Biden Administration Proposes Major Changes to Medicaid and Medicare to Expand Access & Improve Equity

News: July 12, 2024: In a significant move to enhance access to healthcare for millions of Americans, President Joe Biden proposed three major changes

to Medicaid and Medicare on Wednesday. Announced by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), these reforms aim to address maternal mortality, promote health equity, and ensure continuous coverage for children.

One of the key proposals involves creating exceptions to the Medicaid clinic services "four walls" requirement. This rule typically mandates that covered clinic services must take place within the physical confines of a clinic. The proposed changes would allow for certain services to be covered even if they occur outside these walls, potentially making it easier for patients, especially those in underserved areas, to receive necessary care.

President Biden also called for the codification of 12 months of continuous eligibility for children enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This measure would ensure that children maintain their Medicaid coverage for a full year, regardless of any changes in their parents' income or other circumstances. This continuity is critical for providing stable and uninterrupted healthcare for children, reducing the risk of coverage gaps.

The third proposal targets the reduction of maternal mortality and the advancement of health equity in underserved communities. By focusing on these areas, the Biden administration aims to close the healthcare gap and provide better outcomes for marginalized populations.

"These proposed changes are a crucial step towards ensuring that all Americans, particularly those in underserved communities, have access to the quality healthcare they deserve," said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. "By expanding coverage options and ensuring continuous eligibility for children, we are taking meaningful action to address health disparities and improve health outcomes for millions of families."

President Biden emphasized the significance of these changes in a statement from the White House: "Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. These proposals reflect our commitment to building a more equitable healthcare system that leaves no one behind. By making these changes, we are working to reduce maternal mortality, support our children, and advance health equity across the nation."

The proposed changes have received widespread support from healthcare advocacy groups and policymakers who see them as essential steps toward creating a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. The Biden administration's plan will undergo further review and approval processes before it can be implemented.

For more information on the proposed changes and their potential impact, visit the CMS website or follow updates from the Biden administration.

About the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS):

CMS is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that administers the nation's major healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). CMS aims to ensure effective, up-to-date healthcare coverage and promote quality care for beneficiaries.

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes