiatives to expand testing access.
view more »HHS Extends COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Jan. 18, 2022 ||Effective Jan. 14, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the public health emergency determination related to the continued effects of COVID-19; the determination has been in place since Jan. 27, 2020, and has been renewed every three months.
view more »CDC shortens the time between primary vaccine series and booster shot and recommends a Pfizer booster for adolescents; the Supreme Court hears oral arguments on two vaccine mandates; HHS requires coverage of at-home COVID-19 tests, effective Jan. 15.
view more »Guidance on Patient-Provider Dispute Resolution Process
Jan. 11, 2022 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released guidance and example templates for good faith estimates and the surprise billing patient-provider dispute resolution process.
view more »CMS Finalizes Rule to Withdraw Part B Drug Model
Jan. 10, 2022 ||The Medicare Part B drug model, also known as the most favored nation model, would have phased-in reduced payment rates for 50 Part B drugs over four years. America's Essential Hospitals previously called on CMS to withdraw the model.
view more »HHS Updates Guidance for Hospital COVID-19 Reporting
Jan. 10, 2022 ||The guidance results in a net reduction of about 30 percent of data fields; it adds questions on pediatric data, as well as makes mandatory certain influenza fields. The HHS guidance does not satisfy the requirements of a CMS quality measure on health care personnel vaccination rates.
view more »COVID-19: Guidance Updates, Authorization of Antiviral Pills
Jan. 4, 2022 ||FDA expands authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 booster; FDA authorizes two antiviral pills; CMS updates guidance on vaccine mandate compliance.
view more »Guidance Released for IDR Entities
Jan. 4, 2022 ||New guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services reviews the timeline for open negotiations and initiating the federal independent dispute resolution process under the No Surprises Act.
view more »The new document explains various provisions under part II surprise billing regulations, including that all financial assistance should be reflected in the good faith estimate regardless of the amount or type of discount. The new regulations take effect Jan. 1, 2022.
view more »CMS Releases Second IPPS Final Rule with Comment Period
Dec. 23, 2021 ||In the new rule, the agency finalizes proposals on direct and indirect graduate medical education (GME) policies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and solicits comments on other GME issues to inform future policymaking.
view more »Association Comments on CMS Vaccination Rule
Dec. 23, 2021 ||The association asked that CMS provide additional time for hospitals to comply with the requirements, especially given the uncertain outcome of pending litigation regarding the administration's vaccine mandate.
view more »CDC recommends mRNA COVID-19 vaccines be given clinical preference over the Janssen vaccine; the CMS vaccine mandate rule is revived in 25 states.
view more »Engaging Essential Hospitals in Value-Based Care
Dec. 16, 2021 ||In a new white paper, America's Essential Hospitals discusses essential hospitals' role in value-based payment models and makes recommendations to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation on improving equity through broader model participation.
view more »HRSA Reopens Provider Relief Fund Portal
Dec. 14, 2021 ||Providers now have until Dec. 20 to report lost revenue and expense information related to the receipt of Provider Relief Fund payments.
view more »FDA authorizes the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster for individuals as young as 16; the agency also authorizes a monoclonal antibody for COVID-19 prevention.
view more »A Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services letter to state Medicaid directors outlines new supplemental payment reporting and Medicaid disproportionate share hospital requirements under the Consolidated Appropriations Act.
view more »SAMHSA to Issue $30M in Harm Reduction Grants
Dec. 13, 2021 ||The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration will ask grant recipients to develop or expand evidence-based services that may include the provision of sterile syringes, safe-sex kits, prevention education, overdose prevention kits, and more. Applications are due Feb. 7, 2022.
view more »Surgeon General Issues Advisory on Youth Mental Health Crisis
Dec. 13, 2021 ||The advisory aims to combat the youth mental health crisis that worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the surgeon general recommends health care professionals focus on prevention and trauma-informed care principles, routinely screen children for mental health risk factors, and more.
view more »In its comments to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the association stressed the importance of considering hospital physical infrastructure and financial status in developing research and practice improvement strategies.
view more »As part of Vice President Kamala Harris' call to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity, a Department of Health and Human Services report highlights the impact of extending postpartum Medicaid coverage. In addition, CMS intends to propose a "Birthing-Friendly" hospital designation.
view more »Biden Administration Issues Call to Action on Maternal Health
Dec. 7, 2021 ||Vice President Kamala Harris hosted the first federal Maternal Health Day of Action. Coinciding with the event, America's Essential Hospitals announced 12 member hospitals will participate in a new CVS Health Foundation–funded learning collaborative to improve maternal health.
view more »Association Comments on Second Part of Surprise Billing Rules
Dec. 7, 2021 ||America’s Essential Hospitals commented on the second interim final rule implementing the No Surprises Act. The association urged HHS to revise good faith estimate requirements and create an IDR process that does not favor payers over providers.
view more »COVID-19: Omicron Variant Reaches U.S.; Vaccine Mandate on Hold
Dec. 7, 2021 ||As the omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant reaches the United States, President Joe Biden releases a new plan to combat COVID-19; CMS will not enforce its health care worker vaccine mandate amid legal challenges.
view more »CMS released guidance to help states maintain Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program coverage as they return to normal operations when the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. Many strategies in the documents require support from outside organizations that work with beneficiaries.
view more »A new Department of Health and Human Services report finds the share of Medicare visits conducted via telehealth increased from about 840,000 in 2019 to 52.7 million in 2020. In particular, telehealth was helpful in offsetting potential foregone behavioral health care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »COVID-19: New Variant; CMS Vaccine Mandate Halted in 10 States
Nov. 30, 2021 ||The World Health Organization Nov. 26 classified a new COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.529, referred to as omicron. The variant was first reported in South Africa. To date, no cases have been identified in the United States.
view more »HHS Announces Funding to Support Health Care Workforce
Nov. 29, 2021 ||The Department of Health and Human Services announced a $1.5 billion investment to help grow and diversify the nation's health care workforce through loan repayment and scholarship programs.
view more »Association Comments on DACA Proposed Rule
Nov. 29, 2021 ||The proposed rule aims to strengthen and preserve the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, which is critical to the nation's health care workforce. The association urges the Department of Homeland Security to formally add the policy through the notice-and-comment rulemaking process.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Booster Eligibility, Oral Antiviral Medication
Nov. 19, 2021 ||FDA and CDC endorse expanded eligibility for Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 booster vaccine doses; Pfizer seeks authorization for its COVID-19 antiviral pill.
view more »New Rule Aims to Account for Rx Drug Costs in Health Care Spending
Nov. 18, 2021 ||The Department of Health and Human Services released a fourth interim final rule to implement the No Surprises Act. The agency aims to enhance transparency and provide insight into how prescription drugs contribute to the growth of health care spending and the cost of health coverage.
view more »CMS Releases Hospital Co-Location Guidance
Nov. 16, 2021 ||CMS released final guidance for compliance with Medicare conditions of participation related to co-location, which occurs when two Medicare-certified hospitals or a Medicare-certified hospital and another health care entity are on the same campus or in the same building and share resources.
view more »Presidential Health Equity Task Force Issues Recommendations
Nov. 16, 2021 ||The Presidential Health Equity Task Force released recommendations for equitable disbursement of COVID-19 relief funds and culturally aligned communication to people of color and other underserved populations. Meanwhile, the White House announced $785 million in new investments to improve on equity.
view more »Pfizer and BioNTech ask the FDA to authorize their COVID-19 booster vaccine for everyone age 18 and older; FEMA COVID-19 funding will continue until April 2022.
view more »Association Gives Senate Panel Comments on Mental Health Care
Nov. 12, 2021 ||The letter from America’s Essential Hospitals to the Senate Committee on Finance responded to the panel’s request for information on improving access to and enhancing mental and behavioral health care.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Recommends Pfizer Vaccine for Children
Nov. 9, 2021 ||CDC recommends the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11; CMS holds a stakeholder call on its vaccine mandate for health care workers. Pfizer says its investigational novel COVID-19 oral antiviral candidate significantly reduces hospitalization and death.
view more »CMS, OSHA Issue New Vaccination Requirements
Nov. 5, 2021 ||CMS announced phased vaccination requirements as a condition of participating in Medicare and Medicaid; vaccination must be completed by Jan. 4, 2022. A new Occupational Safety and Health Administration emergency temporary standard promotes vaccination for businesses with 100 or more employees.
view more »CMS Issues CY 2022 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule
Nov. 3, 2021 ||The rule adjusts the conversion factor used to determine physician payment rates and includes provisions related to appropriate use criteria, Medicare reimbursement for telehealth services, vaccine payment rates, the Quality Payment Program, and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
view more »The Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System final rule for calendar year 2022 continues cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and pauses elimination of the inpatient-only list. The rule also includes provisions on price transparency, rural emergency hospitals, and health equity.
view more »Essential Hospitals Continue Climate Work Amid Pandemic
Nov. 3, 2021 ||Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, essential hospitals continued to act as models in the industry for sustainability practices.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Authorizes Pfizer Vaccine for Children
Nov. 2, 2021 ||FDA authorizes the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for use in children ages 5 to 11 and delays approval of the Moderna vaccine in adolescents ages 12 to 17. The agency recommends providers avoid purchasing or using imported medical gloves from certain companies that might be in violation of laws and rules.
view more »New Overdose Prevention Strategy Announced
Nov. 1, 2021 ||The new strategy from the Department of Health and Human Services expands the scope of crisis response beyond opioids to include other substances often involved in overdoses. It focuses on four priority areas: primary prevention, harm reduction, evidence-based treatment, and recovery support.
view more »HHS Releases Health Workforce Strategic Plan
Nov. 1, 2021 ||The plan — required by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act — focuses on increasing the health workforce in rural and underserved areas and better preparing for the health care needs of the future. HHS will issue a report to Congress on implementation.
view more »Preview Healthcare.gov Plans Before Open Enrollment
Oct. 26, 2021 ||Consumers now can preview health plans and prices on healthcare.gov ahead of open enrollment, which runs Nov. 1, 2020, through Jan. 15, 2021.
view more »COVID-19: FDA, CDC Recommend Boosters; Plan to Vaccinate Children
Oct. 26, 2021 ||FDA and CDC recommend Moderna and Janssen booster vaccines, along with heterologous booster doses; the Biden administration releases a plan to vaccinate children.
view more »Association Submits Comments on Public Charge ANPRM
Oct. 25, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals submitted comments on the Department of Homeland Security advanced notice of proposed rulemaking on the public charge ground of inadmissibility. Following feedback, the agency plans to engage in the rulemaking process to issue an updated public charge regulation.
view more »Association Urges CMS to Finalize Withdrawal of MFN Drug Model
Oct. 25, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals urged CMS to finalize withdrawal of the Trump administration's Most Favored Nation Model, citing procedural deficiencies, ongoing legal challenges, and significant reduction in provider payment rates.
view more »CMS Innovation Center Outlines Strategy for Next Decade
Oct. 25, 2021 ||A new Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation white paper outlines a strategy to advance health system transformation. The goal is to achieve equitable outcomes by driving accountable care, advancing health equity, supporting innovation, addressing affordability, and creating partnerships.
view more »Medicaid Required to Cover COVID-19 Treatment
Oct. 25, 2021 ||CMS will require states to cover COVID-19 treatment with no cost-sharing for Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program beneficiaries. Further, states in some circumstances must cover treatments for conditions that might seriously complicate the treatment of COVID-19.
view more »Association Urges Action to Protect Health Care Workforce
Oct. 25, 2021 ||In a letter to congressional leaders, America's Essential Hospitals advocates for strengthening the health care workforce in the wake of COVID-19, including through more funding in public health emergencies, prioritized visas for foreign clinicians, and increased graduate medical education slots.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Panel Endorses Moderna, Janssen Boosters
Oct. 19, 2021 ||The Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee endorses booster shots of the Moderna and Janssen COVID-19 vaccines. Meanwhile, FDA delays authorization of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in adolescents ages 12 to 17 after reports of cardiac side effects.
view more »$100M Announced for State Loan Repayment Program
Oct. 18, 2021 ||Money from the American Rescue Plan will fund up to 50 awards through the Health Resources and Services Administration's State Loan Repayment Program for state-run programs that support, recruit, and retain primary care clinicians who work in underserved communities.
view more »HHS Extends COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Oct. 18, 2021 ||Effective Oct. 18, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the public health emergency (PHE) determination related to the continued effects of COVID-19. The PHE determination has been in place since Jan. 31, 2020.
view more »Hospitals Paying $24B More for Labor during Pandemic
Oct. 18, 2021 ||A new analysis finds annual clinical labor costs in the emergency department and intensive care unit and among nursing staff increased by $24 billion due to the COVID-19 pandemic, translating to about $17 million in additional expenses for the average 500-bed facility.
view more »Administration Proposes to Codify DACA Program
Oct. 12, 2021 ||The Department of Homeland Security will use the notice-and-comment rulemaking process to codify the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.
view more »HHS Spanish Language App Helps Navigate Health Care
Oct. 12, 2021 ||HHS released a Spanish version of QuestionBuilder, an app that helps patients and caregivers prepare for their in-person or telehealth appointments, along with a report on Latino patients' access to care.
