WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 30, 2022)—The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comments on various aspects of the Medicare Advantage (MA) program. The American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) is submitting comments for the request for information, due on Wednesday, Aug. 31. The association is asking industry stakeholders to add their comments to ensure better oversight of these plans and maintain strong access for home medical equipment (HME) suppliers.
AAHomecare’s comments focus on the pressing need for CMS to exercise stronger oversight of MA Plans (MAPs), particularly with respect to MAPs compliance with access to care requirements; and the need for a CMS resource with whom HME suppliers can communicate regarding concerns about MAPs compliance with access to care and other requirements. The comments also suggest avenues to improve prior authorization practices and urge CMS to ensure that HME suppliers can take part in accountable care organizations and value-based programs developed by MAPs.
The association has put together talking points that reflect the main issues covered in its comments. Stakeholders are encouraged to use their own words and share their experiences where possible.
AAHomecare’s Payer Relations Council deserves credit for its work developing substantive comments and messaging on this issue.
Submit your comments here. Comments are due by 11:59pm ET on Wednesday, Aug. 31.
For more information, contact Laura Williard, vice president of payer relations, at LauraW@aahomecare.org.
