MedPAC’s September 2024 public meeting focused on key issues related to Medicare payment policy, cost-sharing for outpatient services at critical access hospitals, and the measurement of rural provider quality. Commissioners reviewed and discussed the financial situation of Medicare, factors contributing to spending growth, and challenges faced by small rural hospitals under the critical access hospital program.
The meeting highlighted the disparities in cost-sharing obligations for beneficiaries using critical access hospitals compared to other outpatient settings. Concerns were raised about the impact of high beneficiary cost-sharing liabilities on accessing care in rural communities. Additionally, the importance of measuring the quality of care provided by rural healthcare providers was emphasized, considering the diverse demographics and challenges faced by these communities.
As a nonpartisan independent agency, MedPAC provides analysis and policy advice to the U.S. Congress on the Medicare program. The meeting aimed to provide commissioners with valuable insights to inform future discussions and recommendations on improving Medicare payment policies, cost-sharing practices, and quality measurement in rural healthcare settings. For more information on MedPAC’s initiatives and reports, visit their official website.
Attribution:
This article was summarized and republished from the original source.
Please check the original article here: https://www.medpac.gov/meeting/september-5-6-2024/.