Home Health Industry Groups Slam CMS’ Proposed Payment Rule During Public Comment Period

During the comment period for the 2024 home health proposed payment rule, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) received a multitude of responses from various stakeholders, including providers, industry advocates, and home-based care experts. A primary concern raised by these stakeholders pertained to the potential consequences of the rule, especially regarding patients' access to care. This concern is exacerbated by the existing challenges of staffing shortages and escalating supply costs faced by providers. Several organizations supported their arguments with data demonstrating the current struggles of providers in meeting the growing demand for care nationwide. Additionally, these organizations outlined specific recommendations and actions they urged CMS to adopt in order to avert potentially dire circumstances affecting both providers and patients. the comment period for the 2024 home health proposed payment rule garnered significant attention and concerns from various stakeholders, with a particular emphasis on preserving patient access to care amid ongoing challenges in the healthcare landscape.