view more »CMS Study Shows Slight Increase in Z Code Use
Oct. 12, 2021 ||The use of Z codes to document social determinants of health in Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries increased slightly from 2017 to 2019 but remains low.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Effectiveness, Authorization Updates
Oct. 12, 2021 ||An HHS report shows the COVID-19 vaccine prevented hospitalization and death in Medicare beneficiaries; Pfizer applies for emergency use authorization for its vaccine in children age 5 to 11.
view more »COVID-19: HIPAA Guidance; Vaccinating Pregnant People
Oct. 5, 2021 ||HHS guidance clarifies how HIPAA applies to COVID-19 vaccination status requests; CDC urges pregnant people to get vaccinated amid a surge in hospitalizations.
view more »Administration Releases Part II of Surprise Billing Regulations
Oct. 5, 2021 ||The departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Treasury, and Labor and the Office of Personnel Management issued Part II of the No Surprises Act interim final rule with comment period.
view more »COVID-19: FDA, CDC Recommend Pfizer Booster Shot
Sept. 28, 2021 ||FDA on Sept. 22 authorized a third booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for select groups. A CDC panel subsequently recommended the booster shots, and CMS announced coverage for all Medicare beneficiaries and nearly all Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program beneficiaries.
view more »Association Asks HHS to Target COVID-19 Funds to Essential Hospitals
Sept. 27, 2021 ||In a Sept. 20 letter, America's Essential Hospitals welcomes the announcement of additional COVID-19 relief funding but notes the methodology falls short of adequate support for safety net providers. The association urges HHS to issue another targeted safety net distribution, among other requests.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Votes on Boosters, CDC Infection Control Funding
Sept. 21, 2021 ||An FDA advisory committee recommends a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster for a limited population; CDC announces $2.1 billion dedicated to infection control and prevention.
view more »Final Rule on ACA Marketplace for 2022 Plan Year
Sept. 21, 2021 ||The rule, released by the Department of Health and Human Service and the Department of Treasury, extends open enrollment, adds a new special enrollment period, expands navigator responsibilities, and modifies Section 1332 innovation waivers.
view more »Association Comments on CY 2022 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
Sept. 21, 2021 ||The calendar year 2022 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule includes provisions on Medicare payment for telehealth services, the Quality Payment Program, and more. The association also responded to a request for information on improving health equity through data collection.
view more »Association Comments on CY 2022 OPPS Proposed Rule
Sept. 21, 2021 ||In response to the calendar year 2022 Outpatient Prospective Payment System proposed rule, America's Essential Hospitals urged CMS to halt elimination of the inpatient-only list and to restore adequate payment to hospitals in the 340B program and to off-campus provider-based departments.
view more »Structural Racism and Chronic Underfunding of Medicaid
Sept. 14, 2021 ||In this first white paper of a new series, America's Essential Hospitals discusses the chronic underfunding of Medicaid as a form of structural racism and provides recommendations to ensure the program is an effective tool to improve equity.
view more »HHS Releases Proposal to Lower Rx Drug Costs
Sept. 14, 2021 ||The comprehensive plan includes potential legislative and administrative actions that could be used to lower drug prices. The plan also notes the importance of the 340B Drug Pricing Program and its role in supporting the health care safety net.
view more »COVID-19: President’s Plan, Infection Control Guidance
Sept. 14, 2021 ||The president's newly announced "Path out of the Pandemic" plan includes action steps for increasing vaccinations, further protecting those who are vaccinated, keeping schools safely open, testing and mask requirements, and economic recovery. CDC updates its infection control guidance.
view more »340B Recertification Ends Sept. 13
Sept. 9, 2021 ||Hospitals have until Sept. 13 to complete 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification through the Office of Pharmacy Affairs Information System.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Boosters, Youth Hospitalizations
Sept. 7, 2021 ||An FDA committee will review Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine booster application; Moderna is applying for booster approval. CDC data show COVID-19 hospitalizations on the rise among children.
view more »Association Comments on First Part of Surprise Billing Rules
Sept. 7, 2021 ||In a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, America's Essential Hospitals commented on the first interim final rule implementing the No Surprises Act. The association urged HHS to delay implementation until after the COVID-19 public health emergency, among other requests.
view more »In a letter to Democratic congressional leadership, the association urges consideration of essential hospital priorities — including funding for critical workforce and hospital infrastructure needs and protecting the 340B Drug Pricing Program — in forthcoming budget reconciliation legislation.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Recommends Pfizer Vaccine, Warns Against Ivermectin
Aug. 31, 2021 ||A CDC advisory committee voted Aug. 30 to recommend the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine; the agency warns against using ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19.
view more »Association Urges HHS to Boost Pandemic Response
Aug. 30, 2021 ||In a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, America's Essential Hospitals urges the agency to swiftly allocate and target remaining PRF funds, take steps to ensure adequate hospital staffing, expedite full approval of COVID-19 vaccines, and protect the nation's supply chain.
view more »DHS releases ANPRM on Public Charge
Aug. 24, 2021 ||The Department of Homeland Security released an advance notice of proposed rulemaking to gather data and feedback on the public charge ground of inadmissibility. Public comments are due Oct. 22; DHS will host public listening sessions on Sept. 14 and Oct. 5.
view more »COVID-19: FDA Approves Pfizer Vaccine; HHS Promotes Boosters
Aug. 24, 2021 ||FDA approves the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. HHS plans to promote a booster shot of the mRNA vaccines beginning in September. CMS and CDC work to develop an emergency regulation requiring COVID-19 vaccination for nursing home staff.
view more »ONC Webinar Series on Information Blocking Rule
Aug. 24, 2021 ||The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology will host a series of webinars to discuss information sharing requirements finalized in a 2020 rule. The first webinar, focused on clinicians, will be Sept. 14, from 1–2 pm ET.
view more »Association Comments on New Supplemental Payment Reporting System
Aug. 24, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals sent CMS recommendations for implementing the new Medicaid supplemental payment reporting system under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2020. The association noted the importance of accuracy and avoiding duplicate data collection.
view more »Association Comments on COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard
Aug. 20, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals outlines concerns with the timeline for implementation and the scope of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's emergency temporary standard (ETS) for occupational exposure to COVID-19.
view more »FDA and CDC recommend a third mRNA COVID-19 vaccine dose for immunocompromised people; CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant and breastfeeding people.
view more »CMS Updates Guidance for Medicaid After COVID-19
Aug. 17, 2021 ||In an Aug. 13 letter to state health officials, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services updates its guidance regarding the resumption of normal state Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, and Basic Health Program operations when the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
view more »White House Virtual Conversation On Vaccination Efforts
Aug. 12, 2021 ||The White House COVID-19 Response Team will host an Aug. 23 virtual conversation on increasing vaccination in an equitable way. The event is open to health system leaders and health care providers.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Effectiveness; Eviction Moratorium
Aug. 10, 2021 ||Two CDC studies highlight the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines in preventing reinfection and hospitalization; CDC extends the eviction moratorium.
view more »CMS Proposes to Withdraw Part B Drug Model
Aug. 9, 2021 ||CMS proposes to rescind the Trump administration’s Most Favored Nation model interim final rule, which aimed to reduce payment for 50 Medicare Part B drugs. America’s Essential Hospitals previously urged the agency to withdraw the model due to substantive and procedural issues.
view more »CMS Releases FY 2022 IPPS Final Rule
Aug. 9, 2021 ||CMS on Aug. 2 released its fiscal year 2022 Inpatient Prospective Payment System final rule, which includes payment and quality reporting provisions. The rule does not finalize provisions related to new residency slots, organ acquisition costs, or Section 1115 waiver days.
view more »340B Recertification Begins Aug. 16
Aug. 9, 2021 ||The annual 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification period for hospitals will begin Aug. 16. Hospitals will have until Sept. 13 to complete the process.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Expands Mask Recommendations
Aug. 3, 2021 ||CDC recommends everyone, even those who are fully vaccinated, wear a mask indoors in public in areas with substantial and high COVID-19 transmission.
view more »CMS Hosts Hospital Price Transparency Webinar
July 30, 2021 ||Effective Jan. 1, 2021, hospitals are required to publish standard charges, including negotiated rates, for all services in a machine-readable format. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will host a webinar on Aug. 11 for hospitals to learn about posting standard charge information.
view more »COVID-19: Cases on the Rise; Association Urges Vaccine Requirement
July 27, 2021 ||As COVID-19 cases rise, the association calls on members to require employee vaccination; CDC urges immunocompromised people to continue wearing masks.
view more »CMS Requests Billing Data to Disburse APM Incentive Payments
July 27, 2021 ||CMS released an advisory alerting certain qualifying participants in alternative payment models that the agency does not have billing information needed to disburse incentive payments. Participants who anticipated but have not received an incentive payment should submit the necessary form by Nov. 1.
view more »HHS Extends COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
July 27, 2021 ||Effective July 20, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the public health emergency (PHE) determination related to the continued effects of COVID-19. The PHE determination has been in place since Jan. 31, 2020, and has been renewed every three months since.
view more »Administration Launches Cybersecurity Resources Website
July 27, 2021 ||The administration has created a new website, StopRansomware.gov, to help government agencies and the private sector understand the threat of ransomware, mitigate risk, and learn how to respond to a ransomware attack.
view more »Administration Advises States on Change to Public Charge Rule
July 27, 2021 ||A bulletin from the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services notes the withdrawal of the 2019 public charge rule and addresses states' role in safeguarding applicant and beneficiary information. The public charge rule was vacated and is no longer in effect, retroactive to March 2, 2021.
view more »The OPPS proposed rule would continue cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and off-campus provider-based departments, pause the elimination of the inpatient-only list, and increase penalties for failing to report standard charges.
view more »HRSA Announces Funding for Health Care Workforce Mental Health
July 20, 2021 ||HRSA announced $103 million in American Rescue Plan funding over three years to help reduce burnout and promote mental health among the health care workforce.
view more »COVID-19: Health Misinformation, Minority Health Index
July 20, 2021 ||The U.S. Surgeon General issues a health misinformation advisory; CDC and the Office of Minority Health develop a Minority Health Social Vulnerability Index.
view more »CMS Grant Opportunity for Crisis Care
July 20, 2021 ||CMS announces $15 million for state Medicaid agencies to launch mobile crisis intervention services, as authorized by the American Rescue Plan.
view more »CMS Issues CY 2022 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
July 19, 2021 ||The rule includes provisions related to telehealth, vaccine payment rates, the Quality Payment Program, and the Medicare Shared Savings Program; comments are due to CMS by Sept. 13.
view more »HRSA Offers Webinar on 340B Recertification
July 19, 2021 ||The Aug. 11 webinar will complement other federal resources on the annual 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification period for hospitals, which is scheduled to start Aug. 16. Hospitals will have until Sept. 13 to complete the process.
view more »Executive Order Aims to Promote Economic Competition
July 13, 2021 ||Notable to essential hospitals, the Biden administration's July 9 executive order includes health care items related to prescription drugs, price transparency, hospital consolidation, and health insurance.
view more »COVID-19: OSHA Extends ETS Comment Period; Booster Shot Guidance
July 13, 2021 ||The Occupational Safety and Health Administration extends to Aug. 20 the comment period for the COVID-19 health care emergency temporary standard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration say fully vaccinated individuals do not need COVID-19 booster shots.
view more »HHS Awards $250M to Fight COVID-19 Among Marginalized Communities
July 13, 2021 ||The Department of Health and Human Services announced $250 million in grant awards to 73 local governments as part of a new initiative to identify and implement best practices for improving health literacy to enhance COVID-19 vaccination among underserved populations.
view more »New Rule Aims to Protect Patients from Surprise Billing
July 6, 2021 ||On July 1, the Biden administration released part 1 of the No Surprises Act interim final rule. Passed as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, the rule establishes new patient protections from balanced billing and excessive cost-sharing, known as surprise billing.
view more »Supreme Court To Review Association’s Lawsuit on OPPS Cuts
July 6, 2021 ||The Supreme Court’s decision to review the case marks a significant step in the association’s efforts to overturn harmful Medicare Part B cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case in its next term, with a decision likely in 2022.
view more »PRF Reporting Portal Now Open
July 6, 2021 ||Providers who received Provider Relief Fund dollars and are required to document their use during reporting period 1 (April 10–June 30, 2020) have until Sept. 30 to access the portal and submit the information.
view more »Proposed Rule on ACA Marketplace for 2022 Plan Year
July 1, 2021 ||The departments of the Treasury and Health and Human Services proposed extending open enrollment in the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, adding a new special enrollment period, expanding navigator responsibilities, and modifying Section 1332 innovation waivers.
view more »Association Comments on FY 2022 IPPS Proposed Rule
June 29, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals commented on several policy proposals of interest to essential hospitals in the Inpatient Prospective Payment System rule and responded to a request for information on closing the health equity gap in hospital quality programs.
view more »CDC extends to July 31 the eviction moratorium to protect people unable to make rental payments due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. Distribution of bamlanivimab and etesevimab is paused after tests find they are ineffective against some COVID-19 variants.
view more »Association Urges HHS to Allocate Remaining PRF Funds
June 28, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals urged the agency to ensure essential hospitals receive much-needed relief and are equipped for their central role in the continued response to the pandemic, including allocating remaining Provider Relief Fund dollars and revising guidance on the use of these funds.
