Wilmington, DE – This week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has been busy issuing proposed and final rules that will impact various healthcare providers across the country. One of the significant highlights is the proposed FY 2025 payment rules for inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPF), skilled nursing facilities (SNF), and hospice providers. Additionally, CMS finalized rules focused on streamlining Medicaid enrollment processes and limiting short-term, limited duration insurance (STLDI).
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also made important announcements, such as the withdrawal of approval for the new drug application for LYNPARZA (olaparib) Capsules held by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. Furthermore, FDA proposed to ban electrical stimulation devices for self-injurious or aggressive behavior, citing potential health risks associated with these devices.
On the regulatory front, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a final rule amending the definition of short-term, limited-duration insurance and independent, noncoordinated excepted benefits coverage. This rule aims to provide clarity on the requirements for certain insurance plans in the group and individual health insurance markets. Additionally, CMS released a final rule streamlining the Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program application processes to facilitate easier access to healthcare coverage.
Moreover, reports from government agencies like the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) shed light on important healthcare issues. GAO emphasized the need for FDA to evaluate its recruitment and retention efforts for investigators involved in clinical research. On the other hand, OIG’s report highlighted deficiencies in compliance with Medicaid Managed Care Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder parity requirements, calling for enhanced oversight by CMS to ensure proper adherence to these standards.
Overall, these developments in health policy underscore the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access, quality, and regulatory compliance within the industry. As federal agencies continue to unveil new rules and regulations, stakeholders in the healthcare sector will need to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape to ensure compliance and deliver quality care to patients.