CMS extends Next Generation ACO model, offers direct contracting details

The Innovation Center will extend the Next Generation ACO model for one year and start the Direct Contracting Model on April 1, three months after the originally proposed start date.  »

Providers want more telehealth flexibility and higher CMS payments

Following the tectonic shift in telehealth during the past few months, provider groups want CMS to continue that trend by allowing more providers to take part in virtual care and boosting reimbursements.

ACOs seek clarity on future of payment models

CMS has offered few details on the new Direct Contracting Model, or how providers can enter the Medicare Shared Savings Program after the Next Generation ACO model ends this year.

Providers could bear brunt of state COVID-19 Medicaid cuts

States have limited options to cut Medicaid if they want to receive federal matching funds, so they may have to cut funds to providers that are already struggling.

APM providers more likely to manage population health during COVID-19

Providers that take part in alternative payment models are more likely to use population health strategies to address the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new survey. Stakeholders think it's evidence that CMS should grant them relief.

CMS wants to boost inpatient hospital payments by 1.6%

CMS wants to increase Medicare payments for inpatient hospital services by 1.6%—or about $2 billion—in 2021. The agency also continued its price transparency push, to the chagrin of some providers.

CMS delivers key win for ACOs in emergency rule

Providers in value-based payment models got some much needed relief from CMS in an emergency rule aimed at helping the healthcare industry respond to COVID-19.

CMS should toss proposed MFAR rule, experts say

Experts say that CMS' proposed Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Rule is impairing the COVID-19 pandemic response, and the agency should pull the plug on the proposal for now.

HHS creates portal for COVID-19 provider reimbursement

Providers can request reimbursement starting May 6 if they have treated or tested an uninsured patient for COVID-19, but only if they agree not to balance bill the patient.

Federal appeals court upholds DSH payment rule

A federal appeals court ruled that the CMS can consider Medicare and private insurance payments in its caps on hospital DSH payments. It's a big loss for hospitals in an issue that could make its way to the Supreme Court.