view more »MedPAC Recommendations on GME, APMs
June 22, 2021 ||In its June report to Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission issues recommendations on issues of importance to essential hospitals, including payment for Part B drugs, alternative payment models, indirect medical education payments, and Medicare coverage of vaccines, among other topics.
view more »Biden Administration Formally Proposes to Rescind FQHC Rule
June 21, 2021 ||The Biden administration proposes to rescind a Trump-era final rule requiring federally qualified health centers to charge certain low-income patients no more than the 340B Drug Pricing Program price for insulin and injectable epinephrine. Comments on the proposed rule are due July 16.
view more »CDC Issues Care Guidance for Prolonged COVID-19 Health Issues
June 21, 2021 ||The interim guidance covers physical and mental health conditions present four or more weeks after some COVID-19 infections, including by patients who initially had mild or asymptomatic acute infections.
view more »Essential Hospitals Have Pride: Improving LGBTQ Care
June 18, 2021 ||For 40 years, America’s Essential Hospitals and its members have championed care for underserved communities, including LGBTQ people. As we celebrate Pride Month, the association reflects on members’ efforts to improve care for this population and recent administration actions to support this goal.
view more »Supreme Court Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Affordable Care Act
June 17, 2021 ||The lawsuit, brought by individual plaintiffs and 18 Republican-led states, argued the ACA’s individual mandate was unconstitutional and that the entire ACA had to be dismantled as a result. The court's decision was made on procedural grounds and did not rule on the underlying merits of the case.
view more »COVID-19: Novavax Vaccine; Hospital Vaccine Allocation
June 15, 2021 ||Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated 90.4 percent efficacy in clinical trials; CDC urges vaccination upon hospital discharge.
view more »HHS Extends Timeline for Use of PRF Funds
June 14, 2021 ||The new timeline for spending and reporting on Provider Relief Fund (PRF) dollars depends on when a provider received the payments. The PRF reporting portal, which so far has been open only for registration, will open July 1 for providers to begin reporting on the use of their PRF payments.
view more »Association Seeks Engagement on Supplemental Payment Reporting
June 14, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals and 11 additional national groups sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services urging the agency to partner with stakeholders who can offer technical expertise and context in developing the supplemental payment reporting system.
view more »OSHA Issues Emergency Temporary Standard on COVID-19
June 11, 2021 ||The emergency temporary standard aims to protect those working in health care settings where suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are treated.
view more »CMS Announces $80M in Grant Funding for Navigators
June 7, 2021 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is issuing $80 million in grant funding for navigators in states using the federal insurance marketplace for the 2022 plan year.
view more »President Biden announces a National Month of Action to vaccinate 70 percent of U.S. adults by July 4; Moderna applies for FDA approval of its vaccine.
view more »COVID-19: New Variant Names; Vaccinating Pregnant People
June 1, 2021 ||WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern; two NIH studies show that mRNA vaccines are safe for pregnant people.
view more »FDA lengthens the refrigerator storage time for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. A new CDC site aggregates state and local COVID-19 funding opportunities. The Department of Health and Human Services allocates $4.8 billion to the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program.
view more »CMS Releases Guidance on Interoperability Rule
May 18, 2021 ||The interpretive guidance includes information on hospital admission, discharge, and transfer notification requirements outlined in CMS' May 2020 interoperability and patient access final rule.
view more »Treasury Department Issues Rule on Fiscal Recovery Funds
May 18, 2021 ||The Department of Treasury released an interim final rule related to the distribution and allocation of $350 billion in funding for state, local, metropolitan city, and tribal governments; the funding was included in the American Rescue Plan Act.
view more »COVID-19: Mask Guidance for Vaccinated People
May 18, 2021 ||New CDC recommendations no longer require people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to wear a mask or physically distance.
view more »HHS Will Enforce ACA’s Nondiscrimination Protections
May 17, 2021 ||HHS will interpret and enforce the Affordable Care Act's prohibition on discrimination "on the basis of sex" to include sexual orientation and gender identity. The change comes in response to a Trump administration rule in June 2020 that removed protections for transgender and LGBTQ individuals.
view more »OMB Issues RFI on Equity Across the Federal Government
May 17, 2021 ||The agency seeks input, information, and recommendations from stakeholders on equity assessments and strategies, barrier and burden reduction, procurement and contracting processes, financial assistance, and stakeholder and community engagement.
view more »Association Responds to Proposed HIPAA Changes
May 11, 2021 ||In a letter to the HHS Office of Civil Rights (OCR), America's Essential Hospitals responds to proposed changes to privacy rules under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. OCR outlined the changes in a Jan. 21 proposed rule aiming to improve the transition to value-based care.
view more »A CDC brief updates transmission methods; Pfizer applies for FDA approval of its vaccine; CMS increases the Medicare payment for monoclonal antibodies.
view more »CMS Changes Wage Index Reclassification Rules
May 11, 2021 ||In a new interim final rule with comment period, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services revises the rules for certain hospitals seeking a wage index reclassification with the Medicare Geographic Classification Review Board.
view more »New CDC guidelines walk back outdoor mask regulations for fully vaccinated people; two research studies examine adverse reactions to the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine.
view more »New Health Equity Technical Assistance Page
May 4, 2021 ||The Office of Minority Health page includes tools for data collection and analysis, developing language access plans, and strategic plan creation.
view more »Overall Hospital Star Ratings Updated on Care Compare
May 3, 2021 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services published updated overall hospital quality star ratings on its Care Compare website; the ratings were last updated in January 2020. America's Essential Hospitals has expressed continued concern about the fairness and reliability of the ratings.
view more »HHS Updates Buprenorphine Prescribing Requirements
May 3, 2021 ||Effective April 28, HHS expanded the group of providers eligible to prescribe buprenorphine, a drug used to treat opioid use disorder, and removed some barriers to its use.
view more »HHS Announces Navigator Funding, New Open Enrollment Report
May 2, 2021 ||The Department of Health and Human Services announced $80 million in grants to increase access to marketplace enrollment assistance for consumers. The agency's 2021 open enrollment report shows more than 12 million consumers selected a marketplace plan during the 2021 open enrollment period.
view more »CMS Releases FY 2022 IPPS Proposed Rule
April 28, 2021 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ proposed fiscal year 2022 Inpatient Prospective Payment System rule would increase operating payment rates by 2.8 percent, repeal market-based data collection, and add 1,000 new graduate medical education teaching slots, among other provisions.
view more »COVID-19: Janssen Vaccine Pause Lifted; Long-Term Health Needs
April 27, 2021 ||CDC and FDA lift the pause on Janssen vaccine administration after blood clot reports. Data show COVID-19 patients have long-term health needs.
view more »Further Extension of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
April 22, 2021 ||The COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) determination has been renewed effective April 21. The PHE determination initially was made Jan. 31, 2020, and has been renewed a total of five times.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Eligibility Expands; Janssen Vaccine Remains Paused
April 20, 2021 ||Everyone in the United States ages 16 and older is now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine; CDC's advisory committee will meet April 23 to discuss the Janssen vaccine pause.
view more »Next Application Round for COVID-19 Telehealth Program
April 20, 2021 ||The FCC announced the filing window for the second round of applications for the COVID-19 Telehealth Program will open at noon ET on April 29. The agency plans to award funding in two phases so applicants have the opportunity to provide supplemental information if they initially are denied funding.
view more »HHS Approves Historic Maternal Health Waiver
April 13, 2021 ||The waiver makes Illinois the first state to provide continuity of full Medicaid benefit coverage for mothers by extending eligibility during the entire first year after delivery.
view more »COVID-19: Janssen Vaccine on Hold; Health Center Vaccine Program
April 13, 2021 ||CDC and FDA recommend pausing Janssen COVID-19 vaccine administration after six U.S. reports of blood clots; HHS expands the Health Center Vaccine Program.
view more »CDC Director Declares Racism a Public Health Threat
April 13, 2021 ||CDC Director Rochelle Walensky declared racism a serious public health threat and outlined agency efforts to mitigate the impact of racism on public health. The association applauds Walensky's clear statement on systemic racism.
view more »COVID-19: Community Corps, Travel and Cleaning Guidance
April 6, 2021 ||HHS and CDC launch a nationwide grassroots vaccine promotion network; CDC issues new guidance on travel, cleaning, and disinfection.
view more »Administration Releases Drug Policy Priorities
April 6, 2021 ||The Office of National Drug Control Policy outlines the Biden administration's drug policy priorities for 2021, including expanding access to evidence-based treatment and prevention services, advancing racial equity, reducing supply of illicit substances, and advancing recovery-ready workplaces.
view more »Information on Second Round of COVID-19 Telehealth Program
April 5, 2021 ||In a newly issued report and order, the Federal Communications Commission provided more information on the application and evaluation process for the second round of the COVID-19 Telehealth Program. The application window will open within 30 days of the order.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Access and Effectiveness
March 30, 2021 ||President Joe Biden announced initiatives to expand COVID-19 vaccine access; a CDC study shows mRNA vaccines are highly effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection.
view more »CMS Issues Interpretive Guidance for Emergency Preparedness
March 30, 2021 ||In light of the COVID-19 public health emergency, CMS updated its guidance document to expand on best practices, lessons, and planning considerations for emerging infectious diseases.
view more »Hospitals Outline Pandemic Challenges in New HHS Report
March 26, 2021 ||In a new HHS Office of Inspector General report, hospitals highlight challenges associated with the public health emergency — including barriers to care delivery and vaccination, staff burnout, supply shortages, and declining revenue — that have strained the nation's health care delivery system.
view more »Special ACA Enrollment Period Extended to Aug. 15
March 26, 2021 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is extending until Aug. 15 the special enrollment period for 36 states using the federal health insurance marketplace, giving consumers more time to view new options under the American Rescue Plan, including lower premiums and plan upgrades.
view more »FDA alerts providers about monoclonal antibody–resistant SARS-CoV-2 variants; a new study examines vaccine rates in counties where residents experience a high number of social risk factors.
view more »MACPAC Issues Annual DSH Analysis
March 23, 2021 ||In an annual report to Congress, the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission finds an increase from 2018 to 2019 in the number of uninsured and in charity care and bad debt. The report includes state-specific projections of the Medicaid disproportionate share hospital allotment.
view more »MedPAC Report Addresses Telehealth, 340B Cuts
March 23, 2021 ||In its March report to Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission recommends payment updates in fee-for-service payment systems, including for hospital inpatient and outpatient services. The panel also outlines Medicare coverage of telehealth services during the pandemic and beyond.
view more »HHS Brief Examines Medicaid Section 1115 Policies
March 18, 2021 ||In response to an executive order, a new issue brief reviews four policy areas under Section 1115 demonstrations and their impact on Medicaid coverage and access to care. The brief notes all examined areas create barriers to enrollment and reduce coverage, leading to adverse health effects.
view more »COVID-19: OSHA Guidance, Infection Control
March 16, 2021 ||The Occupational Safety and Health Administration updated its COVID-19 enforcement plan; CDC updates infection control guidance for vaccinated people in health care facilities.
view more »The association will convene its virtual spring Policy Assembly March 16. Whether or not you join us, these resources are available to encourage your legislators to protect access to care.
view more »HHS Proposes Further Delay of FQHC Rule
March 15, 2021 ||In accordance with the presidential regulatory freeze, HHS proposes to further delay until July 20 a final rule requiring federally qualified health centers to charge certain low-income patients no more than the 340B Drug Pricing Program price for insulin and injectable epinephrine.
view more »Biden Establishes White House Gender Policy Council
March 15, 2021 ||A new White House Gender Policy Council, established via executive order, will coordinate efforts to advance gender equity and equality across executive departments and agencies.
view more »Federal Court Vacates Provisions in 2019 Marketplace Rule
March 12, 2021 ||A federal court vacated several policies in the Trump Administration’s 2019 health insurance marketplace rule for violating federal law, including provisions related to review of network adequacy, standardized options, income verification requirements, and reducing medical loss ratio rebates.
view more »Association Asks Administration for Improved Vaccine Supply
March 11, 2021 ||In a March 9 letter, America's Essential Hospitals asked the administration to ensure adequate vaccine supplies reach essential hospitals, emphasizing the critical role they play in vaccinating the health care workforce and the broader population.
view more »New Guidance on Provider Relief Fund, Medicaid DSH Payments
March 9, 2021 ||The guidance clarifies how hospitals receiving Medicaid disproportionate share hospital payments can use Provider Relief Fund general and targeted distribution payments.
view more »Senate-Passed COVID-19 Relief Package Includes DSH Fix
March 9, 2021 ||The $1.9 trillion package temporarily increases Medicaid disproportionate share hospital allotments to ensure essential hospitals receive the same level of payments as they would have expected absent the pandemic. The package returns to the House for a final vote, expected as early as Tuesday.
view more »COVID-19: Guidelines for Vaccinated People; New CMS Learning Series
March 9, 2021 ||CDC releases public health guidelines for fully vaccinated people; CMS invites hospitals to pilot a COVID-19 learning series.
view more »CDC Warns Health Care Providers of Ebola Outbreaks
March 8, 2021 ||CDC warns health care providers to stay vigilant amid Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guinea.
