CMS Announces New Rules to Improve Medicaid and CHIP Programs

April 28, 2023

In two back-to-back announcements, the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has revealed policies targeting healthcare access and quality for patients on Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) The rules changes would standardize fee-for-service (FFS) reimbursement rates and improve access for both programs.

According to CMS, “Covering nearly one in four Americans and over half of all children in the country, Medicaid is the single largest health coverage program in the U.S. Medicaid and CHIP provide robust benefits with little to no out-of-pocket costs for over 92 million people. Many of those enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP come from underserved communities whose populations have disproportionately higher uninsured rates, and who often experience chronic health issues. Over 70 percent of people with Medicaid or CHIP coverage are enrolled in managed care plans. Ensuring families and individuals can find an in-network provider and access health care coverage in a timely way is a foundational principle of health equity, and a critical priority for the Biden-Harris Administration.”

To read more, click here.