view more »Association Asks HHS to Direct More PRF Funds to Essential Hospitals
March 8, 2021 ||In a letter, America's Essential Hospitals urges swift allocation of the remaining funds in the $178 billion Provider Relief Fund and calls for another targeted distribution to hospitals omitted from the first two safety-net distributions, among other requests.
view more »COVID-19: Janssen Vaccine EUA, Coverage FAQs
March 2, 2021 ||FDA granted an emergency use authorization for the one-dose Janssen COVID-19 vaccine and an at-home COVID test; a multi-agency FAQ document addresses COVID-19 health coverage.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Safety Profiles; Testing Expansion
Feb. 23, 2021 ||A CDC report shows promising COVID-19 vaccine safety profiles; the federal COVID-19 task force expands support for vaccination and testing.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Demographic Data, New Mask Guidance
Feb. 16, 2021 ||CDC provides new vaccine demographic data and guidelines for ensuring close-fitting face masks; President Biden appoints two essential hospital leaders to a health equity task force.
view more »Association Advocates for Priorities with Biden Administration
Feb. 16, 2021 ||America's Essential Hospitals sent a letter to President Joe Biden and his administration detailing key priorities for essential hospitals, including issues related to structural racism, COVID-19, Medicaid, the 340B Drug Pricing Program, site-neutral payment policies, immigration, and other topics.
view more »Special Enrollment for ACA Coverage Began Feb. 15
Feb. 16, 2021 ||The special enrollment period, intended to ensure access to health coverage amid the the COVID-19 pandemic, will continue through May 15. The enrollment period applies to consumers in the 36 states that use the federal marketplace platform.
view more »New Recommendations to Advance Health Equity Amid COVID-19
Feb. 16, 2021 ||The Joint Commission's latest Quick Safety newsletter offers recommendations to ensure equitable care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »COVID-19: Janssen Vaccine; Race and Ethnicity Data
Feb. 9, 2021 ||Janssen applied for emergency use authorization of its COVID-19 vaccine; a CDC report shows reporting gaps in ethnic and racial data of vaccine recipients.
view more »Biden Orders Agencies to Review Public Charge Rules
Feb. 4, 2021 ||A new executive order calls on agencies to review public charge rules enacted under the Trump administration. Two other executive orders establish an interagency task force to reunite immigrant families and create a comprehensive regional framework to address the causes of migration.
view more »CMS Releases Hospital Star Rating April Preview Reports
Feb. 2, 2021 ||Hospitals have 30 days to review their reports before public reporting to Care Compare.
view more »COVID-19: Mask Requirements, PREP Act Amendment
Feb. 2, 2021 ||A new CDC order requires mask use on public transportation; a PREP Act amendment expands the provider groups authorized to administer vaccines.
view more »Biden Signs Executive Order to Strengthen Medicaid, ACA
Feb. 1, 2021 ||President Biden released an executive order to strengthen Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. The order calls for a special enrollment period on the federally facilitated exchange for uninsured or underinsured individuals — particularly those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »Biden Administration Releases Notable Executive Orders in Week One
Jan. 26, 2021 ||In his first week in office, President Biden released multiple executive orders of note to essential hospitals, including those related to COVID-19, health equity and nondiscrimination, and immigration.
view more »Biden Administration Freezes Pending Regulations
Jan. 26, 2021 ||The regulatory freeze could affect rules directing health clinics to pass certain drug discounts on to patients, establishing minimum standards in Medicaid state drug utilization review, and modifying Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act privacy arrangements.
view more »COVID-19: New Travel Restrictions, National Strategy
Jan. 26, 2021 ||CDC requires a negative test or travel clearance from a health care professional to enter the country; President Biden issues COVID-19 national strategy and complementary executive orders.
view more »FAQs for Reporting Median Payer-Specific Negotiated Charges
Jan. 26, 2021 ||The document outlines acceptable approaches to calculate and report median payer-specific negotiated charges by Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Group for reporting periods ending on or after Jan. 1, 2021.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccination Toolkits, PRF Reporting Update
Jan. 19, 2021 ||As a highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 variant spreads across the country, CDC issues two new vaccination toolkits; HHS alters its Provider Relief Fund reporting timeline.
view more »CMS to Reprocess 2019 OPPS Claims at Site Neutral Rates
Jan. 15, 2021 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will begin reprocessing outpatient claims to excepted off-campus provider-based departments at the lower site neutral payment rate it established in the calendar year 2019 Outpatient Prospective Payment System final rule.
view more »HRSA Launches 340B Dispute Resolution Website
Jan. 15, 2021 ||The website contains FAQs on the administrative dispute resolution (ADR) panel and board, the monetary threshold for filing an ADR claim, the types of documentation stakeholders must provide as part of the ADR process, and other information.
view more »CMS Encourages States to Address Social Determinants
Jan. 15, 2021 ||A new notice encourages states to improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and lower costs within Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program. It describes how states might address social determinants of health using flexibility available under current law.
view more »COVID-19: New Variants, Vaccine Reactions
Jan. 12, 2021 ||CDC shares information about two highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 variants, allergic reactions in Pfizer vaccine recipients, and vaccines for pregnant people.
view more »CMS Announces New Direct Contracting Model for Dual Eligibles
Jan. 12, 2021 ||Managed care organizations can participate in direct contracting for their populations dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. The model builds on direct contracting opportunities that test risk-sharing arrangements to reduce Medicare expenditures while preserving or enhancing quality of care.
view more »CMS Finalizes Rule on Value-Based Payments for Medicaid Drugs
Jan. 12, 2021 ||A new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services final rule addresses minimum standards in Medicaid State Drug Utilization Review, creates value-based purchasing arrangements with manufacturers, and outlines minimum standards to reduce opioid prescribing–related fraud and abuse.
view more »Extension of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Jan. 11, 2021 ||Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar extended, effective Jan. 21, the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) determination. The PHE determination has been in place since Jan. 31, 2020; it was set to expire Jan. 20, 2021.
view more »The rule, currently on hold due to a regulatory freeze, requires federally qualified health centers to pass 340B Drug Pricing Program discounts on to certain low-income patients as a condition of receiving federal grant funding; it applies to insulin and injectable epinephrine.
view more »The proposed rule builds on a CMS final rule on interoperability and patient access; it would leverage application programming interfaces to improve patients’ access to their electronic health information and reduce burden on providers related to prior authorization.
view more »CDC announces target groups for phases 1b and 1c of COVID-19 vaccine allocation; a new brief recommends strategies for building vaccine trust.
view more »Courts Pause Most Favored Nation Drug Model Rule
Jan. 5, 2021 ||Two federal courts halted implementation of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' most favored nation model interim final rule. The seven-year model was set to begin Jan. 1, 2021, phasing in a reduced payment rate for 50 Medicare Part B drugs.
view more »OMB Issues Guidance, Delays Due Date for COVID-19 Funding Audits
Jan. 5, 2021 ||The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) provides additional direction to auditors on COVID-19 payments. OMB delays by three months the deadline for single-audit reports for entities that received COVID-19 funding and had original audit report due dates from Oct. 1, 2020, to June 3, 2021.
view more »CMS Launches Next Phase of Maternal, Infant Health Initiative
Jan. 5, 2021 ||The next phase of the Maternal and Infant Health Initiative (MIHI) includes a new focus on postpartum care visits, well-child visits, and decreasing rates of cesarean-section births in low-risk pregnancies. A work group developed a set of recommendations and a report on next steps for the MIHI.
view more »COVID-19: Moderna Vaccine, At-Home Test
Dec. 22, 2020 ||FDA issues an emergency use authorization for the Moderna vaccine and an at-home antigen test; a CDC committee votes on allocation recommendations.
view more »HHS Begins Distributing $24B in Provider Relief Funds
Dec. 17, 2020 ||On Dec. 16, the Health Resources and Services Administration completed its review of Phase 3 applications for Provider Relief Fund money and will distribute $24.5 billion to more than 70,000 providers.
view more »COVID-19: Pfizer Vaccine EUA, Hospital Reporting Requirements
Dec. 15, 2020 ||FDA authorizes the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use; HHS expands hospital COVID-19 data reporting requirements to include therapeutic data.
view more »HHS Proposes Changes to HIPAA Privacy Rule
Dec. 15, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Civil Rights proposed modifications to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act privacy rule as part of the agency's regulatory sprint to coordinated care.
view more »HRSA Finalizes 340B Dispute Resolution Process
Dec. 14, 2020 ||The Health Resources and Services Administration finalized a rule creating a 340B Drug Pricing Program administrative dispute resolution process for covered entities and drug manufacturers; the rule marks a long-delayed implementation of an Affordable Care Act requirement.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Prioritization, Antigen Test Guidelines
Dec. 8, 2020 ||CDC recommends groups to prioritize in vaccine distribution and revises antigen testing guidance.
view more »Maternal Health Action Plan, Call to Action
Dec. 8, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services released a detailed action plan on maternal health and announced a public-private partnership to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. The surgeon general simultaneously announced a call to action to improve maternal health, complementing HHS' plan.
view more »OPPS Final Rule Continues 340B, Site-Neutral Cuts
Dec. 4, 2020 ||The Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System final rule for calendar year 2021 continues cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and off-campus provider-based departments, and updates the overall hospital star ratings methodology.
view more »CMS Finalizes CY 2021 Physician Fee Schedule Rule
Dec. 3, 2020 ||CMS establishes a conversion factor of $32.41 — a decrease of $3.68 from CY 2020. The final rule also includes provisions related to Medicare reimbursement for telehealth services, the Quality Payment Program, and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
view more »CMS Proposes Changes to Medicare Cost Reports
Dec. 3, 2020 ||In a notice of proposed information collection, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced its intention to make changes to the Medicare cost report and accompanying instructions.
view more »COVID-19: Moderna EUA, Vaccine Allocation Principles
Dec. 1, 2020 ||Moderna applied for emergency use authorization for its COVID-19 vaccine; CDC issued ethical vaccine application principles and updated face mask guidance for health care workers.
view more »CMS Announces Acute Hospital Care At Home Program
Dec. 1, 2020 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced the Acute Hospital Care at Home program to further increase hospital capacity during the COVID-19 crisis, in response to a rising number of hospitalizations nationwide. The program builds on the Hospitals Without Walls initiative.
view more »CMS Hosts Hospital Price Transparency Webcast
Dec. 1, 2020 ||The Dec. 8 webcast will offer hospitals information and resources to prepare for publishing standard charges, including negotiated rates, for all services in a machine-readable format and display prices of shoppable services in a consumer-friendly format.
view more »COVID-19: Vaccine Transparency, Therapeutics Updates
Nov. 24, 2020 ||FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn, MD, says drug and biological product centers will publicly post reviews of the data and information supporting emergency use authorizations (EUAs) for all drug and biological products, including vaccines, as part of the agency's COVID-19 response.
view more »HHS Finalizes Changes to Stark Law and Anti-Kickback Statute
Nov. 23, 2020 ||The Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized rules in conjunction with HHS' regulatory sprint to coordinated care. The OIG rule modifies safe harbor protections; CMS’ rule targets undue burden of the physician self-referral law, or Stark law.
view more »CMS Finalizes Most Favored Nation Medicare Drug Model
Nov. 23, 2020 ||In an interim final rule with comment period, CMS announces a seven-year mandatory payment model set to go into effect Jan. 1. The Most Favored Nation rule builds on an International Pricing Index model; by issuing an interim final rule, the agency bypasses releasing a proposed rule.
view more »CDC Observes Antibiotics Awareness Week, Releases Action Plan
Nov. 20, 2020 ||The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention marks U.S. Antibiotics Awareness Week with a new Antibiotic Use Option Report that synthesizes National Healthcare Safety Network data.
view more »CMS Retires Hospital Compare; No Star Ratings Update in Jan.
Nov. 20, 2020 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on Dec. 1 will retire its original Hospital Compare tools, encouraging users to visit Medicare.gov’s new Care Compare tool to find and compare health care providers. CMS will not update the overall hospital quality star ratings in January 2021.
view more »Association Addresses New Administration, Outlines Priorities
Nov. 20, 2020 ||In its first letter to President-elect Joseph Biden and his transition team, America's Essential Hospitals noted a desire to work together to stabilize the nation's health care safety net and described several administrative policy priorities and paths of partnership.
view more »COVID-19: Moderna Vaccine, CDC Mask Guidance
Nov. 17, 2020 ||An interim analysis of Moderna Inc.'s COVID-19 vaccine shows promising results; CDC guidance highlights that wearing a mask can protect the wearer.
view more »CMS Releases Final Medicaid Managed Care Regulation
Nov. 17, 2020 ||The Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Plan managed care final rule includes provisions to help reach Medicaid goals, increase network adequacy for managed care plans, and align quality rating approaches.
view more »COVID-19: Eli Lilly EUA, Pfizer Vaccine Analysis
Nov. 10, 2020 ||FDA grants emergency use authorization for an Eli Lilly antibody treatment; a Pfizer vaccine has promising early results; President-elect Biden names a COVID-19 advisory board.
view more »Association Asks CMS to Formally Withdraw MFAR
Nov. 10, 2020 ||In mid-September, CMS Administrator Seema Verma withdrew the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation (MFAR) via a tweet, citing stakeholder concerns. America's Essential Hospitals asserts formally withdrawing MFAR would be the best course of action both for CMS and stakeholders.
view more »Operation Warp Speed Releases Principles for Therapeutics
Nov. 10, 2020 ||Operation Warp Speed (OWS), a joint effort by the departments of Defense and Health and Human Services, on a stakeholder call discussed principles for allocation and distribution of therapeutics, specifically monoclonal antibodies. OWS also released a draft pre-emergency use authorization playbook.
view more »Court Invalidates Public Charge Rule; Enforcement Continues
Nov. 10, 2020 ||The decision of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois marks the first time a court ruled in favor of the plaintiffs on the merits of the legal challenges to the public charge rule. DHS immediately appealed the case, allowing continued enforcement while the appeal is pending.
view more »HHS Finalizes Coverage Transparency Rule
Nov. 6, 2020 ||The rule sets content elements a plan or issuer must disclose for a covered item or service. The rule also finalizes changes to the medical loss ratio program to allow issuers offering group or individual health coverage to receive credit for certain savings they share with enrollees.
view more »Association Comments on Proposed Physician Visa Changes
Nov. 3, 2020 ||In a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, America’s Essential Hospitals called on the department to withdraw a proposal that could affect the ability of essential hospitals to hire and retain international medical graduates in residency programs.
view more »Agencies Warn of Ransomware Threat to Health Care Providers
Nov. 3, 2020 ||The threat involved malicious actors using Trickbot malware to compromise information technology systems, including by engaging in ransomware attacks, data theft, and the disruption of health care services.
view more »ONC Extends Information Blocking Rule Compliance Dates
Nov. 3, 2020 ||The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology has pushed back the starting date for compliance with information blocking provisions from Nov. 2, 2020, to April 5, 2021.
view more »HHS Updates Provider Relief Fund FAQs with Reporting Content
Nov. 3, 2020 ||The new FAQs specify that a provider may use PRF payments to cover the distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine licensed by the Food and Drug Administration. Providers also may use PRF funds to prepare for the distribution of a vaccine before it becomes available.
view more »The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated guidance for mask use on public transportation; the Food and Drug Administration has expanded its list of approved remote patient monitoring devices during the pandemic.
view more »Association Comments on Hospital COVID-19 Data Reporting
Nov. 3, 2020 ||In Nov. 2 comments on the interim final rule, America's Essential Hospitals strongly opposed new hospital conditions of participation related to reporting COVID-19 data and urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to withdraw these requirements.
view more »Association Responds to Hill Request for 340B Feedback
Nov. 3, 2020 ||In a response to Republican leaders of House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over the 340B Drug Pricing Program, America's Essential Hospitals said the program needs no fundamental reforms and continues to provide vital support to essential hospitals.
view more »CMS to Remove Historical Reports from HQR System
Nov. 2, 2020 ||CMS encourages hospitals to download and save historical reports from the Hospital Quality Reporting system before the reports are removed on Dec. 15.
view more »CMS Issues Rule on COVID-19 Vaccine and Therapeutic Coverage
Oct. 30, 2020 ||The interim final rule targets future vaccine costs, price transparency for COVID-19 tests, and enhanced Medicare payments for new COVID-19 treatments.
view more »HHS, CMS Taking Email Questions on Data Collection, Enforcement
Oct. 29, 2020 ||New email inboxes set up by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will take questions about the updated guidance for hospital COVID-19 data reporting requirements as part of Medicare conditions of participation.
view more »COVID-19: Hospital Data Published, Remdesivir Approval
Oct. 27, 2020 ||Hospital COVID-19 data is public on HHS Protect; FDA approves first treatment for hospitalized COVID-19 patients; CDC redefines "close contact."
view more »International Infection Prevention Week Highlights COVID-19
Oct. 20, 2020 ||International Infection Prevention Week, Oct. 18–24, highlights the role of infection preventionists in protecting health care workers and patients from COVID-19.
view more »CMS Expands List of Reimbursable Telehealth Services
Oct. 20, 2020 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services added 11 new telehealth services to the list of Medicare services reimbursable during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The agency also published resources on Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program coverage of telehealth services.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Vaccine Resources, CMS Testing Payment Changes
Oct. 20, 2020 ||The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created a vaccines web resource with helpful COVID-19 information. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced new actions to pay for expedited COVID-19 test results.
view more »DHS Proposes Visa Changes Affecting GME Programs
Oct. 20, 2020 ||The change would require certain visa holders completing medical education or training to proactively apply for an extension of status toward the end of their authorized period of stay.
view more »Medicaid DSH Third-Party Payer Litigation Concludes
Oct. 20, 2020 ||Following the Supreme Court's denial of hospitals’ appeal petition, the D.C. Circuit’s decision upholding CMS' third-party payer final rule will stand. This allows CMS to require the offset of third-party payments in calculating the hospital-specific disproportionate share hospital payment limit.
view more »HHS Webinar Series on Hospital COVID-19 Data Reporting
Oct. 20, 2020 ||The webinar series for hospitals and other stakeholders will review new requirements for reporting COVID-19 data as a Medicare condition of participation and feature administration subject matter experts.
view more »COVID-19: Testing Advancements, Vaccine Development
Oct. 13, 2020 ||NIH will study experimental COVID-19 treatments and support the development of six new testing technologies; FDA's vaccine committee will meet Oct. 22.
view more »Association Comments on CY 2021 OPPS, PFS Proposed Rules
Oct. 13, 2020 ||The proposed rules would deepen Medicare Part B cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program, continue site-neutral payment policies, and revise the overall hospital star rating methodology. The association urged CMS to protect funding for essential hospitals and access to care.
view more »New Information on Phase 3 of Provider Relief Fund Distribution
Oct. 12, 2020 ||An upcoming webinar and stakeholder toolkit support the new $20 billion general distribution of the Provider Relief Fund; the application period runs through Nov. 6.
view more »Association Asks HHS to Withdraw PRF Reporting Guidance
Oct. 12, 2020 ||America’s Essential Hospitals requested that HHS withdraw its recent Provider Relief Fund post-payment reporting guidance, as the agency's new definitions of the terms "lost revenue" and "expense" contradict its previous definitions and could have adverse consequences for essential hospitals.
view more »Guidance for Hospital Reporting of COVID-19 Data
Oct. 9, 2020 ||CMS shares new guidance and FAQs on implementation of an interim final rule requiring COVID-19 data reporting as a Medicare condition of participation. The agency on Oct. 7 began sending letters regarding compliance status; hospitals that do not comply face termination from the Medicare program.
view more »CDC reports that airborne transmission is rare but possible; a framework includes recommendations for equitable vaccine allocation.
view more »CMS Launches Price Transparency Rule Webpage
Oct. 6, 2020 ||The webpage includes checklists, step-by-step instructions, and FAQs to help hospitals comply with the Hospital Price Transparency Rule, effective Jan. 1, 2021. It also offers information to help consumers use the data.
view more »HHS Extends COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Oct. 6, 2020 ||Effective Oct. 23, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar issued a renewal of determination that a public health emergency exists as a result of the continued effects of COVID-19.
view more »New $20B Distribution of Provider Relief Funds
Oct. 2, 2020 ||A new $20 billion distribution of the Provider Relief Fund is open to eligible providers on the front lines of the pandemic, including those who already received PRF payments and need additional support, certain previously ineligible providers, and an expanded group of behavioral health providers.
view more »COVID-19: Testing Tools, Health Care Personnel Cases
Sept. 29, 2020 ||CMS released a guide and online payment option for laboratories seeking approval to test for COVID-19; CDC studies COVID-19 in health care workers.
view more »In a Sept. 25 letter to Congress, America’s Essential Hospitals urged lawmakers to include policies that bolster the health care safety net as part of legislative efforts to help rectify the unconscionable health inequities among vulnerable populations across the country.
view more »House Democrats released a continuing resolution to maintain government funding through Dec. 11. The legislation would delay a $4 billion cut to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital funding and change the recoupment and repayment terms for the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment Program.
view more »COVID-19: CDC Reverses Testing Guidance
Sept. 22, 2020 ||The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reverses guidance that asymptomatic patients do not need to be tested. The agency also announced a new semiweekly publication summarizing COVID-19 studies.
view more »New Guidance on Advancing Value-Based Care
Sept. 21, 2020 ||In a letter to state Medicaid directors, CMS outlines lessons learned from previous initiatives, offers a comprehensive toolkit and examples of value-based care models, and highlights changes to existing flexibility.
view more »Federal COVID-19 Vaccine Strategy Released
Sept. 21, 2020 ||An Operation Warp Speed strategy summarizes the federal government's plan for distributing and administering a COVID-19 vaccine.
view more »COVID-19: Avoiding Care; Vaccine Update
Sept. 15, 2020 ||More than 40 percent of U.S. adults report delaying or avoiding care due to COVID-19 fears; FDA shares vaccine development updates.
view more »Representatives Express Concerns about 340B Threats
Sept. 15, 2020 ||Nearly 250 members of Congress sent a bipartisan letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar expressing concerns about recent actions by several drug manufacturers to impose policy changes that would undermine the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
view more »CMS Merges Health Care Compare Tools
Sept. 8, 2020 ||Care Compare merges the agency's eight health care provider comparison tools into one interface; price and provider data are now available through an application programming interface.
view more »COVID-19: Equitable Vaccine Allocation, FDA Gown Warning
Sept. 8, 2020 ||The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine released a preliminary framework for equitable allocations of a COVID-19 vaccine that rests on foundational principles, including maximizing benefits, fairness, mitigating health inequities, equal regard, evidence-based work, and transparency.
view more »HHS Acts on Assisted Living Facility, Nursing Home Aid
Sept. 8, 2020 ||HHS announced that assisted living facilities can now apply for a relief fund payment from the second-phase general allocation. The agency also released information on how it will determine incentive payments under the nursing home allocation.
view more »CMS Finalizes FY 2021 IPPS Rule
Sept. 3, 2020 ||The finalized fiscal year 2021 Inpatient Prospective Payment System rule includes payment and quality reporting provisions. The rule goes into effect Oct. 1; CMS has waived the 60-day delay in effective date due to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
view more »Association to HHS: Prioritize Remaining Relief Dollars
Sept. 1, 2020 ||In a Sept. 1 letter, America's Essential Hospitals urged HHS to prioritize remaining Provider Relief Fund dollars for hospitals still in need, especially those that have yet to receive a payment from any targeted allocation, such as the safety-net and high-impact distributions.
view more »CDC no longer encourages asymptomatic people to get tested; FDA expands its remdesivir emergency use authorization and authorizes a new antigen test with instant results.
view more »CMS Issues Cost Reporting FAQs on Provider Relief Fund Payments
Sept. 1, 2020 ||The new frequently asked questions address how to report provider relief payments on cost reports, charges reimbursed through the Provider Relief Fund uninsured program, and Small Business Administration loan forgiveness amounts.
view more »Association Urges HHS to Prevent Harmful Drug Manufacturer Actions
Sept. 1, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals urges HHS to prevent drug manufacturers from restricting access to life-saving drugs in the 340B Drug Pricing Program. Manufacturers recently notified covered entities that the companies will cease shipping 340B-priced drugs to some pharmacies; other manufacturers are requiring biweekly data on all contract pharmacy claims.
view more »Sept. 14 Deadline for 340B Recertification
Sept. 1, 2020 ||Hospitals have until Sept. 14 to complete the 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification process. Covered entities that fail to create OPAIS accounts and conduct recertification will be removed from the program.
view more »Data Collection as a Medicare Condition of Participation
Aug. 28, 2020 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in an interim final rule announced new Medicare condition of participation requirements for hospitals to report COVID-19 cases and related data to the Department of Health and Human Services.
view more »HHS Extends Deadline for Provider Relief Fund Portal
Aug. 26, 2020 ||Providers now have until Sept. 13 to apply for additional payment from the general allocation of the Provider Relief Fund. The initial deadline was Aug. 28.
view more »CMS to Require Positive Test for COVID-19 Add-on Payment
Aug. 25, 2020 ||Positive tests must be demonstrated using only the results of viral testing (i.e., molecular or antigen), consistent with CDC guidelines. The test may be performed either during or prior to the hospital admission.
view more »CMS issued an information bulletin outlining two approaches for states to reflect third-party payer payments in calculations of uncompensated care costs used to determine hospital-specific Medicaid disproportionate share hospital limits.
view more »COVID-19: Emergency Use of Plasma; Testing and Screening Guidance
Aug. 25, 2020 ||FDA issued an emergency use authorization for convalescent plasma treatment of COVID-19 patients, along with guidance for pooled testing and screening.
view more »HHS announces $6.5 million in testing investments; CDC issues antigen testing guidance; HHS partners with Moderna to manufacture and deliver its vaccine.
view more »CMS Rule Addresses Medicare DSH Payment Calculation
Aug. 18, 2020 ||The agency announced that Medicare Part C enrollee days, otherwise known as Medicare Advantage days, would be included in the calculation of the Medicare fraction used to determine Medicare disproportionate share hospital payments for years prior to fiscal year 2014.
view more »HHS Distributes Relief Funds to Children’s Hospitals
Aug. 18, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services will distribute $1.4 billion in Provider Relief Fund payments to nearly 80 free-standing children's hospitals.
view more »New Ruling on Public Charge Narrows Nationwide Injunction
Aug. 18, 2020 ||The decision limits a block on implementation and enforcement of the Department of Homeland Security public charge rule to only three states: Connecticut, New York, and Vermont. The nationwide injunction on the Department of State's public charge rule is still in effect.
view more »HHS Opens Application Portal for Provider Relief Fund
Aug. 14, 2020 ||Medicare providers that did not receive payment from the $20 billion distribution from the general allocation can apply for additional funding through the portal; applications are due Aug. 28. HHS also announced a $5 billion allocation for nursing homes and long term–care facilities.
view more »NQF Guidance: Designing Measure Sets and Systems
Aug. 11, 2020 ||A new report, from a National Quality Forum (NQF) 25-person technical expert panel, provides insight on how quality measures can be combined in a system to improve health outcomes and drive high-value care for all.
view more »CMS Issues Temporary Policy For Marketplace Premium Reductions
Aug. 11, 2020 ||The agency is using its discretion to allow premium credits to support continuity of coverage for individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency and facing difficulties paying premiums.
view more »COVID-19: Electronic Reporting, Operation Warp Speed Update
Aug. 11, 2020 ||CDC onboards health departments to conduct electronic data reporting; HHS awards funding to Johnson & Johnson for vaccine manufacturing and delivery.
view more »Association, Other National Groups Urge CMS to Withdraw MFAR
Aug. 11, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals, along with five other national associations, calls for withdrawal of the proposed Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation. In a letter, the groups note that the rule, if finalized, would exacerbate public health and economic uncertainty resulting from the pandemic.
view more »OPPS Proposed Rule Continues 340B, Site-Neutral Cuts
Aug. 4, 2020 ||The Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System proposed rule for calendar year 2021 would deepen cuts to hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program, continue cuts to off-campus provider-based departments, and update the overall hospital star ratings methodology.
view more »CMS Issues CY 2021 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
Aug. 4, 2020 ||CMS proposes to decrease the conversion factor determining physician payment rates for specific services by $3.83. The proposed rule also includes provisions related to Medicare reimbursement of telehealth services, the Quality Payment Program, and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
view more »COVID-19: Self-Checker, Data Reporting FAQs
Aug. 4, 2020 ||Health systems can add CDC's Coronavirus Self-Checker to their own website; HHS updates COVID-19 data reporting FAQs; CDC shares guidance on pooling tests.
view more »HRSA Webinar on 340B Recertification
Aug. 4, 2020 ||The Health Resources and Services Administration Office of Pharmacy Affairs will hold an Aug. 12 webinar on the 2020 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification process. Hospitals must complete the recertification process by Sept. 14 to remain in the program.
view more »HHS Extends, Reopens Provider Relief Fund Applications
Aug. 4, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services will extend the application deadline for Provider Relief Fund payments for eligible Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program providers, and will reopen the portal for Medicare providers to apply for additional payments from the general allocation.
view more »Court Blocks Public Charge Rule During Pandemic
Aug. 3, 2020 ||A federal district court blocked for the duration of the public health emergency the nationwide implementation, application, and enforcement of a Department of Homeland Security rule expanding the types of public benefits immigration officials consider in making a public charge determination.
view more »COVID-19 Equity Considerations, Testing Substitutions
July 28, 2020 ||CDC releases a COVID-19 health equity strategy, and FDA shares options for screening substitutions amid supply issues.
view more »White House Issues Executive Orders on Lowering Drug Prices
July 28, 2020 ||The executive orders aim to end retrospective rebates to Medicare Part D pharmacy benefit managers; allow patients of federally qualified health centers to purchase certain drugs at 340B discounted prices; and tie Medicare Part B payment to international drug prices, among other provisions.
view more »Association Asks HHS to Make Telehealth Flexibility Permanent
July 28, 2020 ||The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the efficacy of telehealth. America's Essential Hospitals asked the administration to permanently expand the list of Medicare reimbursable telehealth services and allow reimbursement of certain services using audio-only technology.
view more »Extension of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
July 27, 2020 ||Effective July 25, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar issued a renewal of determination that a public health emergency exists due to COVID-19.
view more »340B Recertification Begins Aug. 17
July 26, 2020 ||The annual 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification period for hospitals will run from Aug. 17 to Sept. 14. Covered entities that fail to recertify will be removed from the program.
view more »COVID-19: Public Data Hub Launch; Transmission-Based Precautions
July 21, 2020 ||The HHS Coronavirus Data Hub goes live; CDC guidance recommends a symptom-based strategy for COVID-19 patients. CMS data show an increase in telehealth use among Medicare beneficiaries. The IRS extends the deadline for tax-exempt hospitals to conduct a community health needs assessment.
view more »HHS Allocates Additional $10B to Hospitals in COVID-19 Hotspots
July 20, 2020 ||HHS will pay $50,000 per eligible admission to hospitals with more than 161 COVID-19 admissions from Jan. 1 to June 10. The agency will account for funding received by hospitals in a May disbursement of high-impact funds in determining the amount facilities receive in this round.
view more »COVID-19 Guidance: Data Reporting, Alternate Care Sites
July 14, 2020 ||HHS issues updated guidance on COVID-19 data reporting; an updated toolkit provides new guidance for alternate care sites to manage patient surge.
view more »SAMHSA Finalizes Revisions for 42 CFR Part 2
July 14, 2020 ||The changes aim to remove barriers to care coordination and allow additional information sharing for providers treating patients with substance use disorder.
view more »Association Tracks COVID-19 Authority, Flexibility Expirations
July 14, 2020 ||A new members-only resource tracks relevant expiration dates for additional authority and flexibility options provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »COVID-19: Quality Reporting Flexibility, Remdesivir Fact Sheet
July 7, 2020 ||CMS announces the end of the blanket Extraordinary Circumstances Exception for quality reporting and value-based purchasing programs. HHS issues a remdesivir allocation fact sheet, and FDA approves a third influenza and COVID-19 combination diagnostic test.
view more »Association Urges HHS to Fill Safety-Net Allocation Gaps
July 6, 2020 ||In a July 6 letter, the association urged HHS to use a refined methodology that directs a portion of the remaining dollars in the Provider Relief Fund to hospitals filling a safety-net role that did not receive payment in the initial safety-net allocation.
view more »In this second report on the topic, the agency describes three findings: there is no systematic or standard collection of social risk data; dual enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid remains a predictor of poor outcomes; and there are limited efforts to identify effective and scalable interventions.
view more »New Resources for Hypertension Management
July 1, 2020 ||HHS released the second edition of the Million Hearts Hypertension Control Change Package, a compilation of concepts, ideas, and evidence- and practice-based tools and resources used by health centers and clinics to improve hypertension control.
view more »Administration Suspends Certain Employment-Based Visas
June 30, 2020 ||The proclamation pauses the issuance of new non-immigrant employment-based visas until Dec. 31, 2020. The suspension excludes individuals whose entry is deemed in the national interest, including those providing care to hospitalized COVID-19 patients or conducting research on the pandemic.
view more »COVID-19: New Remdesivir Allocation; ED Use Decline
June 30, 2020 ||HHS has acquired additional remdesivir to be sold at wholesale allocation price; CDC reports declining emergency department use during the pandemic and updates its list of conditions that increase risk of serious illness from COVID-19.
view more »COVID-19: Hospitalization Risk Factors, Medicare Data
June 23, 2020 ||A report highlights hospitalization risk factors for COVID-19, and GAO evaluates the National Disaster Medical System. FDA revokes emergency use authorizations for chloroquine phosphate and hydroxychloroquine sulfate.
view more »Supreme Court Ruling Leaves DACA Intact
June 23, 2020 ||In a closely split decision, the Supreme Court ruled the Trump administration unlawfully terminated the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The decision allows an opportunity to rescind the program if the administration follows appropriate procedures.
view more »HHS Releases Detailed Methodology for Safety-Net Allocation
June 19, 2020 ||HHS made public the 2018 Medicare cost report data sources used to determine eligibility for the $10 billion targeted safety-net allocation from the Provider Relief Fund. Hospitals had to meet three metrics to be eligible; 761 hospitals received payment.
view more »Proposal Would Expand Main Street Lending Program
June 19, 2020 ||Under the Federal Reserve Board proposal, certain hospitals and other nonprofits "of sound financial condition" prior to the public health emergency could be eligible to receive loans to help alleviate financial burden due to COVID-19.
view more »Final Rule Removes Gender Identity, Language Access Protections
June 16, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services finalized a rule overhauling parts of the Affordable Care Act to remove nondiscrimination protections for transgender individuals and certain language access requirements for providing health care services to people with limited English proficiency.
view more »COVID-19: Recovery, Contact Tracing, Telehealth
June 16, 2020 ||New CDC guidance offers best practices to safely venture outside and begin to resume daily activities amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as information on using telehealth to expand access. CMS releases recommendations for non-emergent care in areas that are in Phase II of recovery.
view more »HRSA Issues Guidance on 340B Hospital Off-Site Locations
June 16, 2020 ||Hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program may begin using 340B drugs for patients seen at off-site locations before the hospitals officially register these clinics in the Office of Pharmacy Affairs Information System. This guidance is intended to last beyond the COVID-19 public health emergency.
view more »HHS Releases More Information on Relief Fund Allocation
June 16, 2020 ||HHS identified hospitals eligible for part of a $10 billion Provider Relief Fund allocation to aid safety-net providers. The agency also made public a list of total payments by state, including the number of hospitals in each state receiving a payment in this distribution.
view more »Association Outlines Priorities for Future COVID-19 Legislation
June 16, 2020 ||In a letter to Senate leaders, America's Essential Hospitals outlines key legislative priorities to assist essential hospitals in the ongoing response to the COVID-19 public health emergency as Congress considers another supplemental bill.
view more »New guidance provides details on COVID-19 lab test data reporting and flexible options for states implementing a Medicaid group for testing the uninsured.
view more »New CMMI Model Options for COVID-19
June 4, 2020 ||The new options are detailed in a comprehensive table for each payment model. Notably, CMS will extend the Next Generation Accountable Care Organization model through December 2021.
view more »CMS Clarifies Use of COVID-19 Modifier, Condition Code
June 2, 2020 ||CMS has issued blanket waivers and flexible options to increase hospital capacity, expand access to COVID-19 testing, promote telehealth, and augment the health care workforce. CMS is clarifying what requires usage of modifier “CR” or condition code “DR” when submitting claims to Medicare.
view more »COVID-19: Surveys Resume, Remdesivir Donation, Antibody Testing
June 2, 2020 ||The Joint Commission will resume regular surveys of health care facilities; Gilead Sciences Inc. donates a second round of remdesivir to treat severe COVID-19 cases; CDC issues antibody testing guidelines.
view more »COVID-19: Medicare Payment for Testing; Recovery Resources
May 26, 2020 ||CMS updates Medicare payment information to capture two new testing codes; FDA updates testing FAQs; CDC issues resources for reopening businesses and organizations.
view more »HHS Distributes Provider Relief Fund Payments to SNFs, IHS
May 26, 2020 ||The Department of Health and Human Services announced two distributions from the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund, known as the Provider Relief Fund: $4.9 billion for skilled nursing facilities and $500 million for Indian Health Service providers.
view more »The president encouraged agency leaders to rescind, modify, waive, or provide exemptions from regulations and other requirements that could inhibit economic recovery in the aftermath of the COVID-19 public health crisis.
view more »June 3 Deadline for Provider Relief Fund Documentation
May 21, 2020 ||Providers have until June 3 to accept terms and conditions and submit necessary documentation to receive additional payments from the Provider Relief Fund to support providers incurring health care–related expenses and lost revenue from response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »Survey: States Face Medicaid Budget Cuts, Increased Enrollment
May 21, 2020 ||Early survey results from the Kaiser Family Foundation show implications of the unexpected pandemic upended previous budget projections as Medicaid enrollment is shown to grow rapidly during economic downturns and uncertainty.
view more »COVID-19: Inflammatory Syndrome, Serology Surveillance
May 19, 2020 ||CDC warns of an inflammatory syndrome in children with COVID-19. The agency also shares its serology surveillance strategy and guidance for resuming care unrelated to COVID-19.
view more »The House approved the HEROES Act by a narrow margin. While the bill will not become law, it contains a number of provisions important to essential hospitals and for which the association will advocate in any final COVID-19 supplemental legislation.
view more »CMS Releases FY 2021 IPPS Proposed Rule
May 12, 2020 ||The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released its proposed fiscal year 2021 Inpatient Prospective Payment System rule, which includes payment and quality reporting provisions.
view more »HHS Announces Allocation Plan for Drug Remdesivir
May 11, 2020 ||Hospitals interested in administering the donated experimental drug should contact their state health department.
view more »COVID-19: HIPAA Compliance; Testing Regulations; Equity Study
May 11, 2020 ||HHS clarifies HIPAA rules for media; FDA tightens antibody testing rules and approves a home saliva test; the Missouri Hospital Association studies COVID-19 and race in St. Louis.
view more »CMS Finalizes 2021 Marketplace Rule, Letter to Issuers
May 11, 2020 ||CMS issued the 2021 final notice of benefit and payment parameters rule and letter to issuers updating regulatory and financial standards for plans offered on the health insurance marketplaces. CMS provides detailed options for issuers to adopt value-based designs for marketplace plans.
view more »HHS Extends Provider Relief Fund Attestation Deadline
May 11, 2020 ||Providers now have 45 days, increased from 30 days, to attest and accept the terms and conditions for payments from the Provider Relief Fund to support providers incurring health care–related expenses and lost revenue from response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »Association Urges CMS to Withdraw 340B Cost Survey
May 11, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals expressed deep concern with the agency's ill-timed launch of the 340B Drug Pricing Program acquisition cost survey during this public health emergency.
view more »CMS Updates Medicaid COVID-19 FAQs
May 11, 2020 ||CMS has updated its Medicaid and CHIP COVID-19 frequently asked questions (FAQ) document, which has been reorganized for greater usability. The new FAQs offer guidance on adjusting upper payment limit demonstrations, supplemental payments, and more to reflect pandemic response.
view more »Association Urges CMS to Reopen MFAR Comment Period
May 11, 2020 ||In a letter, America's Essential Hospitals urged the agency to reopen the comment period for the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation to allow stakeholders to address the proposed rule's impact, as the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered the health care and economic landscapes.
view more »Association Requests Additional $20B for Essential Hospitals
May 7, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals in a May 5 letter urged the Department of Health and Human Services to allocate $20 billion specifically to essential hospitals that serve large Medicaid and low-income patient populations, to ensure the stability of the nation’s health care safety net.
view more »Association Asks HRSA for Additional 340B Flexibility
May 5, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals calls on the Health Resources and Services Administration to allow newly eligible entities and sites to immediately register and begin purchasing 340B drugs, suspend program audits, and disregard DSH payment adjustment percentage changes during the COVID-19 emergency.
view more »COVID-19: Racial Inequity; Testing and Isolation Guidance
May 5, 2020 ||A new study highlights racial disparities among COVID-19 patients; CDC updates testing and isolation guidelines and releases National Healthcare Safety Network data.
view more »The rule requiring hospital-specific Medicaid DSH limit calculations to include payments from Medicare and commercial payers now is valid nationwide, with lower courts determining the effective date. Plaintiff hospitals filed a petition to appeal the decision to the United States Supreme Court.
view more »HHS Distributes Targeted COVID-19 Relief Payments
May 4, 2020 ||This targeted allocation distributes $12 billion to 395 hospitals that provided inpatient care for 100 or more COVID-19 patients through April 10. Of that total, $2 billion is allocated to hospitals based on Medicare and Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) and uncompensated care payments.
view more »COVID-19: New Symptoms; Workforce, Telehealth Toolkits
April 28, 2020 ||CDC revised its testing guidance to reflect six new COVID-19 symptoms: chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell. HHS released a Workforce Virtual Toolkit, and CMS released a State Medicaid and CHIP Telehealth Toolkit.
view more »Register for Reimbursement of COVID-19 Services to Uninsured
April 28, 2020 ||Hospitals can now register as participating providers to receive reimbursement for COVID-19 testing and treatment services furnished to uninsured patients on or after Feb. 4. Participating providers can begin submitting claims May 6.
view more »CMS Launches Survey to Collect 340B Drug Acquisition Costs
April 28, 2020 ||The survey will run April 24 to May 15 and requests drug acquisition costs from all hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program, except critical access hospitals. CMS might use data collected through the survey to determine Medicare Part B drug reimbursement rates.
view more »HHS opened the verification portal for providers to submit patient revenue data for payments from the general allocation of the COVID-19 provider relief fund. The agency also answered frequently asked questions and posted a fact sheet to aid providers requesting and attesting to receipt of payments.
view more »President Signs Interim Emergency Funding Bill
April 26, 2020 ||The bipartisan legislation provides $484 billion in resources across the Department of Health and Human Services and the Small Business Administration, including an additional $75 billion for the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund for providers.
view more »The Department of Health and Human Services announced April 22 how it will allocate more than $70 billion in COVID-19 provider relief under the CARES Act, including targeted aid for hospitals and other providers on the front lines of the pandemic.
view more »HHS Extends Data Submission Deadline for Targeted Relief Payments
April 23, 2020 ||Hospitals now have until April 25 at 3 pm ET to submit data to HHS that will inform how the agency will allocate $10 billion in COVID-19 provider relief funds in areas most impacted by the pandemic.
view more »HHS Details Allocations for COVID-19 Provider Relief Funds
April 23, 2020 ||HHS announced additional detail on how the agency intends to distribute the COVID-19 relief fund to hospitals and other providers. HHS will allocate funds through a general approach and use a targeted approach for certain hospitals, rural providers, and Indian Health Services.
view more »CMS Guidance on Non-emergent Care Unrelated to COVID-19
April 21, 2020 ||The agency provides recommendations for resuming non-essential care for services that cannot be virtually delivered and for health care systems and facilities in regions with low incidence of COVID-19.
view more »COVID-19: New CMS Waivers; Increased Medicare Payments
April 21, 2020 ||CMS announced waivers for IPPS and long-term care hospitals; Medicare will nearly double payment for select COVID-19 tests; CDC developed a new National Healthcare Safety Network COVID-19 module.
view more »CMS Releases Additional COVID-19 Medicaid FAQs
April 20, 2020 ||CMS released new COVID-19 FAQs for state Medicaid and CHIP agencies, providing additional guidance on Medicaid provisions in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
view more »Letter to Congress Urges Resources, Relief for Essential Hospitals
April 17, 2020 ||Congress should increase emergency funding for hospitals on the front lines of the COVID-19 epidemic, target hospitals in greatest need, adjust Medicaid to help essential hospitals, and provide other financial and regulatory relief.
view more »COVID-19 Provider Relief Fund Attestation Portal Open
April 16, 2020 ||HHS has distributed $30 billion of the COVID-19 provider relief fund. Providers have 30 days from receipt of their payment to complete attestation and agree to terms and services or return the payment.
view more »COVID-19: Infection Control Guidance, Reporting FAQs
April 14, 2020 ||New CDC guidance requires face coverings for all who enter a health care facility. HHS Secretary Azar issues FAQs on testing and reporting requirements. Federal agencies warn about scams related to COVID-19.
view more »Association Continues to Urge HHS to Target COVID-19 Relief Funds
April 13, 2020 ||In an April 10 letter, America's Essential Hospitals urged the agency to target critical relief to essential hospitals, expressed concern about disbursements based on Medicare payments, and offered general metrics to identify and support providers serving Medicaid and low-income patients.
view more »Association Expresses Workforce Concerns in COVID-19 Response Efforts
April 13, 2020 ||To ensure essential hospitals have proper resources to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, America's Essential Hospitals asked the Department of Labor to clarify the emergency exception under the Fair Labor Standards Act and the 500-employee threshold of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
view more »The fund, authorized by the CARES Act, intends to support providers incurring health care–related expenses and lost revenue from COVID-19 pandemic response.
view more »FCC Releases COVID-19 Telehealth Funding Application
April 10, 2020 ||Eligible health care providers now can apply for funding for information services, telecommunications services, and devices to provide telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »HHS Disburses First $30B of COVID-19 Provider Relief
April 10, 2020 ||Providers will receive direct deposits of their share of the $30 billion based on 2019 Medicare fee-for-service payments.
view more »COVID-19: Rapid Tests, Cloth Masks, Hospitals Report Challenges
April 7, 2020 ||HHS sends rapid tests to public health labs and issues a HIPAA enforcement notice; CDC recommends cloth masks; a new OIG report details hospital challenges amid the pandemic.
view more »FCC Programs Offer $300M in Telehealth Funding
April 7, 2020 ||The short-term COVID-19 Telehealth Program will offer $200 million in immediate relief to providers to purchase technology and device, and the three-year Connect Care Pilot Program will provide $100 million to support connected health services and technology for eligible providers.
view more »The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued various waivers to increase hospital capacity, expand the health care workforce, eliminate certain paperwork requirements, and further promote telehealth.
view more »FAQ: COVID-19 FMAP Increase and Essential Hospitals
April 3, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals distills recent CMS guidance on enhanced Medicaid funding for essential hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
view more »HHS to Governors: Expand Provider Flexibility
March 31, 2020 ||Secretary Azar requested governors allow health care providers to practice across state lines and relax scope of practice requirements.
view more »FDA, CDC Respond to Supply Shortages
March 31, 2020 ||FDA will not object to the use of improvised face masks; a CDC tool helps health care providers estimate their personal protective equipment supply.
view more »Quality Program Reporting Exemptions, COVID-19 Testing Guidance
March 31, 2020 ||CMS releases guidance for hospitals in quality reporting programs; CDC updates guidelines for testing and handling COVID-19 specimens.
view more »CMS Issues Waivers, New Rules Amid COVID-19 Patient Surge
March 31, 2020 ||The new waivers and flexible options are designed to increase hospital capacity, rapidly expand the health care workforce, temporarily eliminate certain paperwork requirements, and promote telehealth in Medicare.
view more »Association Urges HHS to Target COVID-19 Funds to Essential Hospitals
March 31, 2020 ||The association calls on HHS to design a mechanism to distribute funds made available by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act to hospitals serving vulnerable communities and complex patients and facing other challenges during this public health emergency.
view more »The administration has issued guidance making policy changes related to Medicare payment, mandated paid leave, and hospital reporting requirements related to COVID-19.
view more »Trump Signs $2 Trillion COVID-19 Relief Package
March 27, 2020 ||President Trump has signed a $2 trillion package of COVID-19 aid that provides $100 billion to hospitals and other providers, averts cuts to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments, suspends Medicare sequester cuts, and includes numerous other relief measures.
view more »CMS Guidance on COVID-19 FMAP Increase
March 25, 2020 ||CMS issued a frequently asked questions document on how the agency will implement enhanced Medicaid funding to states to support COVID-19 response. The 6.2 percent increase in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage was included in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, made law on March 19.
view more »As the Senate continues work on a third legislative package to address public health and economic needs during the COVID-19 crisis, House Democrats introduced an alternative that includes provisions important to essential hospitals and key changes absent in the Senate bill.
view more »The March 20 letter details additional action needed to support essential hospitals as they respond to the pandemic. The letter also explains how essential hospitals face significant financial challenges as they work on the front lines of public health threats.
view more »COVID-19 Guidance for Homeless Service Providers
March 24, 2020 ||CDC recommends shelters plan for higher usage during the outbreak and consult with community leaders, local public health departments, and faith-based organizations about places to refer clients if a shelter space is full.
view more »HHS Expands Telehealth Flexibility During COVID-19 Crisis
March 24, 2020 ||HHS announced new flexibility to increase coverage of Medicare telehealth services during the COVID-19 crisis. In separate guidance, HHS’ Office of Inspector General will allow providers to use a variety of audio and video communication platforms without incurring penalties under HIPAA.
view more »COVID-19: Elective Surgeries, Quality Programs, Targeted Inspections
March 24, 2020 ||CMS issues elective surgery guidance, telehealth toolkits, and information on quality reporting flexibility amid the COVID-19 pandemic; The Joint Commission suspends regular surveys.
view more »HRSA Launches Coronavirus 340B Resource Page
March 24, 2020 ||The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has created a webpage with COVID-19 resources for providers participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program. HRSA acknowledges 340B covered entities will need additional flexibility pertaining to program compliance during the COVID-19 crisis.
view more »Medicaid, CHIP Resources for COVID-19 Response
March 23, 2020 ||CMS issued several checklists and templates for state Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program agencies to request regulatory relief and flexibility to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak.
view more »COVID-19 Services Will Not Affect Public Charge Determination
March 18, 2020 ||An alert from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services clarifies testing, treatment, and preventive care — including a vaccine, if one becomes available — related to COVID-19 will not be considered as part of a public charge inadmissibility determination.
view more »COVID-19 Update: National Emergency, Community Guidance, Coverage
March 17, 2020 ||President Trump declared a national emergency as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. nears 3,500. CMS responds to concerns about complying with Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act requirements and CDC released updated infection control guidance for health care providers.
view more »Association Comments on Proposed 340B Acquisition Cost Survey
March 13, 2020 ||America's Essential Hospitals expressed concern that a proposed drug acquisition cost survey exceeds CMS authority under Medicare statute and would impose excessive burden on hospitals in the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
view more »CMS, ONC Finalize Rules on Interoperability
March 13, 2020 ||The rules, intended to increase interoperability and improve patients’ access to their health information, finalize provisions related to the MyHealthEData initiative and implement provisions of the 21st Century Cures Act.
view more »COVID-19 Update: Guidance for Health Care Personnel, Testing
March 10, 2020 ||As U.S. cases of the new coronavirus rise to more than 400, the agency updates guidelines for testing patients and for health care workers exposed to COVID-19.
view more »CMS Releases New COVID-19 Lab Test Code, Coverage Guidance
March 9, 2020 ||The new code applies to tests conducted outside CDC laboratories; CMS also issued frequently asked questions and fact sheets about COVID-19–related billing.
view more »CMS to Focus Inspections on Infection Control Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
March 9, 2020 ||In a memo to state survey agencies and accrediting organizations, CMS announced it will focus survey activities solely on infection control until further notice and provided guidance for patient triage and nursing homes.
view more »Court Vacates Mich. Medicaid Work Requirements
March 9, 2020 ||This decision is the latest of several court cases invalidating work requirements policies in Medicaid; Utah now is the only state with these requirements in effect. It is unknown at this time if Michigan or the Department of Health and Human Services will appeal the decision.
view more »ONC Releases Final Report on Reducing EHR Burden
March 3, 2020 ||The report, mandated by the 21st Century Cures Act, highlights issues and challenges pertaining to the use of health information technology and electronic health records (EHRs) in four categories: clinical documentation; usability and the user experience; EHR reporting; and public health reporting.
view more »CDC Prepares for Coronavirus Spread After Six U.S. Deaths
March 3, 2020 ||These cases bring the total number of COVID-19 cases detected and confirmed in the United States to 16. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration have issued new guidance and resources to prevent the spread of the virus and improve testing.
view more »Supreme Court to Review ACA Case
March 3, 2020 ||The Supreme Court announced it will review the court decision finding the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate unconstitutional. The case, now expected to be heard this fall with a decision likely in 2021, will determine the fate of the law.
view more »CDC Updates Coronavirus Reporting, Coding Systems
Feb. 25, 2020 ||The agency announced it will count patients repatriated by the Department of State separately from other cases. Additionally, the World Health Organization developed an emergency ICD-10 code for COVID-19.
view more »CMS Proposes Extension, Changes to Joint Model
Feb. 25, 2020 ||A new proposed rule would extend the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model by three years and add outpatient knee and hip replacement to the definition of a CJR episode. Comments are due to CMS by April 24.
view more »DHS, DOS Begin Enforcing Revised Public Charge Definition
Feb. 25, 2020 ||The Department of Homeland Security will implement its expanded definition of public charge nationwide until five district courts decide on the lawfulness of change. Meanwhile, the Department of State also will begin using the expanded definition for those seeking visas.
view more »Siegel Commentary: MFAR Threatens Access to Care, State Budgets
Feb. 25, 2020 ||In a new Modern Healthcare commentary, association President and CEO Bruce Siegel explains that the proposed Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation would do more to shrink Medicaid than to contribute to program integrity and transparency.
view more »Appeals Court Strikes Down Ark. Medicaid Work Requirements
Feb. 20, 2020 ||In the unanimous decision, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit found that the Department of Health and Human Services failed to adequately assess the potential impact of work requirements on coverage under Arkansas' Section 1115 demonstration waiver.
view more »CMS Administrator Blogs About MFAR
Feb. 18, 2020 ||Administrator Verma writes that provisions of the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation are meant to ensure transparent and lawful use of taxpayer resources to fund Medicaid. She contends that nothing in the proposal is meant to reduce Medicaid funding or prohibit supplemental payments.
view more »Medtronic Recalls MiniMed Insulin Pumps
Feb. 18, 2020 ||Affected models have a damaged retainer ring that locks the insulin cartridge into the pump's reservoir compartment, resulting in improper insulin dosing.
view more »New Name, Guidance for Coronavirus Outbreak
Feb. 18, 2020 ||The new coronavirus — now officially called COVID-19 — has infected 15 people in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new guidance for health care providers to help with risk assessment, monitoring, and work restriction decisions.
view more »CMS Proposes New 340B Hospital Acquisition Cost Survey
Feb. 15, 2020 ||Comments on a proposed acquisition cost survey to inform Outpatient Prospective Payment System payment rates for 340B drugs are due March 9.
view more »President Releases FY 2021 Budget Proposal
Feb. 11, 2020 ||The proposal calls for $920 billion in cuts to Medicaid funding, including a call to finalize the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation.
view more »FDA Enables Emergency Use of Coronavirus Test
Feb. 11, 2020 ||The new authorization allows any CDC-qualified laboratory to use the 2019-nCoV diagnostic test. Each test kit can evaluate up to 800 patient samples.
view more »Coronavirus Spurs CDC Foreign Quarantine Regulation Change
Feb. 11, 2020 ||A new rule allows CDC to require that airlines collect and provide data on passengers and crew arriving from foreign countries for health education, treatment, prophylaxis, or other public health interventions.
view more »GAO: Increased Oversight Needed to Prevent Duplicate Discounts
Feb. 6, 2020 ||GAO found that state Medicaid programs did not always have written procedures to identify 340B drugs and prevent duplicate discounts. Even when states have written policies and procedures, GAO found they were not always adequate to prevent duplicate discounts.
view more »CMS issued the 2021 notice of benefit and payment parameters proposed rule and draft letter to issuers updating regulatory and financial standards for plans offered on the health insurance marketplaces. CMS is not proposing any changes to network adequacy standards.
view more »HHS Warns of Cyberattacks Exploiting Coronavirus Outbreak
Feb. 6, 2020 ||The agency reports that cybercriminals could send "phishing" emails purporting to include infection prevention information related to the new coronavirus (2019-nCOV) outbreak.
view more »DHS to Begin Implementing Public Charge Rule on Feb. 24
Feb. 3, 2020 ||The Department of Homeland Security will evaluate applications for immigration benefits postmarked or submitted electronically on or after Feb. 24. The agency will not consider any newly added public benefit categories that the applicant received before Feb. 24.
view more »CMS Outlines Medicaid Block Grant Option for States
Feb. 3, 2020 ||CMS issued guidance outlining how states can receive a block grant or per-capita cap in exchange for additional administrative flexibility. Through a Section 1115 demonstration waiver, these new financing arrangements would apply to coverage of optional Medicaid patient populations.
view more »Association Comments on Health Plan Transparency Proposals
Feb. 3, 2020 ||In response to a joint proposal, America’s Essential Hospitals expressed concern about mandating the public posting of payer-specific negotiated rates and urged the departments of Labor, Treasury, and Health and Human Services to seek alternatives that better serve consumers.
view more »Association Urges CMS to Withdraw the MFAR
Jan. 31, 2020 ||In its submitted comments, the association outlines overarching and specific problems that necessitate withdrawal of the rule to protect the stability and viability of the Medicaid program.
view more »CMS Plans to Combine Quality Compare Tools
Jan. 31, 2020 ||CMS plans to transition to a unified Medicare Care Compare portal this spring that will combine and standardize the eight existing tools and allow a single point of entry for quality information.
view more »Quality Data, Hospital Star Ratings Refreshed
Jan. 31, 2020 ||This month’s data refresh is based on the existing, flawed methodology used during the last update of star ratings in February 2019.
view more »CDC Reports U.S. Coronavirus Cases, Announces Provider Call
Jan. 28, 2020 ||Five cases of the coronavirus have been reported in the United States; CDC will host a Jan. 31 call for clinicians to share updated guidance about the virus.
view more »Supreme Court Allows Public Charge Rule to Take Effect
Jan. 27, 2020 ||DHS now can enforce the public charge rule everywhere but Illinois. The stay on the injunction will remain in place until the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit makes a final decision on the merits of the government’s appeal.
view more »Cardinal Health Recalls Surgical Gowns
Jan. 27, 2020 ||This recall includes more than 9 million gowns designed for use in procedures such as open heart surgery and knee replacements.
view more »Study Reviews Use of Z Codes for Social Determinants of Health
Jan. 27, 2020 ||Despite a growing awareness of the impact of social determinants of health on patient health outcomes, the CMS study found challenges to consistent data collection, including a lack of standardized screening tools and inconsistent use of electronic health record codes.
view more »CMS Seeks Input on Out-of-State Care for Medically Complex Children
Jan. 27, 2020 ||CMS issued a request for information seeking input on coordinating care from out-of-state providers for medically complex children who are eligible for Medicaid coverage. The agency will use the information collected to produce guidance to state Medicaid directors.
view more »DHS, HHS Warn Providers of Microsoft Cyber Vulnerabilities
Jan. 21, 2020 ||The issues are related to the validation process for Windows Elliptic Curve Cryptography certificates and the Windows remote desktop client. The Department of Health and Human Services is urging health care providers to install patches to minimize their risk.
view more »Association Urges Supreme Court to Uphold ACA
Jan. 21, 2020 ||In an amicus brief, America's Essential Hospitals joined other national hospital associations in calling for an expedited Supreme Court review of a case that will determine the future of the Affordable Care Act. The court on Tuesday denied the expedited schedule.
view more »NIH Report Examines Disparities in Preventive Services
Jan. 21, 2020 ||A panel convened by the National Institutes of Health culminated in an evidence report that includes 26 recommendations for improving implementation of proven services to reduce disparities in preventable conditions.
view more »MACPAC Issues IMD Report
Jan. 21, 2020 ||The statutorily required report reviews rules and oversight for institutions for mental disease in seven states. Meanwhile, CMS announced it will integrate the psychiatric hospital program survey into its larger survey to determine compliance with Medicare conditions of participation.
view more »GAO Issues Recommendations on 340B Program Oversight
Jan. 14, 2020 ||The recommendations come after a GAO review of more than 250 nongovernmental hospitals found several issues with how the Health Resources and Services Administrative oversees 340B program compliance.
view more »CDC Advises Providers of Pneumonia Outbreak in China
Jan. 13, 2020 ||Health care providers should notify state and local health departments if patients have severe respiratory symptoms after traveling to Wuhan City, China.
view more »CMS Issues 340B Duplicate Discount Guidance
Jan. 13, 2020 ||In an informational bulletin to state Medicaid agencies, CMS provides best practices to avoid duplicate discounts on drugs purchased through the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
view more »CMS Updates Interpretive Guidance for Surveyors
Jan. 7, 2020 ||The new guidelines reflect revised conditions of participation in the September 2019 discharge planning and burden reduction final rules.
view more »Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation Comment Period Extended
Dec. 26, 2019 ||CMS granted a 15-day comment period extension for the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation. Comments are now due to the agency on Feb. 1, 2020.
view more »Association Comments on Fraud and Abuse Proposals
Dec. 20, 2019 ||America’s Essential Hospitals said the federal Anti-Kickback Statute and Physician Self-Referral Law should be modified to remove barriers to coordinating care for the complex patients essential hospitals serve.
view more »On the Hill: DSH Cut Delayed Five More Months
Dec. 20, 2019 ||Congress approved and the president signed a fiscal year 2020 spending package that delays through May 22, 2020, a $4 billion cut to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital payments.
view more »Court Partially Affirms ACA Lawsuit Decision
Dec. 20, 2019 ||A U.S. Court of Appeals panel upheld a ruling on the constitutionality of the individual mandate but returned the case to a lower court to decide whether that nullifies the entire law.
view more »CMS Awards Funds for Maternal, Child Health Models
Dec. 20, 2019 ||The agency announced awardees for two new models that seek to improve care coordination for children and for mothers with opioid use disorder.
view more »CMS Releases Report on Improving Hospital Star Ratings
Dec. 17, 2019 ||The report is based on feedback gathered during a September listening session, in which more than 300 stakeholders shared recommendations for improving predictability, stability, and relevance of star ratings.
view more »CMS Approves Medicaid Work Requirements in S.C.
Dec. 16, 2019 ||Through this newly approved Section 1115 demonstration waiver, South Carolina becomes the first state to apply work requirements primarily to parents and caregivers.
view more »CMS Reverses 2019 Site-Neutral Cut, Files Appeal
Dec. 16, 2019 ||Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, CMS will start to adjust claims that were paid at the reduced rate. The agency also filed a notice appealing its case to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
view more »America’s Essential Hospitals expressed concern that a proposed drug acquisition cost survey would impose excessive burden on hospitals and raise many operational challenges.
view more »CDC Report Highlights Antibiotic Resistance Progress, Concerns
Nov. 19, 2019 ||The report includes updated statistics and, for the first time, uses electronic health data from hospitals to calculate infection and death rates.
view more »Association Comments on Revised Public Charge Definition
Nov. 19, 2019 ||In a letter to the Department of State, America’s Essential Hospitals expressed concern that broadening the definition of public charge would harm the nation’s health care system, vulnerable patients, and state and local economies.
view more »CMS Finalizes Price Transparency Requirements
Nov. 18, 2019 ||The agency published new requirements for hospitals to publicly post standard charges, including information based on rates negotiated with third-party payers.
view more »AHRQ Releases Antibiotic Stewardship Toolkit
Nov. 18, 2019 ||The toolkit includes a decision-making framework for antibiotic prescribing and strategies for developing an antibiotic stewardship program.
view more »CMS Issues Medicaid Supplemental Payment Proposed Rule
Nov. 18, 2019 ||The agency proposes to increase transparency in Medicaid supplemental payments and impose more stringent requirements on those payments and their financing for states and providers.
view more »CMS Updates Medicaid and CHIP Scorecard
Nov. 8, 2019 ||This year’s update contains new quality and accountability measures and new national context data.
view more »NQF Panel Urges Transparency, Clarity in Hospital Star Ratings
Nov. 8, 2019 ||A new brief summarizes program recommendations from an expert panel, which included America's Essential Hospitals staff.
view more »CMS Increases Public Access to Medicaid, CHIP Data
Nov. 8, 2019 ||The move aims to give researchers a better understanding of key Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program information, including on utilization and spending under Medicaid managed care.
view more »New Guidance for Substance Use Disorder Patients in IMDs
Nov. 8, 2019 ||CMS also approved a unique behavioral health transformation waiver for the District of Columbia that targets beneficiaries with serious mental illness or serious emotional disturbance.
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